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Natural Alternatives for Arthritis in Pets - Part 1
The elderly are not the only ones to suffer from the pain and discomfort of arthritis, it can also disable our beloved pets and dogs, cats and horses are no exception to this terrible affliction. Arthritis and hip dysplasia is more common in larger breeds of dog, but small dog breeds and cats, can also suffer from arthritic conditions. Hip dysplasia and most other joint diseases can be easily prevented by good breeding practices and optimum nutrition. Dogs that have a predisposition to hip dysplasia should be given Vitamin C from birth to prevent the condition developing.
Holistically, we look at arthritis as being caused from a genetic predisposition or from toxicity. Conventional treatment is aimed solely at suppressing the symptoms, while naturopathic treatment looks at the underlying causes, and by making the necessary adjustments to the diet, and using natural remedies & nutritional supplements to relieve symptoms and bring about improved health over all.
The poor nutritional value of processed foods and preservatives is a major contributor to arthritis in dogs and cats. Diets consisting of excess meat intake and/or grains also run the risk of causing imbalances which can cause excess acidity, joint weakness and stiffness. The common mistake of feeding excess grains to horses along with the use of cooked (processed) feeds and synthetic fertilisers on pasture is the main cause. Rest is important in the acute stage. Pain is nature's way of telling us, to stop and rest. Pain relief may be used, but don't allow it to give a sense that all is well and vigorous exercise can be resumed prematurely, as this can lead to more serious complications.
Regular exercise is vital for health and even animals with arthritis need regular exercise to keep joints moving, but take it slow and steady so as not to cause more discomfort until they are ready to increase exercise levels as improvement occurs. Generally after starting on naturopathic treatment results can be seen within a few weeks.
Fasting is also an essential part of the treatment to aid in detoxification. This is best done under the supervision of an animal practitioner. But most dogs and cats can safely fast for up to 36 hours during acute inflammatory stage to help relieve discomfort. It is a natural part of healing for animals to fast. They will often refuse food when feeling unwell or in severe pain.
The following can be given instead of regular meals to provide nutrients and encourage fluid intake:
Chop up some vegies such as carrot, celery, parsnip, parsley & add a piece of meat or bone. Place in Soup pot or large saucepan, Cover with filtered water and bring to the boil, simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and allow to cool. Serve broth two or three times daily - Two tablespoons for small dogs and cats & up to 1 cup for larger breeds.
A natural preservative-free diet is essential for dogs and cats, especially those with arthritic conditions. A diet consisting of fresh raw meat (in many instances it is best to avoid red meat also) and bones with finely minced raw vegies is the best food you can give your pets. It will not only help to keep them in optimum health and disease-free but can help to reverse existing health conditions caused from poor diet in the past.
The broth can be made up into weekly portions using a food processor and frozen, or made up fresh each day. We would not feed our children packaged foods every day, so why should we expect our pets to live well on this type of food. For a few extra minutes to prepare, you will save on health problems in the long-term. The following nutritional supplements can be beneficial for animals with arthritis - Spirulina, alfalfa and green barley are high in chlorophyll and are beneficial in helping to balance excess acidity in the body. Dolomite powder is a natural source of calcium and magnesium, & Kelp is rich in many minerals, iodine and vitamins.
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