Canine Arthritis

Is your dog a little less enthusiastic about his daily walk? Is he reluctant to stand up or lie down? Does his joints click as he walks? If so, is there a chance your friend is suffering from canine arthritis.

As in humans, arthritis in dogs can be one of various types, but most often osteoarthritis.

What is osteoarthritis and what causes it?

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

There is no single cause of arthritis. 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 with arthritis, if their bones do not develop properly. extremity injuries can also lead to arthritis later in life.

Symptoms

If your dog shows any of the following symptoms, you should consult a veterinarian about the possibility of canine arthritis:

· inactivity

· favoring one limb

· Reluctance to get up or lie

· Clicking joints

· visible pain when walking

· swelling of the joints

· whimpering / Crying

· Reluctance to climb stairs

· Stiffness after getting

treatment of

there is no cure for canine arthritis. Generally, treatment is dedicated to reducing inflammation, and pain management. You and your veterinarian should decide whether the prescribed therapy are warranted.

glucosamine and chondroitin have shown good results in reducing inflammation and therefore pain in the joints in many dogs. Commercial add-ons to provide this combination include Cosequin and Arthogen, among others. They are available without a prescription.

Change in animal diets can also help. For overweight dogs, "light" products may be in order. Some pet owners may prefer to go all-natural route, while others may take into account the dog food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin.

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

What can I do to my dog arthritis more comfortable?

If your dog is showing signs of arthritis in the neck or shoulders, picked up his food and water bowl with stand, or "pas diner ".

When the weather cold and wet, keep your friend comfortable and warm.

Apply moist heat to arthritic joints in a hot towel, or towel-wrapped hot water bottle. Never use a heating pad, because it could lead to accidental burns.

Use ramps instead of stairs when possible.

to maintain a reasonable level of activity. Exercise and mild activity will help to stop the joint from deteriorating further.

Conclusion

is a sad fact that a dog is developing arthritis, he will suffer with him for the rest of his life, and all you can do for him that he was as comfortable as possible to maintain a reasonable level of activity, eating a proper diet And / or treatment with over-the-counter medications, drugs, or holistic medicine. And much love.