Dog joint pain encompasses a good number of conditions dogs experience, from simple inflammation and pain to more serious concerns like rheumatism and arthritis. These conditions include osteoarthritis (cartilage between bones breaks down, thus bones get pounded against each other) and dysplasia in different parts of the dog's muscular and skeletal system (ill-formed bone and joints).

SYMPTOMS

Dog joint pain is difficult to detect because it affects the internal system of canines. Since joints are inside the dog's body, no external manifestations or symptoms can usually be seen. So try to carefully observe your dog. If a dog is awkward in moving or walking, or has some unusual movements or ticks, something may be wrong inside the dog's body.

If the dog appears too stiff or whimpers a lot when standing or even at ease, you may want to consult a vet as soon as possible. A dog's irritability and its unwillingness to be petted, played, or stroked can also be a red flag for joint problems. You may also notice some swelling or thickening of the dog's appendages.

Beware of these signs, as these may be symptoms of problems in your dog's joints. Worse, more serious health conditions might cause these symptoms. These manifestations of dog joint pain, if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems.

CAUSES

Dog joint pain is caused by a number of factors, the most common being an injury. Other causes that may not be too obvious but still play a major part are lack of physical activity by dogs, poor nutrition, too much weight, and genetics.

SOLUTION

Dog joint pain is usually solved by a lot of pet owners by giving their dogs natural supplements that may be used to prevent joint injuries and treat joint and muscle pains. Also, some pet owners think that using synthetic drugs may do more harm than good to an animal like a dog.

However, if the condition is serious such that it is already affecting the dog's usual routines or appetite, having a veterinarian check the dog is strongly recommended. This should be done for the vet to stop any aggravation of whatever situation the dog is in. Vets will usually advise a change of diet and more physical activity like exercise and a dosage of anti-inflammatory medicine to ease and eventually stop any swelling or pain.

PREVENTION

To prevent dog joint pain, a dog's ideal weight should be maintained and must be supported with the dog taking in a healthy diet. Some foods actually aid in joint inflammation, so it is prescribed that the dog should avoid them. Also, increased exercises for the dog promotes limber joints and decreases the possibility of inflammation in the future. As mentioned earlier, synthetic medicine may promote and cause other health problems like ulcers and kidney and liver damage, so it is advisable for the vet to check other side effects and inform the dog owner of consequences in case a prescription for anti-inflammatory is furnished. Some vets prescribe omega-3 fatty acids from seafood, as it is said to be helpful in controlling pain that is already chronic. Other known solutions are bioflavinoids and even acupuncture.