It has been found that at least one in five dogs will suffer from dear old arthritis, just as humans. Many may think that arthritis only affects the aged but that is so far from the truth. Some other reasons a dog may be predisposed to arthritis are –
· Genetic factors – some breeds are more prone to arthritis than others, especially larger dogs · Obesity – dogs that are overweight will develop arthritis years earlier than a lean dog · Joint defects such as hip dysplasia and other lame conditions can put extra stress and strain on the joints. Joint trauma and any damage to ligaments, bone and tissues increase the likelihood of arthritis. · Infection – Some conditions such as Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever which are the result of bacterial, viral and fungal infections can contribute to arthritis.
This is just a small list of why dogs get arthritis. Arthritis is described as a degenerative joint disease which affects cartilage or the soft covering of bone responsible for smooth, non-painful movement of joints. When this soft covering gets worn down, the raw bone surfaces rub together, causing lack of joint movement and extreme pain for your dog. The soft tissue is known as the synovium and coupled with the irritation of the joint lining or synovitis is shown to be responsible for the cartilage degeneration. You will know your dog is suffering if there are visible signs of lameness, cracking sounds in the joints as your dog moves or lays down, deterioration of the muscles and swollen joints. You surely do not want to see your dog suffer with arthritis and need to know how you can treat the condition.
Treatment options for dogs with arthritis can vary depending upon the severity of the condition. The first concern will be the weight condition of your dog. Any extra weight on the dog will make arthritis more elevated in pain. Your dog will need to lose some weight and alleviate the extra stress placed on the joints. If weight is not an issue or in addition to weight reduction, your veterinarian may prescribe some medications for your dog’s arthritis. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) may be prescribed, though some of them may have side effects. The newer NSAIDS have less side effects and your doctor will work with you for the best treatment of arthritis for your dog. Corticosteroids therapy for the decrease of inflammation of the joints can be used short-term due to its cartilage damage side effects.
Other options for more severe cases of arthritis in dogs are surgery to repair any issues due to secondary damage such as trauma as well as possible joint replacement. Diet can also play an important role for your dog to live more comfortably with arthritis. A diet that is formulated with Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate can help to maintain good body weight, reduce pain and improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. Some options are the Hill’s® Science Diet® j/d™ or Purina® JM Joint Mobility™ brands although your veterinarian and the staff at most major pet supply stores can advise you as to other nutritional plans that can help your dog with arthritis.
Once your dog is on a treatment plan, be sure to follow doctor’s orders as to a medication therapy. Provide a thick comfy bed for your dog so it does not have to sleep on a hard, painful floor. Provide a good nutritional diet as approved for dogs with arthritis, keep the weight down and follow-up with your doctor as to any physical therapy, short walks and exercise to keep the joints working without stiffness. There is always help for your dog to find relief and treatment from arthritis.
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/5-risk-factors-for-canine-arthritis/page1.aspx
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/10-ways-to-help-an-arthritic-dog/page1.aspx
http://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-disease-arthritis-and-joint-pain.html