Bones connect our bodies together, and the same applies to our canines. Canines are often the picture of durability, but they, too, can get weak, just like us. They need the same things people do to keep their bone health in top condition. And for this, their pet parents are the only ones who can help them. So if you want to help your dog have the best days in their younger and senior years, keep reading to find out how to keep their joint health in optimal condition.
Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Joints in Optimal Condition
Senior dogs commonly experience loss of mobility, damaged bones, and joint stiffness. While this will really occur to dogs as they age, you can slow down these signs from happening and even help them have intact joints and mobility even in their senior years. So we’ve enumerated five helpful pointers to promote stronger and healthier bones for your four-legged companion.
1. Try alternative therapies
Many available alternative therapies for canines can help boost and improve their joint health. Chiropractic, laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, electro-acupuncture, and canine sports medicine offer reputable solutions for treating and preventing joint conditions. These treatments can be effective for canines of any age and breed.
2. Exercise them regularly
No matter the age, size, and breed, canines need exercise. However, some activities may do more harm than good when they reach a particular age. While your puppy can race up and down the stairs or play catch and fetch effortlessly, this will only strain the joints of senior or middle-aged canines.
Exercises like walking, strolling, or playing with other canines can help manage your dog’s bone health. Should your pet fracture their bones while doing any activity, rush them to a vet surgery specialist for immediate treatment. You may browse the web for more details on the common pet conditions that need surgery.
3. Feed a high-quality diet
Some individuals often compromise on the quality due to the price. However, dogs need a stronger and healthier diet plan to build robust bones. Choose a dog food that contains equal portions of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients. Many commercial dog foods today are created to satisfy your pet’s nutritional requirements, so you won’t have to stress about choosing what to feed your pet.
But when in doubt, always ask your veterinarian for the suggested options for your assurance. You may click here to see how they can assist you with concerns like this.
4. Maintain proper weight
Like people, being overweight can lead to major problems for your dog in the future. Excess weight can put additional pressure on their joints, hindering their mobility and even weakening their bones over time. Obese canines are also at risk of massive negative impacts on their health, particularly their heart. Keeping their weight healthy is good for their bone health and general well-being.
If you’re an owner of an obese pet and a condition starts to develop at an unanticipated event causing them to struggle, immediately take them to a 24-hour emergency veterinary care facility to be inspected.
5. Buy a dog bed
Dogs that sleep on hard, cold floors are prone to have joint issues in the future, so purchasing the right bed is vital early on. Getting a canine bed that effectively supports bone structure at every age can decelerate or even avoid bone problems that may impair or weaken their mobility throughout their senior years.
