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What Active Pet Owners Should Know
From the tiniest Chihuahua to an imposing Malamute, dogs, like people, come in all shapes and sizes. But big or small, the bond between people and their pets is the same. Dogs give their owners unconditional love, devotion and friendship. In return, pet owners have certain responsibilities to their companion animals, especially as they age.
Dogs, like our human loved ones, are affected by the process of aging. Joint mobility problems are quite common among older dogs, due to progressive cartilage breakdown. One study estimates that as many as one in five dogs older than 1 year of age currently have joint mobility issues.
Joint problems in dogs often lead to stiffness, lameness and reduced mobility. As in humans, the components that make up a joint help determine a dog’s range of motion. In healthy joints, cartilage lines the ends of the bones, creating a smooth gliding surface. A normal joint is encased in fluids that lubricate the joint and helps minimize friction.
Watching a beloved pet lose the ability to fetch a ball or enjoy an evening walk can be heartbreaking. These changes in behavior may be the result of joint health issues if your dog:
• Has a hard time getting up in the morning or after lying down for a rest,
• Appears stiff after exercise,
• Tires easily or lags behind on walks,
• Is reluctant to climb steps or jump up,
• Pants excessively when she doesn’t seem hot.
There are steps you can take to help your dog maintain healthy joints. As in humans, excess weight puts extra strain on your dog’s joints, so keep your dog at a good weight for her size and breed.
Next, make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise. While you don’t want to put any unnecessary stress on aging joints, it’s good for your dog to keep moving. “Staying active through appropriate activities is one of the keys to helping support joint health,” says Dr. Brian Beale, an orthopedic specialist at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists in Houston. “The stronger the muscles and tissue around the joints, the better they protect the joints.”
You’ll also want to talk to your vet about specific recommendations for your dog. Your veterinarian may recommend a new diet that promotes joint health and mobility. Purina Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility brand Canine Formula uses a unique blend of nutrients, including high levels of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and glucosamine to promote healthy cartilage and joints.
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