Arthritis is a progressive, often debilitating and painful condition of the joints. In dogs, arthritis is most common as they age. Treatment varies depending on the animal's condition and prior health problems. Natural remedies can be helpful, particularly if the suffering pooch is too frail or presents with complicated health concerns that may be adversely affected by standard medications. Vet Info recommends consulting a knowledgeable veterinarian before beginning any treatment options.
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Omega Fatty Acid Supplements
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According to Vet Info, omega fatty acid supplements can help manage the painful swelling and inflammation associated with arthritis, as well as promote heart health.
Glucosamine
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Glucosamine is a supplement specifically used for arthritic conditions to help slow the disease's progression. In canines, glucosamine promotes bone and joint restoration. Higher quality, liquid supplements at pharmaceutical strength offer the most benefits, according the Vet Info website, because more of the supplement can be assimilated at a faster rate.
Chondroitin Sulfate
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Chondroitin sulfate is a natural remedy used for a variety of painful conditions. While it does not slow the progression of arthritis on its own, it can help relieve the associated discomfort. Vet Info recommends using chondroitin sulfate in conjunction with glucosamine and omega fatty acids.
Anit-inflammatory Herbs
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Several herbs have been used to treat canine arthritis because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Some are also believed to boost your dog's natural resistance to inflammation, such as Feverfew, cayenne, and turmeric. Other helpful anti-inflammatory herbs include devil's claw and licorice root.
Other Herbs and Supplements
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Garlic is given to dogs with arthritis to help strengthen their immune systems and stimulate the growth of healthy cells, according to Natural Dog Health Remedies. Alfalfa, parsley and St. John's wort are also believed to help reduce arthritis pain and/or speed the healing process.
Combination Supplements
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The Natural Dog Health Remedies website recommends the following herbal combinations for canine arthritis: Dr. Harvey's Ortho-Flex for Dogs, which contains garlic, alfalfa, devil's claw, licorice, burdock, dandelion, cayenne and other herbs, and Only Natural Pet Easy Strider for Dogs, which contains--among other ingredients--cayenne, ginger, turmeric, yucca, devil's claw, black cohosh, Dong Quai, black cherry and glucosamine.
Homeopathic Treatments
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Homeopathic treatments for dogs with arthritis include Rhus toxicodendron 6C, Silicea 30C and Belladonna 30C. Rhus toxicodendron 6C is used for dogs with chronic arthritis, pain, and stiffness that is particularly obvious after a long rest period. Silicea 30C is for older dogs with progressively worsening symptoms as they age, such as hip dysplasia, joint arthritis, and spondylitis (arthritis of the spine). Belladonna 30C is used for canines with symptoms that have come on suddenly and rapidly, causing irritability and associated with a fever.
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