Dog Arthritis

As you may be aware, arthritis is very common in aged dogs. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is the type of arthritis we most frequently see in older dogs. This condition is pretty much the same for dogs as it is for people. As your pet gets older, his or her tendons and ligaments weaken and lose suppleness, creating friction, irritation, and pain. In this article, a local Mapleton, UT vet discusses canine arthritis.

How Can I Tell If My Dog Has Arthritis?

Arthritis normally progresses gradually. Symptoms may appear to be intermittent at first, but they will gradually worsen over time.

Fido cannot tell you when he is hurt, so keep an eye on him. Symptoms normally begin lightly and gradually worsen. In the early stages, you might only notice your dog slowing down. Your puppy may be hesitant to play and/or climb stairs, and he may appear less active on walks.

Additional signs of arthritis include:

Loss Of Interest In Play: Fido’s interest in chasing balls, sticks, squirrels, and the neighbor’s cat may wane gradually.

Licking and biting: Dogs frequently lick or nibble at sore regions. You may notice your dog fussing about his legs or paws.

Limps: Fido may limp short at first, generally when he stands up. The limp may disappear after he gets up and moves. It will, however, become more obvious over time.

Stiff Stride: You may notice that your furry friend moves stiffly. This may be harsher when he first wakes up or after a strenuous walk or play session.

Changes In Body Weight: Hip dysplasia is characterized by a change in muscle conformation. As your pet’s rear end shrinks, his chest may expand.

Flinching: Your dog may dislike having his aching joints touched. He may shudder or appear hesitant to be touched or patted in specific spots.

Difficulty Climbing: Arthritic dogs may struggle with going up and down stairs. Fido may also have trouble getting in and out of the car. If he is allowed to use your mattresses and couches, he may find it more difficult.

Attitude Changes: Pain does little to improve anyone’s mood. This is true for both dogs and people! Fido may appear unusually mournful or melancholy. He may appear introverted or grumpy.

Of course, your veterinarian has the final say. If you know or think that your pet has arthritis, contact your veterinary clinic to schedule a thorough exam as soon as possible.

When Do Dogs Develop Arthritis?

Fido, technically, can acquire arthritis at any time in his life. By the age of eight, around four out of every five canines exhibit symptoms. However, one in every five develops symptoms at just one.

Breed obviously has a part in this situation. If you have a mongrel, it’s a good idea to get a dog DNA test done. This can assist in establishing whether he is vulnerable to any specific conditions.

Canine Arthritis: What Causes it?

As previously noted, arthritis is typically caused by wear and tear. All of those adorable happy dances and energetic bounces eventually wear on Fido’s bones and joints.

Other causes, however, do exist. Arthritis may occur as a result of an injury, such as ligament damage or a broken bone. It is also more widespread in some breeds. Other factors include joint deformities, illness, immunological diseases, cartilage troubles, dietary imbalances, obesity, and conformation.

Fido’s previous exercise history might also need to be taken into account. If a pooch has had too much, too little, or the wrong kinds of activity in the past, particularly during his puppyhood, he’ll be at additional risk. 

Obesity And Canine Arthritis

Obesity is a common problem among our canine companions. In fact, over half of our pet companions are overweight or obese. This can certainly contribute to and exacerbate arthritis. Extra pounds put more strain on your cute pet’s bones and joints. This will make it more difficult for Fido to run and play, as well as worsen his already aching joints, causing inflammation and stiffening.

It’s worth noting that many of our canine patients have their humans trained to share delicious bits of their food and/or deliver goodies on demand. If Fido has you wrapped around his paws, you may need to harden yourself. We know that adorable face can be hard to resist, but letting your pup become a chonker is ultimately not in his best interests. Consult your veterinarian for precise diet recommendations for your pet, including portion sizes.

Keeping an Arthritic Dog Active

Even if Fido has arthritis, he will always benefit from some form of exercise. However, there are certain guidelines for keeping an arthritic puppy active. It may be best to discourage your dog from jumping or standing on his back legs, as this might put too much strain on his bones and joints. Many dogs thrive on short, frequent walks. Swimming might also be a good alternative, if the weather is warm enough and your pet enjoys it. However, that will not be suitable for all of our canine friends.

What are some general guidelines? When walking or playing with Fido, try to keep on firm, flat terrain. Avoid high-impact and vigorous physical activities. Get recommendations from your Mapleton, UT veterinarians.

How Is Canine Arthritis Treated?

Unfortunately, arthritis cannot be cured. However, there are techniques to slow its onset and control Fido’s pain, both of which will help him live a better life.

If you notice any signs of arthritis, take your pet to the vet immediately away. It is critical to have a complete review of your dog’s health. Early intervention can also be extremely beneficial.

Our canine companions are all unique, so treatments will be offered case-by-case. After Fido has been completely diagnosed, your veterinarian will be able to discuss specific solutions. Medication may be an option for treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications and/or pain relievers may be among them. You may also have choices for giving your dog his medications. Some of them are accessible as daily tablets or liquids to be taken with food, while others require injections. Your veterinarian may also discuss joint supplements and specific diets. Here at Family Pet Hospital, we offer laser therapy, which can be helpful.

Surgical intervention may be an option in some cases, but this will depend on both the pup and the severity of his ailment. 

How Do I Care For An Arthritic Dog?

There are things you can do at home to keep Fido comfy. A comfortable orthopedic bed, for example, will aid Fido’s nightly slumber. Pet ramps or stairs may also be useful for your canine companion. To avoid slips and falls on slippery flooring, try installing carpet runners or mats. You’ll want to get some specialized guidance from your Mapleton, UT veterinarian.

Conclusion: While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be controlled. Keep an eye out for warning signals such as limping, stiffness, and a lack of interest in playing. If you notice anything unusual, call your vet straight away.

Schedule An Appointment at Your Mapleton, UT Pet Hospital

Do you have any concerns regarding your pet’s health or care? Contact us at your local Mapleton, UT animal clinic at any time!