Dog arthritis. How to recognize and treat canine arthritis

Dog arthritis is a common, painful condition that affects one out of five adult dogs- more than eight million in all. Although there are no miracle cures, much can be done to make old dogs with arthritis more comfortable and improve their lives.

Most large dogs develop  canine arthritis as they age. Although there are no miracle cures, much can be done to make old dogs with arthritis more comfortable and improve their lives.

Dog arthritis occurs when joint cartilage begins to split and fragment. The first signs might include stiffness, lagging behind on walks, or perhaps difficulty jumping up. Often, these signs are mistaken as part of the natural aging process however, the real cause is usually arthritis.

Unfortunately, because our pets can't tell us if and where they hurt, it can be difficult to know that our pet is in pain and not just "getting older". Dog arthritis is one such ailment that can cause pain resulting in changes in behavior. The key is to recognize changes in your pet's behavior and realize that medical intervention may often make a huge difference to bring your pet back to his old self.

Some signs of dog arthritis include:

• Decreased activity

• Reluctance to walk, run, climb stairs, jump or play

• Stiffness

• Limping

• Difficulty rising from a resting position

• Soreness when touched

• Yelping or whimpering in pain

• Acting aggressive or withdrawn

• Exhibiting other personality changes

If you notice any of these changes, see your veterinarian. The sooner the condition is recognized, the sooner your pet can be helped.

If you suspect your dog may be beginning to suffer with arthritis make visit your veterinarian to identify what's causing your pet's discomfort. If arthritis is the problem, your veterinarian can recommend the best treatment option for your dog's condition, such as: 

Long-term pain canine arthritis pain relief
There are dozens of products for animals intended to relieve Dog arthritis by promoting joint and cartilage health. Their use has become nearly universal among veterinarians, no safety problems have arisen, and they are generally quite effective. Many vets say that every dog showing even the earliest signs of Dog arthritis should be receiving one of these products. They work best in the early stages of arthritis, while there is still reasonable joint function left to preserve.

Medications can soothe your arthritic pet a resort quality of life to your dog.

A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that's approved for long-term use, such as Rimadyl, may be prescribed to relieve your dog's pain and inflammation, thereby improving quality of life. 

Rimadyl is a new non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug given in tablet form and labeled specifically for dogs, and is effective in relieving pain and inflammation safely, even for dog arthritis long-term use.

Weight-loss/exercise program.
Taking off excess weight will help decrease stress on affected joints, while moderate exercise can help prevent decreased joint function.

Diet change
Your veterinarian may recommend a diet specially designed to meet your pet's needs, such as Eukanuba Senior Plus, or Hill's G/D

Soft comfortable place to sleep
Your dog's bed should be as comfortable as your own. An old mattress or soft couch is excellent. Soft foam rubber at least four inches thick is good. Scout around for an old baby mattress

Gentle, regular exercise
Provide limited, gentle exercise. Once around the block two or three times a day is about right. Avoid strenuous activity on the weekends alternating with little or none during the week

Surgery
In severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend surgery to address such abnormalities as hip dysplasia

Rimadyl
Relieve pain and inflammation from conditions such as Dog arthritis and other joint diseases including hip dysplasia

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