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Outbreak of Alabama Rot, a Flesh-Eating Disease in Dogs, Sweeps Across UK

Your Pets Daily Editor — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Alabama rot is a disease that can sadly be fatal to dogs. With a recent spike in UK cases, veterinarian Dr Corinne Wigfall at Petsure shares her expert tips on how to prevent the disease. Plus, how you can spot symptoms quickly if you think your dog might have picked it up.

Dr Corinne Wigfall says, "Alabama rot causes clots to form in small blood vessels. It starts as skin lesions and can tragically lead to kidney failure for some dogs.

"With cases of Alabama rot increasing in the UK, it's crucial to be aware of the tell-tale signs. The disease can affect any dog, regardless of age or breed."

Be mindful of where you walk your dog

There is currently no confirmed research as to how Alabama rot picked up. Some researchers suggest it may be caused by bacteria like E.coli. Others report a link between dogs getting the disease and having recently been out in muddy woodland areas.

Try to avoid walking your dog in wet, humid and muddy environments. If your dog has been rolling around in the woods, make sure you thoroughly clean and dry their coat. You can check recent reports and avoid the areas suffering the most from Alabama rot.

Check your dog daily

A lack of confirmed knowledge of the disease makes it tricky to give specific prevention advice. Sadly, there's no vaccination available for Alabama rot.

Make sure to check your pup daily for any lesions or bumps. Look for raised, circular sores and ulcers on the skin, as these are the main symptoms. Your dog's face, legs, and paws are the most commonly affected body parts, so give those a thorough check. They might have a dark centre and bruises, so watch out for these too.

Watch your dog's behaviour

The earlier you catch wind of symptoms, the better. Other signs to watch out for are lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, increased urination, and, rarely, bodily stiffness. Get your dog checked by your vet if they're acting differently or you spot something unusual.

Get treatment

If you think your dog might have Alabama rot, or you've noticed any of the above symptoms, take your pup to the vet straight away. If Alabama rot isn't treated as soon as possible, it could reach the kidneys within a few days of skin lesions appearing.

The vet will ask questions about the symptoms you've noticed, inspect the wounds, and take blood or urine samples. They may give your dog antibiotics to stop or treat an infection in the wounds. If the vet is concerned about possible kidney damage, intravenous fluids will be started straight away to help protect the kidneys. This means your pooch will need to stay at the veterinary clinic for treatment.

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Alabama Rot

Alabama Rot - 10 Confirmed Cases In 2024 - Dog Expert Explains Cause, Symptoms, and Treatment

Your Pets Daily Editor — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

2024 has already seen 10 confirmed cases of Alabama rot in the UK, which can cause ulcers, kidney failure and can even be fatal if left untreated.

Dog experts Kennel Store have explained what causes Alabama rot, what the signs and symptoms are and the dangers if dogs are affected.

Alabama rot, also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy), is a very rare but potentially life-threatening disease that blocks and damages the blood vessels in a dog's skin and kidneys. Dogs affected by Alabama rot often develop ulcers or sores (typically on the bottom part of the leg) and generally go on to develop kidney failure, which is often fatal.

What causes Alabama rot?

The exact cause of Alabama rot is unknown, although research is ongoing. Most reports come from dog owners who walk their dogs in the countryside, and most cases are reported during winter and spring.

Cases are generally less common in the summer months compared to the winter months. The first case was reported in America, in the 1980s and at first it was thought to only affect Greyhounds.

It is now understood to affect all breeds, ages and sizes of dog.

What are the symptoms of Alabama rot?

Skin ulcers that can appear on the legs or paws (these marks may appear as an area of redness, but could also present as a bruise, sting or an open sore)
Ulcers may also develop on the muzzle, tongue, head, flank and belly
Changes in appetite such as reduced appetite, excessive drinking, vomiting and lethargy are signs of acute kidney injury

How can you protect your dog?

