Degenerative arthritis can creep up on your dog without you as the owner even realizing it

One of the most common conditions veterinarians note in older dogs, which may cause them to snap at their handlers, is degenerative arthritis. Degenerative arthritis is usually caused by the accumulated wear-and-tear on the dog’s joints, and the various structures within them, or as a result of a previous injury to a particular joint.

It can be extremely painful for the animal, particularly when the dog has had an unusually active period of exercise, laid down to rest, and attempts to get up again. Watch your dog carefully to see if it shows any signs of trouble getting up after a nap. Also, watch your pet’s gait and make a note of any stiffness or unusual sluggishness when first rising. Often, the stiffness of arthritis will disappear as muscles and joints warm up.

If you see any warning signs in your older dog, your vet may recommend X-rays to examine the internal structures of joints that may be causing the problem.

If diagnosed, there are a variety of medications available to treat degenerative arthritis and greatly improve your dog’s quality of life.

One of the safest treatments is a glucosamine-chondroitin supplement. These medications are not drugs, but rather “nutriceuticals.” The two most common brands are Cosequin and Glycoflex, which are available in a chewable tablet form, as a capsule or a powder added to food. Glucosamine helps with joint pain in about 75 per cent of affected dogs, if administered in the early stages of the condition.

Omega-3 fatty acids, believed to have anti-inflammatory properties for joint and skin conditions, have also proven effective in relieving arthritis pain. Some pet food manufacturers add these fatty acids to their foods as a “joint-supportive” supplement. It is also available in supplement form to be added to your dog or cat’s daily food regiment.

One human drug that people often give to their animals to relieve arthritis pain is aspirin. Aspirin can help relieve joint pain, but it carries a risk of nasty side-effects, such as upset stomach, stomach ulcers or even intestinal bleeding.

Source: Dr. Jim Berg in the News Journal, Wilmington, Delaware