Treating Joint Problems in Dogs

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

08 Aug 2006 11:03 AM

A dog suffering from arthritis can experience stiffness, a loss of flexibility, and pain. Age can make joints, ligaments, and tendons wear away, but there are certain supplements you can offer your pet to help ease joint pains!

Here's a diet change that may surprise you: you may want to cut back on the red meat in your pet's diet -- red meat is high in uric acid, which can contribute to joint problems and other arthritic conditions.

One thing you may want to add to your dog's diet is glucosamine. Glucosamine is a substance that occurs naturally in cartilage and joint fluids. It is one of the building blocks for connective tissue in your dog's body. Glucosamine can be absorbed orally and distributed to the joints to ease many different problems:

• Arthritis/Osteoarthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Disc Degeneration
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Inflamed Discs/Inflamed Joints
• Sciatic Nerve Issues

So how do you pick the right glucosamine supplement for your pet? A standard daily dose is around 1500 milligrams. Ideally, the glucosamine should contain both HCL and sulfates. Liquid is easier to administer than powder or capsules and absorbs faster through the stomach. However, pills tend to have a longer shelf life and are easier to handle. Perhaps most importantly, you don't want to pay too much! A single dose should cost you no more than $1.20 -- a month's supply shouldn't cost more than fifty dollars. Prices may vary, but you want to find a product that will be affordable.

For extra health benefits, look for a glucosamine supplement that includes complementary ingredients like chondroitin sulfate, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and bromelaine -- which can help relieve inflammation.

All treatments don't work for all dogs. Talk to your doctor about other therapies like massage, acupuncture, and prescription medicines.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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