Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie: Hot and Cold Therapy for Arthritis Relief in Dogs
Hot and Cold Therapy for Arthritis Relief in Dogs: When to Use Each
When your dog is dealing with arthritis, knowing when to use warm or cold therapy can make all the difference in their comfort and recovery. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Cold Therapy: For Active Inflammation
When to Use: If your dog has just been active, (e.g., a long walk or play session), had surgery, or trauma and shows signs of soreness or swelling.
Why It Works: Cold therapy reduces blood flow, inflammation, and nerve sensitivity, easing pain effectively. Think of it like icing a sore knee after a run.
How to Apply: Use a cold pack wrapped in a cloth for 5–15 minutes on the affected area. 5 minutes for a small Chihuahua and 15 minutes for a fluffy Akita.
Repeat: Remove the cold pack, wait 15 minutes for the blood flow to return, and repeat the cold therapy.
Warm Therapy: For Chronic Stiffness
When to Use: If your dog is experiencing stiffness or discomfort after resting, especially in the morning.
Why It Works: Heat increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and loosens fascia, improving mobility and comfort.
How to Apply: Make sure the product is not too hot. Use a wet, warm towel with a dry towel over it to keep the heat in, a heated rice/ or grain sock, or a commercially packaged microwavable device. Apply to the affected area for 10–15 minutes. Remove for at least 15 minutes. This can be repeated. Having a folded towel over it to insulate it keeps it warmer longer. Check often to see if the heat is still present or the product needs to be reheated.
When to Combine: Acute on Chronic Issues
If your dog has both chronic stiffness and a new injury or soreness, apply cold therapy first to address the inflammation, then switch to warm therapy immediately after the cold therapy. End with cold therapy. This brings about overall relaxation and recovery. By applying heat after cold therapy, it greatly increases blood flow to the tissues.
Pro Tips:
For morning stiffness, try warming a blanket or towel in the dryer and draping it over your dog. This simple hack can make their mornings brighter and more comfortable.
Always monitor your dog during therapy and consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure which method is best for their needs.
If you apply heat and they are worse afterwards, there is active inflammation and cold should be applied.
If you apply cold therapy and they are stiffer afterwards, then there is lack of blood flow in the area and heat should be applied.
💡 Keep arthritis pain at bay with these simple steps! Small changes, like applying heat or cold appropriately, can drastically improve your dog’s quality of life.
Tag us when you try these tips or share your favorite pet care routines! Let’s keep our pets happy and pain-free! 🐾