Have you noticed your dog showing less interest in leash walks, or running and playing? Does he/she appear to be a little slower these days? Don’t assume that age is the reason. Your dog may be suffering needlessly from joint pain and lack of mobility issues. Arthritis for dogs affects over 12 million dogs annually. They can’t tell you their problem, but you, as a pet owner, need to become aware of your dog’s needs and take steps to see that appropriate treatment is followed so your dog can lead a less painful and more enjoyable life. Arthritis is not just a condition, but a chronic disease. It does not go away, but it can be managed and requires life long treatment.

What does arthritis for dogs mean? The hip, knee and ankle joints in pets are the joints most commonly affected by the deterioration of cartilage. Cartilage is the spongy, protective cushion between the bones where joints meet. When the cartilage begins to break down, that is, to disintegrate, the condition is known as arthritis. As the cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub together, which causes inflammation, pain and stiffness, and in advanced cases, lameness.

In the absence of a dialog with your pet, your observance of your pet’s behavior is critical to determining whether or not he/she may be suffering from stiffness, lack of mobility or joint pain. Before taking your dog to the veterinarian, see if your dog has any of the following, common symptoms of a possible arthritic condition:

* Hesitates to go up or down stairs

* Avoids jumping up on furniture or into the car

* Tiring easily during walks or walking more slowly than usual

* Taking longer to get moving after resting or sleep

* Prefers lying to sitting or standing

* Limping

There are other, more subtle symptoms that may also be indicators that your pet is experiencing joint immobility or pain issues. Weight gain and extensive sleeping, less enthusiasm for play and disinterest in general are also signs to watch for. Keep notes, and if your pet continues to exhibit these symptoms for longer than 2 weeks, take her to the veterinarian for an arthritis evaluation. Arthritis treatment for dogs will vary depending on the age and condition of your pet, so you need to get a proper diagnosis from the vet first, and then you will want to follow the management plan that is prescribed for your pet.

Your veterinarian may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which are a common form of pain medication for dogs. He or she may also recommend over the counter treatments and foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin and Omega fatty acids. These have all been proven to bring pain relief for dogs. Your dog’s weight is an important factor, as extra weight puts a painful strain on already sore joints. A safe weight loss target is fifteen percent of body weight over a period of six months. A reduced calorie diet with high fiber will help your pet lose the extra pounds. And don’t feed your dog table scraps and human food. It’s not healthy for him and is contributing to his degenerative disease.

Besides prescriptions, supplements and diet, exercise is an essential part of your dog’s life. Just because those joints are not as mobile as they once were, does not mean your pet can do without exercise. Low impact activities, like leash walking or swimming, allow for good range of motion on joints and building muscle, without stressing out the joints. Daily exercise is better than 3 times a week of strenuous activity. Depending on how advanced the condition is, your pet may benefit from a slow warm up to get the muscles warmed and the joints moving more freely before taking a brisk walk or slower paced run. Cold, damp weather may intensify the joint stiffness. On those days, you may want to give your dog a muscle warm up indoors before proceeding outside for exercise. You might also consider a pet sweater that covers the affected joints and keeps the muscles warmer.

Your veterinarian may prescribe massage or physical therapy, which have proven to be very beneficial therapies in pain relief for dogs, as part of your dog’s treatment. The veterinary staff will show you how to massage and perform physical therapy to relax your dog’s stiff muscles and promote a better range of motion in the joints. When beginning this type of therapy, remember to take it slowly; you need to build trust with your pet. You can start by petting him around and on the area where you intend to work. You will gently work up to kneading the muscles around the joint, using your fingertips in a small, circular motion. Gradually work your way out to the surrounding muscles. At all times, massage and physical therapy should be done in a warm, relaxed and safe environment. Make this experience as comfortable as possible for both you and your dog.

Managed arthritis treatment for dogs can ensure that your dog’s remaining years are active and enjoyable for her, for you and for the whole family. Lifestyle changes that support a healthy dog and treatments that inhibit the deterioration of cartilage and alleviate joint pain are your focus. You and your veterinarian are the best hope your dog has for a long and healthy life. Arthritis doesn’t go away, but it needn’t be debilitating or crippling when you follow a prescribed plan for your pet’s care.