Dr. Lauren Meiers, DVM, CVA
As veterinary medicine advances, our dogs and cats are living longer, healthier lives. However, our senior pets are more likely to experience mobility issues as they age, which we see daily as an integrative veterinary practice. Many of our patients are seniors and come to see us specifically for mobility and comfort concerns. I want to share some insight into how you, as a caretaker, can recognize signs of mobility issues, steps you can take at home to keep your pet comfortable, and unique integrative treatment options available at Animal Wellness & Rehabilitation Center.
Signs of Mobility Issues in Senior Dogs
Sometimes, signs of mobility issues are obvious, especially if they show up quickly, but others are more subtle and easy to miss. The subtle signs often appear first; early detection of mobility issues is critical. The sooner we recognize the problem, the sooner we can address it, and the better it will be for our senior dogs.
Subtle signs of mobility issues:
- Hesitating to jump up or down or walk across slick surfaces
- Legs slipping out from under them while standing/walking
- Shifting weight off of a particular leg when standing
- Changes in muscle mass (one leg compared to another or along the back)
- Behavior changes- less playful, grumpier, or withdrawn/indifferent
- New preferences for lying/sleeping on certain surfaces (particular beds over others)
- Swaying or sinking when standing
Obvious signs of mobility issues:
- Stiff, stilted gait
- Limping
- Changes in posture- hunching of the back, sitting only on one side, hindquarters dropping
- Tiring out faster/ not being able to walk as far as they used to
- Stiffness or limping after they’ve been lying down
- Vocalizing (groaning, whining, yelping) during specific movements
- Difficulty standing up/lying down
- Inability to perform specific movements without assistance (standing up, getting on/off furniture, stairs)
Prevention of Mobility Issues in Senior Dogs is Essential
There are some things we can do as senior dog owners that can prevent mobility issues before they begin. Keeping strong, active dogs moving is much easier than working to regain mobility once it is lost.
Provide Regular Exercise:
We’ve all heard the saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” But did you know that applies to your dog’s joints and mobility, too? It’s true! Regular, low-impact exercise can make a massive difference for senior dogs with mobility challenges. For many dogs, gentle, sustained movement- like going for a 15-minute walk on gentle terrain- is more beneficial than intense, short exercise- like a brief run around the yard or chasing a squirrel. Movement keeps the joints healthy and moving freely, but it also keeps the muscles that support those joints strong. Dogs need both healthy joints and muscles to maintain mobility. There are other benefits, like helping to maintain a healthy body weight, the mental stimulation they get from all of the sights/sounds/smells, and quality time with you!
Tip: Start slow and easy and gradually work up to longer/more challenging walks! Have you ever started exercising with just a little too much enthusiasm? Were you sore for a day or two afterward? That happens to dogs, too! And they don’t have the benefit of understanding why they are sore. Slow and steady is best.
Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Just like people, carrying extra weight can be problematic for our pets. Addressing weight problems is particularly important for senior dogs and dogs with mobility challenges—being overweight or obese will worsen mobility issues. If you suspect your dog might benefit from losing a few pounds, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to develop a weight loss plan. Recommendations will be unique to each dog and its medical history.
Environmental Changes to Support Senior Dogs
You can make many changes to support the needs of senior dogs with mobility challenges, ranging from easy, free fixes to more involved changes. Of course, dogs are individuals, and what helps the most will differ depending on what body parts are affected and the individual dog’s needs. Many of these This list isn’t exhaustive by any means but is a good place to start.
Adjust Food and Water Bowls
If your dog’s food or water bowls are on the floor, consider elevating them a little. Leaning forward and down places more force on the neck, shoulders, and front legs- and may be uncomfortable if your dog has an issue in these areas. There are loads of elevated food and water bowls on the market, but you can start by setting their regular food bowl on top of a small box (like a shoe box) and watching to see if it helps your dog
Consider Your Dog’s Rest Area Needs
Some dogs prefer to lay on cool hard floors, while others prefer soft cushioned surfaces to rest. Dogs are individuals and have their preferences too! If your pup seems restless, doesn’t lay in one spot for long, or jumps up suddenly from a nap they may be uncomfortable. Consider a more supportive bed, or even layering a couple of dog beds. For dogs who prefer cool surfaces, an elevated mesh-type bed may be a good choice.
