Arthritis in dogs is not uncommon; here are the signs to spot and what you can do to help.
Osteoarthritis, which happens with age, is fairly common in human beings. Believe it or not, arthritis in dogs is also not uncommon. As your pet dog ages, it might develop this disease. Thankfully, there are several signs you can look out for to catch it early and numerous ways to treat and manage it.
Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis in dogs happens most around the hips, shoulders, knees, and elbows. It is the degeneration of the surrounding cartilage and synovial fluid that pads and lubricates the movement within the joints. The result is a painful grinding of the joint bones against one another as the dog tries to walk or move. The disease may happen due to old age, but can also be because of genetic makeup, injury, infection, cancer, or immune disease.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
Animals tend to hide any sign of pain or weakness since it would make them look vulnerable to attack in the wild. Although cats have a reputation for hiding sickness, dogs do so just as much. The professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine can see subtle signs of canine discomfort, but you can also look these three main signs:
- Your dog might be less active than usual. He might be reluctant to play or run around, and he might lag behind when you’re out walking or even start limping. There would be a change in behavior concerning physical activity and ability.
- Your pet may also be more touchy or aggressive than usual. You may see a change in behavior concerning temperament; an otherwise placid, friendly, and good-natured dog might suddenly be more guarded or aggressive when someone goes to touch a painful spot.
- The dog might also hide while in pain or lick the affected area. He might yelp when touched there also.
Pain Management & Treatment
While treatments can help to improve a pet’s condition, they cannot ultimately cure arthritis in dogs. Treatments include prescription medications that help stabilize and restore cartilage, surgery as extreme as hip replacements, and physical therapy. Therapy is highly beneficial for arthritic canines to intentionally strengthen and maintain joint movement the right way. Meanwhile, owners should help their dog maintain a healthy weight, regular exercise, and assistance around the house. For more information, Everhart Veterinary Medicine in Baltimore and Pasadena, Maryland, is happy to see you and your pet.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!