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Orthopedic Dog Beds
By Ken Marlborough
Many people consider their dog to be part of their
family, and want to ensure his happiness and comfort. As dogs get older,
they experience the same problems in their canine bodies as humans do.
Arthritis in older dogs, especially males, is quite common, though sometimes
hard to detect since your dog can’t complain about the aches and pains he’s
experiencing. He’ll slow down when walking and running, he won’t leap for
that dog treat as quickly as he used to, he’ll shorten those evening walks
and he simply won’t sleep as well on the same bed he’s been using for years.
There are, however, many ways you can help him. The
first step is to consult with your veterinarian, who will probably make
adjustments to his diet and perhaps even prescribe some medication to be
mixed into his food. Your vet may then suggest that you invest a few dollars
and buy him one of many orthopedic dog beds to help him sleep better. The
more comfort you can give to your dog with this problem, the more he’ll
enjoy his declining years.
Orthopedic dog beds are quite common these days, and
even if your veterinarian does not know where you can find one in the town
or city where you live, he will likely be able to direct you to a number of
mail order companies or websites that specialize in them and be able to help
you make the best choice.
In general, older dogs, those recuperating from
surgery or accidents, or handicapped dogs will get the most comfort from
some kind of foam bed, since they are firmer and easier to get into and out
of. If your dog likes to “nest”, (kneading the fabric of his bed before he
lies down), a MiracleLoft-filled bed will be the best for him.
Baffle beds, that is, beds designed with polyfil-filled
tubes of fabric sewn together, are also an excellent choice, as they tend to
be firmer and to provide more support where the dog needs it most. They are
designed to create a non-shifting liner, so the shape of the bed does not
change over time and the dog can get into a similar position comfortably and
easily each and every night. Quilted foam orthopedic dog beds are probably
best for dogs with severe arthritis, as the foam is of a medical grade,
created for humans with similar problems, and provides the most support for
painful, arthritic joints. Take your dog with you if you’re lucky enough to
have an orthopedic dog bed supplier in your area and let him decide. After
all, it’s his bed now, isn’t it?
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