Wash all mud off following wet and muddy walks, especially if you’ve gone through woodland areas

What is the treatment for Alabama rot?

Due to the underlying cause of Alabama rot still being unknown, there is no specific treatment. If your dog is showing symptoms of Alabama rot, it’s vital your dog is taken to the vets promptly, so a plan can be decided and treatment can begin.

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keeping your dog safe

A warning for pet owners this Pancake Day

Tom Stone — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Imagine eating 11 pancakes in one sitting – well that's exactly what your precious pooch* is doing every time you give them just one cube of cheese according to PDSA.

It comes as a warning to pet owners this Pancake Day as part of the leading vet charity's 'Big Weigh In' campaign which aims to tackle obesity in pets.

"We all love a treat and I'm certainly looking forward to my pancake this Pancake Day," says PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing. "But while it's tempting to share titbits with our four-legged friends, especially when they give us those pleading eyes, it's important to understand that what we see as a small treat could actually be a huge amount of calories for our pets.

"For example, 30% of dog owners regularly give their dogs cheese*, but just one cube of cheese is the equivalent of 11 pancakes to a small dog, six to a medium dog, and 3.5 to a large-sized dog. So what originally may have seemed a harmless little treat, actually equates to more than 110 extra calories, which is over 30% of a small dog's daily calorific requirement."

The veterinary charity is working with Royal Canin to tackle the pet obesity crisis in the UK. Throughout February and March, pet owners can book in for free weight checks at participating vet practices across the country.

There are more than 500 practices signed up. Pet owners can find their local participating vet practice and book their free appointment here: pdsa.org.uk/WeighUp

"Overweight pets are more likely to suffer from health problems such as diabetes and urinary tract disease," adds Nina. "Carrying excess fat can also worsen other health problems - such as arthritis and breathing difficulties - as well as increase anaesthetic and surgical risks, all of which could negatively affect your pet's quality of life.

"That's why we're urging all pet owners to get involved in the PDSA Big Weigh In this year and let us help you to help your pet.

"If your pets have had a treat-filled festive season, it's important to recognise if they have gained some extra weight and to help them get back to better health.

"It can feel like a big challenge to get a pet to lose weight, but trust us, it's worth it and isn't that difficult (I promise!). Once your pet has reached their ideal size and shape, they will be healthier, happier and more active. They will also have the best chance of living a long, energetic and comfortable life."

How to tell if your dog needs to lose weight

Looking at your dog's shape is the best way to tell if they're putting on weight. Dogs come in all different builds and sizes but a healthy shape is the same for every dog:

Look at your dog from the side and from above. They should have a neat, tucked in waist.
Feel under your dog's tummy. It should go in, not bulge out.
Feel along your dog's back and sides. You should be able to easily feel their ribs, spine and hips but they shouldn't poke out.
Feel the base of your dog's tail. You shouldn't be able to feel a build-up of fat where their tail meets their body.

Different ways to exercise your dog

Varying your dog's exercise routine is an excellent way to keep their mind and body healthy. If you're looking for inspiration, why not try some of the following:

Walking should be part of every dog's daily routine to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Most dogs need at least 1-2 walks per day (unless otherwise specified by your vet).
Swimming is a great option if your dog likes the water, and as an added benefit, it's very easy on their joints. Whether it's in a pool, the sea, a river, or a lake, make sure you follow water safety advice to keep your pooch safe.
Running is a great way to stay healthy with your four-legged friend – just make sure that their breed suits an athletic workout and if it does, that you introduce them to it slowly. To begin with, try short bursts of gentle jogging throughout your normal walk, then gradually build up to longer stretches.
Play should be part of every dog's daily routine. While it doesn't replace a good walk, playing a game is a simple but effective way to keep your dog happy and active. The type of games your dog enjoys will depend on their breed and personality – they might want to chase and retrieve a toy, play tug of war, hide and seek, or sniff out their favourite toy in a scent game.
Agility is a fun way to exercise your dog, especially if they have an active mind and love a challenge. It involves training your dog to complete an obstacle course containing hurdles, tunnels and even seesaws.
Flyball involves your dog running through an obstacle course and releasing a ball, which they then need to catch – it's a great sport for dogs with lots of energy and/or an active brain. Flyball isn't a good sport for very heavy dogs, or dogs with joint problems, so it's important to speak to your vet before starting your dog at a class.
Training: Training should be a part of every dog's daily routine. It helps keep your dog's mind active, reinforces commands, prevents boredom, and is a great way to bond.

