Ask The Vet: How do I help my aging pet’s joints?

Joint supplements are a great addition to your pet's joint care routine.

I’ve noticed some back and hip issues with my aging Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.  I try to limit him jumping from the bed and sofa. What supplements or exercises would you recommend to help his joints?

Age-related osteoarthritis is a common concern among canine and feline pet owners. Thankfully, there area wide range of options when it comes to the management of this disease process.

First and foremost, weight management is critical. Obesity is a regular concern I have for my patients and without a doubt, extra weight on your pet’s frame will exacerbate arthritic changes so it’s important for them to maintain a healthy body condition.

Next, joint supplements are a great addition to your pet’s care routine and are readily available through most pet retailers. But not all products are created equally so speak to your vet about their preferences.

When joint supplements aren’t providing enough relief for your pet, there are a multitude of prescription or veterinary-administered options that can help your pet maintain quality of life. These range from injections like Adequan, Librela or Solensia to oral anti-inflammatories like Rimadyl or Deramaxx.

Watching our pets age and struggle to get around is difficult, but there are options available so never hesitate to advocate for your pet at their next veterinary visit.

We’re expecting our first child this fall and would like tips how to introduce our 5-year-old dog to the baby?

Congratulations on the impending baby, what exciting news! I just welcomed my first baby, so I can relate to your concerns. Here are a few recommendations to make this transition as smooth as possible:

• Now is the time to start introducing your pet to the baby’s stroller, etc. Take your pet on walks with the stroller to get them used to it; you can do the same with the car seat and other accessories, like bouncy chairs, to give your pet time to acclimate.
• Make sure that you have a plan regarding pet care for when you head to the hospital — the last thing you want is to be worried about who is feeding Fido while you’re about to deliver. Also have someone take some of the baby’s linens into the home so that your pet has the opportunity to become familiar with the new smells.
• When it’s time to bring the baby home, introduce the dog to the baby outside or in your yard before bringing the baby into the home.
• Regardless of how easily your pet acclimates, I would never recommend leaving a dog with a baby alone together without adult supervision.

Ask The Vet is a weekly series by Dr. Devon B. Smith, a Baltimore veterinarian who is an associate at Madonna Veterinary Clinic in White Hall. Send your pet questions or photos via the forms below.

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