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As pet parents, we dread being told that there's anything wrong with our furry family members. And arthritis is often one of the most feared conditions because it causes chronic pain and drastically impacts mobility.
However, if your dog has arthritis, does that mean no more walks in the countryside or runs on the beach? And what options are there when it comes to treatment?
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease, is a painful inflammatory condition that affects the joints. A healthy joint has bouncy cushions of cartilage, which act as shock absorbers and keep the bones moving smoothly.
As well as cartilage, joints also contain joint fluid (synovial fluid), which acts as a lubricant and reduces friction. If your dog has arthritis, their cartilage becomes damaged, so the bones rub together. Over time, the cartilage wears away even more, exposing the bone. As the bones rub against each other, their surface becomes rough and irregular, causing even more friction.
Can Dogs Get Arthritis?
Dogs can develop arthritis. It is a common condition, especially among older dogs. However, arthritis can also affect dogs of any age, including those with certain genetic predispositions or joint injuries.
What Causes Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis in dogs can be caused by various factors, including age-related degeneration of joint tissues, previous joint injuries or trauma, genetic predispositions to joint problems, and excessive weight or obesity, which puts extra strain on the joints.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Recognizing the symptoms of arthritis in dogs is crucial for early detection and intervention. Here are common signs that may indicate your dog is experiencing arthritis:
- Difficulty moving or stiffness: Your dog may have trouble getting up or moving after resting.
- Limping or favoring limbs: Arthritic dogs may limp or avoid putting weight on certain limbs.
- Reluctance to exercise or play: If your dog shows less interest in physical activities they used to enjoy, it could be a sign of arthritis.
- Noticeable pain or discomfort: Whining, whimpering, or yelping when touched or moved can indicate pain. Restlessness and changes in appetite may also be present.
- Swelling or warmth around joints: Inflammation can cause swelling and increased warmth in the affected joints.
Of course, every dog is different, and there may be other signs of joint pain that some dogs might show.
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs
Diagnosing arthritis in dogs involves a veterinary examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests. Here's what the process typically looks like:
- Veterinary Examination: The vet will carefully examine your dog, checking their joints, movement, and overall condition for signs of arthritis.
- Medical History: You'll provide information about your dog's symptoms and any changes in their behavior or activity levels.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are commonly used to see inside the joints and detect arthritis-related changes. Sometimes, ultrasound or MRI scans may be needed.
- Joint Fluid Analysis: A small sample of joint fluid may be taken to check for inflammation and rule out other conditions.
- Blood Tests: Pet blood tests help assess your dog's overall health and identify any underlying issues.
Once arthritis is diagnosed, your vet will discuss treatment options to help manage pain and improve your dog's well-being.
Treatment for Dogs with Arthritis
Treating arthritis in dogs involves a multifaceted approach. Your veterinarian may recommend the following:
- Veterinary-Prescribed Medications: To relieve pain and reduce inflammation, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs).
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Exercises: To improve joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
- Joint Supplements: Supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health and reduce symptoms.
- Assistive Devices: Devices like ramps or stairs to help dogs with limited mobility move around comfortably.
Is Your Dog Showing Signs of Osteoarthritis Pain?
1. Limps after exercise or active play.
2. Has trouble keeping up on walks.
3. Is slow to get up from sitting or lying down.
4. Has difficulty jumping up and down.
5. Seems stiff when moving around.
6. Has difficulty climbing up and going down the stairs.
7. Changes in appetite - your dog is showing less interest in food.
8. Changes in grooming - your dog is not grooming as much or is licking certain areas more than usual.
9. Personality changes - your dog is less sociable than usual or is resistant to being touched.
10. Changes in potty habits - your dog is having accidents inside the house or does not want to go outside.
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Is Your Dog Showing Signs of Osteoarthritis Pain?
1. Limps after exercise or active play.
2. Has trouble keeping up on walks.
3. Is slow to get up from sitting or lying down.
4. Has difficulty jumping up and down.
5. Seems stiff when moving around.
6. Has difficulty climbing up and going down the stairs.
7. Changes in appetite - your dog is showing less interest in food.
8. Changes in grooming - your dog is not grooming as much or is licking certain areas more than usual.
9. Personality changes - your dog is less sociable than usual or is resistant to being touched.
10. Changes in potty habits - your dog is having accidents inside the house or does not want to go outside.
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Arthritis Medicine for Dogs
Arthritis medications for dogs include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs), and steroids or corticosteroids. It's crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most suitable medication for your dog and to ensure proper dosage and monitoring.
Natural Remedies for Dog Arthritis
Natural remedies and complementary therapies can complement traditional treatment methods. These include nutritional supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, herbal remedies and homeopathic treatments, acupuncture, massage therapy, and weight management through dietary adjustments. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing natural remedies to ensure their safety and efficacy.
Conclusion
Arthritis in dogs is a manageable condition that requires proactive care and treatment. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring various treatment options, you can help your arthritic dog lead a comfortable and fulfilling life.
Consult with BetterVet for expert guidance on pet pain management and orthopedic examinations. With our specialized services, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your dog's discomfort and improve their overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do dogs get arthritis?
Dogs can develop arthritis as they age, typically from around 8 years. However, arthritis can also occur in younger dogs due to joint injuries, genetic factors, or certain health conditions.
How long can dogs live with arthritis?
Dogs can live for many years with arthritis. The prognosis depends on various factors, such as the severity of arthritis, early intervention, and proper management.
When to euthanize a dog with arthritis?
The decision to euthanize a dog with arthritis is deeply personal. It should be made in consultation with a veterinarian, considering factors like the dog's quality of life, pain levels, mobility, and overall well-being.
