Pets Care

One of the most common ailments affecting pets as they age is arthritis. Arthritis is a degenerative condition of the joints where tissue and cartilage in the joint breaks down or becomes damaged, causing swelling and discomfort. When this occurs, your pet’s quality of life often becomes compromised, with pain causing limitations on playful activities and distress even during daily routines.

Unfortunately, arthritis is a very common problem in purebred dogs. Due to selective breeding, some dogs end up developing severe arthritic conditions that often require major surgery to alleviate the pain.

Spotting Early Signs

One of the most common examples of this type of disease is Hip Dysplasia, which occurs in the joint socket where the leg meets the hip.

The problem is that many dogs will not display signs of hip dysplasia until the joint really begins to break down. However, there are some warning signs to be conscious of:

* Tends to sit more than stand, or is less mobile than usual
* Runs with both back legs together, instead of using the full range of motion of each leg

Pet arthritis is a very serious condition, and often can go undiagnosed for a very long time. Since it is rooted in several causes, the best treatment for arthritis in pets is often preventative.

Taking a Proactive Approach

Studies have found that one of the most effective ways to both prevent and treat joint problems is a diet high in Omega 3’s. These essential fatty acids work to strengthen joint tissue and provide a good foundation for the continued health of joints and bone structures in the body.

Ensuring that your pet gets the daily recommended dose of Omega 3’s is as simple as choosing a daily supplement to add to your pet’s regular diet. From strengthening joint muscles and tissues to promoting circulation, natural remedies and herbal supplements can provide much needed comfort and health benefits for your pet.

Muscle and Joint Support – Relieves stiffness in swollen joints, reduces pain, and promotes healthy muscles and bones

Heart and Circulation Tonic – Improves circulation and promotes heart and artery health

PetHeal – Relieves pain, reduces inflammation and promotes fast healing

Talk to your veterinarian about what is best for your pet’s specific needs.

Other Health Factors to Consider

One of the main contributors to poor joint health in pets is excessive weight and obesity. When your pet is overweight, more stress is placed on the joints. If arthritic conditions are already a concern, this added stress can lead to deteriorating joint health rather quickly.

Get Your Pet Moving

Since excessive weight and arthritis problems are strong contributors to discomfort while exercising, your pet may be less inclined to obtain the daily movement vital for optimal health.

Natural remedies can help your pet get the energy it needs to exercise, balance metabolism, and encourage healthy and safe weight loss. Helping your pet maintain a healthy weight early on can prevent future problems, leading to a stronger quality of life.

SlenderPet – Encourage weight loss by elevating metabolism and aiding elimination of fat

Energy Tonic - Restore energy and vitality in pets

Performance Plus – Improve mental and physical performance while boosting energy

“This product has done wonders for our 10-year-old Springer who was diagnosed with hip dysphasia and arthritis. She took Deramaxx for several years, but our vet informed us that it could cause damage to her internal organs, so she would need continued medical checks for the rest of her life. We weaned her off Deramaxx months ago, and now she takes Muscle & Joint Support capsules daily. She is a changed dog. She jumps, rolls, talks and is just acting so happy. Thank you so much.” -Anonymous

As recommended by some veterinarians, soften your dog’s bed to make it very cozy and warm. If your dog is an ‘outside’ pet, allow him to sleep inside. A little moist heat, applied directly over painful joints, can be a great comfort to arthritic pets.

Get him a warm sweater, or apply a moist heating pad. And massage the area twice a day with the following blend to soothe the pain away.

Prepare the following blend by pouring the essential oils into a 10-ml bottle and adding organic vegetable oil to fill.

* 12 drops Birch
* 8 drops Juniper
* 7 drops Rosemary

This Daily Aromatherapy Tip is brought to you by AromaThyme.com

Just like people, many dogs suffer from arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis. Unbelievably, up to thirty percent of family pets have arthritis. They experience pain, swelling and stiffness the same as humans do. Some people refer to it as degenerative joint disease and it has the ability to change your dog, from very playful and energetic, to pain ridden and listless.

