Arthritis in dogs is a painful, progressive and degenerative disease causing inflammation of a joint which can inhibit movement.

More properly called osteoarthritis, although there are other types of arthritis, this is the most common,

the most easily treated

and is the focus of this article.

The cause of canine arthritis in most cases is the simple wear and tear to bones and joints over time.

Arthritis

often occurs at a point of pervious injury or when there is a history of infection such as lyme disease.

Osteoarthritis mainly occurs in older dogs over the age of 7 years and is more widely seen in larger breeds,

such a German Shepherds,

Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Overweight dogs are also more likely to suffer from arthritis. In young dogs

it may be caused by failure

of proper bone development.

Arthritis in dogs is frequently accompanied by hip dysplasia. Together these two ailments can seriously impair

your dog’s

mobility and quality of life.

Symptoms are subtle to start with such as decreased interest in activity or lagging behind on walks and

progress to more obvious ones:

• difficulty getting up and down

• reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs

• stiff, sore or swollen joints

• limping

• sensitivity to cold

• behavioral changes such as aggression, withdrawal or irritability

Treatment - while there is no way to reverse the problem at present, arthritis can be treated

with medications or less often, hip-replacement and other types of joint surgery. Most dogs will improve with

anti-inflammatory medications

which can reduce the pain and swelling of damaged joints caused by osteoarthritis and increase mobility. Be

aware; however, of possible side

effects involving the digestive system, kidneys, or liver.

When it comes to treatment of arthritis in dogs, many pet owners and veterinarians take an integrative approach,

combining prescription medications

such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with supplements and alternative treatments such as acupuncture.

Some of the more popular

and sometimes effective supplements are glucosamine, chondroitin, msm, ester-c, and hyaluronic acid. Many dog

owners have reported

positive outcomes using these natural supplements.

Weight loss can help relieve stress on joints. Older large-breed dogs tend to be overweight. This discourages

them from getting the exercise

they need and may aggravate their arthritis. The more weight on those poor old joints, the harder it is to move

around.

Prevention is one of the kindest and most effective measures you can take. Keeping your dog in shape through

regular exercise and proper

nutrition for optimal health is your best line of defense against this painful disease, as well as your best approach

after your dog has been diagnosed.

Another key is to maintain proper weight and limit snacks and foods that can aggravate inflammation.

Much can be done to make arthritic dogs more comfortable and improve their lives.

• prevent stressing weak painful joints or falling down - place gates across stairs

• elevate food and water dishes

• portable ramps or steps - for home and vehicle

• rubber place mat to stabilize food and water dishes that slip on bare floors while your dog is eating

• cushion joints - orthopedic dog beds at least four inches thick

The bottom line is arthritis in dogs needs veterinary care. if you suspect your best buddy has arthritis, follow

the advice of your

veterinarian.