Helping Overcome Mobility Challenges in a Michigan Winter

Our canine companions often face increased mobility challenges as the Michigan winter sets in with its cold temperatures and snow. For dogs with arthritis, the cold can exacerbate joint pain. Dogs with general age-related mobility issues also struggle more during the winter months. As pet owners, we must recognize these challenges and provide the right accommodations to ensure our dogs remain comfortable and safe throughout the season. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Warm Them Up!

Cold weather can significantly worsen joint pain in dogs, especially those with arthritis. Keeping your dog warm is essential:

Good-Quality Dog Coat: A well-fitting dog coat is vital for keeping your pet warm outside. Ensure it covers the back and abdomen.
Booties: Dog booties protect paws from cold surfaces and provide additional traction on icy paths.
Cozy Resting Areas: Use warm, soft bedding, and consider a heated dog bed or a safe heating pad to help soothe sore joints.

2. Manage Outdoor Activities

While it's important to maintain activity for joint health, winter conditions call for adjusted routines:

Short, More Frequent Walks: To prevent discomfort from the cold, limit the time spent outside and opt for shorter, more frequent walks.
Choose the Right Time and Place: Walk during the warmer parts of the day and choose clear, salted paths to avoid icy surfaces.
Indoor Exercise: Consider indoor activities that keep your dog moving without strain. Simple games, gentle indoor fetch, or hide-and-seek can keep them active and engaged.

3. Pain Management and Medications

Effectively managing pain is crucial for maintaining the quality of life in dogs with mobility issues:

Librela: An injection given every 30 days, specifically designed for dogs with osteoarthritis. It uses monoclonal antibodies to target and neutralize nerve growth factor, a key player in pain signaling.
NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to manage pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis. While effective, using them under veterinary supervision is essential, as they can cause side effects in some dogs, particularly with long-term use.

4. Diet and Supplements

Maintaining an optimal weight is crucial for reducing stress on the joints:

Consult on Diet Changes: Speak with a veterinarian about adjusting your dog’s diet to manage weight and improve joint health. They might recommend a diet with higher omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce joint inflammation.
Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can also benefit joint health. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.

5. Home Modifications and Personalized Consultations with Laura Mellinger, LVT, CCAT

Making some modifications at home can significantly help dogs with mobility issues, and personalized advice can be efficient:

Non-slip Rugs and Runners: Place non-slip rugs or mats on slippery floors to help your dog navigate your home safely.
Stairs and Furniture Ramps: Consider using pet-friendly ramps or steps to get on and off furniture or navigate stairs.
Consultations with Laura Mellinger: Laura, certified in companion animal therapy, offers personalized recommendations for accommodations tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Consultations are available in person or via Zoom, providing flexible options for all clients.
Physical Therapy Options: Laura also provides services tailored to improve your dog's mobility and reduce pain. These include guided exercises, stretching routines, and other therapeutic techniques that can be performed during visits or taught for at-home care.

6. Palliative Care by Dr. Kelly Flanagan

Comprehensive Palliative Care: As a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Veterinarian, Dr. Kelly Flanagan provides care tailored to pets with severe mobility issues. Dr. Flanagan focuses on enhancing comfort and quality of life through pain management, nutritional support, and customized treatment plans to address individual symptoms and conditions.

Conclusion

Winter can be challenging for dogs with mobility issues, but with the right strategies, you can help make the season more comfortable for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian to tailor any care plan to your dog’s needs, ensuring a healthy winter season.

Taking these proactive steps provides comfort and enhances the quality of life during the cold months.

Navigating Pet Loss During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness, but it can also be a period of profound difficulty for those facing the loss of a beloved pet. At Peaceful Moments Veterinary Care, we understand the depth of emotion that accompanies the decision to say goodbye to your companion. Here are some considerations and services we offer to support you during this sensitive time:

Understanding the Need

The decision to euthanize a pet is never easy, and during the holidays, the emotional weight can feel even heavier. You may find yourself balancing the joy of the season with the grief of impending loss. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and understand that it's okay to prioritize the well-being of your pet over holiday festivities. Additionally, the presence of visiting friends and family members can complicate this decision. While it may seem ideal to wait for everyone to say goodbye, delaying euthanasia for this reason might not be in the best interest of your pet’s comfort and quality of life. If their quality of life has significantly declined, waiting until after the holidays may not be the kindest option.

Compassionate Support

Our team offers compassionate care tailored to your family’s needs during this challenging time. Dr. Kelly Flanagan and Laura Mellinger, LVT, are here to provide emotional support and high-quality medical care, ensuring your pet’s comfort and dignity in their final moments.

In-Home Euthanasia/Comfort Room Final Goodbye

We believe in making this difficult time as gentle as possible. Our in-home euthanasia service allows your pet to be in a familiar and comforting environment surrounded by loved ones. This service also provides an opportunity for private goodbyes in the peace of your home, away from the stress of a clinical setting. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral yet intimate setting for your final goodbye, our serene comfort room is available at our facility at 3431 E. Kilgore Road in Kalamazoo. This space is designed to provide a peaceful and private atmosphere that is designed as a comfortable home living space.

Holiday Availability

We understand that the need for euthanasia may arise unexpectedly during the holiday season. We strive to offer urgent availability, even on holidays, ensuring that we are there for you and your pet when needed. However, there may be times when our schedule is fully booked or immediate attention is required, in which case we will guide you to emergency resources that can provide the necessary care.

Pet Memory and Healing Group

Our Pet Memory and Healing Group meets every other month, providing ongoing emotional support during your time of grief. The next session is scheduled for Tuesday, February 4th at 6:30 pm. These sessions, facilitated by a licensed therapist, offer a space to share, heal, and remember your beloved pet while enjoying light refreshments.

Memorializing Your Pet

Honoring your pet’s memory can be a therapeutic way to express love and celebrate their life. We offer a range of memorial products to cherish those precious memories. Additionally, through our Peaceful Moments Pet Aquamation service, you can choose a gentle, eco-friendly aftercare option that reflects your pet’s and your family’s love for nature.

Making the Decision

If you are considering euthanasia for your pet during the holiday season, please reach out to us. Our team is here to discuss your options, answer any questions you may have, and help you make the decision that is best for your pet and family.

We at Peaceful Moments Veterinary Care are dedicated to providing the care and respect your pet deserves at the end of their journey. Please contact us at 269-270-9167 or online at peacefulmomentsveterinarycare.com to learn more about how we can assist during this tender time.