Osteoarthritis Can Cause Pain And Sore Joints In Older Dogs

Just as we are living longer these days, so are
our furry friends. Arthritis is a disease
affecting us both in our old age. There is no
cure yet and it can be heartbreaking to see our
dogs succumb to this painful condition. As soon
as you see him slowing down, limping or
reluctant to jump or run, take him to your
veterinarian for a diagnosis. Osteoarthritis
causes progressive inflammation as well as
cartilage deterioration which affects bone,
joints and the soft tissue surrounding them.
Inflammation also stimulates spurs (bony
growths). These form alongside the joints and
cause stiffness and pain.

There are differing types of canine arthritis
and your veterinarian will need to take x-rays
and various tests before offering treatment. The
most common type of arthritis is due to aging.
Other causes can be trauma from an old injury,
repetitive hard exercise, or congenital disorder
of the joints such as hip dysplasia, elbow
dysplasia and osteochondrosis (orthopedic
disease). Obesity is also a common cause.

Together with prescribed treatment, your
veterinarian may recommend reducing the calorie
intake at meal-times. Check for the appropriate
weight of the breed of dog you have and start to
give less in his food bowl, as well as omit fatty
treats and too many carbohydrates. Any additional
weight adds to the strain on the joints.

Frequent, gentle walks on a smooth terrain will
be less painful than uphill runs or walking on
stones. Hydrotherapy is extremely beneficial if
this is possible. It allows freedom of movement
without strain. Anti-inflammatory pills have
side effects, as do all chemical medications.

Monitor your dog closely while he is taking
these. If your dog is just at the beginning
phase of osteoarthritis, a very beneficial
nutritional supplement that is very popular is
liquid glucosamine. Ask your veterinarian about
nutraceuticals. These are perfectly natural
supplements. Liquid glucosamine can be sprinkled
onto your dog's food daily. The liquid form of
glucosamine HCL is readily absorbed by his body
and aids in building the tissue surrounding
joints. Within 2 - 3 months and sometimes even
weeks, you will notice an improvement as healing
occurs. Provide a soft, warm bed and install
ramps or steps to make life easier for him.

If you are about to be a pet owner, pick a
breeder who is reliable and ask about possible
joint problems of hips and elbows in his dogs.
If you take one home from a shelter, the best
thing you can do to prevent osteoarthritis later
on is to give him the right amount of nutritious
food with added supplements, fresh water daily,
take him for walks as well as regular check-ups
with your veterinarian (ask questions) and lots
of love.

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by visiting our site. We offer info about using
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of this joint disease.
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