*According to the 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, the UK's largest annual nationally representative assessment of pet wellbeing.

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Expert reveals top tips when caring for an older dog

Katie Court — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

This week we bore witness to the incredible 30-year-old farm dog Bobi, who was officially named the oldest pup of all time, smashing the previous world record. The news of Bobi's record-breaking age has led many onlookers to question just how his carers have managed to keep him healthy and happy for three decades.

As part of its Adoption Mission programme, Mars Petcare has partnered with Woodgreen Pets Charity to develop a suite of training materials, to support both shelter staff and pet owners to care for their animals throughout every life stage.

Dr Tammie King, pet behaviour scientist from Waltham Petcare Science Institute at The Adoption Mission by Mars Petcare: "Every dog's quality of life is extremely important, regardless of their age. As our pets are considered to be members of the family, owners often strive to seek out advice on how they are able to help their dogs live healthier and longer lives, so it is important to consider this preventative approach to pet care.

Dr King shares her top tips and advice to owners of senior dogs, to ensure they are provided the best care at this stage in their life:

Teaching an old dog new tricks

Older dogs can definitely learn new tricks and should still be given the opportunity to stimulate their brains through training and play, if they're keen to participate. Take it slow, and work on things that are gentle on joints, avoiding too many repetitive movements that could be difficult for dogs who may be less mobile than their younger counterparts. Further top tips for exercise and play of dogs of all ages can be found here

Doggy diet

It's really common for a dog's appetite to change as they get older. If your elderly dog is fit and healthy, you might notice food becoming more important to them as they age. However, just like us humans, as a dog grows older, they tend to require slightly fewer calories as they are generally less active than in their younger years.

Most dog foods are based on the different stages of their life. Food specifically made for older dogs is often lower in calories and many have added joint supplements too. We recommend trying the Pedigree Senior Mixed Selection in Jelly Wet Dog Food Pouches, which can aid a balanced diet and includes everything essential to fuel an older dogs' love of life.

Try scatter feeding

Sprinkling treats or food like Pedigree Tasty Mini Dog Treats in a garden or other grassy area can encourage sniffing and searching. Dogs will do this at their own pace, and it's an enjoyable exercise for them. Get thrifty, and utilise empty cardboard boxes, flower pots, plastic bottles and egg cartons to increase the challenge to keep them mentally stimulated – this will help keep them on their paws!

Play on: keeping your pooch active

Older dogs don't need as much intense exercise and can be very happy with slightly shorter, slower walks. If your golden oldie isn't up to walking the distances they used to, then some quality time doing whatever they enjoy is important. If they like the car, you can still drive to their favourite places and enable them to explore and mooch around before driving home again. Allowing them time to sniff on their daily meanderings is incredibly enriching for them, so be sure to slow down and allow them to smell the roses.

Teething troubles: Look after their Pearly Whites

Just like with humans, years of wear and tear means your dog may have more dental issues from missing teeth to tartar build-up.

To keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy, you need to brush them every day, and if your dog isn't a fan, start giving them dental treats.

As your dog gets older, their teeth may become more sensitive, which can make chewing kibble more difficult and even uncomfortable. It is estimated that one in four older dogs have a tooth fracture, many of which are the result of chewing objects that are too hard. Switching to a soft food can help to alleviate your pet's oral discomfort when eating. It's also important to get your dog's teeth checked regularly as they age to prevent and treat any dental concerns.

