Animal Doctor

Exercise and Supplements Can Ease Arthritis Pain

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Thursday, April 23, 2009

Dear Dr. Fox:

Do you have any recommendations for dogs with arthritis and joint problems? My black Lab-husky mix is 12 and having a hard time walking and getting up.

T.J.D.

Fargo, N.D.

The regimen for arthritic dogs (and cats) is a soft bed or sleeping pad, daily massage therapy and, when pain is severe, acupuncture treatments, and daily supplements, including fish, flaxseed or hempseed oil, plus turmeric, chondroitin, MSM and glucosamine. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, along with corticosteroids, are best avoided because of harmful side effects, especially with long-term use. Giving an over-the counter anti-inflammatory drug such as Aleve at what might seem to be a safe dose for three or four days could kill a dog.

Many dogs and cats with painful, degenerative joints show improvement with weight loss (as is often called for) and regular activity. Encourage the animal to participate in physically active games. Swimming is also good for many dogs; veterinary hydrotherapy has its place in physical therapy, too.

Dear Dr. Fox:

I had a female Weimaraner for more than 14 years. We traveled together and hunted together, and she was usually at my side while I worked my little farm. Locals joked that she was an extension of my hip, and that wasn't far from the truth.

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