Bones connect our bodies together, and the same applies to our dogs. Canines are commonly the picture of strength, but they, too, can get weak, just like us. They need the same things people do to maintain bone health. And for this, their pet parents are the only ones who can help them. So if you want to help your pets have the best days in their younger and senior years, keep reading to find out how to keep their joint health in optimal condition.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Bones in Optimal Condition
Senior dogs commonly experience loss of mobility, weakened bones, and joint stiffness. While this will really happen to dogs as they age, you can slow down these indications from happening and even help them have intact joints and mobility even in their senior years. So we’ve detailed five valuable tips to promote stronger and healthier bones for your four-legged companion.
1. Try alternative therapies
Many available alternative pet therapies can help boost and improve joint health. Chiropractic, laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, electro-acupuncture, and canine sports medicine offer reputable solutions for addressing and preventing joint problems. These treatments can be helpful for dogs of any age and breed.
2. Feed a high-quality diet
Some people usually compromise on the quality due to the expense. However, canines need a healthier and stronger diet plan to build robust bones. Choose a canine food that contains equal portions of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients. Numerous commercial dog foods today are formulated to meet your canine’s nutritional needs, so you won’t have to stress about picking what to feed your pet.
But when in doubt, always ask your vet for the recommended options for your peace of mind. For questions concerning this matter, you may click here.
3. Maintain proper weight
Like people, being overweight can cause major problems for your pet in the future. Excess weight can put additional stress on their joints, hindering their mobility and even weakening their bones over time. Obese dogs are also at risk of massive negative 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 overweight pet and a condition begins to develop on an unforeseen occasion that’s causing them to struggle, immediately take them to a facility that offers emergency veterinary care 24 hours a day to be checked.
4. Exercise them routinely
No matter the size, age, and breed, dogs need exercise. However, some activities may do more harm than good when they reach a particular age. While your puppy can race back and forth 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. Should your pet fracture their bones while doing any activity, rush them to a veterinary surgery professional for immediate treatment. You may browse the web to see the common emergency surgical procedure for pets.
5. Buy a dog bed
Pets that sleep on hard, cold floors are susceptible to having joint issues in the future, so purchasing the right bed is essential early on. Getting a dog bed that appropriately supports bone structure at every age can decelerate or even avoid bone problems that may impair or deteriorate their mobility throughout their senior years.