Don't skip vet visits

Regular check-ups are one of the most important things when it comes to caring for all dogs, and become increasingly important as they get older. As your dog ages, their immune system becomes weaker, which makes them more prone to all sorts of ailments.

Most vets recommend taking an older dog for regular check-ups every six months, helping them provide the best possible treatment for your dog.

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Caring for older dogs

Lighter Labrador James is like a new dog after weight loss success

Jessica Curtis — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 20:00:00 +0000

Labrador James has lost 10kg (one-and-a-half stone) – equivalent to a large sack of pet food – after his worried new owner feared he was overweight and took him to a pet weight loss clinic. His owner, Nicola Mark, took James to Uplands Way Vets in Bressingham for weight advice after adopting him last year, when he tipped the scales at a hefty 45kg (seven stone). Carrying too many pounds was affecting the six-year-old pooch’s health and mobility, and he struggled to get up again after lying down.

Uplands Way head nurse Emily Philpot, who saw James for his weight management sessions, says that through eating a healthy diet combined with increased exercise, James is now a much trimmer 34.2kg (just over five stone).

Emily said: “I’m very proud of James and Mrs Mark for following the diet plan successfully, and James looks so different it’s hard to believe he’s the same dog.

“When we first saw James he was extremely overweight, which was affecting his mobility and putting his health at risk. Now he’s slimmer, happier and finds it easier to get around.

“His weight loss was achieved safely by working out how much food a dog of his size needs to provide the right amount of calories and nutrients. He has two meals a day, weighed out to the exact amount, and we also recommended a feed that’s designed to help support weight loss and contains a supplement to support his joints.

“Losing weight steadily and gradually is important, and James followed the diet for 10 months. Mrs Mark brought him in regularly so we could weigh him and check his progress - she has been brilliant at following our advice and was committed to helping James reach his target weight.”

Emily said that obesity is a serious problem in dogs and cats and, according to the 2023 Paw Report, published by the charity PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals), veterinary professionals estimate that 46% of dogs are overweight or obese.

Emily added: “Even being a few kilogrammes overweight can contribute to health issues and it can also shorten a pet’s life. While James is livelier and more mobile since losing weight, he has been diagnosed with spondylosis, which affects the spine, and osteoarthritis. Both of these conditions are caused by wear and tear on the joints, which is increased if a dog is overweight. Unfortunately, they are issues that are not reversible, but can be managed through weight loss and medication.

“Anyone who is worried about their pet’s weight can contact us for advice and our weight clinics are the perfect opportunity to have your dog weighed and chat to our friendly team. We won’t judge an owner if their pet is overweight and we just want to help them keep their dog or cat as happy and healthy as possible.”

Mrs Mark, from Bressingham, said she is delighted with the new-look James, who she rehomed after his previous owner passed away. In his former home he’d piled on the pounds eating three meals a day, wolfing down chicken and rice, which are high in calories, and having limited exercise.

Mrs Mark said: “James was grossly overweight and I knew I had to do something for his health – he waddled instead of walking and he couldn’t play or run. It was like he was old before his time, but since he’s lost weight, he’s as active as any other dog his age. We recently took him to the beach and he loved it – it was the first time he’d had the zoomies since we rehomed him!

“I’m so grateful to Emily and the team at Uplands Way Vets for all the advice they’ve given me. Emily has been so supportive and encouraging and has helped keep James and myself on track with his weight loss.

“One of the most useful things I’ve learned is to weigh out James’s meals to ensure I’m giving him the correct amount and it’s important to be precise as even a couple of extra pieces of kibble can make a difference. The regular weigh-ins also helped me stay focused and knowing his weight loss was going in the right direction kept me motivated.

“James is such a lovely, friendly dog and I feel very lucky to have been able to offer him a home. It’s very rewarding to see him slimmer and healthier and enjoying life since so much more since he’s lost weight.”

