Arthritis in Dogs: Managing Pain with Bodywork Therapies and Supplements
A dog relaxes comfortably after a soothing massage, helping alleviate arthritis pain and promoting mobility.
Arthritis is a common condition affecting many dogs, especially as they age. It causes pain, stiffness, and a reduced quality of life, making it difficult for your dog to enjoy their favorite activities. At Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness, we specialize in holistic approaches to managing conditions like arthritis. By combining bodywork therapies and natural supplements, we can help improve your dog’s mobility and comfort. In this blog, we’ll explore how to manage arthritis pain in dogs with these holistic solutions.
Understanding Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that causes inflammation in the joints. It occurs when the cartilage between the bones begins to break down, leading to painful bone-on-bone contact. Symptoms of arthritis in dogs include limping, difficulty standing or walking, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and overall stiffness, especially after resting.
Denise Bozenski, the owner and certified holistic health coach at Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness, emphasizes, “Arthritis can be devastating for both dogs and their owners, but there are natural ways to manage the condition that don’t involve relying solely on medications. Combining bodywork therapies with natural supplements can significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life.”
Learn more about Denise HERE!
Holistic Approaches to Managing Arthritis Pain
Canine Bodywork Therapies
Bodywork therapies such as canine massage, acupressure, and animal neuro-myofascial release (ANMR) are highly effective in helping manage arthritis pain. These therapies target the muscles, joints, and tissues to increase circulation, reduce muscle tightness, and promote healing.
Canine Massage: This therapy helps alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation, which can ease the discomfort associated with arthritis. Regular massage can also increase your dog’s range of motion and help them stay active.
Acupressure: Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that targets specific pressure points on the body to help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility. This non-invasive therapy can be a game-changer for dogs with arthritis.
ANMR: ANMR focuses on releasing tension in the fascial and muscular systems, helping to improve mobility and reduce chronic pain in arthritic dogs.
“Bodywork therapies are not just about comfort—they can actually address the root causes of pain and inflammation in your dog’s joints,” Denise adds. “By addressing both the muscles and the joints, we’re working to restore their full range of motion.”
Learn more about holistic bodywork therapies here, Holistic Bodywork Therapies to Enhance Your Dog’s Wellness.
Supplements for Joint Health
In addition to bodywork therapies, supplements play a crucial role in supporting your dog’s joint health. Certain natural supplements can help reduce inflammation, promote cartilage health, and ease arthritis symptoms.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: These two supplements are commonly used to support joint health by improving the elasticity and function of cartilage. They can help slow the progression of arthritis and prevent further joint damage.
Fish Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and stiffness in the joints.
Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility in dogs with arthritis.
CBD Oil: Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has been shown to reduce pain, inflammation, and anxiety in dogs. It works with the endocannabinoid system to provide relief for dogs suffering from arthritis.
Green-lipped Mussel: This supplement is high in omega-3s and other nutrients that support joint health, making it a great addition to any arthritis management plan.
Learn more about herbal supplements and how they can help your dog in our blog, Herbal Supplements for Dogs: How They Can Help Your Pup Thrive.
Proper Nutrition and Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for dogs with arthritis. Extra weight puts additional stress on the joints, exacerbating pain and inflammation. A balanced diet, combined with joint-supporting supplements, can help reduce strain on your dog’s joints and improve their overall mobility.
Denise advises, “A healthy weight is key in managing arthritis. A combination of quality nutrition and targeted supplements can help alleviate some of the pressure on the joints, especially for overweight dogs.”
Tips for Supporting Your Dog with Arthritis
Provide Comfortable Bedding: Ensure that your dog has a soft and supportive bed to sleep on. Orthopedic beds can help reduce pressure on their joints during rest.
Limit High-Impact Activities: While exercise is important, avoid activities that put excessive strain on your dog’s joints, such as running on hard surfaces or jumping.
Physical Therapy: Consider incorporating low-impact activities like swimming into your dog’s routine. Swimming helps build muscle strength without putting stress on the joints.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Regular visits to your veterinarian are essential for monitoring your dog’s arthritis and adjusting their treatment plan as necessary.
If your dog is struggling with arthritis, holistic therapies and natural supplements could provide the relief they need to lead a more comfortable life. At Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness, we offer customized wellness plans for dogs suffering from arthritis, combining bodywork therapies and natural supplements to help your dog feel their best. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help. Get started HERE!
FAQs
How can I tell if my dog has arthritis?
Signs of arthritis in dogs include limping, stiffness, difficulty standing or walking, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, and overall discomfort, especially after resting.
Can bodywork therapies help with arthritis pain?
Yes! Bodywork therapies like canine massage, acupressure, and ANMR can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing in dogs with arthritis.
Are there natural supplements that can help with arthritis in dogs?
Yes! Glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, fish oil, CBD oil, and green-lipped mussel are all effective natural supplements that can help reduce inflammation and support joint health in dogs with arthritis.
