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essential fatty acid supplement from fish oil or flaxseed oil works as an anti-inflammatory.
Acupuncture:
Schoen highly recommends acupuncture for dogs with arthritis. It increases circulation to the muscles and joint capsule, which provides more oxygen and slows cell degeneration. It also relieves painful muscle spasms; increases leg strength by stimulating nerves and muscles; and releases endorphins to make the dog feel better, he explains. Acupressure can help your dog between sessions.
Herbs:
Boswellia, an herb and devil's claw are both anti-
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inflammatory, while alfalfa provides basic building blocks for the joints. Schoen also uses a variety of Chinese herbs.
Physical therapies:
Schoen recommends an exercise program of frequent short walks, daily stretching, and massage for canine arthritis sufferers. If available, try physical therapy, swimming, Tellington Touch, trigger-point therapy, or underwater treadmill exercise at an animal rehabilitation center.
Chiropractic care:
Chiropractic adjustments help increase mobility so a dog doesn't compensate for stiffness or pain by walking abnormally, which can create other problems.
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Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM) is a gentle, preferable form of chiropractics.
Homeopathy:
For those who prefer homeopathy, the most common remedies for arthritis are Bryonia and Rhustoxicodendron.
Diet:
Be sure your dog isn't overweight. Schoen recommends a properly balanced natural diet, preferably home prepared.
"Natural and alternative therapies slow the progress of osteoarthritis, strengthen the dog's joints, muscles and overall health and enable the dog to live a longer, happier life," says Schoen.
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