As we get older, so do our pets.
And if they have arthritis, the colder months ahead can be very long and painful.
Some pets need added warmth to their environment.
While some pets have coats that are able to endure cold weather like huskies or the well known St. Bernard, others may not. Short haired breeds and small dogs can become very cold, so it’s important, especially in their older years to keep them warm.
Adding warm blankets to their bedding as well as cushion for comfort is helpful.
Keep them indoors where it’s warm and supply coats when necessary for the outdoors.
Activity throughout the year is important.
As much as we want to stay indoors during the colder months, it is important to keep moving, so joints don’t become stiff and sore.
*Take short walks, or have your vet help you put together a daily routine.
*Purchase some booties, sweater, or jacket for your four legged friend, so walks are more comfortable.
*Create indoor activities to play with your pet.
Being indoors with your pet is a great time to bond and even practice training exercises.
Talk to your veterinarian about supplements.
There are many over the counter products available.
* Glucosamine and Chondroitin
* MSM
* Omega Fatty Acids
Having large active dogs, a hound mix and a labrador, I have been very lucky with some tablets I found at Trader Joes.
As my lab aged we moved on to another product that seemed better for mobility.
DGP, an all natural supplement that includes Tumeric, and helps reduce inflammation.
Whatever the product, always follow directions and never give more than the recommended dose.
Dogs are not the only ones aggravated by arthritis.
Keep your older cats comfy too.
*Cosequin For Cats (mixture of glucosamine and chondroitin) is something I always used for my mother in law’s cat in his senior years. He was a hefty siamese with arthritis, and needed something for is stiff joints. Something advised by a veterinarian.
If your senior seems to be having trouble getting around, never assume it’s arthritis ALWAYS get a professional opinion.
Any change in a pets behavior should be addressed by a veterinarian.
**This is very important as aches and pains can be early signs of other problems that may need to be treated right away. Never hesitate.
Once diagnosed with arthritis, depending on the severity, be sure to look into your several options.
*Laser Therapy
*Chiropractic V.O.M.
*Acupuncture
*Many NSAIDS are available through your veterinarian.
Prescribed medications such as Rimadyl, Metacam, Derramax, etc. can help with the more severe pain.
**But always be careful as they can have serious side effects, or cause damage to the kidney and liver.
BLOODWORK is very important when using these long term.
When traveling with a pet keep records easily accessible for any needed refills or in the event of an emergency.
It’s always best to check with your veterinarian to see what’s suitable for your pet when it comes to added supplements or pain relief that do not require prescription.
Without a doubt some of you pet parents have had great luck with certain products or have ideas that may provide comfort during the cold months ahead.
And if so… We’d sure love to hear them!!!