Arthritis can affect dogs as well. About 20 percent of adult dogs in the United States are impacted by arthritis. Veterinarians are used to treating this common source of chronic pain in dogs. So, if your dog seems moody and doesn’t seem to be feeling well, it could be due to arthritis. Watch out for the following signs for early detection of canine arthritis:
- Using one limb more than the other
- Difficulty standing or sitting
- Sleeping more than normal
- Exhibiting signs of sore or stiff joints
- Difficulty in running, jumping or climbing stairs
- Recent weight gain
- Showing decreased interest in play and activity
- Behavior or attitude changes
- Decrease in alertness
If your dog exhibits any of the above signs for a continuous period of 10 to 15 days, take him to the veterinarian for arthritis diagnosis. This would mean a physical evaluation and X-rays. Canine arthritis is medically treated in the same manner as human osteoarthritis.
Canine Arthritis Therapies
- Maintaining proper weight by a combination of exercise and healthy diet.
- Drug treatment to relieve pain.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat canine arthritis.
- Pills and foods containing Omega fatty acids, chondroitin and glucosamine. These help alleviate arthritis symptoms in dogs.
Do not treat your dog with human arthritis medication without the consent of the vet. This is because certain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be toxic to dogs. Since early detection can make all the difference, take your dog for a medical check up at least once a year.
