canine arthritis

Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease are common in pets as well as us. It usually occurs in older, larger dogs but quite often in small dogs too. There are different kinds of arthritis and it is important for you to obtain a correct diagnosis from your veterinarian. In some cases surgery may be appropriate. However, most often our aging dogs will show signs that can alert us to appropriate action, i.e. slow to rise, lethargy, licking of joints, trouble walking, jumping and generally not his normal self. This is a progressive disease and although there is no cure yet, there are things we can do to maintain quality of life and reduce swelling and pain.

Have you noticed any changes in your dog’s behavior lately? Is he or she taking longer than usual getting up in the morning, or reluctant to go for a brisk walk? This very old disease creeps up slowly as the dog’s joints gradually become inflamed. This is accompanied by swelling and pain and the joints become stiff and immobile.

Just as we are living longer these days, so are our furry friends. Arthritis is a disease affecting us both in our old age. There is no cure yet and it can be heartbreaking to see our dogs succumb to this painful condition. As soon as you see him slowing down, limping or reluctant to jump or run, take him to your veterinarian for a diagnosis. Osteoarthritis causes progressive inflammation as well as cartilage deterioration which affects bone, joints and the soft tissue surrounding them. Inflammation also stimulates spurs (bony growths). These form alongside the joints and cause stiffness and pain.

Osteoarthritis is a disease of degenerative joints. In time, most of us and our elderly dogs will suffer from wear and tear of cartilage, protecting the bone. There is no known cure, yet, but there are ways to help your pet and relieve pain. This progressive disease affects joints of the spine, hip, elbow and knee.