Arthritis is the breakdown of protective cartilage, which covers and protects the bone joints. By nature, many dogs are extremely active and because of this, subject their joints to trauma. Unlike humans, when a dog injures itself, pet arthritic conditions often develop within weeks.

Older dogs are more prone to arthritis as their cartilage deteriorates, especially in the larger breeds. There is more stress put on the joints from their weight and this worsens over time. Some of the types of arthritis in dogs are osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, knee dysplasia, and Osteochondritis, hypertrophy and shoulder degeneration.

Because our pets cannot tell us they are in pain, here are some of the signs that may indicate that your dog is suffering from arthritis:

Limping – Your dog limps or favors a leg, but has no injury to its paws

Slow moving – Your usually active pet moves at a much slower pace, has trouble running and jumping, has difficulty climbing stairs or shies away from playing

Walking – They lag behind you when taking them for a walk or are very listless and hesitant to go walking at all.

Crying or yelping – If you touch then in a certain area, they yelp or do not want you touching them.

Difficulty rising – When the dog goes to get up from sleeping or laying down, they have great difficulty or yelp, making it obvious that they are having problems, are all signs of arthritis.

As upsetting as it is, do not panic if the vet diagnosis your dog with arthritis. Unlike years ago, there are many very good remedies to help alleviate and control your dog’s pain.

If your dog is overweight, the first thing your vet will recommend is a weight loss program. Just like humans, the more weight you carry, the harder it is on your joints and this is no different for dogs.

Have your vet recommend a healthy diet for your special companion that gradually helps them lose weight without being hungry all the time. As much as you hate having to cut down on their dog treats, this is for the health of your animal.

There are several medications available to help control or end the pain. Always follow the vets instructions on the amount and frequency of the medication prescribed for your dog. They know exactly how much to give your dog and if you decide to up the dose or cut down on it, you could do more harm than good.

Once you remove the pain, and your dog moves about easily, you can resume taking them for walks and getting exercise. You may want to discuss arthritis supplements for your dog, with your vet.

About the author

Find hundreds more articles like this at http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com, where you can also find unique dog beds, dog supplies, and pet furniture that you’ll never find at your local pet store. In fact, if you later find your order being sold at your local Petco, we’ll refund your purchase plus an extra $20!

What are the symptoms of muscle and joint conditions?

Dogs:

* Overall stiffness especially after rest
* Whimpering when getting up
* Difficulty climbing stairs or climbing in and out of car
* Reluctance to exercise
* Lameness
* Unusual movements (for that particular animal)
* Disjointed or wobbly gait
* Swelling and tenderness in limb or spine
* Shying away from being stroked along their back
* Thickening of the Joints of the affected limb
* Favoring the use of one limb more than another
* Irritability

Cats:

* Overall stiffness especially after rest
* Crying when getting up
* Crying when being picked up
* Difficulty climbing stairs
* Reluctance to exercise
* Lameness
* Unusual movements (for that particular animal)
* Disjointed or wobbly gait
* Swelling and tenderness in limb or spine
* Shying away from being stroked along their back
* Thickening of the joints of the affected limb
* Favoring the use of one limb more than another
* Irritability

There are a number of reasons why your pet could develop joint or muscle problems. Sprains and strains are fairly common in many active animals and certain animals may be more prone to this than others.

Cats especially may have nine lives but their constant leaping from roofs and trees can put stress and strain on their joints, especially if they are overweight.

There are also a certain number of medical conditions such as arthritis (an inflammation of the joints which is most common in older pets, especially dogs); spinal diseases such as spondylosis and spondylitis (also more common in older pets and particular in dogs) and hip dysplasia (a malformation of the hip’s ball and socket which is more common in dogs but may affect certain breeds of cats).

Certain breeds of dogs and cats may be genetically more prone to developing conditions such as hip dysplasia and spinal problems.

How are muscle and joint problems usually treated?

For many conditions, conventional treatment is largely symptomatic, aimed primarily at reducing pain and inflammation and keeping the animal as comfortable as possible.

