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Dog Arthritis
There are two main types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Dog arthritis is rather common. In fact, arthritis in dogs is more common than arthritis in cats. It is a debilitating and painful disease which is basically inflammation of a bony joint. Canine arthritis can adversely affect your four-legged friend's comfort, lifestyle, and emotional wellbeing. There are two main types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Canine rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease - the body attacks the joint tissues resulting in inflammation and pain. Osteoarthritis (also called degenerative joint disease) is the degeneration of the joint cartilage caused by old age, poor nutrition, chronic trauma to the joints, or accumulation of free radicals in the body. Dog arthritis can manifest itself in the following main ways: Hip Dysplasia: 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 Kneecap: A malformation of the leg bones resulting in the kneecap being repeatedly pulled out of position. More common in small breeds. Degeneration of the Shoulder Joint: A breakdown of the cartilage in the shoulder, resulting in inflammation and joint pain. More common in medium to large breeds. Top
Dog Arthritis Symptoms
However, please bear in mind that animals can endure pain much more than we can, so sometimes they may already have developed arthritis for a while before showing the above symptoms. Also, since dogs are playful and eager to please, your dog may still want to chase and catch that ball just to please you even though he may have pain in his squeaky joints. The bottom line? Be more observant to your dog's behavior. If you notice any slight behavioral change in your dog, watch him more closely. Also, exercise a little educated judgment. TopConventional Dog Arthritis TreatmentConventional arthritis treatment usually involves the use of arthritis medication, such as steroids, NSAIDs, to get rid of the symptoms without actually curing the disease. In certain cases, surgery is needed to repair damaged joints.Research has shown that continuous use of arthritis drugs can cause numerous side effects in our pets, such as stomach ulcers, as well as liver and kidney problems. (Read more about conventional arthritis medication for dogs on this page.) Alternative Canine Arthritis TreatmentDogs with arthritis need the professional care of veterinarians. However, it doesn't mean that we cannot use some safe and natural remedies to relieve the pain caused by arthritis, as well as to strengthen and protect the cartilage and joints so that the arthritic condition does not deteriorate drastically.If your dog has been diagnosed with canine arthritis, discuss with your vet the possibility of using holistic treatments instead of, or in conjunction with, drug therapy. Consult a holistic vet if necessary. Please also read our page on Natural Dog Arthritis Treatment to find out more about using herbs and other supplements to treat dog arthritis. TopPrevention of Arthritis in DogsDietA healthy and natural diet is essential especially when your pet is pregnant to ensure that her babies have all the nutrients needed for the proper formation of joint and and other structural tissues. Vitamin C Regular use of vitamin C is also helpful in the prevention of arthritis in dogs. Weight control Excessive weight can put extra stress and burden on your dog's joints, so obesity is one of the causes of arthritis in dogs. Dogs with hip dysplasia and are obese are at very high risk for chronic arthritis in the hips. So be sure to control your dog's weight through proper exercise and dietary management.
D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
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