Tips for Caring for Elderly Dogs with Weak Legs
Warm Compress for Your Dog's Rear Legs
As dogs age, their circulation tends to decline, and their sense of touch in the rear legs may diminish over time.
As a caring pet owner, you can help your furry friend by applying a warm compress to their rear legs using a heated towel or a petspecific electric blanket. This can aid in improving blood circulation.
It's important to keep the temperature of the towel or blanket below 40 degrees Celsius and not to exceed ten minutes to prevent any risk of burns.
Stretching and Massaging
After the warm compress, it's a great idea to let your dog lie down flat. This is when you can gently assist with stretching and massaging their muscles.
When stretching, aim to extend your dog's joints to their full range, much like a split, and hold the position for a while before gradually releasing.
Follow the stretching with a gentle massage of the muscles. Be sure to use soft, light strokes to avoid causing discomfort to your dog.
Correcting Posture
For older dogs, correcting their posture is as crucial as the warm compress and stretching. Pay close attention to your dog's posture: their paw pads should be firmly on the ground, and their paws should not be turned outward.
If their posture is off, you can use a lift harness or a large towel to support their rear legs and gently correct their stance over time.
Practicing Walking
For dogs with more severe joint degeneration in their rear legs, a lift harness can be a valuable tool. Accompany your pet as they take slow, steady steps to regain their former mobility. Remember to be patient and not to overdo it, as this can lead to muscle soreness or injury.
Joint degeneration in the rear legs is a common occurrence in older dogs. We recommend that dogs over the age of 7 should have at least one physical examination per six months. Establishing good rehabilitation habits and supplementing with health foods can provide comprehensive support for your dog's recovery.
Caring for an elderly dog is akin to caring for an elderly person. Show more patience and gentleness. By taking preventive measures and providing thorough care and maintenance, you can ensure that your beloved pet enjoys a longer, healthier life!
