As your dog ages, many conditions may affect him. Degenerative joint disease, commonly known as arthritis, is one of them. Arthritis is a painful, inflammatory condition that can rob your pet of an active, healthy life in his senior years. There are medications that can reduce the inflammation and pain, thus increasing the likelihood of his older years being an enjoyable time.
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Corticosteroids
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Steroids are among the most frequently used drugs in veterinary medicine. Unfortunately, they are one of the most abused drugs. Steroids should only be used for short periods to relieve the pain of arthritis in older dogs. They are effective when used sparingly and appropriately. Long-term use can decrease collagen production, leading to the further destruction of arthritic joints. Over-use of steroids can also suppress the immune system, greatly increasing the risk of infection. Many times, veterinarians will use a steroid injection to treat the symptoms of arthritis while failing to diagnose and treat the disease.
Non-Steroidal, Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDS)
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These include over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, naproxen sodium and ibuprophen, as well as the prescription drugs Rimadyl, Ectodolac and Ectogesic. These medications, like steroids, work by inhibiting chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. There is controversy whether these medications should be used in dogs, as they can prove highly toxic, leading to gastrointestinal problems and liver damage. These medications are effective in reducing inflammation and pain but should only be used as prescribed by your veterinarian and while under his care. Your dog will need to be monitored carefully.
Glucosamine
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Glucosamine is the most used supplement in the treatment of arthritis. It helps inhibit the destructive enzymes that destroy cartilage and stimulates the integration of synovial fluid. Glucosamine has been proven to be as effective as NSAIDS in the treatment of arthritis in older dogs, without the side effects. Avoid the generic brands as these products are not regulated for quality.
Chondroitin Sulfate
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Chondroitin is the second most commonly used supplement in the treatment of canine arthritis. Chondroitin is a major component found in joint cartilage. Like glucosamine, it inhibits the enzymes that are destructive to cartilage. Often, it is combined with glucosamine because it is felt that the combination of the two greatly enhances the effectiveness of the treatment. As your dog ages, the production of chondroitin decreases. Supplementation can be helpful in an older dog with arthritis. As with glucosamine, opt for the name brand version to assure quality. Both chondroitin and glucosamine take about four to eight weeks to begin working. NSAIDS are often used in the interim to relieve pain.
Nutritional Supplements
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Nutritional supplementation is a natural way to help repair and nourish damaged and inflamed joint cartilage. Shark cartilage contains chemicals that help inhibit new blood vessel formation. Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that requires blood vessels to thrive. Inhibiting the formation of the vessels is thought to benefit older dogs with arthritis. Bovine cartilage, which is high in glycosaminoglycans, helps the body to repair damaged joints. Perna, a shellfish high in concentrated amounts of chondroitins and other nutrients, is an effective anti-inflammatory.
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