How to Improve Mobility in Senior Dogs
My dog is experiencing problems with mobility, what can I do?
I have a dog, and getting it to move is a lot of work. Do you think it needs to be checked?
If you are asking these questions, there is a likelihood that you have a senior dog that needs some additional care.
Humans are not the only living things that grow old and become weak; animals also fall into this category. Growth is inevitable, and there is bound to be a decline in body function.
Like senior citizens who need extra care, so do senior dogs. Mobility is one of their major challenges, and if nothing is done immediately it could result in a more severe condition.
Why Is Dog's Mobility Important?
Dogs are active animals – they are always up and about. But there will always be things that cause them to slow down. Things like arthritis, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, muscle atrophy, and ligament injuries. These mobility-related issues may affect their general wellbeing and sometimes result in other health conditions.
As humans we get aches and pains as we get older and so do our furry friends.
Some symptoms of mobility problems in older dogs are:
- Limping
- Slow walking
- Stiffness around the joints
- Jumping and climbing troubles
- Slow response to regular activities
- Exhibiting pain at different areas of the body
How to Improve Your Senior Dog's Mobility?
Below is a list of six ways to improve older dogs' mobility.
#1. Investing in Support Systems
One of the things that would really help if you have a senior dog dealing with mobility issues is investing in various support systems. These are reinforcement systems that would make your dogs a lot more comfortable and help them with whatever pain they may be experiencing.
Some of the best support systems you'll be needing against different parts of the body include special orthopedic beds or foam, an elevated tray for bowls, harnesses, and maybe wheelchairs.
#2. Improving Diet
Another thing that would really contribute to the entire wellness of your dog – old or young - is an improved diet. Dogs require a balanced diet just like humans. They need a good dietary plan because their survival depends on it.
In the case of mobility problems, senior dogs need food rich in all kinds of nutrients – for instance, Omega-3 fatty acids, to improve their condition. With the right diet, you may find a way to reduce their pain.
#3. Taking Regular Exercises
Keeping older dogs active and agile can be a difficult task to do, but it can help their condition improve. For mobility-related problems, you can start with something simple and move on to another thing that would maintain their muscle mass, help lubricate the hip joints, and eventually make them super active. A simple game of fetch or chase will do.
#4. Giving Body Massages
Alternative therapies are also another great way to improve your dog's mobility. One of the best techniques you can try out is giving body massages. By constantly massaging the areas affected, you keep the muscle around the area relaxed and improve blood flow.
With that, your dog may experience a certain level of flexibility and move comfortably. Other techniques to try out are acupuncture and water therapy.
#5. Getting A Prescription for Body Pain
If you are not comfortable with home remedies, getting a prescription for body pain might be your last resort, especially if the case is severe. With your visit to a veterinarian, you could get a prescription that could improve your senior dog's condition and restore it to its normal state of life.
If you have a senior dog experiencing some of the symptoms associated with the mobility issues listed above try out the various mobility restoration techniques above to help improve their quality of life.