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Dog-owning Brits are giving their dogs dangerous treats, new survey reveals

Your Pets Daily Editor — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dog-owning Brits are treating their dogs to potentially life-threatening and dangerous chews, a new survey by Pooch Snax, a natural pig ear shaped dog chew brand has revealed.

Although a whopping 97% of British dog owners believe they are aware or very aware of what treats are safe to feed their dog, nearly a quarter (23%) admitted to treating their dog to cooked beef bones and cooked chicken bones (18%) both are considered serious choking hazards.

Whilst nearly a third of dog owners (31%) said they choose natural meat treats for their dogs 'most of the time' that they believed were safe to chew (69%), the survey, also exposed that nearly 1 in 4 (23%) regularly treat their dog to rawhide - a product that that also can cause choking if eaten in large chunks or swallowed whole.

Rory the Vet (Rory Cowlam) who is a British veterinary surgeon and vet on CBBC's The Pets Factor commented: "As a dog owner as well as a vet, I know how important it is to treat your pet to build that amazing bond, but as these shocking results show a large proportion of people are still feeding dangerous treats to their dogs!

"Dog owners need to stop feeding cooked bones - particularly chicken as these will often splinter and become very sharp leading to a risk of gut perforation and very serious issues! I generally avoid raw hide too - it's really tricky to digest and can cause both gut and tooth issues."

The results also showed that in addition to giving potentially unsafe treats to our canine companions, our doggie friends are also chewing on perilous household objects.

Over a third of Brits (36%) revealed their dog has chewed on slippers or shoes, whilst 1 in 4 (25%) said their kid's toys had also received a chomped fate.

Chewing household or everyday objects also has consequences the survey discovered. Over 1 in 4 (27%) dog owners said that this caused their dog to be sick, with 1 in 5 (20%) also admitting, chewing on everyday objects resulted in a trip to the vets.

Rory the Vet continued: "Having been in clinic practice for seven years, I've regularly witnessed issues from dogs eating clothes, sofas, balls and all other sorts of things from around the house! Everyday items can be toxic to dogs so it's incredibly important to be careful when leaving your dog around potentially harmful items."

The top 10 most common items dogs have chewed are

1. Tennis balls 43%

2. Sticks 37%

3. Shoes/slippers (36%)

4. Socks (33%)

5. Kids toys (25%)

6. Toilet rolls (24%)

7. Drinking/water bottles (21%)

8. Cushions (20%)

9. Sofa (18%)

10. Plants (17%)

A spokesperson for Pooch Snax said: "Treats, as part of an overall nutritious diet are a great way to bond with your dog. They can help to keep teeth and gums healthy and provide a way to express normal chewing behaviour. However, it's important that we give our dogs the right kind of treats to avoid unnecessary chewcastrophes!

"It's why we are proud to launch our new natural and safe dog treat – Porky Ears – that brings something a bit different to the dog treat market. Shaped like ears and produced from 100% British pork, Porky Ears are a natural, healthy and easily digestible treat for your dog to enjoy. Full of protein, they also act as a toothbrush."

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The six tell-tale signs which could save a dog’s life

Your Pets Daily Editor — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dogs can't tell us if they feel ill but now experts have identified six tell-tale signs which could save a pet's life.

Britain is a nation of dog lovers and many of us think of our furry friends as family members but sadly pets cannot tell us when they feel ill. Now pet food nutritionists at Years.com have identified six tell-tale signs which should set alarm bells ringing for dog owners.

The experts claim spotting these signs early could save the life of a beloved pet dog and help prevent costly vet bills. They are urging all dog owners to keep a watchful eye over their pet to ensure they remain in the best of health. Each one of the signs spotted in isolation could have an innocent explanation but dog owners are being told to be particularly concerned if they notice their pet displaying several of the tell-tale warning signs at the same time.

Darren Beale from Years.com said: "Us Brits really do love our dogs and that's why we want to do everything we can to ensure they remain in the very best of health for as long as possible. Sadly a dog cannot let their owner know if they are feeling unwell, at least not verbally. But there are several other ways which may signal a dog is feeling poorly.

