Arthritis - A Dog's Painful Enemy

Arthritis is a dog's painful enemy, but it is a treatable condition, that if caught early enough, can reduce the amount of pain your dog will suffer.

If you suspect that your dog has the first stages of arthritis, talk to your vet about beginning treatment. X-rays will not pick up the early stages of arthritis, they only will confirm the problem, after the cartilage damage has already occurred.

If your senior dog is moving slower and stiffer, do not shrug it off as old age (it may be,) but it could be the start of a serious arthritic problem.

Arthritis is incurable, but it is treatable and pain can be reduced and controlled for your dog. The important thing here is to remember that if you suspect arthritis, start treatment as soon as possible.

What are the steps you can take to help your dog?

Probably one of the most beneficial things you can do for your dog, especially if it is overweight, is to help it lose a few pounds. Dogs with normal body weight have less incidences of arthritis and if the dog has it, it will be less severe. Less weight means less stress on the bones and it slows down the progression of the disease.

Seek the advice of your vet before putting your dog on a diet. However, taking away high calorie treats and giving your dog raw veggies like carrots and green beans will help, along with only feeding three quarters of the amount of regular food at each meal.

Low impact exercise is also important. Slow, daily on leash walks, swimming, and moderate jogging are good methods of exercise for your dog. It is important to have your vet check your dog's joint stability before starting on a moderate exercise program as unstable joints can accelerate the arthritic condition.

If you dog becomes stiff or sore after the exercise, reduce the amount or the intensity of the exercise. If you dog is already stiff and lame physical therapy maybe the answer. Physical exercise helps maintain muscle mass, prevents muscle atrophy and helps protect the joints.
Feed your dog a joint-specific diet. What is a joint-specific diet? It is one that is high in omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which will help to decrease joint inflammation. Your vet can instruct you on the diet guidelines

Some joint supplements are known to help, such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and omega-3 fatty acids, just be wary of the brand you buy. Some off brands do not contain the labeled ingredients. Supplements along with a weight loss program have helped many dogs.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also know to help, see your vet for advice on the current ones that have helped other dogs. Some NSAIDs work and some do not, if you do not see improvement within a couple of weeks, stop the drug, wait about 5 days and try something new.

Some dogs experience side effects from arthritic drugs. If your dog vomits, has increased drinking or urinary problems, is lethargic, has decreased appetite, tarry looking stools or blood in the stools, call your vet at once.

Extra-corporeal shock wave therapy treatments (ESWT) can provide pain relief for as long as 6 months to12 months. ESWT focuses at a small site within the body to provide relief. It is the same technology that is used to break up kidney stones in humans. There are no side effects from the treatment.

Acupuncture, chiropractic and massage can also be helpful if used in conjunction with other treatment.

Orthopedic beds or other soft beds should be offered to the dog for sleeping. Covering slippery wood floors will help the dog maintain balance and offering the use of a ramp to walk up stairs or to get in the car is very helpful and appreciated by the dog.

By working closely with your vet; you can care for your arthritic pet simply and with ease. There are many different options to try and the secret is to start when you first suspect an arthritic problem. Early treatment will provide your dog with comfort, easier movement, and an improved quality of life.

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