Could my dog’s reactivity and aggression be because of fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects both humans and dogs. The symptoms are musculoskeletal pain , tenderness, and fatigue. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an abnormal response to stress or injury in the body.
When clients come to me about their dog’s behavior , I do an extensive trauma informed behavior assessment. Sometimes I suggest a vet visit to rule out Fibromyalgia.
FIBRO-Aggression
Fibromyalgia can affect your dog's behavior in a number of ways. Chronic pain and discomfort can cause irritability and a lower tolerance for certain activities or situations. Dogs with fibromyalgia may become aggressive when touched or handled in certain areas because of sensitivity and pain. They may also become more aggressive or reactive when they are in pain or feeling overwhelmed by their environment.
Symptoms of fibromyalgia in dogs may include:
- Chronic pain and tenderness in various parts of the body
- Difficulty moving or stiffness after rest
- Sensitivity to touch, pressure, or temperature changes
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Depression or anxiety
- Abnormal sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
- Irritable bowel syndrome or other gastrointestinal issues
- Headaches or migraines
- Weathers sensitivity ( I recommend to invest in a wifi weather station )
Healthy food is your best ally.
Healthy nutrition can play a role in improving fibromyalgia in dogs by providing the necessary nutrients and energy to support overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the body, which may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Additionally, certain nutrients and supplements may be beneficial for dogs with fibromyalgia. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce pain and inflammation. Glucosamine and chondroitin may also be helpful for joint health and pain management. [1]
Exercise your dog smart, not hard.
Exercise is important to dogs. I recommend smart exercise, which can improve fibromyalgia in dogs in a number of ways. Regular exercise can help to reduce pain and improve flexibility by increasing blood flow to the muscles and strengthening them. Exercise can also improve sleep, often disrupted in dogs with fibromyalgia.
Note: In certain cases exercise can increase inflation and pain, so if your dog avoids being leashed, listen to your dog’s needs.
Exercise can be an important part of managing fibromyalgia in dogs. It is important to work with a veterinarian and/or a physical therapist to determine the appropriate level and type of exercise for your dog.
Low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, or walking may benefit dogs with fibromyalgia. These activities can help to improve flexibility, mobility, and overall muscle strength.
It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise as your dog's condition improves. It is also important to listen to your dog's body and pay attention to any signs of discomfort or distress. If your dog is exhibiting pain or discomfort during exercise, it is important to stop the activity and consult a veterinarian.
In addition to physical exercise, it may also be helpful to incorporate other forms of therapy, such as massage, heat therapy, acupuncture, or energy work like Reconnective healing or Reiki into your dog's treatment plan.
Plant-medicine is your ally.
Evidence supporting the use of cbd in chronic pain and specifically in fibromyalgia suggest the significant alleviation of pain, improvement in sleep, and abatement of associated symptoms. [2, 3]
There are currently not many studies about a cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment options may include medications to manage pain and inflammation, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
It is important to work closely with a holistic behavior consultant and holistic veterinarian to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your dog.
Does your dog show aggression and you don’t know why? Schedule a behavior assessment, and get to the root of it.
References
1. Nutritional Interventions in the Management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome, G Pagliai · 2020
2. Berger AA, Keefe J, Winnick A, Gilbert E, Eskander JP, Yazdi C, Kaye AD, Viswanath O, Urits I. Cannabis and cannabidiol (CBD) for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Best Pract Res Clin Anaesthesiol. 2020 Sep;34(3):617-631. doi: 10.1016/j.bpa.2020.08.010. Epub 2020 Aug 15. PMID: 33004171.
3. Aman M.M., Yong R.J., Kaye A.D., Urman R.D. Evidence-based non-pharmacological therapies for fibromyalgia. Curr. Pain Headache Rep. 2018;22:33–37. doi: 10.1007/s11916-018-0688-2.