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Writer's pictureAlex Tourret

Dogs and arthritis

For our dogs, it can be just as uncomfortable as it is for us.

To lessen your pet's suffering, there are techniques to manage the illness.

So what is arthritis?


Many dogs suffer from arthritis, an inflammation of the joints that causes pain, discomfort, and stiffness.

The cartilage in a joint (hip, elbow, etc.) in dogs with arthritic changes is damaged, making the joint irregular and unprotected which causes the bones to rub against one another.

This friction can cause discomfort or agony and worsen cartilage between the joints which in turn makes arthritis worse.

New bone grows around the joint as a direct result of this increased friction, making it stiffer and more challenging to move (known as degenerative joint disease).

Why does arthritis develop?


Although arthritis often affects older dogs, it can start to manifest in puppies due to issues with bone and joint growth.

Depending on the underlying reason, arthritis may affect one or more joints in your dog.

The majority of instances come from aberrant joint friction that is brought on by:


  • Joint unsteadiness (e.g. after ligament damage)

  • Traumatic injury may result in damage to or aberrant cartilage formation (e.g. fractures)


What are the symptoms of arthritis in my dog?


  • Unwillingness to exercise

  • Lameness or rigidity (especially after long periods of rest)

  • Worsening symptoms when it's chilly or wet

  • Joint licking (signs of saliva staining)

  • Your dog moves more slowly than usual

  • Your dog is grumpier than usual


How is canine arthritis identified?


Through examination, including joint flexion and extension, your veterinarian may be able to identify which joints are experiencing any pain or discomfort.

To do a thorough investigation, they may recommend additional testing (such x-rays) to help pinpoint and confirm arthritic change and occasionally to discover any underlying causes.

Blood tests may occasionally be necessary to rule out any illnesses connected to arthritis.


How can one treat arthritis?


If your dog has arthritis, your veterinarian may recommend treatment on several occasions over the course of your pet's lifetime. Treatments vary greatly in terms of medication and costings between patients in order to give your dog the best short and long-term solution.


Supplements are a great way of keeping arthritis at bay for a long time and keep your dog comfortable and able to live a happy life without the need for medical intervention. Within these supplements are usually Chondroitin and Glucosamine. Glucosamine and chondroitin shield chondrocytes, which support cartilage structure and maintenance. These supplements have the potential, in principle, to lessen discomfort while also slowing joint cartilage degeneration.



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