How to Care for a Small Dog with Bad Hips/Joints

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When your little friend has trouble with hips and joints, it can seem impossible to provide relief. An ounce of prevention makes all the difference.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

dog
orthopedic bed
high quality food
glucosamine/chondroitin
high quality treats
veterinarian recommendations

Step1

You've got to prevent impact on their joints if you can - this means keeping them from jumping on things, but also, don't let them go up steps or even a curb. Years ago my vet told me to carry her up every curb and it was sound advice. People think I'm weird, but my now 14-year-old dog runs like a pup - on flat surfaces.

Step2

There's been debate over the merits of glucosamine/chondroitin. I only know from experience - my dog has been taking it for close to 10 years. It's available from some online pet retailers in liver flavored granules that you sprinkle on the food. I believe in it.

Step3

Any extra weight on dogs with these problems puts a huge strain on the joints and hips. Feed a high quality, premium food; if your dog is overweight chose a reduced fat food, and don't overdo the treats.

Tips & Warnings

Dysplasia is often treated with prescription medications, and they work well, but the potential for side effects made me want to try other methods first. Always, always consult your vet before changing any routine.
Always see a vet immediately at any signs of pain or limping. It may be that your dog has to be confined for two weeks, and medicated with steroids. Follow the vet's directions to the letter, though as the dog gets well he/she will hate being confined.
You want to keep the weight down but you don't want to exercise them so much they get injured.

Comments

lambertfan said

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on 6/20/2008 my grandfather bought me a tiny chiuhauha 12 years ago with damaged hips. he was told their little girl stepped on her back end she was about 10 weeks old. she was about 4 months old when we got her, she looked funny but the vet said they seemed to badly damaged to repair. so we just took her home and let her do what she wanted to about walking, and let me tell you it never has stopped her. she is the queen bee of the house and the other dogs, all of which were rescue's. but sophie weighs in at 2lbs 2oz! she gets massages everyday just because everyone loves to play with her. but some days she has bit of trouble being sore, so we rub her back end gently and it makes her feel better. yes she is spoiled rotten, but so are the others. sh just happens to be able to fit in a jacket pocket lol. we have 6 dogs total. we have 2 15 yr olds one is deaf and blind, the other our big dog has cancer,

ArkieShan said

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on 6/14/2008 I have a 10 pound Rat Terrier and she is 6 years old and wants to play ball 24/7. Because of this she had stiffness and soreness. Just over a year ago I started giving her mangosteen juice. She hasn't been stiff or sore since. It has been a huge blessing for Dinky and I both. If you would like to learn more just email me syochum123@yahoo.com

Kenna said

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on 2/13/2008 Try animal massage! Great to help relieve those pains for large or small animals. Look for a therapist in your area by checking with your vet, yellow pages, dog park or ask around. Our numbers are small but growing.

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