Canine Arthritis:

Canine arthritis. Also known as canine osteoarthritis, the mere thought may send a shiver down your spine. Or more importantly, down your dog’s (well – almost). Canine arthritis is the result of wear and tear on a joint. As your dog gets older, the possibility of getting canine arthritis will increase.

Whether it’s known as degenerative joint disease or dog arthritis, the main characteristic of canine arthritis is degenerative – the loss of cartilage covering the ends of the bones in a movable joint. Since cartilage lacks nerves, when it touches other cartilage there’s no pain. However, when cartilage wears down to nothing, the bone is exposed. Therefore, instead of cartilage touching cartilage, bones start to touch bones. This results in pain for your dog and is the definition of canine arthritis.

In fact, canine arthritis results in chronic pain so it’s no surprise that many veterinarians report it’s one of the most common ailments they treat associated with chronic pain. Although it’s prevalent in older dogs, dog arthritis may also impact younger dogs. As for the diagnosis? It’s typically done by your veterinarian during a physical exam and x-rays. Once your dog is diagnosed with canine arthritis, there are a few options for treatment. Some veterinarians may recommend vitamin supplements, or acupuncture, others may recommend Rimadyl. Some dog arthritis treatments in the form of pills may contain anti dog arthritis supplements to help prevent the crippling effect of dog arthritis. Above all, check with your veterinarian for their diagnosis as well as treatment.

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ safety and well being. For more information about canine arthritis or dog arthritis and to diagnose your pet please consult with your vet.