Dogs with joint problems

As dogs get older, their joints wear and they can suffer inflammation.  At first it’s discomfort, if nothing is done it will turn into increased lameness and pain.   Some breeds are more likely to develop symptoms – German Shepherds with their hip problems, Labradors with arthiritis – sometimes even relatively young dogs are in trouble.   A dog who is overweight will have much more stress on the joints and is at increased risk.     Keeping your dog slimline is essential, not too thin though, he needs to be just right and not skinny.    Keep on with the exercise as the less your dog does, the more stiff he will become.  Short walks on level ground are best, let your dog tell you how far he wants to go.   Throwing balls and encouraging him to run is out – he’ll do it because he wants to please you and stay playful, but it will hurt afterwards.  Steady walks are needed.    A soft bed is important, a dog whose joints are sore needs lots of extra comfort.   We build up layers of bed for our old dogs, it gives extra softness – a couple of padded mats and then a duvet on top is doggy bedtime heaven.   Would you like to sleep in a plastic bed with a thin blanket?    I wouldn’t, especially if my joints hurt.   In their natural life a dog would make a soft bed for himself in grass or dry leaves, he’d pad round and round until  he’d made a nest.  Make sure the bed is out of the way of draughts or direct sunlight too.

Food supplements  – Cod Liver Oil – diet is important and some foods can help keep your dog mobile and pain free.   A mediterranean diet is good – for you and the dog – he’s a carnivore though and needs a lot more meat.   Olive oil, vegetables and plenty of fish are excellent healthy food  (you have the red wine!).    One of the best supplements available is cod liver oil.   We put this on all the doggy dinners.   It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and aids in the maintenance of good general health also improving the circulation.  It’s a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamins A and D, essential for the absorption of calcium to maintain strong bones.  It works, for humans too.    Dosage – just follow the instructions –  we sell Dorwest Herbs Cod Liver Oil capsules here in 100, 200 and 500 capsule quantities.

Garlic and Fenugreek – are good for arthiritis as well as skin conditions and minor infections.    We keep these Dorwest Herb tablets in stock as they are invaluable supplements for older dogs who are suffering from damaged joints and stiffness.   Feedback from one dog owner  who began giving her dog these tablets comments on how her 8 year old dog is now acting like a 4 year old with no stiffness and more energy.    You can get the tablets them from us (by post also) in 100, 200, 500 and 1000 quantities.   We’ve been using Dorwest Herbs for over 35 years – because we know they work.

Green Lipped Mussel – comes from the pure clean waters in New Zealand and has long been known for the variety of health benefits it provides to animals.   It’s a potent source of Omega 3 fatty acids and is a natural anti-inflammatory scientifically proven to maintain joint mobility.    Green Lipped Mussels contain an unique range of protective nutrients which make up the building blocks of joint structure and promote healthy connective tissue.   The mussels are grown to strict guidelines and harvesting them does not deplete natural colonies.    We stock Dr.John’s Platinum range of complete dog food which contains Green Lipped Mussels and is recommended for dogs with arthirits and joint problems.   It is sold by Royal Appointment and is only £12.50 for a 15k bag.   Dogs love it, owners do too because it’s economical and best of all, you can see the health benefits to your dog for yourself.   Makes us wonder why all the other dog foods are so much higher in price?

Dorwest Herbs and Dr.John’s Silver and Platinum complete feed are in stock here in our  onsite shop – ‘In the Dog House’  which is open every day 10.0am to 4.0pm.  Dr. John’s  Silver is £9.00 for a 15k bag and Dr. John’s Platinum with green lipped mussel is £12.50 for a 15k bag.    Stocklist and price list of Dorwest Herbs on request.