My Pet World: Family lovingly helps dog adjust to hearing loss
Thank you for sharing your story. I love how you taught Tanner other ways to communicate, so he could adjust to his new normal.
Dear Cathy,
My six-year-old dog, Leonard, is a mix of Chihuahua, Corgi, and herding dog. My poor guy is a small dog in a “big dog” body. When he gets up after lying down, he screams like it hurts for him to stand up. He does this every time. Once standing, he shakes his head as if to shake off the pain, and then he's fine. He runs and jumps and plays just fine. Do you have any idea what causes his screaming? I live in the Sierra Nevada foothills, and it's too far to get to a vet, so I have to home remedy this problem.
— Yvonne, North Fork, California
Dear Yvonne,
I am not a vet, and unsure if you can resolve whatever pain he might be feeling without a visit to the doctor. While he is a bit young for joint pain or arthritis, the way you describe his unusual body frame makes me think he could have achy joints.
You could try over-the-counter glucosamine and joint pain supplements to see if that helps. They are available in different strengths. If it helps, then it is likely joint pain. If it doesn't help, I recommend a trip to the vet. I located two clinics within 30 minutes of North Fork. I know that you likely live further outside of town, but call these vet clinics to see if they offer telehealth appointments.
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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)
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