Managing Arthritis

Managing arthritis The successful management of arthritis depends on several factors including: ​ Making sure your dog is a healthy weight You should aim to keep your dog on the leaner side of normal. Good parameters for body condition are: ​The ribs & pelvic bones are easy to feel (but should not be visible) A visible waist (an hour-glass shape when viewed from above) A neat tucked up abdomen ​when viewed from the side Ensuring you give your dog the appropriate amount & type of exercise​ Exercise should be..... Consistent & controlled (Regular / consistent daily activity is best. No excessive running, No ball chasing etc. ) Appropriate (i.e your dog can cope happily with the distance, they don't tire or suffer with stiffness after rest) Low impact​ (No jumping, chasing etc.) Moderation (think little and often) Please visit our page on appropriate exercise for dogs with joint disease ​ ​​ Ensuring your dog has adequate pain relief NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs are often the medication of choice. SOme dogs are not able to tolerate this or need extra 'break-through' pain relief to cope with more severe flare-ups​ Occasionally mild discomfort can be managed through other ways such as Massage, acupuncture and appropriate exercise / lifestyle so as not to AGGRAVATE the condition ​ Trying supportive therapies Physiotherapy​ Osteopathy Massage therapy Craniosacral therapy Hydrotherapy Acupuncture ​ Trying joint supplements Omega 3 fish oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and aid in the management of pain related to arthritis​ Other natural supplements which have some evidence to slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation are Boswellia and ASU's (Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables) Glucosamine and Chondroitin when taken together have been shown in some studies to help with arthritis symptoms