Question
We're currently bringing our 9 year old white schnauzer cross to the vet for treatment for arthritis. It primarily affects his rear left leg at the moment, but we're told it may affect his other joints- we're working on reducing his weight, he's on medication that supposedly lubricates his joints, and some painkillers at the moment. He's improving slowly, and we're making progress this bout but this is a recurring issue that seems to be getting worse.
I've also re-arranged his sleeping arrangements so he's out of the draft from the air conditioner, and he has plenty of soft surfaces to lie on (though, he generally has his front end on pillows, and rear end on the floor). I generally don't need to worry about the cold except in wet weather since I live in the tropics, but I've been discouraging him gently from lying in colder places, and he avoids drafts anyway.
In addition to medical care, and weight control, what can I do to make my dog's life easier, especially when he's actively having issues with the leg?
Answer
If your dog is used to hanging out in higher places (such as on the couch/chairs/elevated bed), but the arthritis is preventing him from being able to safely jump to/from such places, there are special "dog stairs" and "dog ramps" that you can purchase and set up to allow him access to those type of spots without jumping.
We used this when our puppy could jump up onto the couch (which we were fine with), but was too scared to jump down... the stairs allowed her to get back to ground level safely. Though I don't remember the name of the product itself, it was marketed for older dogs with joint problems and leg pain, so it should fit your needs.
Answered By - Matt Giltaji