"We all want the best for our pets which is why it's always important to be aware of any changes in their behaviour and appetite. There are important signs to look out for which means they may need to be seen by a vet, such as strange lumps appearing on their body and if they start to have any discolouration.

"Nobody wants to be left with heartbreak when they realise it's too little too late by not taking their symptoms seriously. This is why we're urging all pet owners to always be on the lookout for signs that their pet may be sick as early treatment can lead to a better outcome for our beloved animals."

Here are six signs from Years.com which suggest your dog could be ill:

Loss of appetite

If your dog isn't licking all four corners of the bowl don't panic. If they continue not to eat much of their food even after swapping to a wholefood diet, they could be feeling stressed and anxious at home or have underlying digestive issues.

Strange lumps on the body

Always feel around your pet's fur to check for any bumps and lumps even if they're small to notice. Check if the lump grows any bigger or if any more appear in a two-week period and take your dog to the vet if you notice there has been a change.

Constantly clawing to go outside

Dogs love to go out and play in the garden, but if they're constantly clawing at the door after eating it may not mean they're wanting to get some sunshine. Going to the toilet immediately after eating could mean they have digestive issues and the food they're on is only worsening their stomachs.

Reddish skin

If you look closely at your dog's fur and notice the skin is red and discoloured, it could mean they have a bacterial skin infection. If left untreated, it can spread across the entire body and cause widespread irritation which is only made worse with scratching.

Smelly nails

If a foul odour is coming from your dog's nails it could be a sign of bacterial claw infection. If left untreated, it can worsen and develop into bone infections which isn't only uncomfortable for them to walk on but cause their health to get significantly worse.

Itchy ears

Dogs love to have their ears scratched and while it may not appear to be harmful, it could have risky consequences if it's non-stop. Ear mites may be the cause of the irritation, which can lead to ear infections if left to fester as well as swelling of the ear canal. This could spiral into partial deafness if unresolved for a long period.

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Experts Way In On Christmas Selection Boxes for Dogs & How Safe They Actually Are

Jessica Curtis — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

With many UK retailers advertising selection boxes for dogs, Kennel Store has weighed in on the most dangerous dog treats and the risks they pose to your beloved pet.

"We all love treating our dogs and giving them a tasty treat every once in a while and especially at Christmas, but it's important to be mindful of what exactly we're giving them. We've compiled a list of treats that pose risks and hazards for your pet and the issues your dog could come in contact with if they're consuming such chews and treats."

Actual animal bones

Whilst animal bones are often marketed and advised to dog owners as suitable treats, they can be incredibly dangerous. They can be contaminated with bacteria that can be extremely harmful, and cause illnesses such as listeria, salmonella and e.coli. It's also important to be aware of the risk of the bones breaking into smaller segments. This can lead to your dog choking and damage to the intestines.

Rawhide

Rawhide chews are very popular, but they can be dangerous because of the toxic chemicals they can contain. Rawhide commonly comes from cows, and is the soft inner layer of the animal.

Whilst it is treated and preserved, they can still cause a choking hazard, and be the cause of digestive obstructions which can be fatal.

Dental chews

Dental chews are very popular, but the ingredients list is not ideal. Flours, additives and salt are just some of the ingredients that chews can contain, and they pose no real benefit to dogs. An alternative to dental chews are meaty bones or recreational bones and brushing your dog's teeth daily.

Human food

As tempting as it can be to give your dog a little taste of what you're eating, it can be fatal for dogs to ingest human food. Some foods that can't be given to dogs are:

Chocolate
Grapes
Nuts
Avocado
Garlic, onion and chives

If your dog does eat something that is toxic, it's important to contact your vet and get medical advice immediately to avoid sickness or worse."

