This degenerative disease of the joints affects our pets in the form of dog arthritis. Usually it is older dogs that are more prone to it, though not necessarily. If your dog is overweight and/or inactive, this will increase the chances of developing arthritis. Muscles and joints become stiff as a result of wear and tear, or sometimes through the trauma of an accident or infection as the immune system is challenged.

Communication from your dog will show up in various evident ways; reluctance to arise quickly, hesitation before jumping onto the couch, sleeping excessively, lack of enthusiasm, or even limping. They are more stoic than we are and sometimes you will not immediately notice the onset of arthritis. If a younger dog sustains damage as the result of an accident it is quite likely he will suffer with arthritis later on in life. Large breed dogs will be even more likely to succumb to dog arthritis as the weight puts strain on the joints.

As soon as you notice any change of behavior in your dog with arthritis, have your veterinarian run tests and take X-rays to show if indeed the cause is arthritis, and if so what type of dog arthritis your pet has. There are quite a few different types of arthritis and it is important you are given the correct diagnosis before administering treatment.

Although there is no cure yet for this dreadful disease there are things we can do to maintain quality of life for our furry friends. Once the cause and nature of arthritis has been determined you will be expected to change a few things in your dog's life. Medication may be prescribed for a short period to relieve pain. Although this may be necessary temporarily, all medication has side effects and is sometimes lethal. Ask about liquid glucosamine. This is a natural supplement which aids the body in rebuilding soft tissue surrounding the joint. When poured daily onto your dog's food and given consistently, you will notice the healing occur within weeks. Even though it may be painful for your dog to walk it is advisable to keep up movement with gentle, frequent walks. No uphill, rocky climbing or chasing balls, etc.

If your dog is overweight it is necessary to decrease the calorie intake in his food. Find out the appropriate weight for the breed of dog you have and cut out fatty treats as well. In the home, you might like to invest in a ramp or steps for your dog. These can be made simply with plywood, hammer and nails and some old carpeting. Your dog with osteoarthritis will then be able to negotiate his favorite piece of furniture and feel normal again.

A warm, soft bed will be most welcome with perhaps a heating pad under the blanket. Raising his food bowl will enable him to eat without the strain of bending. There are many supplements available to increase his nutritional needs, and blending fresh vegetables to mix in with his food will enable his body to better deal with the disease, especially vitamin B.