How long can my senior Shih Tzu with arthritis and seizures walk in summer?

Long walks in the evening should be perfectly fine on summer days that are not excessively hot and humid. If Oli seems to be walking more slowly or experiences heavy panting, stop your walk and take him inside where it is cool.

I would exercise her at her pace. If she appears painful from her arthritis, then cut the walk short. I think any exercise she gets is great, and it's awesome you take her for three walks a day. I would keep up the good work!

As long as he keeps moving and is happy to go out with you there should be no problem. If you think he may be cold, you can always put a dog coat on him. It is good for him to move out. Adjust exercise to his ability. If he gets very stiff, you may want to have him examined by your vet as he is likely to suffer from arthritis. NSAIDs for dogs can greatly improve quality of life as they will lower inflammation and take away pain.

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Walking Gandhi may flare up his arthritis so shorter walks may help lessen this. Also, I would recommend a joint supplement if you have not already. Exercise is great for Gandhi still and providing appropriate joint support and helping reduce any arthritis pain would be recommended. I would consider the below products and discussing arthritis management with your veterinarian. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further. 1. Dasuquin for dogs 2. Welactin omega 3 fatty acid capsules for dogs 3. Adequan injections with your veterinarian 4. Hills J/D food (requires a prescription) 5. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as Meloxicam and Carprofen for flare ups of arthritis.

Given that this is a change to his behavior a quick check up to rule out underlying medical causes such as heart disease or early arthritis would be recommended. If all clear then limiting the exercise to 50-60% of the current time and reducing the intensity by throwing them less far should keep him interested and excited without tiring him completely

If Cos is trembling if lifted and is being lethargic, it could be she is in pain. In senior dogs, arthritis can be common, and it may hurt her to pick her up and she doesn't like to move due to pain. I would avoid picking her up as much as possible, and then take her into the vet tomorrow. The vet can diagnose if she is in pain, and can prescribe pain medication as needed. Please do not give her any human pain medication, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

Yes keep up with daily moderate exercise. As Lucy ages the length of the walks and exercise may decrease but should still be done at least twice daily. Many people stop exercising their dogs as they age. This results in muscle loss, and increased joint instability causing pain and arthritis. When you maintain the muscle mass it helps support the joints and keeps the tendons and ligaments strong. Dogs with arthritis actually have less discomfort when they are up and moving. So keep up the regular exercise and listen to Lucy and don’t push her when she’s had enough. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Lucy.