[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]Top tips for helping your dog with arthritis at home:
1. Floor It
One of the simplest changes you can make to your house to help an arthritic dog is your floor. Vinyls, laminate, wood and tiles can all be very slippery, and make your doddery dog more liable to slide or fall. We’re not suggesting you change your floor! But some non-slip mats and rugs across these floors can make a huge difference.
2. Take A Stroll
Arthritic doggies still need regular exercise, not just for mental stimulation but to stretch out those limbs. A twice daily quick sniff and stroll is enough to keep joints from becoming too stiff, and you can alter the times of walks depending on how your dog is day to day.
3. Ramp It Up
Getting in and out of a car can start to become troublesome with arthritic dogs, especially with breeds that are too large to be lifted in safely. A simple foldaway ramp that can be stored in the car makes getting in and out less of a strain on joints.
4. Through the Door
Doorways may not look much to us, but can be a common trip hazard to our stiff-legged doggy friends, especially the smaller breeds. Non-slip mats or non-slip tape across the doorways may allow a smoother move between rooms
5. Keep It Flat
A doggy with sore joints may prefer not to use stairs. Allowing lots of beds downstairs, and putting ramps in areas of the house where the use of stairs are unavoidable can allow your pooch to move around more easily.
6. Raise It Up
For some arthritic dogs, getting their face to ground level to eat or drink can be tricky. They may struggle to keep balance, or it may hurt their joints to shift their weight in order to bend down. Popping your food and water bowls on a small table or step stool can allow for more comfortable eating and drinking.
7. Sofa And Chill
Does your dog like getting on the sofa with you? Sometimes there’s no way of deterring them, they just want that snuggle with you! A step or step stool by the sofa to allow easier access to your sofa, and allow the couch cuddles to continue.
8. Step Over
Arthritic dogs need to think carefully when walking and moving around your house, they want to minimise joint soreness. Being aware of what it left on your floor e.g. toys, shoes, etc will help them to manoeuvre more easily and not have to walk over or around items.
9. Don’t Object
Dogs form a mind map of their house, they know where everything is, and where it is meant to be. Moving large furniture to different places suddenly can be disorientating and confusing to them. If you need to move some furniture, allow your dog is have a good look and smell of it.
10. Getting the right bed
Making sure your dog is on the right surface will make a big difference to their quality of life.
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