While some people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) might feel that their condition keeps them from being a good candidate to adopt a pet, that’s not necessarily the case. There are many benefits to having a pet, and if you have RA, it may just come down to finding the right kind of pet for you.
The Benefits of Pet Ownership
One main reason to get a pet is that it helps you stay more active, which is a good thing with RA. “Some of the best evidence for non-pharmiceutical intervention for RA is exercise,“ says Carole Dodge, OT, an occupational therapist and certified hand therapist at Michigan Medicine Health at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. According to the Arthritis Foundation, exercise can improve day-to-day functioning and relieve RA symptoms like fatigue and joint stiffness. But the best reason to get a pet may be because of the unique bond pets and their owners can share. Although social support from other people is important as well, the relationship you develop with animal companions can sometimes be less stressful. More specifically, here are some of the ways pets can help people with RA:
Pet Considerations for RA
Although pets can be great for people with RA, Dodge says it’s important to keep some precautions in mind:
Consider a smaller dog over a larger breed. If you prefer dogs for pets, it’s a good idea to get one that will be easier to walk and to handle on a daily basis. “A smaller dog is usually easier to control,“ Dodge notes.Get a retractable leash for your dog. “Many leashes with straps are very painful for those with RA,“ says Dodge. Opt for a molded leash, which is a retractable leash with a wide plastic handle. This is easier to grip, and the leash won’t strain your hand like a strap leash can.Use proper leash form. Dodge says it’s best to keep a dog on a shorter leash rather than a long leash, as this makes it easier to control. Also, if you have more than one dog, walk them each separately so the leashes don‘t get tangled. “Otherwise, people with RA can get pulled down. Even if you‘re in good shape, if you have a bad hip or knee, hand weakness, or something else that challenges you, you can get injured,“ she says.Have a fenced yard if possible. If there are days when you’re not up to taking your dog for a walk, you can let them out in the backyard to relieve themselves and run around if it’s fenced in.Consider a cat if mobility is an issue. While you may not be as active with a feline friend, you’ll still get companionship from a cat — and they may be a better option for some people with RA. “Many times a cat is better for somebody who is more challenged in terms of their strength and ability to walk without assistance,“ Dodge says.Automate to make things eaiser, if needed. If pet care is painful for you, take advantage of items like automatic feeders, pet water fountains, and self-cleaning litter boxes for cats.
At the end of the day, a pet can be a wonderful addition to your life — and may even help you live better with RA.
