We are all aware of the sad fact that dogs do not generally live as long as humans do. But there are lots of things we can do to help our pets live longer. There is still hope and many steps we can take to ensure our dogs get the care they need even after a vet diagnoses them with arthritis.
As many as one in five dogs (and many humans) suffer from arthritis, which is defined as joint inflammation. When we see a dog displaying the arthritic symptoms of pain, discomfort, and stiffness, we can relate because we all know what it’s like to have aches and stiff joints.
Where the bones of our dogs’ joints meet, a thin layer of cartilage that is lubricated by joint fluid covers the bone surfaces in healthy conditions. This allows the two bones to glide freely without friction. When a dog has arthritis, the cartilage inside the joint is damaged, which can cause the bone surfaces to rub against one another. As a result, the cartilage may become even more damaged and cause pain. Because of the friction, new bone begins to grow around the joint, stiffening it and reducing movement even further.
Since arthritis is one of the most prevalent degenerative diseases, understanding it better will enable us to provide our canine companions with the best care possible, extending their lives. The type of care you provide a dog with arthritis will determine how long they live.
What is Arthritis and How Does It Affect Your Dog’s Life?
Arthritis is a degenerative disease that causes the inflammation of your dog’s joints. It affects the joints of the dog and makes it hard for the dog to perform some otherwise simple activities such as playing, walking, running, or jumping.
In a healthy dog, a thin layer of cartilage covers the joint where the bones connect. They glide more easily because the fluid that lubricates this thin layer reduces friction.
When a dog has arthritis, the cartilage is damaged, which causes the joints to rub together when the dog moves.
As a result, the dog will feel pain and discomfort whenever it attempts to move because friction will cause new bones to grow in place of those that have been worn down by friction. This results in stiffer joints that limit mobility.
Senior dogs are more likely to develop arthritis than younger dogs, in part because the bones around their joints have worn out.
However, arthritis can also affect younger dogs as well. Arthritis in puppies is brought on by issues with the development of the bones or joints.
In younger dogs arthritis is normally as a result of
Young dogs may also experience arthritis following an infection such as lyme disease or a tick-borne illness. However, compared to the causes listed above, arthritis resulting from this cause is less common.
Regardless of whether your dog has had arthritis from a young age or is an older dog, taking the steps listed below will help it live longer.
How to Make an Arthritic Dog Comfortable and Prolong its Life
The following advice can help your dog live a better life and possibly live longer.
You may get away with not worrying much about your dog’s diet as long as it meets its nutritional needs under normal circumstances and when your dog has a clean bill of health.
However, if your dog has been identified as having arthritis or another degenerative disease, you should always be aware of their diet and weight. A balanced, healthy diet is crucial, especially if you want to prevent your dog friend from gaining weight.
An obese dog with arthritic joints will experience pain as a result of the added pressure on the already weakened joints. A healthy diet will also guarantee that your dog’s immune system is strong and capable of combating other ailments like warts, which are common in dogs with compromised immune systems. Consult with your veterinarian to develop the ideal diet and weight-management plan.
If you want to keep your arthritic dog alive longer, comfort should be one of your top priorities. You may need to alter your lifestyle in order for a dog to be comfortable. For example, you might buy cozy bedding designed especially for dogs with conditions like arthritis.
For instance, orthopedic beds are created with the comfort of the dog’s joints in mind. A dog wheelchair is yet another useful addition to the lifestyle of your arthritic dog. Your dog’s mobility will be greatly enhanced by a dog wheelchair.
In the winter or other cold months, keep your dog warm. Because the cold can actually aggravate already-painful joints, Invest in a good heat pad because heat has been shown to be effective at relieving joint pain.
Make sure your dog can’t access any slippery surfaces or floors in your home by covering them. Or else use ant slip mats.
How Long Can a Dog Live with Arthritis?
Arthritis can affect both young and senior dogs. A dog whose arthritis is well-managed can live a long and healthy life. The length of time a dog can live with arthritis is largely determined by the quality of care it receives. The following measures can help extend the life of an arthritic dog; weight and diet management, lifestyle and comfort, exercise, and supplements. You should always consult a veterinarian before proceeding to exercise these measures since some of them will need an experienced person.
FAQ
Does arthritis shorten dogs life?
Dog arthritis is a chronic condition that does not directly reduce a dog’s lifespan. However, if arthritis is not properly managed, it gradually gets worse over time and lowers quality of life. Even after a diagnosis of arthritis, the majority of dogs can live happy lives if it is properly managed.
Is it OK to walk my dog with arthritis?
For arthritic pets, “little and often” is the best form of exercise. Instead of taking them on one long walk, it might be better to take them on several short walks each day. Keep their exercise routine as consistent as you can by avoiding short walks during the week and long walks on the weekends.
Can arthritis be fatal for dog?
Although arthritis itself is not fatal, a dog who has it severely may experience serious side effects that have an impact on their general health.
Are dogs in pain with arthritis?
Similar to how it affects humans, dogs with arthritis experience changes in their affected joints, which can be excruciatingly painful for your pet. Although arthritis can affect any joint, it most frequently affects the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees.