There’s no two ways about it- we all love our dogs and want what’s best for them. This becomes even more true as our furry friends start to increase in age. Unfortunately, as our dog’s age increases, they may start to experience more medical problems- such as loss of hearing, doggie dementia, or a lack of appetite. Yet, one of the most debilitating pain that our dogs may start to experience, involves joint pain.
If dogs begin to experience a lot of joint pain, then they may no longer want to play fetch or tug-a-war with you. Going on long, or even short, walks might start to bother them too much. Going up and down the stairs in your home or jumping on the couch could all cause a “flare-up” which will impact your dog’s pain level.
Fortunately, there are a lot of medical options to help relieve any joint pain that your dog may be experiencing.
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Joint Pills For Dogs
One of the most popular option on the medical market to help your dog feel better is joint pills. These tend to be a favorite by owners and veterinarians because the owner can administer the pill quickly at home once they realize that their dog is starting to experience some form of pain.
For some owners, their dogs may only need a joint pill every now and then, but for other owners, their dog may need a joint pill once or twice a day. If you notice that giving your dog one joint pill a day is not relieving his or her pain, you should talk to your vet before you increase your dog’s medication level. Like humans, dog’s livers can be affected over time from taking increased doses of a pain relief medicine. If your dog needs two joint pills a day, then your doctor may give you a pill with a lower dosage so your dog is getting the medication more regularly, but is not receiving the same amount as what is meant to be a daily dose twice a day.
Another factor that could play a part in the medication level that your vet prescribes for your dog is how long the vet predicts that your dog will be on the medication. If your vet thinks that your dog will be on the medication forever, then they may try to start of with a lower level of medication. If your dog just had a form of joint surgery or was in some kind of accident, then your vet may start off by giving your dog a higher dosage to fend off the pain.
Many people also prefer to give their dogs joint pills because they are simple to administer.
How To Easily Administer A Joint Pill
Unfortunately, dogs can’t just swallow their pill with a glass of water in the same fashion that humans do, and most dogs won’t just lick their pill up off of the ground. However, most dogs are food-motivated which can make it extremely simple for you to give them their medication.
Figure out a soft food that your dog enjoys (such as a marshmallows, hot dog, or a cheese cube) and then stick the pill into the food item so that it is completely covered, Your dog will scoop up the food item without ever realizing that their medication was placed within it!
Regular Medical Shots Provided By Your Vet
Another way that your dog may find relief with their joint pain is through a shot being administered to them on a regular basis. Based on the dosage and your dog’s pain, this shot could be given every month or every three months. The vet will attempt to give the shot near the area where your dog is experiencing the most pain.
Most vets prefer for your dog to take a pill because you don’t have to bring your dog into the vet’s office on a regular basis- which can be a pain for both you and your dog. Most dogs will also be resistant to receiving a shot. Over time, they could come to fear going to the vet’s office even when they are going for a regular check-up.
Lifestyle Changes To Help Your Dog’s Joint Pain
In addition to medical forms of providing your dog with relief, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help out your furry best friend.
Use A Harness On Walks
Many dogs willstart to experience pain in their back as they age. One of the top ways to help with this is to use a harness when you take your dog on their daily walk around the block. This will prevent you from yanking on your dog’s neck when they start to stray.
