Aging Dog Limping? Here’s What You Should Do
As our dogs age, we have a responsibility to make sure that they are as free from pain as possible. For a dog limping through pain all day long, it might not be obvious what you can do to help. First, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to ensure that the limping isn’t a sign of something more serious than natural aging. Once you know for sure that your dog’s aching joints are normal, here are some things that you can try to relieve the pain and get your puppy back to playing.
Low-Impact Activities
If your dog is having trouble moving, you might assume that rest is the best medicine. However, it is important to stay active if your veterinarian has cleared your dog for activity.
Is your dog limping?
Try some low-impact exercises. Even though your dog is healthy enough to get some exercise, you should remember to limit the type of exercise and how long you spend on activities. Playing fetch in the park might not be a good idea if your dog has joint pain, but low impact activities like going on walks or swimming can be good for your dog.
Joint Supplements
Millions of people around the world use joint supplements to relieve pain and improve joint health. Your dog can benefit from joint supplements, too! Be sure to ask your veterinarian which supplements might help your furry little friend. Giving your dog supplements that contain Glucosamine and Chondroitin can help to relieve pain. There are many supplements on the market that are designed specifically for dogs.
Get to a Healthy Weight
One of the biggest reasons that affects your dog’s joint health is whether he is at a healthy weight. If you see your dog limping and struggling to go on walks, it might be time for a new diet and more exercise. All those extra pounds can really damage your dog’s joints, so be sure to start with exercise that is low-impact like those mentioned above. Not only will losing weight help your dog feel less pain in his joints, but also it will lead to a longer life. Talk to your veterinarian about how you can get your dog to a healthier weight before changing your dog’s diet or starting a new exercise regimen.
Is your dog limping?
As doggy parents, we all want to make sure that our dogs have a great life. They are part of the family, and we cherish every moment we have with them. When they get older, we have to take extra care to make sure they are healthy and happy. If you see your aging dog limping or having trouble getting around, be sure to address the problem right away. The longer your dog is in pain, the worse things can get. By maintaining a healthy diet and giving them lots of exercise when they are younger, we can help guide them into their golden years so they can live comfortably and with little pain.
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