Managing Arthritis in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know

As your dog gets older, you may start noticing signs of arthritis, like pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving around. These issues can make daily life harder, but there’s a lot you can do to help manage their discomfort and improve their mobility. Here are some simple yet effective ways to manage arthritis in your senior dog and help them feel better every day.

1. Stop the Slips: Zoof Grips, Mats, and Nail Care

For senior dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia, walking on smooth floors can be painful. Slipping while moving adds extra strain on their joints, making mobility even harder. One solution is to use yoga mats in key areas like the living room or near their bed to provide grip and cushioning. However, mats only cover specific areas, limiting your dog's ability to roam freely.

For a more flexible solution, try Zoof Grips—anti-slip shoes designed for senior dogs. These shoes provide excellent grip on smooth floors, reduce joint strain, and make moving easier. Most dogs adjust to wearing shoes within a few days, regaining confidence in their movement. Regular nail trims also help improve grip and overall mobility.

2. Alternative Therapies for Senior Dogs: Acupuncture to Laser Therapy

Arthritis often causes joint pain and stiffness, but there are effective therapies to help manage the discomfort. Acupuncture, physical therapy, laser therapy, and cold and heat therapy are great options to improve mobility and reduce pain:

• Acupuncture targets specific points on your dog’s body to reduce inflammation and ease pain.

• Physical therapy includes exercises that strengthen muscles and enhance joint health.

• Laser therapy uses light to promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation in tissues and joints.

• Cold therapy (like ice packs) can reduce inflammation and numb painful joints, while heat therapy (like warm compresses) helps relax muscles and ease stiffness.

These therapies can provide long-term relief, making it easier for your dog to move with greater comfort.

3. Trim the Fat: Weight Loss for Joint Relief

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for dogs with arthritis. Extra pounds put unnecessary pressure on their joints, making pain worse. Focus on a healthy, well-balanced diet to help your dog shed any excess weight. Choose senior dog food with ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. By helping your dog lose weight, you’ll reduce the stress on their joints, improving their mobility and comfort.

4. Ramps: Helping Your Dog Reach New Heights

As dogs age and arthritis sets in, getting into the car, on the couch, or up stairs can be painful. Ramps offer a simple solution to help your dog maintain independence and minimize joint strain. Adding a ramp to places like the couch, bed, or car makes it easier for your dog to move around without the added stress of jumping or climbing.

5. Harness Support: Lifting Your Dog’s Confidence

For dogs with weakened joints or muscles, a support harness can be a game-changer. It provides stability while your dog is walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from rest. This extra support allows them to move with more confidence and ease. Zoof is developing the Pick Me Up Senior Dog Harness, designed to lift your dog gently and reduce strain on their joints. If you’d like your dog to be part of the testing phase, message us on WhatsApp!

6. Low-Impact Exercise: Keep Them Moving with Ease

Exercise is vital for senior dogs, but it’s important to keep it low-impact to avoid further joint stress. Shorter walks at a gentle pace are perfect for senior dogs. You can also consider swimming, which provides a full-body workout without stressing their joints. Regular exercise helps your dog maintain strength and mobility, keeping them active and healthy.

7. Orthopedic Bedding: The Importance of Comfort While Resting

Rest is crucial for dogs with arthritis, and the right bedding can make all the difference in their comfort. Orthopedic or memory foam beds are designed to provide extra support to your dog’s joints while they sleep. These beds help reduce joint pain, relieve pressure, and improve circulation, making your dog more comfortable while resting. Look for beds that shape to your dog’s body, especially around areas like their hips and elbows, where arthritis can cause the most pain.

Adding an orthopedic bed to your dog’s resting area can make a world of difference, especially for dogs who spend a lot of time lying down. A soft, supportive bed gives them the comfort they need to recover and recharge.

8. Vet Check-ups & Pain Relief: Prioritize Their Comfort

Regular vet visits are crucial for managing arthritis in senior dogs. Schedule check-ups at least every six months to monitor your dog’s health and address any issues early. Your vet may recommend joint supplements with glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support joint health. In cases of severe pain, pain medications like NSAIDs may be prescribed to keep your dog comfortable.

Conclusion

Managing arthritis in senior dogs requires a combination of simple solutions and proactive care. Zoof Grips for traction, alternative therapies for pain relief, weight management, ramps, support harnesses, and regular vet check-ups all contribute to a more comfortable and mobile life for your dog. By focusing on their well-being, you’re helping them live a pain-free, active, and happy life.

Do you have any questions or need advice on managing your senior dog’s arthritis? Drop a comment below—we’d love to help!