Maturity in Motion - Joint Health for Senior Dogs
If you've ever had a senior dog in your life, you've likely noticed that they tend to "slow down" as they get older. It's just a normal sign of aging, right? In some cases, behavioural changes such as this could signal age-related changes or health conditions starting to develop. One common age-related disease that develops is osteoarthritis. In addition to "slowing down", your dog may also show difficulty moving or rising, stiffness, weight gain and changes in their gait.
Joints help support the body by providing a cushioning and shock-absorbing effect. Degeneration of the joint can result in inflammation and boney changes which can be painful. Age is not the only risk factor for arthritis; breed, genetics, size, previous injury, muscle loss and obesity also play a role.
So how can we support our pups with achy joints?
Weight Management
Obesity is a major player in the development of arthritis. In fact, over half of dogs with arthritis are also obese! Why are these often seen together? Extra weight puts additional strain on joints, and pets who are painful from arthritis are less likely to be active and exercise. It is difficult to break this cycle without intervention.
The good news? Weight loss has been shown to be beneficial in reducing lameness in arthritic dogs and can improve their quality of life. If your dog is overweight, with or without arthritis, it's time to speak to your veterinary team.
Of course, keeping our dogs from becoming overweight will also help! Proper portioning of their food, along with limiting treat offerings, can go a long way in keeping a slim physique. As our pets age, it can be common to want to spoil them with their favorite treats and food, but remember that our dogs enjoy interacting with us in other ways, including through play, praise and pats.
Healthy Exercise
Inactivity can cause muscle wasting from disuse, which can increase the chance of injury. Unfortunately, many dogs with arthritis are painful and may not wish to exercise, or it may be difficult to do the same activities they are used to. Speak to your veterinarian to ensure you pet's pain is being appropriately managed. There are also many low-impact exercise activities that can be explored, which contribute to healthy muscle mass without further damaging the joints. Consider short, frequent leash walks or swimming or physiotherapy.
Joint Support
Many diets for senior dogs include supplements to support joint health. There are lots of different products available, and each works in a slightly different way. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and hydrolyzed collagen for example, are building blocks for joint cartilage. Omega 3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, help reduce inflammation. Green-lipped mussel is for more advanced joint disease and helps improve joint fluid and reduces joint break down.
So, whether your pup is showing signs of slowing down or is still keeping up during those long walks, considering how we can support their joints will help keep them moving into their senior years.
References:
- Banfield Pet Hospital State of Pet Health (2019)
- Marshall et al (2010). Vet Res. Commun 34
- German et al (20120). The Veterinary Journal 192(3)