Arthritis in Dogs: Overview Arthritis in one for or another affects 20% of adult dogs in the United States. It leads to chronic pain and can limit your dog's activities to the point of being a real detriment to overall health. There are two general classifications of arthritis: - Primary Arthritis
- Includes rheumatoid arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE)
- Secondary Arthritis
- A degenerative joint disease. Some common causes of secondary arthritis include hip dysplasia, obesity, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, and other trauma.
Common Signs of Arthritis: - Loss of interest in playing
- Has a hard time sitting or standing
- Hesitation when climbing stairs
- Walking stiffly
- Favors one particular limb
- Weight gain
- General attitude changes
- Overall lethargy
Treating Canine Arthritis Treatment for canine arthritis is much like the treatment for humans. - Keeping to a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) to relieve swelling and pain
- Over the counter pills containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate or Omega fatty acids may help relieve symptoms
- Both an NSAID and an over-the-counter treatment together may help decrease pain and disease progression.
Links to other helpful articles. |