Splinting, casting or surgery may be also be necessary. While prescription anti-inflammatory medication may help to ease the pain, it can also play havoc with your pet’s stomach lining, sometimes leading to ulcers and digestive problems with chronic use.

Prescription medication may ease the pain and inflammation, but would have little healing effect.

How can natural remedies help?

Nutrition is a key element in the treatment and prevention of many muscle and joint problems.

As part of a holistic approach to treating your pet, natural remedies can help to build and strengthen your pet’s immune system, encourage the elimination of toxins, strengthen and protect his skeletal system and generally improve the overall health of your animal – in addition to alleviating and treating the specific problems associated with muscle and joint problems.

Other components of a holistic approach to therapy, especially in relation to alleviating and treating the symptoms associated with muscle and joint problems, include aromatherapy, acupuncture and chiropractic.

What is Muscle and Joint Support?

Muscle and Joint Support capsules are specially formulated for pets and contain a unique formula combining herbal medicines, biochemic tissue salts and nutritional substances all well known for their therapeutic and protective effect on the skeletal system, including muscles, joints, cartilage and tendons.

Muscle and Joint Support is an excellent choice for pets suffering from arthritis, rheumatism and degenerative joint disease and can also be used as a tonic and preventative in animals known to be susceptible to joint and bone ailments.

Use PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support to:

* Treat the symptoms of existing arthritis, rheumatism and degenerative joint disease
* Improve ease of movement
* Reduce stiffness and pain associated with swollen joints
* Relieve pain and inflammation
* Reduce toxin and acid buildup associated with arthritis, rheumatism and joint diseases
* Prevent and treat the symptoms of hip dysplasia
* Ensure healthy, strong muscles, tendons, cartilage and bone
* Cleanse and purify the system and improve liver functioning

What are the ingredients of PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support?

PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support contains the following herbal, homeopathic and nutritional ingredients.

(Contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil’s Claw): is found in the Kalahari Desert and is exclusive to Africa. Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, Devil’s Claw is used world-wide for osteo-arthritis, fibrositis, rheumatism, small joint disease and lower backache. Scientific research in the West has confirmed the anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic properties of this medicinal herb. Research has demonstrated that consistent use of Devil’s Claw for at least 6 weeks can significantly improve the movement of arthritic joints and reduce swelling. It is also well known as a digestive tonic and is beneficial in the treatment of liver and gall bladder disorders.

Arthrospira platenis (Spirulina): is a single celled micro-organism found in the sea and is widely used as a source of chlorophyll. Widely used for its nutritive properties, Spirulina contains high concentrations of protein, vitamins (including B12 and folic acid) and carotenoids. This sea algae has been medicinally used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years as a tonic to boost energy, relieve arthritis, enhance liver functioning, improve resistance to disease and all around systemic health.

Calcium Fluoride (6cH) (Calc. Flour.): is a biochemic tissue salt which helps to strengthen, tone and restore elasticity to all cells and body tissues. It can help to restore tone and elasticity to muscles and tendons and improve ease of movement in the body. Calc. Flour. is also useful in the treatment of bladder problems and enlarged prostate glands.

Natrium Phosphoricum (6cH) (Nat. Phos.): acts as a biochemical antacid, acid neutralizer and PH balancer. By helping to control acidity in the system, Nat. Phos. is invaluable in the treatment of all inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism and joint stiffness. Regular use will help to improve mobility and reduce the pain.

Natrium Sulphate (6cH) (Nat. Sulph.) : is a biochemic tissue salt also known as the ‘cell cleanser’ and also helps to regulate and balance all body fluids. It is invaluable for a range of conditions, and helps to promote the health of the liver, pancreas, urinary tract system, respiratory system and digestive system. Nat. Sulph is also particularly useful in all bone related complaints, also helping to ease pain and stiffness associated with old injuries.

Lecithin: This is a fatty substance found in different foods including liver, eggs and wheat germ and is essential for many body functions, helping to build strong and healthy cell membranes and maintain optimum liver functioning.

