Jan 6, 2020
Helping Your Dog Overcome Painful Mobility Problems
That puppy you brought home a few years ago couldn't keep still -- he was a ball of energy, darting in every which direction and running like he had a race to win. But these days, you can tell that your beloved pal has lost a step or two. Maybe he struggles to rise to his feet or experiences obvious pain when lying down. Maybe he limps, has trouble going up and down the stairs, or simply doesn't want to run or play anymore. These are all signs of joint problems that make dogs miserable and rob them of their mobility. Fortunately, you can help your best friend cope with his condition and enjoy greater comfort with the aid of a simple, safe solution: nutritional supplements.
Common Canine Joint Problems
Dogs demand a lot from their weight-bearing joints, so it's inevitable that these joints will experience some wear and tear over the years. Congenital or acquired diseases can hasten this natural degeneration of the joints. Some of the more common joint problems faced by dogs include:
- Osteoarthritis - Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative condition involving the cartilage the normally keeps bone ends from rubbing together. This cartilage can deteriorate after years of heavy use, especially in working dogs or obese animals. The resulting friction causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid arthritis - Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the body's own immune system, which treats joint components as if they were "enemies" and attacks them with antibodies. This condition can cause acute swelling as well as pain.
- Hip dysplasia - Hip dysplasia is an inherited problem particularly common in larger breeds such as Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, and German Shepherd Dogs. The ball and socket of the hip joint don't fit together snugly, a problem that leads to joint pain, degeneration (including osteoarthritis), instability and weakness.
The Nutritional Approach to Joint Healing and Pain Management
Anything that supports the health of your dog's joints can play a valuable role in easing pain and improving joint motion. (Even losing a few pounds can remove a lot of stress from a painful joint.) Proper nutrition is a great start because it gives the damaged tissues the raw ingredients they need to heal themselves or at least optimize their remaining function. Consider adding these helpful substances to your pet's joint pain management plan:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin - The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin have long been employed as a means of supporting cartilage health and remodeling in damaged joints, both in humans and in dogs.
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids - These substances, which are plentiful in fatty fish, support joint health by fighting inflammation.
- Hyaluronic acid - Hyaluronic acid is the lubricant used by joints to maintain smooth, friction-free motion. It can be supplemented orally or through injections.
- MSM - MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane, a natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substance that also supports the body's ability to use other nutrients.
- Co-enzyme Q10 - This amino acid, which supports heart health in animals, also promotes healthy immune function for dogs troubled by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Yucca Schidigera - This kind of yucca root supplement is known for its ability to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Ready to Improve Your Dog's Quality of Life?
You don't have to go shopping for these supplements individually in your quest to alleviate your dong's joint symptoms -- you can get them all in one product. Doggie Dailies Advanced Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs offers comprehensive, convenient nutritional support to help your dog enjoy the best possible quality of life. It's the easiest way to give those ailing joints the nutritional support they need!