Your dog’s love for you seems limitless. His energy level probably seems just as boundless when you come home and meet him. However, his body is finite. If he’s suffering from joint pain, do all you can to ease his suffering so he enjoys life as much as he used to. Here are some tips for easing your dog’s joint pain. 

1. Modify Your Home

PetMD suggests home modifications to ease your dog’s joint pain, including:

• Non-slip rugs give your pup traction better than tile or hardwood floors.
• An orthopedic dog bed helps your dog heal when he needs to rest comfortably.
• Blocking off stairs means your dog won’t go up or down them without supervision.

Some breeds, like dachshunds, might need some extra care. It can be taxing on their back to jump on your bed or couches or even walk downstairs. Consider getting a ramp so they don’t have to jump and risk feeling additional joint or back pain. 

2. Check Out New Treatments

Have you found yourself surprised by how much modern medicine has advanced for humans in the last 20 years? Veterinary medicine has come a long way, too. Your dog might benefit from things that weren’t previously considered mainstream, such as dog acupuncture and massage. You might also want to look into a center like The Visum Light. LED light therapy has numerous positive benefits on ailing tissue and cells.

3. Diet and Medication

Your dog’s diet can be modified in several ways that might help with his joint pain:

• Calorie restrictions can help reduce his weight so his body isn’t working as hard because there is less pressure on the joints.
• Some dog foods have joint supplements that can help, and your vet can recommend certain standalone supplements that can make life easier on your dog.
• Potential medications might include anti-inflammatories and NSAIDs for pain relief to restore joint mobility and function.

Make sure you ask your vet before giving any type of medication to your dog. You don’t want to give them something that could potentially be dangerous for them. Make sure your dog gets any specialized care they might require. 

4. Physical Rehab

If your dog is having joint pain, he might not feel up for walks or playing in the yard like he used to. Trying to force him into it thinking any exercise is a good thing can actually hurt. Low-impact activities are a better place to start, and a qualified dog physical therapist can help with things like underwater treadmilling, range-of-motion exercises, passive stretching, and controlled walking through obstacles. They will help you determine what your dog’s limit is when it comes to physical activity. Gentle exercise in low frequency and moderation can start restoring your dog’s strength and vigor.

If your dog suffers from joint pain, he needs your help. Ease his pain with home modifications, alternative treatments, diet, medicine, and physical rehab. Don’t forget to take him to the vet when needed. Your dog is your best friend. Return the favor and be his.