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This article was first posted in April 2019. It has been updated to reflect newer information
natural and holistic canine arthritis treatments and therapies
In part 1 I discussed all the traditional ways to treat your dog’s arthritis. In this post, we will learn about all the natural and alternative treatments and therapies for canine arthritis.
As I mentioned then, most (if not all) dogs will eventually suffer from arthritis or painful joints. Just like you and me, a dog’s joint cartilage wears down over time. Younger dogs may suffer from an injury or developmental disorders.
Do you prefer natural treatments for canine arthritis?
Some dogs may experience mild pain and others the pain may be severe, but arthritis is progressive and will get worse over time. That is why it should be a priority for all dog parents. It may be necessary to treat with traditional medications, but most medications for arthritis have negative side effects and can damage internal organs. But because your dog could suffer from arthritis for a long time it may be necessary to explore natural canine arthritis treatments. I personally prefer to go with alternative and natural treatments whenever I can.
Natural Herbs & Supplements:
1. Glucosamine Sulfate
Glucosamine is one of the safest natural canine arthritis treatments and the one used most often. It helps by stimulating the production of glycosaminoglycans and chondroitin sulfate which is the essential component of cartilage. It has shown to be anti-inflammatory which helps to relieve so of the pain your dog may be suffering.
2. Chondroitin Sulfate
Also, for treating canine arthritis, Chondroitin sulfate is a natural medicine found in the body and it works to block enzymes from degrading the cartilage of the joints. Glucosamine is often used along with chondroitin; however, when used alone, it helps the body to manufacture its own chondroitin.
2. SAM-E (S-ADENOSYLMETHIONINE
SAM-e acts as a pain reliever and has anti-inflammatory properties, and is great for when canine arthritis is painful. It may also stimulate the growth of cartilage and serotonin. Serotonin reduces the body’s perception of pain.
3. bOSWELLIA sERRATE (INDIAN FRANKINCENSE)
The components of Boswellia Serrate have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It also helps prevent cartilage loss and inhibits the autoimmune process which helps with canine arthritis. The extract, also known as Loxin 5 has shown to significantly improve pain and function within seven days and slowed cartilage damage after three months.
4. CAPSAICIN (CAPICUM FRUTECENS)
Capsaicin temporarily reduces substance P, a pain transmitter. It has been shown in many studies, including a 2010 study published in Phytotherapy Research, to reduce joint pain by 50 percent after three weeks.
5. TUMERIC
Turmeric can offer various health benefits for dogs, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These benefits can support joint health, promote digestion, and potentially aid in managing other health conditions like allergies and skin issues.
6. Fish Oil (Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA)
This powerful nutrient blocks certain inflammatory properties. In one study done fish oil significantly decreased joint tenderness and stiffness.
These are just a few supplements that have proven to be effective. It would take more time than either you or I has to list every single one that claims to be effective. These are the ones that have most often proven effective.
alternative therapies for canine arthrits
acupuncture:
Acupuncture helps the body to heal itself. It does this by correcting energy imbalances in the body and enhancing blood circulation and stimulating the nervous system, and releasing anti-inflammatory pain-relieving hormones that help with the pain of canine arthritis.
By inserting needles where nerve bundles and blood vessels come together a cycle of energy occurs throughout the entire body in a 24 hour period.
acupressure:
This works essentially the same way as acupuncture only using pressure instead of needles. This is helpful when treating uncooperative dogs and when treatment with needles is unavailable.
aquapressure:
This involves injecting homeopathic liquids, diluted vitamin B12, and other natural medications into the body. The liquid exerts a change in energy by pushing the tissue out of the way.
moxibustion:
The application of heated Chinese herbal compounds to the needles. The heat is very helpful to older dogs that are suffering from arthritis and/or muscular soreness.
electrostimulation:
This sends an electric current into the body between acupuncture needles. It relaxes muscles and aids the body in stimulating nerve impulses.
laser:
This is becoming a very popular treatment in veterinary hospitals and clinics. It uses laser energy to stimulate nerve impulses at acupuncture points. This treatment doesn’t generate significant heat, which will burn hair or skin.
massage therapy:
Who doesn’t love a relaxing massage? By rubbing and kneading the muscles and joints, massage therapy relieves tension and/or pain. It helps to reduce stress and helps joints and muscles to heal.
Massage is something you can do yourself at home. There are different techniques used to treat different illnesses or injuries.
how to do massage therapy on your dog at home
Did you miss Part 1? CLICK HERE >>