Glucosamine Sulphate: is a crucial element in the building and maintenance of healthy cartilage, which provides ‘cushioning’ at the end of the bones and between joints. Due to promising results in a number of clinical trials, this nutritional substance has been approved for the treatment of arthritis in more than 70 countries. Regular use has been shown to ease pain and inflammation, increase mobility and assist in the repair of aging and damaged joints and the treatment of age-related degenerative joint disease. Studies have also demonstrated that this supplement is as effective in animals as it is in humans.

Lactose: (inactive ingredient)

Testimonials from our customers

“I am happy to report that since taking your Muscle and Joint Support, our Great Dane is much more comfortable and is again starting to chase the cat! ” – Nancy.

“We first noticed that our family dog was limping and favoring the right side last winter and since then she has also become very sensitive to being touched on the back. Our vet recommended your Joint Support Caps and we have seen a big change. She means so much to us and we are very grateful to PetAlive for this great product!” – Jeff R.

“Our old cat was really in pain with arthritis and is much better after using your product. We can pick her up and stroke her and she is less crabby which means she must be feeling comfortable again. Thank you very much for helping her” – Sheila.

How do we use Muscle and Joint Support Capsules?

PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support comes in convenient capsule form. Capsules may be swallowed whole by larger dogs. However, most owners find that it is easier and more convenient to open the capsule and mix the contents with wet food or a small treat.

This prevents stress to both pet and owner! Cats, especially, hate to have medicine forced down their throats and will happily eat the dried herb when it is mixed with a little fish or meat.

Dosage:
Cats and small dogs: 1/2 capsule twice daily.
Medium dogs: One capsule twice daily.
Large dogs: One to two capsules twice daily.

Caution: Safety during pregnancy and nursing has not been established. Do not use together with prescription anti-inflammatory medication.

Tip: Avoiding toxin and acid build up is essential in the ongoing treatment and prevention of all joint and muscle conditions. Use together with DetoxPlus for maximum effect.

How long will a bottle last?

Depending on the size of your pet, one bottle of Muscle and Joint Support capsules should last from 15 – 60 days.

How long until we see results?

Results will vary depending on factors like diet, exercise as well as the health of your pet. With consistent use, you should be seeing improvement within 6 – 8 weeks, although some animals will respond sooner.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet (see below) will further enhance your pet’s health, as well as the effectiveness of PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support.

What else can help?

Our pets are exposed to a variety of toxins on a daily basis. These can weaken their immune systems and damage the body’s natural ability to fight off disease. Eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed (preferably organic) food and avoiding exposure to common everyday toxins will help to keep your pet healthy.

Also remember:

* Keeping your pet at his ideal weight will help to prevent excess strain on his joints
* Your pet’s diet needs to contain adequate protein for building muscles and adequate calcium for strong bones.
* Regular exercise is essential for keeping joints flexible and muscles and ligaments strong. It will also help in preventing obesity.
* Remove your pet’s food after a while if he has not eaten it all. Periods of fasting throughout the day are very important for effective digestion and detoxification.
* Ensure your pet is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic).
* Use Immunity and Liver Support capsules to boost your pet’s immune functioning and resistance against disease and infection
* Filtered or bottled water is preferable to chlorinated or fluorinated water.
* Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals as much as possible including pesticides, herbicides, commercial flea collars, flea powder, insecticides and second-hand cigarette smoke.
* Talk to a holistic vet before immunizing your pet. Over-vaccination may stress the immune system unnecessarily.
* Food and water bowls should be made of glass, stainless steel or porcelain
* Don’t feed your pet chocolate as even a small amount can be toxic
* Cook food in stainless-steel pans, not aluminum or copper pans.

Adapted from The Veterinarians’ Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs, by Martin Zucker.

“I believe acupuncture is the number one method for arhritis. Number two is homeopathy. … Years ago I learned about a special arthritis diet…many animals improve on this diet alone.” A. Greig Howie, DVM

Simple Solution:

The Antiarthritis Diet

Ingredients

2 cups brown rice
2 cups barley (pearls)
1 cup lentils
2 cups carrots
1 cup celery
1/2 cup parsley
2 cups spinach
2 cups lamb or beef hearts
2 garlic cloves
8 to 12 cups water

Combine ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer covered for 1 1/4 hours. Stir every fifteen minutes. Add more water as needed.

