Posts Tagged: joint supplements for dogs

It may only be November, but the cold weather has made an early appearance this year.  With the blowing snow and frigid temperatures, it’s easy for us to fall into a routine of warming up under a blanket by the fire or reading a book with a cup of coffee.  Many times, our pets don’t want to go outside any more than we do.  When we become sedentary, it can be harsh on our joints.  This is also true for our pets.  Just like our doctor encourages us to get exercise and take vitamins, there are several things you can do to keep your pet’s joints healthy as well.

1.  Exercise.  Take advantage of those warm, sunny days when they are here by taking your dog for a short walk.  Keep your dog active

indoors with interactive games.  Try hiding treats throughout the house and encourage him to sniff out the treats.  Play fetch or tug if you have a room big enough.  Doggy daycare is another good way to get them exercise and stimulation with other dogs.

2. Synovi G4:  This is a chewable supplement filled with glucosamine, turmeric and antioxidants to help keep your pet’s joints healthy.  It’s as easy as giving him a treat!  We carry these supplements in the clinic and are easily purchased with a prescription at SDMVC.

3. Acupuncture:  This can help with a variety of health problems in pets.  Acupuncture is performed by the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate specific points on the body.  It can be very beneficial for dogs that have joint pain.  We offer acupuncture at South Des Moines Veterinary Center with Dr. Franck.

4. Therapeutics:  We have a wide variety of prescription medications that can help your dog’s joints if needed from anti-inflammatory medications to pain medications.