It can be very difficult to watch your dog suffer from muscle pain. Whether from a chronic condition, arthritis, surgery, or an overactive day, your dog might need some support to make it more comfortable while it heals. If you think your dog is in pain, always consult your veterinarian to rule out any serious conditions. After checking in with your veterinarian, here are some natural ways to support your dog when it has sore muscles.
Traditional Therapy Options
Depending on the source of discomfort, your veterinarian may prescribe different therapies, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories. Short-term use of painkillers has been shown to speed post-surgery and injury recovery. Make sure to talk to your vet about any potential side effects, such as lethargy, increased thirst, or nausea.
Alternative Therapy Options
Several alternative therapies are beneficial for sore muscles. Many veterinarians recommend a combination of traditional and alternative options to address the underlying issue holistically.
Natural Pain Relief for Dogs
Whether your dog suffers from arthritis or an injury, you may consider looking into some natural pain relief medications. It is always important to run any supplements by your vet before adding them to your dog’s diet. Omega 3, found in high levels in fish oil, is a good natural joint supplement. It reduces inflammation and is safe for most dogs. Willow bark extract is an ingredient seen in some dog joint supplements. Coined the “nature’s aspirin,” it can reduce pain and inflammation.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture targets specific areas in the body to help increase blood flow and relieve pain. Tiny needles are placed at points on the body. These needles release cytokine, which helps control muscle inflammation. It is very effective in treating hip dysplasia, ACL injuries, osteoarthritis, allergies, immune disorders, and bladder disorders. Many dog owners seek out acupuncture because it is a very low-risk therapy that can often be combined with other therapies.
Dog Water Therapy
Hydrotherapy offers a low-resistance recovery option for injured dogs. Rehabilitation centers have underwater treadmills that allow dogs to walk while offsetting pressure on their joints. Swimming is another great way to use water to reduce pain. Water therapy can strengthen muscles, which will help support sore joints.
Massage Therapy for Dogs
Massage therapy helps with everything from stress relief to pain management. A gentle massage can help loosen tense muscles. You can either take your dog to a massage therapist or research massage techniques to use at home. If you do canine massage at home, it is a great way to bond! Massage is a low-risk therapy that can be combined safely with other therapies.
Far-Infrared Therapy
Far-infrared therapy uses far-infrared emitting minerals within a dog shirt or wraps to promote blood circulation and reduce joint and muscle pain. Far-infrared rays keep muscles and joints supple and relaxed. The Canine Comfort Shirt helps with overall wellness, back stiffness, and tension and improves recovery time. Bonus: this shirt is a great way to naturally comfort your dog during travel, thunderstorms, and fireworks.
