Joint health issues are a common concern among dogs, because they significantly impact their quality of life. From arthritis to hip dysplasia, these conditions can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and a lesser ability to enjoy daily activities. Looking for ways to help those issues proactively can involve physical therapy for dogs. It can serve as a preventative and rehabilitative approach to managing and enhancing joint health in our furry friends. Physical therapy for dogs can offer relief and support long-term well-being, focusing on strengthening and flexibility to improve their overall function.

Several conditions can compromise joint health in dogs, with arthritis and hip dysplasia being among the most typically seen. Arthritis is often seen in older dogs, and is characterized by the inflammation and degeneration of joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Hip dysplasia, a genetic condition more common in large breeds, involves an improper fit of the ball and socket in the hip joint, causing wear and tear over time that can result in arthritis or other joint issues. Other conditions that affect dog joints include ligament tears, such as CCL injuries, and patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This is often seen in smaller breeds. Each of these conditions can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life, making it difficult for them to move freely and without pain.

Recognizing the early signs of joint health issues in dogs is the key to managing their condition effectively. You may see a noticeable decrease in their activity level, or see them have difficulty standing up or lying down. You might notice they’re limping or favoring one leg, have a reluctance to climb stairs or jump, or have visible swelling around the joints. Dogs may also show signs of discomfort or pain when they’re touched in affected areas or they might be less eager to play or engage in activities they once enjoyed. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing these conditions, preventing further deterioration of joint health, and maintaining the highest possible quality of life for your furry best friend.

Physical therapy for dogs has always been a go-to for veterinarians to manage and improve their health because science has shown it to benefit them. Non-invasive ways to help your dog reduce pain and improve their quality of life are always great goals. A dog physical rehabilitation program can be beneficial for the following:

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for joint health. Excess weight puts additional stress on a dog’s joints, which can make joint issues and pain worse. A combination of a proper diet and regular exercise can help manage weight and reduce the burden on joints.

Regular Vet Check-ups

Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help with early detection and management of joint issues. These visits can help catch early signs of joint deterioration and allow for interventions like physical therapy and nutritional supplementation, potentially slowing the progression of joint diseases like osteoarthritis.

Physical therapies used to decrease inflammation in dogs can be supported internally by anti-inflammatory ingredients. While glucosamine and chondroitin are popular supplements for joint health, the scientific evidence supporting their efficacy at the doses commonly found in veterinary diets is really limited. However, undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) has been found in clinical and experimental studies to be effective even at smaller dosages than glucosamine and chondroitin and more effective than these common supplements at improving joint health and function in many animals, including our dogs​​.

But we also learned as we consulted with more experts that daily supplementation could play a pivotal role, too. Bernie’s Marvelous Mobility was formulated with our holistic approach in mind. We wanted to blend ingredients that were based on current, science-backed evidence to support our dogs’ joint health and overall well-being. We wanted to do that for dogs everywhere.

That’s why we combined things like flaxseed, anchovy, and algal oils that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids–they have amazing anti-inflammatory properties. We also chose antioxidants like astaxanthin, sourced from microalgae, and blueberries to combat oxidative stress, and we purposely didn’t jump on the glucosamine/chondroitin bandwagon because we just didn’t want to give our dogs ingredients that science didn’t back as much. Instead, we went with undenatured type-II collagen because of all its promising results in maintaining cartilage health and joint function. We especially loved that it is shown to do this in clinical studies and at even lower doses compared to traditional supplements​​.

We selected every ingredient, from green-lipped mussels for their glycosaminoglycans to the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the metabolic benefits of boron, because our own dogs’ health was our goal. The best part is that we can share with dog parents everywhere so they can have the best, most current science-backed ingredients for their furry family members.

Combining physical therapy with a daily supplement like Bernie’s Marvelous Mobility can provide a holistic, comprehensive approach to your dog’s joint health and ensure they have the support they need to stay active and happy for as long as possible. For us, it’s always about more than just treatments; it’s about giving our dogs the best quality of life and showing them the same love and care they unconditionally give us.