Over 12 million dogs are adversely affected by joint pain and mobility problems annually. Your wonderful, loving pet may be slowing down a bit, and it's natural to assume that age is the cause. Anything more than a gradual decline in activity, or your pet's diminishing interest in physical activity, may be signs that she has a more serious condition affecting the joints, known as arthritis. Yes, dogs get arthritis, too. Pain relief for dogs with arthritis is one way to mitigate this condition, but it is not the only answer. Life long treatment for arthritis is required.
Like people, pets can get arthritis in their joints. Knees, hips and ankles seem to be the most vulnerable and common areas for pets who get arthritis. Between the bones in the joint area is a spongy material called cartilage. This cartilage acts as a buffer agent so the bones do not grate against each other, and motion is easy, smooth and painless. In arthritis, that cartilage begins to wear away, reducing mobility, causing stiffness and eventually pain. Without that soft buffer, the bones begin to wear against each other, which is the source of the problem.
In the absence of a dialog with your pet, your observance of your pet's behavior is critical to determining whether or not he/she may be suffering from stiffness, lack of mobility or joint pain. Before taking your dog to the veterinarian, see if your dog has any of the following, common symptoms of a possible arthritic condition:
* Reluctance to go up or down stairs
* Avoids jumping up on furniture or into the car
* Tiring easily during walks or walking more slowly than usual
* Taking longer to get moving after resting or sleep
* Prefers lying to sitting or standing
* Limping
These are only a few symptoms you may notice in your pet, but there are other, subtle indications in behavior that could also be pointing towards joint pain. Your pet could be sleeping more than usual, gaining weight, being less alert and showing less interest or enthusiasm for play and going for walks. If your dog seems to have symptoms for more than 2 weeks, it is time to take him for an arthritis evaluation by your veterinarian. The best thing you can do for your pet is to get a diagnosis and begin a prescribed arthritis treatment for dogs plan of management.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are commonly prescribed as a pain medication for dogs. Pain medication will only mask the problem, however, so treatment may expand to include special foods and over the counter products that contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which works to support the cartilage in the joints. Omega fatty acids are also known to increase cartilage health. Your dog may have to go on a diet to decrease the extra pounds that are causing unnecessary stress on already sore joints. Adding fiber to you dog's diet should help your pet lose those extra pounds. There are even topical treatments available to relieve joint and muscle soreness.
Besides prescriptions, supplements and diet, exercise is an essential part of your dog's life. Just because those joints are not as mobile as they once were, does not mean your pet can do without exercise. Low impact activities, like leash walking or swimming, allow for good range of motion on joints and building muscle, without stressing out the joints. Daily exercise is better than 3 times a week of strenuous activity. Depending on how advanced the condition is, your pet may benefit from a slow warm up to get the muscles warmed and the joints moving more freely before taking a brisk walk or slower paced run. Cold, damp weather may intensify the joint stiffness. On those days, you may want to give your dog a muscle warm up indoors before proceeding outside for exercise. You might also consider a pet sweater that covers the affected joints and keeps the muscles warmer.
Depending on your dog's condition, physical therapy or massage may be part of your pet's arthritic treatment. Massage can be relaxing for both you and your pet. It is time you can spend together in a relaxed and warm environment, when healing can take place. Begin by petting the joint area that is affected with arthritis and gradually use your fingertips in a small, circular motion. From there, continue the massage out to the general area. This may relax your pet for a good night's sleep or could warm up the muscles sufficiently for daily outdoor exercise. Take any new treatment slowly at first. You want to build trust with your pet, so he/she accepts this new type of treatment to derive benefit from it. Massage has proven to reduce stiffness in muscles and promotes better range of motion.
Overall, you want to work closely with your veterinarian to manage your dog's arthritic condition. Your goal is to provide the best treatment and supportive lifestyle that will decrease the degeneration of the cartilage between joints, alleviate joint pain, and keep your pet as healthy as possible. Remember, arthritis doesn't go away, but effective, managed arthritis treatment for dogs can ensure that you will both enjoy the coming years together.
