Labradors are notorious for suffering arthritis. One of our volunteers Angel has just reported that her young, fit healthy girl has just been diagnosed with early onset arthritis. We've currently got two dogs in our care who have suffer from arthritis, but at times we've had a lot more.
If we get a dog with arthritis it's CRUCIAL that we keep the dog at a healthy weight. (i.e. when the lab is standing you can feel it's ribs under a layer of skin. The ribs shouldn't be visable.) We also keep the dogs fit, usually by swimming or slow long walks as it puts less stress on the joints. The muscle build up supports the joints reducing arthritic pain.
Katherine's been looking into a couple of products who help arthritis. She's been talking to other rescue groups getting their advice, as well as talking to some of our vets. We will be bulk ordering some drugs to help our rescues. If you are interested in finding out about what we use, feel free to email Katherine ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) and discuss these options with your local vet.
We are not vets and we don't know your dogs history. Please note that any advice you receive from us should also be discussed with your local vet.
We've seen many dogs who come into care with arthritis and although they are all different in personality, they all share the one thing. They love life, and don't let a bit of arthritic pain get in their way. Playing, swimming, tummy rubs and chewing a big bone are DEFINITELY not inhibited by arthritis!
Bit of a life lesson for us huh? I complain and swear at the mere thought of a paper cut....
