Canine Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is not just a winter problem! Arthritis occurs in 90% of older dogs and in 20% of middle-aged dogs. A dog will almost never whimper or yelp from the pain of arthritis. Arthritis is an ache that gets progressively worse.

What does arthritis look like in dogs?

• Hesitating to jump up or down from the couch or car
• Struggling to get up in the mornings and get going
• Lagging behind at the end of walks
• A change in behaviour, such as being grumpier or more aggressive
• Pulling up stiff after exercise, limping, or lameness, either immediately or the next day
• Seeking softer, warmer and more comfortable places to sleep
• A decrease in fitness (only chasing the ball a few times, instead of a dozen or more)

How to combat arthritis

• Environment
  
  • Warm sleeping area and heavily padded bedding                                               
  • Provide a broad step with a non-slip surface for access to the couch                      
  • Assist up and down from the car or other high places                                                         
                                         
• Weight control
  
  • Maintaining an ideal body condition is the single most effective measure         
  • We can help you determine the correct weight your dog should be. Every kilogram in weight placed on a joint is multiplied by 4-10 times with certain activities
     
• Fitness
  
  • Multiple short walks are ideal (e.g. two to three 20min walks per day)
  • Walk on soft surfaces like grass to minimise pressure on the joints or swimming
     
• Disease modification
  • Disease modifying agents (DMOADs) help repair cartilage. These come in the form of foods, oral supplements and even can be given by injection
  • These are best combined with nutraceuticals
     
• Nutraceuticals
  
  • Arthritis supplements can assist in reducing joint inflammation and cartilage degradation. Examples are fish oil, Glucosamine sulphate, Shark cartilage, Green lip mussel
     
• Pain relief
  • Pet friendly pain relief can be prescribed by your vet
  • Pain relief can help a lot on days when your pet’s arthritis isn’t being successfully managed with the interventions listed above
  • Gently massaging stiff muscles can provide a lot of relief for your dog

If you think your pet is suffering from osteoarthritis, then come in for an assessment and we can develop a programme incorporating many factors that suit your particular situation.