What Is Canine Arthritis?

How To Diagnose And Treat Your Dog

Arthritis can occur in dogs much like people.  What exactly is canine arthritis?  It is an inflammation of the joints often accompanied by pain.  It is a degenerative disease which essentially means their joints will continue to deteriorate.  Yet, Veterinary Schools can often help diagnose and offer treatment advice for students and pet owners alike that will help make your dog more comfortable. 

Reputable vet schools can suggest criteria to look for while you are with your pet before the appointment.  You may observe some physical changes that occur in your dog if they are becoming arthritic.  Some common symptoms or behaviors that your dog may experience are listed below.

• Walking stiffly
• Limping or favoring certain limbs
• Showing discomfort or stiffness upon rising from a prone position
• Showing lame behavior while walking
• Noticeable stiffness or swelling in joints
• Showing signs of sensitivity or pain when touching certain places
• Certain positions become uncomfortable
• Showing signs of less flexibility
• Hesitancy in using stairs

Qualified veterinary schools provide excellent resources for veterinarians to diagnose whether your dog has arthritis or not.  Additionally, those graduating from accredited vet schools offer palliative solutions to treat your dog if diagnosed with the condition.

Treatment and comfort care that any reputable veterinary school recommends may include:

• Administering anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, or painkillers
• Replenishing cartilage through certain nutritional supplements
• Encouraging low-impact exercise and healthy diet
• Administering weight loss program for obese dogs with arthritis.

Additional treatments for canine arthritis can include:

• Short exercise and play sessions
• Soft bedding
• Provide gentle massages
• Provide hydro-therapy
• Provide dog ramps if stairs become too painful to use.

While causes for arthritis in dogs can be numerous, there are no sure cures. Sometimes injuries can lead to osteoarthritis.  Genetics, diet, and exercise can contribute to arthritis as well. However, with a qualified veterinary school graduates’ diagnosis and treatment regimen, you can reduce your dog’s discomfort and slow the degenerative process.