Veterinarians Guide to Natural Remedies for Dogs : Safe and Effective Alternative Treatments and Healing Techniques from the Nations Top Holistic Veterinarians

Just as with you and I, your pets age is a consideration that must be thought about as your dog matures. It is easy to overlook, especially if your dog is in its prime, however, your aging animal has new needs that must be met just as with any other aging animal or human being.

A change in lifestyle, preventive measures and lots of love can help your dog in its journey from “prime time” to “down time”. First, just how old is your dog – really?

Depending on the breed and size, your pet may have a life expectancy from around eight years(for most of the giant breeds) to fourteen or more(for the toy/smaller breeds). Keep in mind that these are only approximations- your pet, depending on its health and quality of life could live longer(or shorter) than these figures. Most dogs fall anywhere between these two.

Additionally, your dog will begin to show signs of aging based on its quality of life, condition of health, size, breed and hereditary considerations. Medium sized dogs,such as spaniels, may begin to show signs of aging around 7 or 8 years of age. Giant breeds may do this as early as 5 or 6 while small/toy breeds may wait around until 9 or so. Again, remember these figures are approximations.

It seems that in many dogs, work is one key to living a long and full life. Most dogs recorded for living long periods of time were working animals- active herding dogs, movie stars/ actors, or involved in other types of mental and physical stimulation. This above all seems to be a key factor in helping your dog live to a point closer to its true life expectancy- and in a way of better and fuller health.

In a mixed breed animal, age is harder to predict, but an active knowledge of their background or size does help in predicting this figure.

Work is one key to living a long and full life

Changes in dietary requirements, an understanding of potential diseases and of your dogs potential needs is your best defense in helping your dog in this time of change. Many things may hamper your dog from play or simple day to day activities as it ages. Arthritis is just one example.

Also, as with humans, dogs will tire and slow down much faster as they age which leads to one of the most common mistakes people make with their aging pets- OVER FEEDING.

Just how this happens can be quite easy. The pet teaches its human to feed it by begging, looking cute, doing a favorite trick, etc. until the owner gives in. Over time this added caloric intake can take its toll and result in extra weight. This is one of the major areas that can cause health problems as the dog grows older.

To detect if your dog is overweight simply run your hands down the animals sides. If you can easily feel the ribs and there is a degree of tapering near the dogs mid section(just in front of the hind legs) your pet is probably not overweight.

If you are unable to feel the ribs and there is to “tuck up”, chances are your dog is overweight. Your vet can offer you ways to alter your dogs diet if it is too heavy or can answer any other questions you may have concerning your pet and obesity.

Exercise is an invaluable component for any type of weight loss- for animals or humans. Initiate play with your pet. Encourage it to play catch, fetch or whatever games you played with it when it was younger. Even walking your dog can be quite beneficial- for both you and your pet. Remember not to overdo it, however. If your dog begins to pant heavily, allow it to rest. Some animals, like children, don’t know when to stop once they begin to play.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR

If your dog shows any of the following symptoms:

Clouding of the eyes(beware the whitish, hazy discolorations)

New lumps underneath, or on top of, the skin

Troubled breathing/ extensive coughing

Has problems eating hard foods/ bad breath

Shows signs of controlling its urinary capabilities

Has problems of stiffness/ lameness in getting up(especially after sleeping)

Is Unresponsive to verbal commands or you calling its name

Consult your vet

The benefits of a healthy and fit dog highly outweigh that of an unfit animal. First, the risk of getting heart disease or other health problems such as diabetes, is much lower. Also, with early prevention, many age related health problems can be averted. Consult your vet with any questions or at the first sign of any health problems concerning your animals.

About the Author

Pedigreed Pups is a website offering the best purebred dog breed information, online resources and high-quality dog content for all dog owners, dog lovers and those considering dog ownership. Debbie is the owner of pedigreedpups.com, a dog lover, owner and dog breeder of many years.