As we celebrate National Walk Your Dog Week, it’s the perfect time to grab that leash and hit the trails with your furry friend! This week isn’t just about getting outside; it’s a fantastic opportunity to focus on your dog’s health. One of the best forms of exercise for our canine companions is walking, which is especially beneficial for their joint health. Regular walks help keep those joints flexible and can help to prevent or alleviate issues like arthritis.

Walking is a low-impact exercise, making it ideal for dogs of all sizes and ages. Unlike high-energy activities like running or jumping, a leisurely stroll allows your dog to stretch their legs without putting too much stress on their joints. A few short walks a day can help keep your dog’s muscles toned and their joints lubricated, leading to happier, healthier movements.

October is also National Pet Obesity Awareness Month and walking is a great way to keep your dog’s weight in check, which is crucial for maintaining joint health. So, let’s celebrate National Walk Your Dog Week (and National Pet Obesity Awareness Month) by prioritizing those daily walks. Grab your shoes, leash up your furry buddy, and enjoy the great outdoors together! Your dog’s joints will thank you.

• Do they limp?
• Are they less active, sleeping more often, not interested in normal routines?
• Are they reluctant to jump up on the bed or into the car?
• Do they sleep less and circle a lot to get comfortable when lying down?
• Do they have difficulty getting up from a “sit” or a “lie down”?
• Do they have muscle atrophy?
• Stand over your dog looking down on his spine- do you see the front end of your dog well developed while the back end has gotten skinny?
• Do they lick the top of their paws?
• Do they lack stamina on walks? i.e Used to walk a mile every night, now 3 blocks is their limit
• Do you feel and hear crackling and popping in your dog’s joints?

These signs could mean that your dog has arthritis. Your veterinarian can confirm a diagnosis of OA with a good physical examination, a good lameness examination and x-rays. Note I separated out the physical exam from the lameness. The physical exam encompasses the total animal, but the lameness is about their gait, stride, range
of motion, and joint pain tolerance.

Have you discussed options for treating arthritis with your veterinarian?