What is Arthritis?

Arthritis or Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage breaks down in the joints. The destruction or thinning of the cartilage can create mobility problems for the affected joints and pain. These problems generally get worse with age and are aggravated by excess weight, cold and damp weather.

What dogs are prone to Arthritis?

All dogs may develop arthritis, however larger breed dogs are more likely. Dogs who are overweight are also more prone to arthritis. Dogs who are predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia or other genetic malformations are more likely to develop arthritis. Working dogs and very active dogs are also more likely have arthritis.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The most common symptoms of arthritis are lameness, stiffness and swelling of the affected joints. These symptoms are most prevalent when first waking up in the morning. Other symptoms include difficulty with stairs, inability to jump or climb in vehicles, muscle atrophy, negative change in temperament and decreased range of movement.

Forms of Arthritis

Most types of arthritis are inherited or genetic and are the results of orthopedic diseases like hip and elbow dysplasia. Some forms of arthritis are triggered by an acute injury. Rarer forms of arthritis include immune-mediated joint disease like rheumatoid arthritis or are the cause of infections like septic arthritis.

Diagnosis of Arthritis

Most forms of arthritis can be diagnosed with x-rays. The x-rays usually show increased fluid in the joint, swelling of the soft tissue surrounding the joint, bone spurs and increased density of the bones around the affected joint.

Treatments for Arthritis

Medical treatments for arthritis include prescription NSAIDs (nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Rimadyl, or steroids. Vets often recommend a combination of prescribed medication and a chondoprotective such as glucosamine or chondroitin. Chondoprotectives can help to stop or rebuild the joint degeneration.

In more extreme cases of arthritis medical treatments are not enough to make the dog comfortable and surgical treatments are recommended. Surgical treatments for arthritis include joint replacement, joint fusion and amputation.

Natural or alternative treatments for arthritis include gentle exercise such as short walks and swimming, massage, acupuncture, acupressure and chiropractic treatments. It is also recommended to give your dog Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C and E. Provide your dog with a quality orthopedic bed to help cushion joints.

Preventing Arthritis

Some forms of arthritis cannot be prevented; however there are steps you can take to make the changes on your dog easier. Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop arthritis because their joints have to work harder to move the excess weight. Don’t over exercise your dog. Take your dog on daily walks to keep it in good health, keep the muscles strong and the joints loose. Start your dog on chondoprotectives at an early age. Give your dog a quality bed to sleep on. Keep beds off the floor and away from cold air and drafts.