Bones connect our bodies together, and the same applies to our dogs. Dogs are usually the picture of durability, but they, too, can get weak, just like us. They require the same things people do to keep bone health in good shape. And for this, their fur parents are the only ones who can help them. So if you want to help your dog have the best days in their younger and senior years, keep reading to find out how to keep their joint health in the best condition.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Bones in Optimal Condition
Senior dogs often experience loss of mobility, damaged bones, and joint stiffness. While this will really happen to dogs as they age, you can slow down these indications from occurring and even help them have intact joints and mobility even in their senior years. So we’ve detailed five valuable pointers to promote stronger and healthier bones for your four-legged companion.
1. Buy a dog bed
Canines that sleep on hard, cold floors are prone to have joint problems in the future, so purchasing the right bed is necessary early on. Getting a canine bed that correctly supports bone structure at every age can decelerate or even prevent bone problems that may impair or deteriorate their mobility during their senior years.
2. Feed a high-quality diet
Some people often compromise on the quality due to the price. However, canines need a healthier and stronger diet plan to build robust bones. Choose a canine food that contains equivalent portions of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients. Many commercial dog foods today are developed to satisfy your canine’s nutritional needs, so you won’t have to stress about choosing what to feed your pet.
But when in doubt, always ask your veterinarian for the suggested options for your assurance. You may browse the web for more info on how they can assist you with concerns like this.
3. Exercise them routinely
Regardless of age, size, and breed, pets require exercise. However, some activities may do more harm than good when they reach a particular age. While your puppy can race up and down the stairs or play catch and fetch effortlessly, this will only strain the joints of middle-aged or senior dogs.
Exercises like swimming, walking, or playing with other canines can help manage your dog’s bone health. If your pet fractures their bones while doing any activity, rush them to professionals specializing in emergency surgery for pets to get prompt treatment.
4. Maintain proper weight
Like people, being overweight can cause severe problems for your canine in the future. Excess weight can put additional strains on their joints, hindering their mobility and even weakening their bones gradually. Obese dogs are also at risk of massive adverse effects on their health, specifically their heart. Keeping their weight healthy is good for their bone health and general well-being.
If you’re an owner of an obese pet and a condition starts to develop at an unanticipated occasion that’s causing them to struggle, immediately take them to an emergency vet center to be examined. By clicking here, you’ll see the common pet conditions requiring surgery.
5. Try alternative therapies
Many available alternative therapies for dogs can help boost and improve their joint health. Chiropractic, laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, electro-acupuncture, and canine sports medicine offer trustworthy solutions for addressing and preventing joint problems. These treatments can be effective for dogs of any age and breed.
