My Dog Has Bursitis

Dogs most often develop bursitis as the result of physical trauma or an autoimmune condition. Bursitis occurs when the small small, fluid filled sacks located at the joints become inflamed or infected. These sacks are known as bursae. Although in some cases bursitis is chronic, it usually responds well to treatment. If you suspect that your dog may have bursitis, take him to the vet.

  1. Symptoms

    • Bursitis causes the joints to swell and become painful. You may first suspect something is wrong when your dog's activity level decreases. Exercise tends to exacerbate the condition, and can make movement very difficult. Your dog may may also lose her appetite. Over time, the swelling around the joints will become larger and firmer. Eventually, the bursae may rupture and drain. If this happens, you will notice bumps under your dog's skin.

    Diagnosis

    • The vet will be able to determine whether or not your dog has bursitis based on the information that you give them and with a quick examination of the affected areas. In some cases, they may take a sample of the bursae liquid to determine whether or not an infection is present.

    Treatment

    • Most of the time, bursitis clears up on its own with adequate rest. However, your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to help speed up the recovery time and bring down the swelling. If your dog's condition was the result of an infection, antibiotics will be prescribed to him. If the swollen bursae do not return to their normal size, the vet may drain or surgically remove them. Although they are generally harmless after treatment, enlarged bursae can be cumbersome.

    Prognosis

    • If your dog is otherwise healthy and recieves early treatment, chance are that she will recover and the bursitis will not return. In certain dogs, particularly when they are obese, bursitis is more likely to be chronic.