A degenerative joint disease, arthritis inflicts dogs just as it does humans. Much of the inflammation and degradation of the cartilage in the joint is what causes the pain and disability in the dog as it ages. Having a cartilage that has been injured lends itself to releasing inflammation-causing enzymes. This disrupts the elasticity and the ability of the joint capsule to nourish and heal itself.

Dogs have a tendency to not vocalize if they are in pain from sore joints. Some of the signs may be a dog that is reluctant to go on long walks anymore. The procedure of laying down can become quite an ordeal for them, struggling to get down and to get up. Stairs become difficult to navigate, they may show signs of lameness and to jump up or down from couches or beds becomes impossible.

Dogs can get arthritis in the hips, knees and elbows. Once a puppy is a year or two old, dysplasia which is a developmental disease, can be diagnosed. Arthritic symptoms can be lessened but they will however, never go away. Once the damage is done, it needs to be managed. By following three steps, a dog’s quality of life can be enhanced and the progression of arthritis can be slowed down. The three actions to take are weight control, exercise and pain management if necessary.

A normal joint is made up of a joint capsule, synovial fluid, articular cartilage and subchondral bone. The integrity of a joint capsule is important for the production of hyaluronic acid and defense mechanisms, and a smooth gliding function. Proper synovial fluid production is required to ensure metabolic waste removal from the cartilage as well as supplying nutrients and lubrication.

A familiar term for Osteoarthritis is the wear and tear disease. Further pain and damage in the joint is caused by the subchondral bone becoming thicker and placing a heavier load upon the cartilage. This joint capsular thickening from the low-grade inflammatory process, ends up creating a decreased range of motion and reduction in functioning.

Chondroprotectants and Nutraceuticals are effective and popular for treating dogs with arthritis. A thorough treatment plan for arthritis includes weight loss, exercise modification, physical rehabilitation, pain management, nutritional therapy and possibly surgery.

The abnormal joint surface will benefit from a reduced amount of weight placed on it. This is where weight control is of paramount importance. Hip dysplasia will reap enormous benefits from a reduction in the weight load. One of the most beneficial forms of exercise for a dog with arthritis is swimming. Without impacting and stressing the joints with unnecessary weight, the dogs maintain a good range of motion and are comfortable in the process.

Omega-3 fatty acids help with dog arthritis pain. They prevent inflammation, degeneration of the joint, normalize the immune system, and prevent abnormal cell growth. Good sources of Omega-3 are found in green leafy vegetables, flax seeds/oil, green-lipped mussels and in cold water fish oils. The quality of oils will vary; look for organic cold pressed oils packaged in light resistant containers.

Nutraceuticals such as chondroitin and glucosamine also have anti-inflammatory properties. They are effective in slowing the progression of arthritis and can be used with other products. It has been shown that they reduce the swelling and help with the pain. Glucosamine HCL is one of the best since it is easily absorbed into the joint.

Some herbal supplements that have been used for centuries in India are Boswellia and Tumeric. These naturally fight joint inflammation and are effective in reducing pain. Devils Claw and Ginger are also very helpful in the treatment of arthritis.

If you want to change the course of the disease, relieve the pain from it and use something totally natural, Acupuncture has been around for centuries. The results on animals is astounding.

Homeopathy offers a few treatments to look into. Rhus Tox, is good for joints that are worse in cold, damp weather and stiff upon arising. Bryonia is for when the arthritis is worse with exercise and warm weather. Causticum is useful for the older dog that has less pain with heat. Check with your Holistic Veterinarian as to the correct dosages for your dog.

If we modify the home to accommodate our companion dogs, it helps make their life much easier. One of the easiest modifications to make and utilize is the ramp. This prevents the dog from having to navigate up and down stairs. Raised feeding dishes and water bowels help reduce neck and back strain. Stiff, achy and painful joints are helped with heated beds. After all modalities have been exhausted, drugs or surgery may be useful. For the well-being of your dog, do everything else before that route.

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