Dog Arthritis

You may have an older dog that has been apart of the family for a long period of time.  Like humans, dogs too can get dog arthritis.   Should you find your dog getting stiff after laying down for long periods of time or whimpering when placing weight on its feet, you should take the animal to a licensed veterinarian for a check up to verify. 

Although there is no immediate cure for dog arthritis there are certain steps you can take to improve the quality of your dogs health.

Suitable Sleeping Arrangements

Should your dog need a softer thicker surface to sleep on you may consider using an old baby mattress from a crib or toddler bed.  You can also use pillows from an old couch to help reduce the stiffness from dog arthritis.

Walking & Exercise

Make sure that your dog gets exercise such as walks around the block keeping the animal from bearing weight on the afflicted area.  Dog arthritis is painful for the animal.

Arthritis Pain Relief

Depending on what your veterinarian may recommend, there are some human arthritis medications that can be helpful for the animal that can have some side effects.  These drugs include aspirin, Zubrin, Etogesic, and Deramaxx.  Before giving the medication to the animal consult the veterinarian first.

1. Canine Arthritis
   Most dogs can be affected by canine arthritis or canine osteoarthritis. This happens when the cartilage within a joint wears down until it becomes painful to walk or bear weight on the limb