Arthritis Awareness Month: 15th October to 15th November 2011
Don't Let the weather hold them back!
- The most common cause of Arthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage which covers long bones your pet's joints. This leads to inflammation, bone deformities and fibrosis of the joints resulting in the pain and stiffness we see. Dogs of any age or breed can develop Arthritis is most commonly seen in middle aged to older large breed dogs with the hips, knees, elbows and shoulders being the usual sites affected.
- The sooner we diagnose and address the problem the more we can do to slow its progression and keep your dog pain free and active. Treatment will depend on the severity or stage of Arthritis but may include:
- Weight loss to reduce stress on joints (very important!!)
- Exercise –short regular walks (20mins x 3) and ideally swimming (hydrotherapy)
- Medication –in mild-moderate cases we may recommend a ‘joint supplement’ (glucosamine/chondroitin) or a course of injections (Cartrophen) which can address the underlying disease.
- In more moderate to severe Arthritis cases we may need to use an anti-inflammatory/pain killer(NSAID’s e.g. Carprieve or Metacam) to keep your pet active and comfortable.
- In very advanced complicated cases surgical procedures such as hip replacements can be performed.
- Weight loss to reduce stress on joints (very important!!)
Key Points
- Any age –any breed but more common in older large breed dogs
- Can affect one or multiple joints
- Progressive degenerative condition
- Exercise regime, weight control and medication required to manage.
- 3 to 6 monthly check-ups required.
If you want to talk to any of our vets about Arthritis please feel free to book an appointment. - 01223 361911
