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Advanced Hydrotherapy, acupuncture, VET NURSE CLINIC. Integrative therapies
Animals too suffer from arthritis
Normal joint vs. arthritic joint
Arthritis is a painful and progressive disease that makes it harder for any joint affected to move. This can happen at any time in your pets life stage. If you suspect your pet may have some discomfort and pain; contact your veterinarian.
In the picture to the left; you can see a normal joint opposed to an arthritic joint. The process of arthritis is usually as per below:
- Cartilage wear exposes underlying bone and nerves adding to overall joint discomfort.
- The synovial membrane is very sensitive to inflammation and becomes the primary source of pain. (This is found in between the two bones; (the joint)).
- The synovial fluid as shown in the right of the picture becomes less effective at lubricating joint movement. This further aggravates joint. This can show as slow/restrictions in movement in your pet and pain.
- Osteophyte formation (excess bone production) is painful and interferes with normal joint function and movement. Your pets quality of life is limited if left untreated. (This is a more severe form of arthritis).
How do i see or know if my pet is finding it hard to move?
- Working dogs are not enthusiastic to work and playful dogs do not want to play. They also guard themselves when younger energetic dogs want to play with them.
- Prefers lying down to standing all the time.
- Has trouble jumping or getting into the vehicle; or out of the vehicle or higher object.
- Occasional limp or a persistent limp.
- Rests or lies in an abnormal position.
- Resistant to run or for a normal period of time.
- Difficulty toileting or squatting.
- Shorter strides in steps/hobbling walk.
- Excessive panting and not wanting to jump on command.
Looking after these joints
For most dogs a short swim is an extremely challenging workout; they will only be active in the water as deemed suitable by Anatomie and times can range each session due to their conditions.
The natural buoyancy of the water and the fact that sudden twists, stops and falls are near impossible; makes hydrotherapy a safe and effective form of exercise with a qualified advanced hydrotherapy facilitator. It reduces swelling of the joints, increases movements and blood circulatory nutrients to the joints. It's also very enjoyable for most animals once they get the hang of it.
Additionally; the pressure of the water coats naturally around the chest region makes it a tiny bit harder when an animal breathes in; thus using more chest muscles. As the muscles strengthen with exercise we also benefit from increased respiratory function and also cardiovascular fitness.
There are additional ways to help your pet.
If you think they may need pain relief or help to control their arthritis; or you suspect they have this or an injury; please contact your Veterinarian for further advice. They may be able to discuss treatment options; x-rays or even Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory pain relief drugs such as Rimadyl or Trocoxil. These medications can help reduce inflammation and hypersensitivities to pain thresholds.
Your veterinary professional will provide you with what is safe and best for your pet in regards to GI tolerances etc. Dog and cat physio Christchurch.
