Hip Dysplasia, Arthritis, range of motion, IVDD, in dogs

As our dogs age their joints become more susceptible to motion problems especially as temperatures cool inside and out with the change of seasons. You may notice sudden changes in the way your dog moves. Getting up from lying on the floor becomes more difficult; sometimes they need help to stand. Their gait becomes wobbly or unsure especially on rising. At Prayers for Pets we endorse natural methods as our first choice; but we recognize that when pain becomes overwhelming stronger options may be required. Your Vet will be able to educate you and your family best on NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) available by prescription; Carprofen is an example of a newer NSAID which some of our community have endorsed. We have put together the best tips and helps to get your dog moving more smoothly and with less pain as they age. Please watch these videos and apply the wisdom in them to your dog’s diet and exercise routines.

These are some supplements we have recommended for years. Try several one at a time and take note of any changes in your dog’s ability to stand and walk.

Dr. Andrew Jones recommended supplements

NOW Pets Joint Support http://amzn.to/2qAZBFw
NOW Pets Omega 3,180 Softgels benefits http://amzn.to/2que8Yz
Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pets : https://amzn.to/37sJXSl
Turmeric Curcumin w/Pepper benefits: https://amzn.to/2QftOKl
Potency, All Natural, Non-GMO, Antioxidant for Pain Relief and Joint Support
Numi Organic Tea Gunpowder Green, Loose Leaf Tea, 16 Ounce Bulk Pouch
Boswellia Serrata Extract Powder (aka: Frankincense) benefits: http://amzn.to/2otk5yW
Frankincense Essential Oil benefits: http://amzn.to/2o5BTF4

IVDD is a tricky condition, Intervertebral Disc Disease is commonly found in dogs short of stature with long backs. Dachshunds and Corgies commonly develop it, but it is also very prevalent in Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers and other small or toy breeds. Back injuries can cause lack of range of motion and even leg paralysis if not treated effectively and immediately. We recommend hands-on therapy of some sort. If a Veterinary Chiropractor is available in your area you will want to see them. Physical Therapists and Acupuncturists also can be very helpful to establish nerve and blood flow to the affected area. Dogs must be confined to a crate for 4 to 6 weeks to enable anti-inflammatory measures to work and for healing to take place undisturbed by other pets or children. IVDD supplement benefits: http://amzn.to/2phiBs3 VetriScience Laboratories Vetri-Disc for Dogs Capsules, 180 Count

A Must for Hip Dysplasia

Amazon Product Dr. Jones recommends these levels of Chondroitin, Glucosamine and MSM (Excellent for ACL, Hip Dysplasia) https://amzn.to/2mpLU01

Big dogs need a lift and small dogs may need a sling to walk

This harness is helpful for heavy dogs who have trouble standing: https://amzn.to/2Y9GLHm

Elderly dogs need to avoid jumping from heights

Assist older or small dogs to negotiate tall furniture they once scaled with ease with a set of steps like this inexpensive set below:

Anti-inflammatory foods are also of great importance. Your dog’s diet is critical to his or her overall health. Fish oil is a MUST. Most dogs love the taste of strongly flavored fish, be sure it is unsalted. We recommend raw if possible, cooked for senior dogs. If you want to introduce a raw diet for an older dog; proceed with caution. If a senior dog has not eaten a raw diet it must be introduced gradually, keeping canned plain pumpkin on hand for undesired bowel changes. Find recipes here.

DMSO is a natural pain reliever which can be very helpful and beneficial to pets and humans. Our human doctor recommended this particular brand as one he himself uses. It can work wonders for acute pain, but proceed carefully and as with any substance; watch for any allergic reaction.

DMSO is a medicine and dietary supplement. It can be taken by mouth, applied to the skin (used topically), or injected into the veins (used intravenously or by IV).

DMSO is used topically to decrease pain and speed the healing of wounds, burns, and muscle and skeletal injuries. DMSO is also used topically to treat painful conditions such as headache, inflammation, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more on DMSO through this article on RX List.