For you regular readers, it is no secret that I am adamant about this point. The use of a high quality liquid glucosamine will handle most pet arthritis very well. However, the nutrition and exercise components play a big role here.

What often concerns me is the exercise portion and that is particularly so with arthritic pets. And that issue goes to some cautionary notes.

Range of Motion

This is likely one of the most important issues for pets with arthritis. It is very important when trying to get a pet started on some rehabilitation from arthritis. All you have to do is manually flex and extend (very gently) the affected pet's joints. Try to focus on going slowly and gradually extending out in all directions as you do it. Again, be gentle and do not force any joints.

My personal recommendation is to do this three to four times daily. You can also make this more enjoyable for your pet by following each session with some gentle massage. The idea here is to get your pet back to using limbs that have not enjoyed full range of motion for some time.

Front and Back Legs

Think about this. If your pet has arthritis in the front legs, try to avoid exercises that have your pet jumping in a downward direction. It places more stress on the affected legs and joints. Likewise, when your pet has arthritis in the back legs, avoid any exercise that would require them to jump upward.

Fatigue Defeats the Purpose

Much like humans, an injured joint is not helped by fatigue. If you overwork your pet when you are getting them into exercise after arthritis problems, this is very much an issue. Just be cautious and keep one eye open for signs of fatigue.

This can be an issue when your pet is in the early stages. A high-quality liquid glucosamine will almost certainly defeat the pain and get cartilage on the road to rehabilitation. However, that does not mean that they are ready for vigorous workouts.

Vary It for Their Sake

Pets love to play. We all know that this is part of their life. But a little variety does not hurt. To the extent possible, and dogs are more likely candidates than some pets, walk and jog them. If you have a place to do so, get them swimming. They love it and it is very safe aerobic exercise.

One Final Note

Pets should never exercise right after meals. I have discussed this issue before-it can cause bloating. It is not only uncomfortable for your pet; it can have serious health consequences.

Get them exercising and back on the road to recovery. It takes a small effort and it pays big dividends for a pet with arthritis.

Enjoy your holiday.

J.R. Rogers is the founder and President of Activex America, Inc. makers of Liquid Glucosamine Formula Syn-flex®