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Posts Tagged ‘Canine’

Even those of us that do not have canines at home realize that man’s best friend is highly susceptible to dog arthritis. How often have you seen some dog that maneuvers as though it is pain? This is particularly the case with older and/or heavier canines that are generally less active physically. Sound familiar? It might, because this is just the kind of life which causes arthritis in men and women, as well. Nowadays, we refer to arthritis a lifestyle disease with reason.

Happens to all of us
Actually, arthritis in dogs is very similar to arthritis in men and women, as it is a degenerative disease that creates stiffness of the joints and muscles. And as in men and women, arthritis with canines is quite common as joints will, in the normal course of events, suffer an amount of deterioration. And also as in people, arthritis – most usually osteoarthritis – in canines can be an uncomfortably tortuous ailment which, if not treated, causes great distress.

Age factor

One thing to consider is that arthritis can affect dogs at all ages. Yes, older dogs are more vulnerable to it, but that doesn’t mean younger dogs will not get it at all. For example, a young dog that has been in an accident or has sustained some kind of injury is also prone to develop canine arthritis. And then there are infections and diseases that can bring on arthritis, such as the disease called hip dysplasia, which is a common cause of limping in dogs, and which may lead to arthritis in later years.

First steps
Obviously, if your dog displays symptoms of arthritis, the first thing to do is to visit a vet. Getting the right treatment is essential as dog arthritis is not  100% curable, but, given the right kind of dog arthritis treatment, it can be kept in check.

And although you might not think it, gentle exercise is one of the best treatments, which may sound paradoxical since exercise will cause increased joint movement, but is actually of great help. That is because the exercises are not meant to be vigorous physical workouts, which will no doubt worsen the condition, but perhaps a steady walk, which releases lubricating fluids for the joints and aid their smooth movement.

See it coming
Naturally there is a variety of medicines and treatments that you can buy to alleviate the symptoms, though as we have already said, there is no 100% result. But these medications are assuredly prescribed by the vet. And a vet is also your best chance for helping the onset of canine arthritive, which really are the best ways to treat canine arthritis. So, assuming that dogs have an approximate life span of 14 years, if your pet is approaching 10, you should know that it’s time to ask your vet about ways to keep your dog healthy so that dog arthritis does not strike.

The diet requirements of a puppy are different than that of older dogs. Their coat, bones, organs, and teeth are still maturing. The foods they eat must have an ample supply of nutrients to support their growth. Remember the difference in energy levels there come from puppies as compared to older dogs. In order to remain energetic, they need a constant supply of foods that provide a source of vitamins, minerals, and the right kinds of fats. We will discuss four tips to help you feed your puppy correctly.

#1 – Buy Commercial Brands

Many owners are tempted to prepare specific meals for their pups, but it’s usually a bad idea. Without rigorous attention to detail, it’s practically impossible to measure the right level of vitamins, fats, proteins, and other nutrients.

By contrast, commercial puppy foods are specifically formulated to provide the right blend for a puppy’s growing body. Manufacturers understand the special needs of puppies. Their high energy and protein requirements have already been considered within the formulations. As a side note, if you’re raising a large breed (for example, a Bernese Mountain Dog), visit your pet supply store to check whether they carry a breed-specific brand.

#2 – Be Consistent

Puppies like most dogs, are creatures of habit. Once they start eating a brand they enjoy, changing that brand – even for “variety” – isn’t normally welcome. But all dogs young or old will eat a meal if one is presented. However, unless there is a compelling reason to change brands, avoid doing so. If you must switch, try to wean your pup off the old food by gradually mixing the new food in.

#3 – Set A Time And Stick To It

In the same way people normally establish certain times to eat meals, you should create a feeding schedule for your puppy. Left to their own devices, puppies will often overeat (again, not unlike people). Because canine obesity is such a debilitating problem, try to encourage the right eating habits when your pup is young. Pick two or three times during which you’ll feed him. He’ll quickly come to recognize those times instinctively.

#4 – Make Drinking Water Available

Puppies need water just like people and some breeds require more than others. Even if the your puppy doesn’t drink allot of water at meal time, always make sure that it is readily available. Puppies are constantly on the move and utilize more energy than the average adult dog. That means he’ll be drinking more water to keep hydrated. Provide him with all he needs.

It’s not difficult to design an easy feeding plan for your pup. Invest in a high-quality commercial brand, avoid switching it, pick feeding times and don’t deviate from them, and give your puppy all the water he wants. You can add all natural dog treats or dog chews as a special bonus for your dog as well. If you follow those guidelines, your pup should grow up to be a healthy, happy adult dog.