Arthritis is a disease of the joints that causes chronic pain to those who suffer from it. Unfortunately, not only humans can end this ailment, but also our furry ones. Therefore, we tell you how to know if my dog has arthritis, and how you can take care of it so that it leads a life as normal as possible.
Follow our advice to make your friend happy again.
What is canine arthritis?
This is a degenerative disease that produces a degradation of articular cartilage and the creation of osteophytes that gets worse as time goes by. It can affect any dog, but it is more common among those who are eight years old or older and are of a large or giant breed, since over the years the body wears out, so that sooner or later the joints will begin to having trouble supporting the weight of the dogs.
What are the symptoms?
You will know if your friend has arthritis if:
- You have trouble sitting up or getting up.
- He spends much more time sleeping, and when you call him he does not usually come.
- Limps, or leans more on some legs than others.
- It complains when you touch its affected paw.
- He does not want to get on the bed or any furniture.
- You have trouble walking up the stairs.
- He does not have much interest in playing.
How to care for a dog with arthritis?
If you have a dog with arthritis, you can help him by buying one orthopedic bed, which will be much more comfortable than conventional beds. It is somewhat more expensive (about 100 euros, compared to 30-40 that a normal one can cost), but it will be of great help.
It is also important that place your feeder and drinker on a slightly high surface, so that you do not have to bend down so much and avoid, thus, that your joints suffer. For this same reason, if you can Take it to the beach or pool, or for a walk on land (and not asphalt).
If you suspect that your dog has arthritis, don't hesitate to take him to the vet.