Dog arthritis is also known as dog osteoarthritis. It occurs as
a result of wear and tear on a joint. It involves the loss of the smooth cartilage
that covers and protects the end of the bones in a movable (synovial) joint. The
cartilage has no nerves, so contact with the cartilage of another bone causes no
pain. When the cartilage wears away, the bone is exposed. Since the bone
contains nerve endings, contact between the two exposed bones results in pain
and inflammation, which is canine arthritis.
Dog arthritis is one of the most common sources of chronic pain treated by
veterinarians. While many cases occur in older animals, canine arthritis can
affect pets of any age. Overweight dogs have a higher risk of canine arthritis,
but dogs of all sizes are affected. Although larger breeds are more prone to
canine arthritis, all breeds can develop it.
Diagnosis is by a physical exam by the veterinarian, combined with x-rays.
Below are two pictures of a normal hip and a hip that has
canine arthritis. Get an
accurate diagnosis before you determine the best treatment for canine arthritis.
There are various options for the treatment of canine arthritis. Traditional
medicine involves Rimadyl, which
is controversial. A safer and more holistic approach to canine arthritis
involves chondroprotective agents and vitamin supplements which use glucosamine,
chondroitin, ester-C & MSM, among others. An example is a product called Free &
Easy. It is an excellent commercially tested and approved product effective
at preventing canine arthritis and easing joint pain in dogs. Read
about the amazing recovery of Frederick after using Free & Easy here. Take
action now to prevent or treat the misery of canine arthritis in your dog!
