Finding out your cherished dog has a chronic condition can be extremely upsetting. You only want what’s best for your furry companion but figuring out how to properly care for them now can feel overwhelming. This guide offers suggestions to dog in chronic illness live their happiest, healthiest life possible while managing their illness. We’ll discuss adjusting their routines, diet, and environment plus how to know when it might be time to say goodbye. With dedication and empathy, you have the power to greatly enhance your dog’s wellbeing as they navigate their condition.
Adjust Their Diet
One of the first things to address when your dog has a chronic illness is their diet. Certain diseases like kidney failure, diabetes, or gastrointestinal issues necessitate a change in what your dog eats. Work closely with your veterinarian to come up with the right diet plan. They may recommend a prescription veterinary diet made specifically for your dog’s condition with some dog supplements you should incorporate in their diet. Be sure to slowly transition to the new food over a 7-10 day period to avoid digestive upset. Sticking to the recommended portions is also key, as overfeeding can exacerbate many diseases.
Provide Pain Management
Dogs are amazingly adept at hiding their pain. But living with constant discomfort will impact your dog’s quality of life. Talk to your vet about safe, effective pain medication options for your pup. Anti-inflammatories, steroids, opioids, and alternative treatments like acupuncture can all help relieve your dog’s pain. Be vigilant about watching for changes in behavior that may indicate their pain is not well-controlled. Keeping your dog comfortable is a top priority.
Adjust Their Environment
Make some modifications around your home to better accommodate your sick pup. Place their water bowls, beds, and potty pads in a place they can access easily so they don’t have to exert themselves too much. Invest in ramps, harnesses, or mobility aids if they are having trouble with steps or moving around. Stick to short, gentle walks that work within their limitations. Mental stimulation through toys and training sessions is also important. Optimising their environment reduces stress and improves overall wellbeing.
Also read: How to tell your dog is not feeling well
Provide Extra Care and Bonding to Dog in Chronic Illness
One of the best things you can do for your sick dog is spend quality time together. Chronic illness often means more frequent vet visits for tests, monitoring, and procedures. All of this can be frightening and stressful for your pup. Make sure to provide lots of comforting touches, gentle brushing, belly rubs, and opportunities for snuggling. Shower them with affection and praise. Let them sleep in your bedroom again if possible. Take things slow and be patient during outings. Deepening your bond through this difficult time is incredibly meaningful.
Consider Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for dogs has come a long way in recent years. Options like therapeutic exercises, massage, laser therapy, and hydrotherapy can make a big difference in maintaining mobility, strength, and pain management. Talk to your vet about referring you to a canine rehabilitation therapist. While not all chronic diseases warrant physical therapy, it’s certainly worth looking into. Therapy provides both physical and mental enrichment that can significantly boost your dog’s wellbeing.
Know When to Say Goodbye to your Dog in Chronic Illness
One of the hardest parts of caring for a chronically ill dog is knowing when to let them go. There may come a point where your dog’s basic quality of life is no longer there, despite your best efforts. When they can no longer eat, move around, or participate in any enjoyable activities, it may be time to discuss euthanasia with your vet. Many vets do house call euthanasia or have relationships with a compassionate dog euthanasia service that allows your dog to pass peacefully at home surrounded by love. While incredibly difficult, letting them go before they suffer too much is the ultimate act of love and kindness.
The path of supporting a dog through chronic illness comes with many challenges. But the love between you and your dog makes it all worthwhile. With patience, compassion, and the guidance of your vet, you can have a meaningful journey together and create lasting memories, even through illness. Putting in the effort to care for your sick pup, while difficult, ultimately honors the wonderful bond between human and dog.
