Dogs are living healthier, happier lives thanks to innovations in veterinary medicine and a greater understanding of their health needs from owners. There is so much we can do now for dogs diagnosed with arthritis, from new medications and complementary therapies to joint supplements. As well as making sure your pet gets the best in veterinary medicine, there are some changes you can make at home to improve their wellbeing.
Home Improvements
There are lots of things you can do around the house that can make life easier and more comfortable for an arthritic dog.
Non-slip floors
Arthritic dogs can find it harder not to slip on floors such as wood, laminate and tiles. You can make life easier by covering areas they frequent with non-slip mats or using grippy tape on slippy surfaces.
Ramps
Whether it’s jumping from the car, onto the sofa or bounding into bed, there’s a few jumps your dog may not be able to manage anymore without risk of injury. A car ramp for bigger dogs and smaller ramps around the house for smaller breeds can help ease the effort it takes. If you have stairs in your home, you can restrict access to these during the day with a stair gate to avoid lots of running up and down. If ‘going up to bed’ is a routine for your pet, consider carrying smaller dogs or using a harness to help bigger dogs up the stairs.
Raised food and water bowls
Bending to eat or drink may become painful, raising them up to elbow height can make the process easier.
Beds
Provide your dog with a good, supportive bed that suits them. They might prefer a snuggly, open front basket somewhere private or a big comfy mattress where they can spread out, you’ll need to find the right fit for your dog. If your dog has always shared the bed or sofa for sleeping and changing their routine may cause stress or anxiety, provide a ramp so they don’t need to jump up or down when getting into bed.
Clear pathways
While younger dogs can leap and bound over anything in their way, older, arthritic dogs need paths clear of trip hazards (shoes, wires, slippy rugs).
Toys
Throwing toys and balls is not recommended for dogs suffering with arthritis but that doesn’t mean they have to be bored! Snuffle mats, chew toys and slow feeder bowls can provide lots of enrichment without too much strain on the joints.
Lifestyle Changes
Exercise
Arthritic dogs rely on their owners to manage and oversee their exercise, even dogs in pain may still want to chase a ball or go tearing through their favourite wood! They need you to set limits to avoid injury and fatigue. Try to choose walks where the surfaces are even and free of obstacles, maybe opting for a trip to the park rather than a walk along a stony beach. Remember, don’t walk too far! Dogs won’t plan for the return journey so they need their owners to keep an eye on them and plan shorter walks to allow for fatigue.
Weight management
One of the biggest contributors to arthritis is obesity. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight will help with keeping them pain free for longer. It can be difficult to maintain a healthy weight in older pets that don’t get as much exercise, speak to your vet about diet options that can help keep them full whilst reducing their calorie intake.
Cold weather
The cold can make arthritic joints ache, so it’s important to keep older dogs warm and comfy. If you have a short haired dog, they may appreciate a winter jacket for chilly days. Avoid walking in extremely cold weather and always dry dogs off after a rainy walk. If you dog is amenable, a warm bath can be very soothing, or they may prefer a hot water bottle under aching joints (with supervision!).
Nail clipping
Long nails can make it difficult for dogs to get a good grip on the floor so it’s important to keep your dog’s nails trimmed. Some dogs naturally wear their nails down during walks on hard surfaces but if your older dog is doing less walking, the nails may get longer more quickly. If you aren’t sure about clipping their nails at home, take them to a groomer to have them trimmed down.
For more information about caring for an arthritic dog, visit Canine Arthritis Management’s website.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you are worried your dog may be suffering from arthritis.
