Just like their human caretakers, canines can suffer from dog joint pain at any time. Sometimes joint pain can be acute - caused by excessive exercise; sometimes it can be caused by a diet that is not biologically appropriate. However, in most cases of dog joint pain, the culprit is a degenerative, chronic condition called canine arthritis. And though older dogs are the most likely to develop arthritis, younger dogs can also be afflicted.
When a dog is struggling with joint pain, there are specific changes in behavior that will show. Many of these changes include strange moves, difficulty in standing, and an unwillingness towards basic activities such as climbing stairs and jumping. There are often noticable swelling of the joints, as well. When your dog's discomfort intensifies, he/she will be reluctant to walk. As a dog owner, trust that you will be very saddened to see your dog in such a state. There's nevertheless help to relieve your precious friend's pain. There are now available natural treatments to restore your dog's standard state of health.
Dog Joint Pain - The Problem with Conventional Drugs
Many individuals want to use conventional pain alleviation medicines when their dogs start to show signs of joint problems. Such types of drugs can be effective for pain relief. However, such kinds of treatments can not be utilized for a lengthy time period since they might have adverse and sometimes life-threatening side effects. These are typically prescription drugs and are generally not recommended by many dog health authorities around the world.
Dog Joint Pain - Natural And Botanical Options
As mentioned above, most veterinarians are now creating pain relief protocals that consit of natural and herbal remidies. Below are listed just a few options to help relieve your dog's joint pain:
Exercise is among the most important components of a joint pain treatment protocol. Intense and strenuous exercises aren't recommended - instead mild exercises and stretching to keep the joints working. Less impactful exercises such as swimming help increase strength and flexibility. Exercise also helps in weight loss.
Massage - There is no better healing modality for pain than therapuetic massage. Incresing blood flow and oxygen to the painful areas stimulates the healing process. Massage also raises endorphins (the 'feel-good' chemicals in the brain) and reduces the stress caused by chronic pain.
Tumeric - a very versatile and effective herb that very powerful anti-inflammatory and healing properties. The regular use of this healing spice can keep your dog's joints pain free. Available in capsule form from your local health food store or as a powder in the grocery store, this is a must have in your treatment arsenal.
Natural Topical Pain Relief Solutions - Originally thought to be for human use only, there are now many effective topical treatments for dog joint pain. Some contain herbal ingredients such as Cayenne: and some contain nutrients such as Glucosimine, Chrondroitin and MSM. All are formulated to penetrate beneath the skin to deliver relief to the afflicted joints. Though using these treatments can be messy, they can be quite effective in relieving pain and reducing swelling.
The above suggestions are merely a sampling of numerous available natural treatments for dog joint pain. Try one or a combination of a few to help alleviate your dog's arthritis symptoms. It is, of course, adviseable to consult with your canine health professional before deciding on treatment options.
