Arthritis is not limited to humans. Many dogs suffer from stiff joints and restricted movement as they grow older, due simply to general wear and tear. However, once diagnosed, there are a variety of treatments that can bring relief from pain and discomfort to an arthritic dog.
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Definition
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Arthritis is a general term used to describe joint inflammation. It can be acute, which is often reversible, or refer to degenerative joint disease, which is a chronic condition involving permanent damage to the joint. In healthy animals, the cartilage lining the joint is smooth but with arthritis the cartilage is thin and scarred, leading to friction and inflammation. Movement of the joint becomes limited due to thickening of the capsule surrounding the joint and the formation of rough new bone. What this means for the dog is increasing pain during prolonged movement. Veterinarian Pete Wedderburn points out that although dogs don't die directly of arthritis, severe cases can lead to a decision to put a dog to sleep due to the debilitating effects of the disease.
Diagnosis
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The classic signs of arthritis are lameness, stiffness in joints and difficulty in rising after resting. Dogs cannot tell a veterinarian where and when it hurts and therefore an examination will involve manipulation of the joints. An X ray will confirm a diagnosis and is useful for checking the progress of the condition.
Weight Control
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As arthritis is often the result of wear and tear on the joints, it is more commonly seen in older and overweight dogs. For this reason it is important to adjust the dog's diet to reduce its weight to lessen the load on the affected joints. A light or senior diet is recommended and the dog's weight should be regularly monitored. Supplements such as green lip muscle extract, glucosamine and chondroitin have shown benefits in limited trials.
Medication
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There are a number of drugs prescribed to ease pain and reduce inflammation. These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Metacam, which are given in liquid form; glucocorticoids (steroids or cortisone), which are more powerful but come with more obvious side effects; and cartilage stimulating drugs, which promote healing of damaged cartilage.
Exercise
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Although movement is restricted, moderate exercise does help to keep joints mobile. Little and often seems to be the key. Veterinarian Pete Wedderburn recommends having the dog exercise for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day rather than an extended exercise every morning.
Alternative Treatments
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There are a variety of alternative therapies, including acupuncture and magnetized "Bioflow" collars, which are said to help with pain relief, although there is little research to back up these claims. Consideration might also be given to hydrotherapy, massage, homeopathy and physiotherapy.
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