News You Can Use
Canine Joint Health
Canine Joint Health
by Cheyenne Pratt, Technician, Calico Creek Veterinary Clinic
During the colder months, you may notice your dog is a little more“ stiff” than usual. Like us, our dogs tend to be less active during the winter so their joints become less flexible, especially in older dogs. Dogs have three types of joints in their bodies: ball joints( hips & shoulders), hinge joints( knees and elbows), and pivot joints( neck). The joints consist of bones and connective tissues( ligaments, tendons, and cartilage), as well as a membrane of lubrication called synovial fluid. Several factors can determine a dog’ s joint health, including age, activity level, weight, and genetics. Joint problems can be from an injury or natural wear and tear. Large breeds are more likely to develop joint issues, due to their size and weight, as well as dogs that frequently do high impact activities. Chronic inflammation can lead to arthritis, and unfortunately, most dogs will end up with it as they age. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage or cushioning between the bones wears away until the bones are eventually rubbing against each other, causing discomfort. Joint pain can cause dogs to be less active and lethargic.
A good joint supplement will reduce inflammation, as well as maintain and support the cartilage, making the joints more flexible. Joint supplements come in multiple forms, from soft chews to powder. When choosing one, look for a supplement that is specifically for dogs and contains natural, high quality ingredients, without added fillers or colors. The effective ingredients in joint supplements are chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega-3 fatty acids, and they each work differently to benefit the joint. Chondroitin helps reduce inflammation, glucosamine maintains the cartilage, and Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, lubricate the joint and improve mobility. Joint supplements containing green-lipped mussels( Perna canniculus) are great for joint health because they provide the benefits of both chondroitin and omega 3 fatty acids. Although joint supplements are generally safe, consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new ones. Your dog will benefit most from a joint supplement if it’ s taken consistently. Depending on the supplement you choose, it could take 4-6 weeks to see results. Dogs with severe joint pain may need a prescription pain medication, in addition to the joint supplement.
When it comes to your dog’ s joint health, prevention is key. Keep your dog at a healthy weight and provide them with daily, low impact exercise, like walking or swimming. Feed a good quality diet, rich in essential nutrients. If your dog struggles with joint pain, you can improve their quality of life with the help of good joint supplement.
Around The Hydrant:
News You Can Use
Recalls:
Fromm Family Foods of Wisconsin: Recalling one lot of its Bonnihill Farms BeefiBowls Beef Recipe frozen dog food, due to potential plastic contamination. Info: 1-800-325-6331.( 12 / 3 / 25)
Raw Bistro Pet Fare of Cannon Falls, Minnesota: Recalling select lots of its Grass-Fed Beef Entrée frozen dog food, because of possible contamination with Salmonella. Info: 507-291-3153.( 10 / 10 / 25)
Foodynamics of Wisconsin- Recalling Raw Dog Barkery, BellePepper Cats, and Kanu Pets brands- Chicken Hearts and Chicken Heart Slices freezedried treats, because of potential Salmonella contamination. Info: 262-421-5339.( 10 / 9 / 25)
Buy Bones Inc. of Mount Morris, Michigan: Nature ' s Own Pet Chews Bully Bites, due to possible Salmonella contamination. Info: 810-687-2106.( 10 / 7 / 25)
Arrow Reliance Inc. of Washington, DC: Recalling two lots of Darwin ' s Natural Pet Products Bio-Logics All-Natural and Grain-Free Beef Recipe Dog Food, due to Salmonella and Listeria contamination. Info: 877-738-6325.( 9 / 24 / 25)
Blue Ridge Beef, Virginia: Recalling its Blue Ridge Puppy Mix 2 pound logs and Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Mix, due to contamination of Salmonella and Listeria. Info: 704-873-2072.( 4 / 1 // 25)
Source: dogfoodadvisor. com, amva. org
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