Arthritis in Dogs
As dogs age, they may experience a variety of health issues, including arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, which can be painful and limit a dog's mobility. In this blog, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for arthritis in dogs.
Causes of Arthritis in Dogs
The term Arthritis means “inflammation of the joints” there are many causes but by far the most common is Osteoarthritis (OA). This blog will be talking about OA.
Arthritis in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes are:
Genetics: Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to developing arthritis than others. Large breeds, such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers, are particularly susceptible. As such, if Mum and Dad suffer from arthritis then their pups will have a much higher change of having arthritis.
Age: As dogs age, their joints begin to wear down, which can lead to arthritis.
Obesity: Being overweight can put extra strain on a dog's joints, increasing the risk of arthritis. Fat is also an organ of inflammation - so extra fat means extra inflammation.
Injury or instability: Dogs that have suffered joint injuries (such as a torn ligament), or are born with joint instability (such as hip dysplasia, or luxation of the knee caps) are more likely to develop arthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis can cause a range of symptoms in dogs, including:
Stiffness and limping: Dogs with arthritis may have difficulty moving and may limp or favour certain limbs. They may be slow to get up and slow to sit or lay down.
Reduced activity: Dogs with arthritis may be less active than usual and may have difficulty performing normal activities, such as jumping or running.
Pain: Arthritis can be painful for dogs, and they may whine or yelp when touched. They may not be as social and you may notice their posture changes to minimise pain in movement.
Muscle atrophy: Over time, arthritis can cause the muscles around a dog's joints to weaken and shrink. This is because they are not using the affected limbs as well as the others and the muscle will start to waste.
Treatment Options for Arthritis in Dogs
While arthritis can be a chronic condition, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve a dog's quality of life. Some of these options include:
Weight management: Keeping a dog at a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on their joints, potentially slowing the progression of arthritis.
Exercise: While it may seem counterintuitive, regular exercise can help keep a dog's joints limber and reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking, are recommended.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve a dog's range of motion, reduce pain, and increase muscle strength. Myotherapy and laser treatments are very effective.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in dogs with arthritis. Other medications, such as gabapentin, monoclonal antibodies and disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs), such as Pentosan Ploysulphate may also be prescribed.
Neutroceuticals: there are many out there and if they are not all created equal, but good natural therapies can be very effective at reducing pain and inflammation. Such things as 4 cyte, quality CBD oil, Omega 3 supplements and glucosamine can all be very effective in helping your pet when it comes to relieving arthritis.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged joints or remove bone fragments that are causing pain.
In conclusion, arthritis is a common condition in older dogs that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While there is no cure for arthritis, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve a dog's quality of life. If you suspect that your dog may be experiencing arthritis symptoms, consult with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog's needs.