Arthritis affects millions of people across the globe. But did you know that it also affects one in five dogs during their lifetime? Arthritis occurs when the cartilage surfaces of the joint begin to thin. Although most dogs suffering from arthritis are older dogs, it can impact dogs at any age.

How to Know if Your Dog has Arthritis

There are several ways to determine if your dog has arthritis. Look for warning signs, such as decreased appetite, whimpering, difficulty moving or getting comfortable, and other unusual behavior. If you notice these signs, it’s important to schedule an appointment with the veterinarians at Skyline Animal Hospital. During your visit the doctor will give your pet a thorough health exam and you will be given recommendations based on your pet’s individual needs. These recommendations will include potential diet changes, exercise requirements, and possibly medications so that you can help your pet regain their health.

Relieve Your Dog’s Arthritis

Besides getting regular physical exams and checkups, it’s important to make adjustments in order to make your dog feel as comfortable as possible. First, make sure that your dog is getting adequate exercise. Start with 10-15 minute walks a day and slowly increase to 1 hour walks, three times a week. Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in your pet’s health. Overweight dogs tend to have arthritis due to excess weight and strain put on the joints and ligaments. Good nutrition isn’t just about the ingredients – it’s about the right balance of nutrients. Feeding a pet food that has an improper nutritional balance can lead to or worsen a wide range of health issues. In addition to diet and exercise, we recommend giving your dog a glucosamine supplement to establish joint support. If you notice that your furry loved one is in pain, try heat therapy. There are pet-friendly heating pads made to stay on your dog’s hip.

Schedule an Appointment

The animal should be treated appropriately from the get go and that begins with a professional who is well trained and understands the right approach to take for any case that comes in front of them. If you notice arthritis symptoms in your dog, contact Skyline Animal Hospital in Ogden today!