Body condition is a critical factor in your pet’s health. Fat tissue creates inflammation which results in more arthritic pain. A pet that is overweight experiences more pain from arthritis. Your pets weight is in your control. He does not have to be overweight. There are good diet foods for pets on the market and if needed there are prescription diet foods. Do not sabotage your pets diet by feeding excessive treats and table food. Remember food does not equal love, allowing your dog to become overweight and suffer from it is not loving. Sometimes there is a medical reason for a dog being overweight such as hypothyroidism. If your pet is overweight, you should see your veterinarian and discuss if your pet has any medical issues that are contributing to her weight. Just like us, calories matter, be careful what you feed.

Finally, let’s look at supplements, medications and treatments. Supplements generally are some form of Glucosamine and Chondroitin. These products help promote cartilage in the joints. This cartilage is responsible for cushioning the joint and producing fluid that lubricates the joints. Not all supplements are equally as effective. Be sure to check with your veterinarian for one he/she recommends. If arthritis has progressed to a painful condition, your veterinarian may prescribe an anti-inflammatory. Only use anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your veterinarian, many of the human products are toxic to our pets. As this condition progresses, supplements and anti-inflammatory medications may not be sufficient to manage the pain and your Veterinarian may prescribe an actual pain medication. As with human medicine, veterinary medicine is developing new therapies to help with inflammation and pain. One such therapy is the use of Therapy Laser. A Therapy Laser can decrease pain and inflammation. Check with your veterinarian to see if Therapy Laser treatment is an option for your pet.

Our pets look to us to keep them comfortable and healthy, there are things we as owners, can do to enrich our pets lives and provide them pain free days.

Now, time for that walk..