Keeping Dogs Active for Life
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and they all age differently, just like humans. Some dogs will start to experience pain and tenderness caused by arthritis.
What is arthritis in dogs?
Osteoarthritis - is a degenerative joint disease. It can involve the deterioration of and changes to the cartilage and bone. Cartilage acts as a buffer between the bones in a joint. The breakdown of cartilage can reduce the function of the joint and create pain or stiffness. Mild arthritis is uncomfortable. Severe arthritis, which can progress to bone-on-bone contact, is very painful. This is the most common type of arthritis in dogs and is progressive with age.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – is caused by an underlying weakness in the immune system and can be hereditary. Rheumatoid Arthritis is rare in dogs.
Hip Dysplasia – is caused by a malformation of the hip sockets.
What causes Arthritis?
Like humans, dogs can develop arthritis a number of ways including:
- Genetics
- Previous injuries or accidents
- Infection – ex. caused by Tick bite
- Immune system problems (rheumatoid arthritis)
- Excessive strain through repeated activity and exercise
What are the symptoms of Arthritis?
If you suspect your dog has arthritis, look for the following symptoms:
- Inactivity
- Reluctance to lie down or get up
- Trouble running and climbing stairs
- Audible clicking when walking
- Change of behavior that seems to indicate pain
- Swelling and inflammation of the joints
- Limping
- Limited movement and lack of desire to exercise
- Yelping in pain when touched or a personality change resisting touch
What can I do if my dog has Arthritis?
There are several medications available from your veterinarian; however, most of these medicines can have serious side effects including liver failure. Switching to a high quality, premium, chemical preservative-free diet, including Active Dog Treats™, is the first step to reducing pain for your dog. Other things you can do to ease the symptoms of arthritis:
- Control/prevent obesity – maintaining proper body weight reduces stress on the joints
- Massage – relaxes your dog and soothes sore muscles
- Change your dog’s bed to an orthopedic bed – a cool, soft surface is welcomed by arthritic dogs
- Consider acupuncture - to reduce the pain caused by arthritis
Reducing pain has two main benefits:
- First reducing pain improves the quality of life for your dog
- Second, increasing your dog’s mobility will help prevent the arthritis from becoming more severe.
As members of the family the last thing we want is for our loyal companions to be in pain, as they get older. Active Dog Treats™ with Elk Velvet Antler have the ingredient proven to reduce the symptoms and pain of canine arthritis.
