Week of December 17, 2000

If your dog has arthritis, or any type of painful neck, shoulder, or back condition, you can help alleviate pain at mealtime by simply elevating his food and water bowls. Place the bowls at a height that allows the neck to maintain a neutral position (the neck is in alignment with the spine) while eating or drinking. This can be done in a number of ways. If your dog is crate trained, bowls with hangers that secure to the wire crate can be purchased at any pet store. You can also purchase from pet stores or pet gear catalogs, a variety of stand-alone feeding stations that elevate the food and water bowls. These range from fancy wood frames with ceramic bowls to plain wire frames with metal bowls. Whichever style you pick, make sure it is of appropriate size and height for your dog.