Cooler mornings and stiff joints in older dogs
When the first cold snap hits, many older dogs slow down. Here’s what’s common, what’s worth a visit, and what you can try at home.
If your older dog is slower on frosty mornings, you’re not imagining it. Cold can make arthritic joints feel stiffer, and many dogs who seemed fine in summer start to show their age in October.
What you might notice
Hesitating before stairs or the car, a stiff first few steps after a nap, licking at a joint, or reluctance to play. Some dogs get grumpy when touched in certain places. Those are all reasons to mention it at a visit.
What helps at home
A warm, padded bed away from drafts, traction on slippery floors (rugs or yoga mats), short walks instead of one long one, and keeping your dog lean, which is the single biggest help for sore joints. A coat for short-haired dogs is fine too.
Please don’t give human painkillers
Ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen can be dangerous, even fatal, for dogs and cats. If your dog seems to be hurting, book a senior visit: there are safe, vet-prescribed options, and Dr. Larkin will make a plan with you rather than guess.
One more cold-weather thing
Antifreeze tastes sweet and is highly poisonous to dogs and cats. Wipe up drips in the driveway, and rinse your dog’s paws after walks where de-icers have been used.