Natural remedies for arthritis in senior dogs

Is your furry buddy no longer flopping onto your bed for an early morning cuddle? Does he no longer go bounding up and down those stairs like he used to when he was younger? It could be a sign of Arthritis, which is the bane of old age!

Arthritis causes inflammation of the joints leading to stiffness and pain that only increases as your pet ages. If you notice your dog having difficulty moving or is limping and crying out in pain then it is time to take him to the vet for a detailed check up.

No doubt your vet will immediately start treatment by prescribing medication and physical therapy. Yet there is no harm in trying out natural remedies to ease the pain in your pet’s joints. It is always wiser to start preventive care in your pet when you notice signs of aging in them.

Here are a few helpful tips in treating arthritis in your aging buddy:

• Put them on a detox diet –  Make your pet eat  fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots and greens that can be pureed if he is a picky vegetable eater. Serve them freshly cooked meat. You can improve your dog’s digestion by introducing them to probiotic. You can ask your vet to suggest some probiotic supplements that you can start your pet on. Start including turmeric in their food items as it reduces pain and inflammation.
• Exercise – Exercising your senior pal helps to increase flexibility, endurance and reduces joint pain. Take you pet swimming or walking but take it slowly and then gradually increase the speed and time of exercise.
• Vitamins – Make your canine friend eat more apples, green beans, sweet potatoes, kidney and liver meat, flaxseed and oats which are good sources of vitamin C and E. You can give them supplements as well.
• Foot care – Make sure your pet’s nails are neatly cut so they can move easily as overgrown nails place a lot of pressure to the joints in the feet causing more pain in the joints. So, take your pet to the vet or the salon for regular nail trimming.
• Warm and comfortable bed – You need to provide your aging buddy a warm and snug bed to make him feel comfortable. Make him to sleep on a warm rug. You can invest on a waterproof mat or snug sleeping bag that are easily available in the market.   

Once your dog ages you need to make sure you make life more comfortable and less painful for them. You can always contact your vet for further guidance and professional advice.

Happy parenting!