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Arthritis is a traditional issue with dogs, especially with those that are old. In humans, arthritis leads to pains, stiffness and limited movements and the same goes for dogs. A study showed that weather has an impact on arthritis symptoms in dogs.
Weather factors such as temperature, humidity, and changes in barometric pressure affect dogs with arthritis and their mobility. Knowing these effects will enable you to handle your pet better and have a better quality of life.
What is Dog Arthritis?
Dog arthritis is commonly referred to as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the articular cartilage that lines the joints wears out resulting in inflammation and pain. This condition can occur in any joint but is prevalent in hip, knee, elbow, and spine joints. Arthritis is chronic by nature and is usually characterized by gradual development of symptoms if not well handled.
Some studies have established that changes in weather do have impacts on arthritis in humans as well as animals. Moreover, a study revealed that arthritis patients complained of having increased pain during cold and damp weather. Likewise, a study done for dogs concluded that dogs with arthritis were observed to be more painful during the colder months.
Temperature and Arthritis
It can also be noted that cold weather is the toughest on dogs with arthritis because of muscle stiffness. With low temperatures, the level of stiffness in the joints increases and therefore movement becomes painful. This is because cold weather tends to make the muscles and joints stiff hence increasing pain and discomfort. Common arthritis symptoms in dogs include limping, avoiding physical activity, and using particular limbs during cold seasons.
To help alleviate these symptoms, pet owners can take several measures:
- Keep your dog warm. During outings, put dog sweaters or jackets and make sure that they have a warm and cozy bed to sleep on.
- Cut short the outdoor activities, including walks, on the days when it is very cold and offer your dog indoor entertainment.
- Provide joint supplements. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements can be used to support joint health.
Humidity and Arthritis
Another cause is high humidity as it can also affect arthritis in dogs as well. High humidity affects everybody and especially people with joint pains since it makes the joints swell up.
To manage the effects of humidity:
- It is recommended that homeowners should utilize dehumidifiers in their homes to eliminate excess moisture.
- It is recommended to dry your dog up when they are out in the wet weather so that they do not develop deformities in their joints due to the wetness.
- Adjust your dog’s exercise routine based on their comfort level during humid weather.
Barometric Pressure and Arthritis
A dog with arthritis can also be affected by changes in barometric pressure typically associated with storms and weather fronts. It is quite common for many pet owners to observe that their dogs are less active or seem to be in more discomfort before a storm. It is believed that this phenomenon happens because pressure determines the volume of fluids in a joint and therefore leads to stiffness and pain.
To help your dog cope with barometric pressure changes:
- Create a canine comfort space: Design a comfortable space in your house where your dog can comfortably lie down whenever there is a storm.
- Use calming products: Weather fluctuations can be a very stressful trigger, so you can try using products like anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers on your dog.
- Medication: Make sure that your dog has been administered with any prescribed pain relief or anti-inflammatory drugs in the right schedule.
Exercise and Arthritis
Regular exercise is very important for dogs with arthritis; however, fluctuations in weather might make this task very difficult. Both hot and cold temperatures are known to reduce physical activity, cause muscles to waste away, and stiffen joints. It is important to consider changing the exercise schedule according to the prevailing weather conditions.
Tips for exercising dogs with arthritis in varying weather:
- In winter, perform mild activities. This can include stretching movements and moderate activities in a confined space.
- In the summer season, walk during the early morning and make sure that the dog is well-hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion.
- In rainy season, play indoor games with your dog without coming into contact with wet surfaces.
Diet and Supplements
A proper diet and correct supplementation are very beneficial in reducing arthritis in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, have anti-inflammatory effects that will help with joint pain and stiffness. Furthermore, a healthy weight is imperative as being overweight increases stress on the joints.
Recommendations for diet and supplements:
- Omega-3 supplements
- Joint supplements
- Weight management
Conclusion
Dog Arthritis requires one to know how weather fluctuations affect them so that one can manage it appropriately. To reduce their discomfort further and enhance their quality of life, you need to warm them up, ensure there is no exposure to moisture, feed them well, and where appropriate, adjust their exercise regimens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I tell if my dog’s arthritis is worsening due to weather changes?
You should observe changes in your dog’s behavior. Your dog may also be more lethargic or be in more pain during a change in the weather.
2. What can I do to help my dog with arthritis during cold weather?
Dress up your pet with sweaters or jackets, get him a nice bed to sleep in, and restrict playtime to outdoors. They may not be able to play games outside, but they can have fun indoors and make sure they take supplements for their joints.
3. Are there any natural remedies for dogs with arthritis?
Yes there are natural remedies for joint health. Exercise and maintaining a good diet are also helpful in reducing the severity of arthritis ailment.
4. Does weather change make arthritis worse?
Seasonal changes in weather influence the effects of arthritis. Joints become more painful and stiff during the cold season because of low temperature sensitivity, high humidity, and fluctuating barometric pressure. Research finds correlation between weather and arthritis and specifically between changes in weather and the severity of arthritis symptoms.
