Is Your Labrador Retriever Suffering from Arthritis? Here Are a Few Tips to Help Ease the Pain
Dogs are our playful friends and serve as an important part of every pet lover’s family. The Labrador retriever is no different. According to a recent article by Newsweek, the Labrador retriever was the most popular breed of dog in the United States. Most Lab owners realize the benefits of owning one of these friendly and playful companions. These beloved animals are seen as our children, brothers, sisters and friends. Making sure they stay healthy and happy is always at the top of mind. However, from time to time there are health issues that arise and impact Labradors, and arthritis is one of these problems.
What is Arthritis?
According to the ASPCA, “Canine arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is characterized by pain and inflammation in a dog’s joints.” Since our dogs cannot verbally communicate with us, it is important to watch for the physical symptoms of arthritis. The symptoms of osteoarthritis include lameness, stiffness and joint pain, often when your dog is waking up or performing physical activity. Rheumatoid arthritis typically has the symptoms of a loss of appetite and weight, fever and stiffness.
When these symptoms impact your Labrador you may notice a change in behavior and attitude. Daily tasks can often become a struggle because of the pain and inflammation. In addition to this, because your pooch is experiencing these negative health problems it may change his or her personality as well. Think about it, if you were affected by arthritis, would you feel like your normal perky self?
Modifying Your Lab’s Lifestyle
With arthritis comes a need to change your dog’s lifestyle and activities. It is not impossible to keep your dog happy and healthy with this condition, it just requires a few lifestyle modifications. Keeping your Labrador healthy and comfortable will help to minimize pain and struggle for your puppy.
When it comes to physical activity, play gently with your dog as he or she may not have the same stamina as before arthritis set in. Remember to take things slow and don’t push too much intense movement, as this may be too extreme. In addition to this, make sure the necessities such as food and water bowls are easy to access. Consider putting them in an area that will not cause too much physical stress on your loved one. Placing these items in a central and convenient location will help to eliminate any extra pressures when your Lab is trying to move around and access these things.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis. However, that does not mean there is no hope! Sometimes painkillers are subscribed to dogs to assist with discomfort, but giving your animal these painkillers can have negative side effects. Consider trying a natural treatment for arthritis instead. There are natural arthritis treatments available that can help to provide synovial fluid back to pets, which in turn helps with the lubrication of joints. Lubrication will make it easier and more comfortable for your Labrador to move around.
Final Thoughts
The end goal is to keep your Labrador retriever healthy and happy. As animal owners it is painful when one of the loved ones in your home has a condition such as arthritis, and it can often be hard on both the pet and the pet parent. However, by being aware of the arthritis symptoms and taking steps to ease the pain and modify your Lab’s lifestyle, this will provide maximum comfort for your pup and help them to live the healthiest and happiest life possible.
Has your Labrador been affected by arthritis and have you noticed changes in them? Nzymes is dedicated to the health of pets and provides owners with nutritionally based supplements and solutions for better health and nutrition.
