Birds fly south in the winter; people shop for winter wardrobes, and even prepare their cars for protection against cold weather. When preparing for dropping temperatures, it is equally important keep dogs and horses warm and safe. While many live outdoors, there are ways to keep them warm and safe from the elements. Arthritic animals, especially, should be given special attention in cold weather and clothes or other protective devices should be used to keep them warm day and night.
With the onset of cold and damp weather humans and animals alike can experience joint pain, in particular those who have arthritis. Nerve endings on the joints have receptors that can sense pressure changes, and can cause immense pain and stiffness to joints.
Your blood flows slower because of the cold and therefore it's harder for you to move your muscles. A lot of research has gone into trying to figure out exact scientific mechanisms that bring about this kind of weather-related pain. Currently, however, none of the studies have produced any definitive explanation, though one factor these studies have in common is the link of pain to changing air (barometric) pressure. When this pressure drops, it can cause increased joint pain. In the first documented animal behavioural study of weather effects on joint pain, scientists artificially produced chronic inflammation of the rat's foot. When the rats were placed in a low-pressure, low-temperature environment, they exhibited signs of foot joint pain that were not seen in control rats.
The first part of the joint to suffer wear and tear is the cartilage, which acts as a protective layer, cushioning the bones that make up the joint and allowing freedom of movement. A horse's body produces chondroprotective nutrients that both regenerate healthy cartilage tissue and, protect the synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant for ease of movement.
For a number of reasons some horses suffer extreme wear and tear on their joints and the body requires further support to help maintain the levels of nutrients that feed the joint. As a horse, dog or any other animal owner it is important to help your animal to maintain the cartilage which protects the joint.
In addition to humans, horses, dogs and other animals who have chronic joint pain from arthritis, many suffering from nerve entrapment, having a limb amputated, osteoarthritis and lower back pain are also sensitive to weather
changes.
So during the Winter Season and onset of cold weather, remember to wrap up your pets and keep a close eye on them!!
