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With popular Game of Thrones on everyone's lips, there is no truer phrase than "Winter is coming".
The cooler weather means that more pet owners may notice that their furry friends are not being as active and may find moving around harder.
Arthritis and joint disease are very common ailments in both dogs and cats alike.
Dr Erica Young, Dr Kylie McDonald, and vet nurse Sally Mulcahy from North Maclean Family Vet have some advice to help pet owners this winter season.
Dr Erica said that recent studies show 20 percent of dogs over the age of one year, and 80 percent of dogs over the age of eight years will have some degree of arthritis.
Many people will notice that their pets are more severely affected during colder weather.
"Pet owners may see their pets struggle to get up after resting, not want to play like they usually do, seem less affectionate or even be aggressive when certain parts of them are touched," said Dr Kylie.
Arthritic joints can cause a lot of pain and weakness, and because of this, many pets will find it hard to walk and run.
They will be reluctant to play and enjoy their time with their families.
The good news is that there are a range of management alternatives we can use to help them.
Nurse Sally said that there are lots of ways you can help your pet's arthritis, ranging from weight management, to joint supplements, to prescription medications and treatments.
Working to keep your pet a healthy weight is important for joint health, with overweight pets suffering worse joint pain along with many other risks.
Joint and nutritional supplements are available over the counter from almost all vet practices, and can help support cartilage and manage inflammation naturally.
For those pets that are experiencing pain, seeing your local vet for a consultation about pain management can help get them back on their feet and keep them active.
For more information or to book, contact North Maclean Family Vet 3297 0803.