SIGNS AND TREATMENT OF DOG ARTHRITIS
What is dog arthritis?
Arthritis (also called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint
disease) is a major problem in older dogs. Almost 90% of older dogs
develop some form of osteoarthritis, so it is important to recognize the early
signs of the disease. Canine arthritis is just as painful and debilitating
as polyarthritis in humans, but we rarely see its manifestations in dogs who do
not express pain as we would. In fact dogs do not naturally show their
weakness: in the wild they were attacked and banished from the pack - even
killed - if they showed the slightest sign of disease. Another
physiological factor explains it: dogs have no nerves in articular cartilage,
Which dogs are prone to arthritis?
Canine arthritis is more common in older dogs but can also develop
in young dogs, especially following a traumatic injury or health
incident. Large breeds and mixed breed dogs are also more prone to
developing hip disorders. In older animals, arthritis is the result of erosion
of the cartilage in the joints. The most affected are generally located at
the knee, hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow and backbone. Arthritis directly
affects the morale of most dogs and, although there is no cure for it, many
older dogs can experience a good quality of life if the disease is treated in
time. As the owner of your small animal, you are in the best position
to determine the first - often subtle - signs of this chronic disease. It
is also important to know that dogs initially show clinical signs of arthritis
only intermittently.
What are the symptoms of canine arthritis?
In general,
changes in habits are a good indicator of arthritis.
-Paress, lack of energy, rests all day.
-Tired after performing an exercise; refuses to perform strenuous activity.
-Reluctant to jump in a car, on a sofa or to go up and down the stairs.
-Rigidity of the members after a period of rest; it takes longer and longer for the dog to stretch.
-Tired after performing an exercise; refuses to perform strenuous activity.
-Reluctant to jump in a car, on a sofa or to go up and down the stairs.
-Rigidity of the members after a period of rest; it takes longer and longer for the dog to stretch.
-Look
for ease in the movements to be performed.
-Its gait changes, he walks in small strides or in a stiff way.
-Lick or bite painful joints.
-Box.
-Is reluctant to play (due to pain).
-Change in behavior: some dogs hide while others try to be constantly with their owner.
-Has aggressive tendencies.
-Loss of appetite.
-Its gait changes, he walks in small strides or in a stiff way.
-Lick or bite painful joints.
-Box.
-Is reluctant to play (due to pain).
-Change in behavior: some dogs hide while others try to be constantly with their owner.
-Has aggressive tendencies.
-Loss of appetite.
What should I do if my dog develops
arthritis?
If you observe these signs, the first thing to
do is to consult your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis. The veterinarian
will perform medical, orthopedic and neurological examinations as well as a series
of imaging tests (radio, CT or MRI) and blood tests. Although arthritis is
often the most likely factor, your dog may limp due to trauma, cancer, ruptured
knee cruciate ligaments, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases,
congenital disorders and old age.
Which treatment works best?
Many useful therapies exist for your dogs. A
multimodal approach combining classic pharmacological treatments (NSAIDs,
etc.), food and chondro protective supplements (omega-3, glucosamine, etc.) and
other complementary procedures (massage, laser, acupuncture) will help animals
have a comfortable and active. To learn more about a natural alternative to
treat arthritis in your dog,
About the Author:
I am a professional content writer. Now my article is
on DogsHealth . Arthritis in Dogs. Winston's Products are the #1 source for immediate, long-term relief for dogs suffering from diseases like hip dysplasia and arthritis.
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