Some advice please on the exercise of an overweight dog with arthritis?
I have a 5 and a half year old Chihuahua. She has arthritis in the hip, because it broke when she was a baby. She also has the condition that commonly occurs in small breed dogs, where her trachea collapses or partially collapses causing her to cough. She weighs about 11 pounds weigh 6-8. I want her to lose weight for her health, but it is very difficult because she can not do a lot of physical activity (because of the hip and trachea). I have heard that swimming is one of the best things for her, and we are getting a pool this summer, so I will be able to get into it with her. Anybody know of anything else? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Water therapy has had very positive results in animals and humans, so dog water therapy is a good idea. Just remember that you will need to be carefully monitoring your dog's swimming activities. We have a 12-year-old beagle with arthritis in the spine and hips and dog swimming helps her. Our vet also suggested a supplement that we have had very good results with. It is called Genesis Resources Canine Re-Flex 2
. It is a glucosamine supplement plus other good stuff. You may also want to consider dog massages. It can be very pleasant and relaxing for you and your dog. Any veterinarian who prefers a more homeopathic approach will be happy to demonstrate the proper dog massage technique.
Does anyone know where there is a canine swimming pool in Los Angeles for my dog with arthritis? I just moved back to West Hollywood from Louisville, KY. My dog was swimming 3 times a week there, in a veterinary clinic to improve his arthritis. I have not been able to find water therapy for dogs here and I'm hoping someone can direct me to the right place.
See Spot Swim is a full service Canine Aquatic Center offering hydrotherapy for rehabilitation, therapeutic massage and recreational swimming. They are located in Redondo Beach, CA. Many communities are creating dog swimming services, check your local links and listing.
Rottweiler enjoying his swim at Dog Swim Spa
