Arthritis in dog Symptoms and Treatment

What Is Arthritis?

• Arthritis is a painful condition that can affect adult dog and even a young dog.
• Arthritis is common in dogs and responsible for being one of the main causes of recurring pain in your beloved pet.
•  There are many different types of Arthritis in dogs. the most common type of arthritis in dogs is osteoarthritis.

When does Arthritis occur?

Cartilage between joints acts as a buffer between bones ends. Sometimes, that cartilage degrades and deteriorates, reducing the buffer between bones, sometimes to the point where there is direct bone-to-bone contact, which is extremely painful for the dog.

causes of arthritis in dog

There is no single cause of arthritis, but maybe one of the following:

• Genetics and breeding have made certain breeds more susceptible to hip dysplasia, which often leads to arthritis.
• Obesity in dogs can also contribute to arthritic conditions.
• Sometimes young dogs can suffer from arthritis if their bones don’t develop correctly.
• An injury to a limb can also result in arthritis later in life.
• Cushing’s disease or Infection in the joint
  

  Symptoms of arthritis in dog

Symptoms If your dog displays some of the following symptoms, you should consult a veterinarian regarding the possibility of canine arthritis:

• Inactivity Favoring of one limb Reluctance to get up or lie down Clicking of joints
• Visible pain when walking
• Swelling of Joints
• Whimpering/Crying Reluctance to climb stairs
• Stiffness after getting up
• Licking of joints

Arthritis in dog Treatment

Generally, treatment is dedicated to reducing the inflammation, and managing the pain.

You and your veterinarian should decide whether prescribed drugs are warranted.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin have shown good results in reducing the inflammation, and therefore the pain, in the joints in many dogs.

Commercial supplements providing this combination include Cosequin and Arthogen, among others. They are available without a prescription.

Changing the animal’s diet might also help.

For overweight dogs, a “light” product may be in order.

Some pet owners may prefer to go the all-natural route, while others might consider dog food that contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

Alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and chiropractic have also had positive results for some arthritic canines.