Be Aware of any Issues with Poor Traction
Many older dogs struggle with getting traction on smooth floors. Their feet can slip out from under them- this may make some dogs anxious or even result in minor injuries if they fall. There are several different products that a dog can wear that help with traction. We love and recommend Dr. Buzby’s toe grips. You can ask a team member to help you measure your dog for these and even apply them for you. Alternatively, some people place inexpensive rugs or yoga mats on slippery surfaces for better traction.
Mobility Tools to Aid Your Elderly Dog
Some dogs benefit from a helping hand in the form of mobility tools, especially if they are large and their issues are more severe. Not only do they aid in keeping the dog comfortable and supported, but they can also make things easier and more comfortable for the caretaker. These can include regular harnesses with handles to help support and lift, slings to support the hind end, or even a specialized mobility harness like the Help ‘em Up.
Helping Your Dog with Challenging Stair Issues
Going up or down stairs can become a real challenge for older dogs. The increased force on sore joints and muscles can be uncomfortable, and dogs who are unsteady on their feet are more at risk of slipping/falling. For smaller pups, carrying them up or down can be helpful. For larger dogs, the mobility aids listed above may be good options. In some cases, the safest option for both the dog and caretaker may be eliminating stairs as much as possible.
Strollers and Wagons
You’ve probably seen adorable small dogs riding in a stroller, but did you know there are strollers for large dogs, too? Strollers, carts, or wagons can be valuable tools for senior dogs. For dogs that are walking, they are a handy way to give them a break mid-walk. Dogs who can no longer walk can ride in a stroller and enjoy the benefits of a walk in a way that is comfortable for both them and their caretakers. Strollers and wagons range significantly in price but may be a worthwhile investment.
Treatment options available for mobility issues in senior dogs
Your veterinary team is your best resource when caring for a dog with mobility issues. Many of us have first-hand experience caring for our own geriatric pets, in addition to helping our senior patients and their caretakers from a medical perspective. There are many conventional Western medicine options available- from joint supplements and NSAIDs to newer modalities such as long-lasting injectables. At AWRC, we believe that our senior patients benefit the most from an integrative approach that utilizes both conventional Western medicine and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM). Integrative medicine allows us to take a more comprehensive approach, tailoring our treatment plan to each patient’s unique needs.
Acupuncture
This ancient Chinese medical technique is incredibly helpful for senior pets. We can use it to relieve pain, strengthen muscles, and even improve neurologic function. Most dogs tolerate acupuncture incredibly well, and many of them look forward to their sessions! We are asked frequently if the pet would need sedation for acupuncture – the answer is no. We will never sedate an animal for acupuncture. Acupuncture releases natural endorphins which help with pain and are calming. All of our doctors are certified in veterinary acupuncture.
Herbal medications
Herbal medications are invaluable tools in our practice. They work synergistically with other therapies, such as acupuncture, to address the root cause of a patient’s problems. They are safe, natural alternative treatments for many conditions and may be useful for dogs who can’t take or tolerate conventional medications.
LASER
LASER treatment uses specific, precise wavelengths of light to promote healing and relieve pain caused by arthritis, disc disease, chronic neurologic conditions, and many more. Protective eyewear is required- yes, even for dogs! – but the treatment is painless, and most dogs enjoy LASER sessions.
Veterinary Spinal Manipulation
Veterinary Spinal Manipulation (or VSM) is similar to chiropractic care in human medicine. It is a gentle way to restore correct alignment and, therefore, function in the musculoskeletal system. It is beneficial for senior dogs with mobility concerns.
Massage Therapy
Who doesn’t love a good massage? Massages benefit dogs in much the same way they benefit humans—by releasing tension, relieving pain, improving circulation, and promoting general relaxation. Our massage therapist, Angie, is wonderful with dogs of all ages.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is most similar to physical therapy in human medicine. Our certified rehab team uses an underwater treadmill, therapeutic exercises, and at-home exercises to address mobility issues in senior dogs. Dr. Pittman and the rehab team develop a custom plan for each patient to address their needs. Rehab patients receive lots of love and encouragement through treats and praise- they are the best cheerleaders a pup could ask for!
Enhancing Quality of Life: Navigating Mobility Issues in Senior Dogs
In conclusion, if you are the lucky owner of a senior or geriatric dog, we see you. Caring for these dogs, especially large ones, is hard work and can be exhausting. It consumes your time, can be emotionally and mentally exhausting, and the physical work of care is often hard on the caretaker’s body. We recognize the commitment and dedication to care for these sweet seniors. If you’re interested in exploring integrative options for your senior pets, please contact us, we’re here to help.
Warm regards,