Dog Arthritis

Types of Dog Arthritis

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a poor development of the hip joint in dogs. Dogs with hip dysplasia have a hip socket that is shallow and the the ball on the thigh bone is flattened. This causes excessive movement in the joint, causing chronic inflammation and calcium deposition.
• Dislocation of the Knee-cap: Dislocation of the knee-cap (medically known as pattella luxation) is one of the most common problems with small breed dogs such as the Chihuahua. This is a hereditary problem. It is caused by a malformation of the leg bones resulting in the kneecap being repeatedly pulled out of position.
• Degeneration of the Shoulder Joint: More common in medium to large breeds, degeneration of the shoulder joint is caused by a breakdown of the cartilage in the shoulder, resulting in inflammation and joint pain.
• Septic Arthritis: Septic arthritis is an infection of the joint space. It can occur after an injury, or if bacteria from a pneumonia, for instance, spreads through the blood and lodges in a joint. Permanent damage can occur if not treated quickly.

Dog Arthritis Symptoms

• Lethargy
• Afraid to be touched, especially along the spine or the affected limb
• Excessive licking of the affected area
• Walking with a limp
• Stiffness, especially after rest
• Difficulty in climbing stairs
• Difficulty in climbing in and out of a car
• Swelling and/or tenderness in limb or spine
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability

Conventional Dog Arthritis Treatment

Alternative Dog Arthritis Treatment

Dog Arthritis - Preventive Care for Your Arthritic Dog

• Pet Ramps or Steps: A pet ramp makes getting in or out of a car much easier. It can also prevent stress-related injuries that can occur when your dog jump down onto his front legs.
• Elevated Food and Water Bowls: Raising food and water bowls so your dog does not have to bend is a simple trick that dramatically increases comfort, especially if the spine and neck are affected.
• Orthopedic beds: These special beds are designed to conform to a dog's body, thereby reducing pressure on sensitive areas. This decreases stiffness and eases pain. Those with heat compound the effect - warmth gently increases blood flood and soothes affected joints.
• Keep Your Dog Warm: Cold weather and environment can stiffen affected joints and decrease mobility. A warm environment and place to rest keeps joints loose and reduces pain. Move your dog's bed away from draft and put a sweater on your dog in the winter before going outside.
• Baths: Your dog may not welcome taking a bath too much, but short soaks with mineral salts, or herbs like oat straw can sooth painful areas.
• Massage: Using essential oils to gently massage affected areas increases blood flow, which reduces pain and aids healing. Essential oils like ginger, helichrysum, peppermint, and eucalyptus reduce pain and inflammation. Always dilute the essential oils with a high-quality massage carrier oil, and always allow your dog to smell the oil and give his okay before applying. Another plus of massaging your dog is regular massage allows you to discover tumors or signs of other medical problems at very early, treatable stages.