Care for Hip and Joint Pain

Dogs are active animals that love to be outside and engaging in physical activities. 

But what happens when your best friend is faced with a common problem that is not spoken about enough?

HIP DYSPLASIA

Hip dysplasia is a common problem amongst dogs whereby the socket is not formed properly - creating pain, inflammation and irritation to a dog.

It is a genetic condition that is passed down through offspring and unfortunately cannot be avoided because of this. It can affect any breed at any time during its life.

Factors such as insufficient exercise and obesity are extremely likely to speed up the process of hip dysplasia. Keeping your dog active has never been more important!

Dogs do not like to show pain or struggle – just like us, humans. This makes it super important to know your pup well enough to recognise the signs. 

ARTHRITIS

Also like humans, dogs can suffer from arthritis. This is natural wear and tear on the joint and can affect any joint in the body. 

This is why it is essential to ensure you keep your dog's joints lubricated, even before the problem occurs. Being proactive about this will make sure your pup never even has to feel the pain! 

If you think that your dog is experiencing either of these – contact your vet. They are there to perform x-rays and scans and give you the answer that you need. Don’t leave it until it’s too late! Many vets will recommend that you use dog arthritis supplements or other joint care for dogs.

What are the signs and symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs?

There are multiple signs and symptoms that your dog is experiencing one of these joint-related issues. A few of these may include:

• Moving slower
• Stiffness
• Limping (or favouring one side)
• Trouble getting up and/or down
• Difficulty in common movements
• Licking affected areas
• Unwillingness to be active
• Popping or cracking sounds from joint movements
• Swelling in or around the joint(s)
• Behaviour changes
• Whining/whimpering with movement that used to be easy
  
  

SO HOW DO WE FIX IT? – JOINT SUPPORT FOR DOGS

Pain relief? Yes, pain relief sourced from your vet will numb the pain but it's a short-term solution that doesn't make the problem go away, only masks it.

That’s why we have joint supplements for dogs to ensure your best friends joints are kept healthy and lubricated. 

GLUCOSAMINE FOR DOGS

This is a very popular supplement for dogs with joint problems – and for a very good reason! Glucosamine is a vital compound for maintaining joint health in dogs. It is naturally found in the cartilage and synovial fluid, which cushions and lubricates the joints.

As dogs age, the production of glucosamine in their bodies decreases, leading to the deterioration of cartilage and the onset of joint pain and stiffness. Supplementing with glucosamine can help slow this process, providing relief from pain and improving mobility. The supplement works by stimulating the production of glycosaminoglycans, which are essential for the repair and maintenance of cartilage.

But be careful – there are lots of different recommended dosages out there. Make sure you are following the best one for your dog.  Glucosamine supplements come in various forms, including tablets, powders and liquids. It's important to choose a form that is easy to administer to your dog and to follow the recommended dosage based on your dog’s weight and condition.

Overdosing can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, so it’s crucial to stick to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer or your veterinarian. Regular use of glucosamine supplements can lead to noticeable improvements in your dog's joint function and overall quality of life, making it a staple in managing conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia.

MSM

MSM is an organic form of sulphur. Sulphur is a crucial element in the formation of collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin, all of which are vital for maintaining healthy joints and connective tissues. MSM works by enhancing the body's natural anti-inflammatory processes, helping to reduce pain and swelling in affected joints.

One of the significant benefits of MSM is its ability to boost the activity of cortisol, a natural anti-inflammatory hormone. This makes MSM particularly useful for dogs suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. MSM has been shown to improve cellular permeability, allowing for more efficient removal of waste products and better absorption of nutrients. This can help in faster recovery from injuries and surgeries.

MSM is also known for its antioxidant properties, which help to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. This further contributes to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. When choosing an MSM supplement for your dog, ensure it is of high purity and free from contaminants. As with any supplement, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects.

CHONDROITIN

This is becoming increasingly used alongside other supplements – its benefits just keep on coming! Chondroitin sulfate is another essential component for maintaining joint health in dogs. It is a major building block of cartilage, providing structure, holding water and nutrients and allowing other molecules to move through the cartilage. Like glucosamine, the levels of chondroitin in the body decrease with age, leading to the deterioration of joint health and the onset of arthritis and other joint-related conditions.

Supplementing with chondroitin can help slow down the breakdown of cartilage and promote its repair. It works by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade cartilage and stimulating the production of new cartilage components. This not only helps in reducing pain and inflammation but also improves joint function and mobility. The level of chondroitin in the body, like glucosamine, declines as joints deteriorate. By using this supplement, you can help slow down that deterioration. It keeps joints cushioned and also reduces inflammation. 

Chondroitin supplements are often combined with glucosamine and MSM for a synergistic effect. They are available in various forms, such as tablets, capsules and chews, making it easy to incorporate them into your dog's daily routine. When selecting a chondroitin supplement, ensure it is of high quality and sourced from reputable manufacturers.

CBD Oil

Over-the-counter options like CBD oil have gained popularity for their natural pain-relieving properties. CBD oil works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in dogs, which plays a role in regulating pain and inflammation. CBD oil can help reduce inflammation and pain without the side effects often associated with prescription medications. It's essential to choose a high-quality, pet-specific product and follow dosing recommendations carefully. When selecting a CBD product, look for third-party testing and ensure it contains no THC, which can be harmful to dogs.

Turmeric

 Another natural remedy for pain and inflammation in dogs is turmeric. Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, helps reduce inflammation and pain, supporting joint health over time. Adding a small amount of turmeric to your dog's food can provide these benefits.

Turmeric is not easily absorbed on its own, so it is often combined with black pepper (piperine) to enhance absorption. It's important to start with a small dose and gradually increase it, keeping an eye out for any adverse reactions.

But what really is the best joint supplements for dogs? 

Knowing that these three ingredients are what actually make the difference, we created a powerful effective formula combining them – leaving us with nothing but incredible results.

Petz Park Hip + Joint relieves your doggie of any pain, lubricates their joints and gives them a new lease of life. 

General Tips on Pain Relief for Dogs

Apart from joint supplements, there are other methods to keep your dog comfortable. Acupuncture and massage therapy can provide significant pain relief and improve your dog's quality of life. These therapies enhance blood circulation and reduce muscle tension, offering a natural way to manage pain.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial since excess weight can put additional stress on joints, exacerbating pain. A balanced diet and regular, low-impact exercise can help your dog maintain an ideal weight and reduce joint strain.

If you are still unsure of the signs and symptoms, need more information on a solution or just need pointing in the right direction, Petz Park is here to help!

For more information head over to our FAQ page or simply contact us directly via our Facebook page, (Petz Park).

Our expert team are the right tree to bark up!