Well, even though it is hard to hear, you must realize that you are not alone. Arthritis in dogs is one of the most common sources of chronic pain the veterinarians treat in their clinics today. Research seems to indicate that one in every five adult dogs is hammered with arthritis and the pain that goes along with it.
If your pet is suffering from arthritis you may see some signs that your pup is favoring one leg more than the other, she may sleep more, or seem to have more trouble standing for sitting. If your dog has arthritis you might also notice that she is more hesitant to climb stairs, run or jump. It may even seem that her joints seem sore or that she has no interest in playing. In some cases, dogs with arthritis also begin to show signs of weight gain.
If you are concerned that your dog may be suffering from arthritis, then it is quite important that you take your pet in to see the vet for an accurate screening and diagnosis. With an appropriate diagnosis, the treatment for dog arthritis is quite similar to arthritis treatment for humans.
For dogs suffering with arthritis, regular exercise is important to help maintain a proper body weight. NSAIDS or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs are the most common form of pharmaceutical arthritis treatments for your dog. Over-the counter dog arthritis treatments such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, omega fatty acids and Boswellin may also be prescribed by your veterinarian.
Glucosamine absorbs and releases water with each step, acting as a shock absorber for the joints. It also stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans, important proteins found in cartilage, which helps to slow the deterioration of joints and ease your dog’s arthritis pain.
Chondroitin attracts fluids into proteoglycan molecules which draws nutrients into the cartilage and increases the flow of fluid into the cartilage which adds resiliency. Chondroitin also helps protect existing cartilage from premature degeneration and provides structure and flexibility to the joints. Giving more life to your doggy’s joints.
Other options for medications for arthritis include Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which are constituents of fish oils. These fatty acids act as anti-inflammatory agents helping to further reduce the pain from inflammation.
Boswellin may also be recommended by your vet for its ability to improve the blood supply to the joints and maintain the integrity of blood vessels. It is also known for helping to improve mobility in stiff joints by reducing swelling. Less swelling, less pain for your best friend.
While there are varying arthritis treatments for dogs you will need to talk with your vet to determine the best course of action for you’re your pet. Some therapies may take a few weeks to completely work, so don’t get discouraged. Seek the best treatment for your pet, after all isn’t that what they deserve!
Arthritis treatment for your dog is too important to ignore and if your dog is suffering, then she deserves your full attention and the most comprehensive treatment plan that your vet can design.
No dog should suffer needlessly, so if arthritis is slowing your pet down make the call to your vet today to screen your dog for arthritis.