How to help your arthritic dog to find relief and comfort

Any dog can be affected with arthritis, just as humans. It most often afflicts the senior dog and larger breeds, creating a very debilitating condition for your pet. Arthritis is a swelling or inflammation of a joint area on the body. There are options to help your arthritic pet find comfort and relief from arthritis through medication and other methods. If your dog seems to be suffering with arthritis, consult with your local Rockford-area veterinarian as listed below or on closest to your home to get the best treatment for your pet.

The first option for treatment is medication therapy. Some of the medications your vet may prescribe are Cosequin, Deramaxx, Etogesic and Rimadyl. These non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work to control and diminish inflammation with further beneficial nutrients to repair cartilage and its function.

Along with medication therapy, you can also help your arthritic pet by providing it with a soft comfy bed, possibly one made specifically for arthritis relief, so that the animal will not lie on a hard, painful surface. Massage is extremely beneficial for the pet’s overall health and wellness. It improves flexibility and circulation. Your veterinarian can demonstrate the proper way to do so.

Diet, nutrition and exercise are another important aspect in arthritis pain relief, therapy and treatment. Provide your pet with a nutritious healthy diet and avoid obesity. An overweight pet presents more strain on the bones and joints. Supplements such as Glucosamine, Chondroitin sulfate and Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to reduce your pet’s pain while improving mobility. Mild to moderate exercise is also imperative in strengthening muscles and ligaments for improved flexibility and reduce injury.

Your dog does not have to suffer with an arthritic condition. With a combination of medication therapy, massage, diet and nutrition along with some exercise and fitness, your dog can live a normal, happy life.

If you are seeking Veterinary assistance in the Rockford area, you can check out one of these at - Rockford Vet Clinics, Bellwood Vet, Rockford Veterinarians, Perryville Veterinarian , Cat Veterinarians Specialists

For all your pets needs and accessories in the Rockford area, go to your local PETCO - 6305 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 229-0184 - Petco or your local PETSMART - 6320 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 397-7880 - Petsmart -PETLAND, (815) 332-4200 - Petland

For many of your pet essentials, visit your local Rockford-area CVS pharmacies. There are four convenient locations - 3134 11th Street, Rockford, IL 61109, (815)398-0048 - 110 S Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61108 - 3718 Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103, (815)877-9620 - 2454 S. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61108, (815)399-5421 - CVS Pharmacy

For therapy options for your dog in the Rockford, Illinois area, go to - Hydrotherapy for Pets in RockfordSign up for my pet blog and let me know if you have questions or concerns regarding your pets. Let me know what you think of my articles and if you have any queries. I have created a question and answer page for that reason. Let me know if I can be of help to you with your beloved pets – no question too large or small. Hope to see you at Animal Care Blog. Be the most educated pet parent!

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, Rockford Pet Care Examiner

Susan Lee holds a certification in dog grooming and pet care, and has worked in the pet industry for more than 25 years. Susan is also the moderator for the pet channel at www.factoidz.com and writes articles for various other internet sites. You can reach her at pupelv7@comcast.net for any of...

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