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Vet Explains How Cold Weather Worsens Your Dogs Arthritis

Jessica Curtis — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:45:12 +0000

The UK is set to experience freezing temperatures and snow across the country this week, and much like us humans our canine companion's joint health and mobility can be negatively impacted by a sudden drop in temperature.

With arthritis affecting 80% of dogs aged 8 or over, and almost 35% of the entire dog population (due to such factors as wear and tear, breed predisposition, genetics, weight, previous injuries, and overall joint health), dog owners must have a clear appreciation of the impact that cold weather can have on their pets bones and joints.

To help with this, Sean McCormack, Head Vet at dog food subscription service tails.com has provided insight into why cold weather can worsen arthritis pain in dogs, and how to keep them as comfortable as possible this winter:

Why does the cold weather make my dog's arthritis worse?

Decreased joint fluid

Cold weather can decrease your dog's joint fluid viscosity by increasing the thickness of the synovial fluid. Thicker fluid can make joint movement more challenging, and increase the sensation of tightness for your four-legged friend.

Reduced blood flow

During low temperatures, your dog's blood vessels constrict to conserve body heat. This reduced blood flow around your dog's body can cause joint stiffness and discomfort, and increase inflammation.

Tightened muscles
In cold temperatures, your dog's muscles will contract and tighten, as a natural response to preserve body heat. This can lead to increased stiffness for your canine companion and add additional strain to their already compromised joints.

Reduced movement
Your canine companion may be less inclined to want to go out for a walk or exercise in cold weather. Whether your dog simply hates the rain or just likes to take things a little slower on winter walks - this reduced activity can lead to stiffness and decreased joint mobility.

Cramped positions

If your dog's home environment is cold and they can't seem to get comfortable and cosy, your dog might curl up into cramped positions or squeeze their body into small spaces to get warm, which can put extra pressure on arthritic joints.

Increased shivering

The autumn/winter months mean that your dog will be exposed to colder weather when out on your daily walks, and this might lead to increased shivering for your four-legged friend. This increase in shivering can lead to muscle tension and potential inflammation around your dog's arthritic joints.

How to keep your arthritic dog warm and comfortable

A warm environment

To keep a dog living with arthritis comfortable, it's important to keep your dog warm when they are resting and relaxing at home, such as providing extra blankets, as higher temperatures will prevent your dog from experiencing any stiffness or discomfort brought on by the cold.

A comfortable, cosy bed

A well-padded and insulated bed will allow your dog to rest comfortably without any pressure on their joints and bones, and ensure they are snuggled up and cosy for a good night's sleep.

Low-impact exercises

It's important to keep your dog active to prevent their muscles and joints from seizing up and mobility being reduced.. You can do this by taking your dogs for short walks or encouraging gentle indoor or outdoor exercise, to help maintain joint flexibility.

Warm walking attire

When you're wrapping yourself up warm for a cold wintery walk with your dog, don't forget about their extra layers too. Whilst dogs have a natural coat to protect them from the elements, those with arthritis are better off wearing an extra layer of protection from the cold, like a waterproof jacket or an all-in-one suit like an Equafleece.

Regular massages

As cold weather can cause your dog's joints to become stiff, you can regularly massage your canine companion's muscles, to help improve blood circulation and alleviate any tension in their body.

A healthy diet

Providing your dog with a nutritious diet that includes essential vitamins and supplements to support joint health can be beneficial to minimise the symptoms of arthritis.

High-quality, lean proteins: This can include meats like chicken or turkey that help maintain your dog's muscle mass and support joint health.
Bone Broth: Can provide essential nutrients like glucosamine, gelatin, and chondroitin, which support joint health.
Fruits and vegetables: Contain antioxidants that support overall health and may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Omega-3 fatty acids: These can be found in fish like salmon, mackerel or fish oil, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint inflammation.

Regular vet checkups

Most importantly, keep up to date with your dog's veterinary check-ups to monitor the progression of their arthritis and accompanying symptoms. This way, you can discuss any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan or medication

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