Approximately 40% of all dogs have arthritis. Could your dog be suffering in silence?
What Is Arthritis?
There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis, essentially the same chronic condition that humans suffer from. Osteoarthritis is normally found in older dogs, although it can affect youngsters too.
Healthy joints are covered by cartilage, a rubbery material that creates a cushion between the bones and provides a smooth surface for movement. When osteoarthritis occurs, this cartilage breaks down, causing swelling, stiffness, movement problems, and increasing pain, which steadily spreads throughout the body. It’s usually caused by natural wear and tear of the joints, but can also be linked to injuries, as well as joint abnormalities such as hip dysplasia.
How Do I Spot The Symptoms?
Dogs are very good at hiding pain, which means they might not whimper or look obviously lame. Because our furry friends are four-legged (unlike us!), they are more adept at redistributing their weight to cope with discomfort. As a result, a limp can be harder to spot. Nevertheless, there are some signs to look out for:
- Subdued or uncharacteristically grumpy behaviour
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or when it’s cold
- Changes in posture when running or laying down
- Lameness, limping or hobbling
- Less enthusiasm on walks or at playtime
- Taking more breaks when moving around
- Reluctance to climb stairs, jump onto the sofa, or trouble getting into the back of the car
- Sleepiness or general lack of energy
- Climbing down the stairs by angling their body to the side, descending one stair at a time, and/or stopping for a break
- Persistently licking their fur and/or joints
Click the image below to download an osteoarthritis checklist:
The Good News
With proper management, the effects of osteoarthritis can be substantially reduced; enabling dogs to live happier and more active lives. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but working in partnership with your vet to devise a complete care program can improve the quality of life for your dog.
The most effective osteoarthritis management often requires a combined approach. Our most common recommendations include:
- Monthly Beransa injections. As a monoclonal antibody, Beransa targets and neutralises a specific protein involved in the pain process, helping to reduce pain and inflammation within the joint.
- Monthly Catrophen injections. Cartrophen works to modify the underlying arthritic processes, relieving pain and lameness by stopping cartilage breakdown and stimulating the body’s production of cartilage and joint fluid.
- Daily 4Cyte supplementation. A scientifically proven supplement that targets the underlying causes of osteoarthritis to manage pain and reduce further arthritis development. 4Cyte comes in either flavoured granules or liquid.
- Feeding Hills j/d Mobility food. A clinically proven premium diet that is enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and antioxidants to help preserve joint cartilage and build lean muscle
- Maintaining a healthy weight relieves pressure on joints and reduces ongoing damage. View the body condition score chart to check
- Prescription medication to reduce inflammation and help relieve pain. Speak to your veterinarian regarding options
- Gentle and low-impact exercise, such as swimming, hydrotherapy, and walking on soft surfaces, to maintain muscle strength and stimulate joint health
- Comfortable, supportive, and warm bedding such as memory foam mattresses. Keep them warm to reduce joint stiffness
- Modifications around the home and car include ramps, steps, and more non-slip surfaces like rugs. Products like Paw Friction can help them grip slippery surfaces