05/20/2020

​Don’t Let an Elbow Hygroma Slow Your Dog Down This Summer

Summer is just around the corner and the weather is finally warming up. This is the time of year when many of us start to think about spending more time outdoors. For pet parents, summer often means long walks, water adventures, and exploring new places. However, for dogs that get elbow hygromas, summer can mean pain and discomfort as well. It’s important that pet parents learn all they can about keeping their pet safe and comfortable this summer, without missing out on any of the usual summer fun!

Are Elbow Hygromas More Common in the Summer?

Yes, elbow hygromas are common in the summer. During the warmer months, dogs tend to look for cool places to lay. This often means avoiding carpeting and soft bedding to lay on hard, cold surfaces. Unfortunately, this can put excessive pressure on the elbow joints.

Each time your dog lies down on a hard surface, they can cause injury to the joint. Over time, fluid builds around the joint to protect it from damage. This fluid filled benign swelling, known as an elbow hygroma, can get quite large. While elbow hygromas don’t typically cause any pain, they can become infected if not properly treated. This can create a much more serious problem as well as significant pain and discomfort for your pet.

Treating Dog Elbow Hygroma

Although unsightly, canine elbow hygromas don’t pose a major threat to your pet. However, it’s important to get a correct diagnosis and take all necessary steps to treat and prevent elbow hygromas from returning.

If your dog has an elbow hygroma or is prone to getting them, you need to take some extra precautions this summer. Try to convince your dog to sleep on bedding or carpet whenever possible. Try placing a pet-safe cooling pad under their bedding to encourage them to use it. Keeping them inside during the warmer months can help keep them cool as well.

Exercising With Your Dog

It’s important that dogs get plenty of exercise, even if they have an elbow hygroma. During the summer, consider taking your dog for a gentle jog, on a long hike, or swimming. Just make sure you watch your dog carefully and protect their elbows from further injury. Depending on the type and size of the hygroma, you may need to prevent your dog from running or jumping too much. Your veterinarian can tell you any exercises you should avoid.

Keep in mind, your dog will probably want to lay down onto a cold hard floor following a fun day in the sun. Using an elbow support like Standard Length Adjustable DogLeggsTM helps protect and support the joint. This high quality elbow hygroma support can even be used to provide coverage and support during exercise.

Dog elbow hygromas shouldn’t keep you and your dog inside this summer. Treat and prevent elbow hygromas with Standard Length Adjustable DogLeggsTM. These supports provide an excellent alternative to traditional bandages. The unique design of the hygroma support ensures quick application and removal, reducing stress for both you and your pet. Please contact us for more information about DogLeggs’TM effective elbow hygroma support.