How to Help Dogs with Arthritis: Comfort, Care, and Cherishing Every Moment

Watching your beloved dog slow down, struggle to rise, or hesitate on stairs can be heartbreaking. Arthritis is incredibly common, especially in senior dogs — but with the right care, comfort, and love, your dog can still enjoy a full and happy life.

Here’s how you can help ease their pain, support their mobility, and make every day more comfortable and full of joy. 🐶💛

1. 🧼 Use Rubber Mats for Grip and Stability

Hardwood floors, tiles, and other slippery surfaces are difficult for dogs with arthritis. One of the simplest and most effective changes you can make is to add rubber or anti-slip mats throughout your home.

🟡 Why it helps: Arthritic dogs often lose confidence due to slipping and sliding, which can worsen their joint pain. Mats give them the grip they need to move safely and reduce the risk of injury.

🛠️ Tip: Lay mats near food and water bowls, by the door, and along commonly used paths like hallways and stairs.

2. 💉 Consider Beransa Injections (Consult Your Vet)

Beransa (also known as Librela in some countries) is a newer injectable medication that targets nerve growth factor (NGF) — a major contributor to osteoarthritis pain. It’s designed to offer targeted, long-lasting relief without the side effects often seen with traditional anti-inflammatory drugs.

💬 My Personal Experience with Beransa:

I’ve been giving Beransa to my dog for six consecutive months, under the guidance of our veterinarian. And honestly, it’s made a world of difference. Within a day of each injection, I consistently see positive changes:

More energy and alertness Increased interest in walks and play A more comfortable, content expression

It’s been incredibly heartwarming to watch my dog regain some of the joy that arthritis had taken away.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer: While Beransa has helped my dog significantly, this is not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, especially seniors or those with other health conditions. Always consult your vet to determine if this medication is appropriate for your dog.

3. 🌡️ Use a Heating Pad for Comfort

Just like in humans, gentle warmth can soothe sore joints and muscles. Using a heating pad on a low setting can provide comforting relief — especially in the colder months or after outdoor activity.

🟢 Safety tip: Wrap the pad in a towel or use one designed for pets, and always supervise your dog when it’s on. Never place a heating pad directly against the skin or leave it unattended.

Important Note: A dog’s skin is thinner than human skin, with the epidermis being only 3 to 5 cells thick compared to 10 to 15 cells in humans . Additionally, dogs have a higher normal body temperature, typically ranging from 101°F to 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C), compared to the human average of 98.6°F (37°C) . Therefore, they are more sensitive to heat, and extra caution should be taken to prevent burns or overheating.

4. 🧸 Offer Extra Love, Cuddles, and Comfort

Pain affects more than the body — it affects your dog’s mood, confidence, and spirit. Now more than ever, your presence matters.

🐶 Ways to comfort: Sit or lie next to them more often. Offer gentle massages around their sore joints. Talk softly — your voice can be just as healing as your touch.

💛 Sometimes, love is the most powerful therapy of all.

5. 🛏️ Provide Orthopedic Bedding

A good night’s rest is essential for healing and mobility. Invest in a high-quality orthopedic or memory foam bed that cushions your dog’s joints and supports their body evenly.

🏠 Placement matters: Put the bed in a warm, draft-free space away from cold tiles or hard flooring. If your dog sleeps in multiple areas, consider getting more than one bed so they’re always supported.

6. 🦴 Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight puts tremendous strain on already-inflamed joints. Even a small reduction in body weight can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s mobility and comfort.

🥗 How to help: Ask your vet for a tailored feeding plan. Stick to healthy, low-calorie treats like carrots, green beans, or blueberries. Avoid overfeeding — even a few extra bites a day can add up over time.

7. 🐕 Gentle, Regular Exercise

It may seem counterintuitive, but resting too much can actually make arthritis worse. The key is gentle, consistent activity to keep joints flexible and muscles strong.

🚶 Try: Short walks on grass or soft paths Swimming (if safe and enjoyable for your dog) Puzzle feeders and mental games to keep their brain active when movement is limited

8. 🧴 Consider Joint Supplements

Nutritional supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage inflammation and promote joint health over time.

💊 Look for vet-recommended brands with proper dosing. While they may take a few weeks to show results, many dogs benefit from long-term use alongside other treatments.

9. 🈴 Try Acupuncture for Natural Pain Relief

Acupuncture — yes, even for dogs — has been shown to help manage chronic pain and improve mobility. A certified veterinary acupuncturist inserts tiny, sterile needles into specific points to stimulate healing and release endorphins.

🌀 Benefits can include:

Pain relief without medication Improved circulation and flexibility Enhanced overall well-being

🌿 It’s non-invasive and surprisingly relaxing for many dogs. Talk to your vet about whether this might be a fit for your pup.

10. 🔴 Explore Red Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation)

Red light therapy uses low-level light wavelengths to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and ease joint pain — all without the need for medication.

📍 It’s often used in: Veterinary rehab clinics At-home therapy devices approved by vets

🐕 Benefits: Improved joint mobility Reduced stiffness and swelling A safe, painless therapy your dog can enjoy while resting

💡 Note: Always ensure the device and settings are appropriate for pets. Speak with your vet or a certified rehab therapist.

11. 💗 Cherish Every Moment (and Keep Them Safe)

Yes, arthritis may change your dog’s pace — but their love, loyalty, and joyful spirit are still right there with you.

Now more than ever, it’s important to protect them and stay close.

❤️ Important tip: Try not to leave them home alone for extended periods. Arthritic dogs are more prone to accidental falls or joint strain when no one is around to help. Keep their environment safe, paths clear, and essentials close by.

🐾 Other ways to cherish:

Let them sniff longer on walks. Take more photos, even of quiet moments. Make space in your day for extra cuddles, belly rubs, and one-on-one time.

🐶 Every moment with your dog is a moment to be treasured — even if the walks are slower and the naps are longer.

🐕 Final Thoughts

Arthritis may be a new chapter — but it doesn’t have to mean the end of joy or connection. With thoughtful care, supportive treatments like Beransa (if suitable), holistic options like acupuncture and red light therapy, and above all, your love, your dog can still thrive.

They may move a little slower, but their heart beats just as strong for you. Let every step forward — no matter how small — be one filled with comfort, care, and unconditional love.

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