Dog/Canine Arthritis

Arthritis in canines is just as common as it is in humans. The type of arthritis associated with dogs is osteoarthritis which is caused by the degradation of the cartilage within a joint.

Cartilage is what keeps the bones in a joint from rubbing together. As the cartilage breaks down it causes the function of the joint to reduce causing pain and stiffness.

In the beginning canine arthritis is uncomfortable, but in severe cases it causes extreme pain as the bones are rubbing directly against each other.

Signs to watch for are favoring a certain limb repeatedly, trouble when sitting or standing, not as active, stiffness in their joints, reluctance to run or jump, and lethargy. There is no cure for canine arthritis yet, but there are several good treatments.

Pain relieving lotions are one of the safest and best ways to ease your dogs pain associated with canine arthritis. Your vet may prescribe some medicine for swelling and discomfort.

A new treatment is now being used which is dietary. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been found to be helpful in reducing the degeneration of dog