Canine arthritis, or degenerative joint disease, affects one out of five adult dogs, according to the Arthritis Foundation. The debilitating condition can strike adult dogs at any age. Younger dogs with hip dysplasia can develop this disease early in adulthood, while older dogs can suffer from it because of aging. The most common causes include joint infections and trauma. Arthritis has no cure, but several treatment options can ease your dog's pain.
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Drugs and Supplements
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Drugs and supplements can reduce discomfort, help repair damage, slow the disease's progress and improve mobility.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can be used to control pain. Treatment commonly involves aspirin, which is effective but can cause gastrointestinal side effects. Etodolac and carprofen also can provide relief, although carprofen has been associated with liver toxicity in rare cases.
Chondroprotective agents, such as the supplement Adequan, protect cartilage during repair. Adequan, which is given through injection, can ease inflammation and prevent enzymes from destroying cartilage. Chondroprotective agents and NSAIDs do not interfere with each other and can be taken together to treat severe cases of arthritis.
Lifestyle Changes
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Regular exercise can enhance the benefits of drug therapy and strengthen cartilage. Make sure your dog only gets light exercise, such as swimming. Avoid strenuous exercise, such as running, which could make your dog's condition worse. If your dog is overweight, consult your veterinarian about putting it on a diet to bring its weight down to a healthier level.
An orthopedic foam bed or soft bedding can provide a more comfortable sleeping environment for your dog. Raise water and food bowls to reduce the risk of spine or neck strain. Groom your dog regularly and focus on areas that it can't reach. Set up a dog ramp to help your dog get to higher areas, such as cars, without having to jump. Give your dog massages to ease pain and discomfort.
Surgery
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Dogs with arthritis caused by hip dysplasia can benefit from surgery if drug therapy and lifestyle changes haven't been effective. Femoral head ostectomy involves removing the head of the femur, or thighbone, to eliminate pain resulting from the bone and hip socket grinding together. Triple pelvic osteotomy, a corrective procedure, stabilizes the hip socket by realigning it with the head of the femur. Replacing the hip with a prosthetic device might be necessary if other options don't work or can't be performed.
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