How To Prevent Arthritis In Dogs?

How To Prevent Arthritis in Dogs?

Arthritis is the most common cause of inactivity and grumpiness in dogs. This disease makes your pet extremely tired and lifeless. Most of the times, it leads to limping, spinal issues, muscle atrophy and irritability in your furry pal thereby changing his behavior. Pets tend to become more aloof and sad when suffering from this kind of discomfort. Although they don’t share their ailments with others, as their activity level slows down you can easily make out that they have some issue. Once detected, how can you treat Arthritis in your dog?

An arthritic joint can be cured only by surgery, however, efforts are made to lower the inflammation that causes pain and discomfort in dogs. By administering various steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), arthritis pain can be reduced significantly in pets.

There are generally three treatments available for arthritis:

1.Corticosteroids

2.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

3.Joint supplements

  • Corticosteroids were earlier used for pain management in arthritic dogs. Because they have a lot of side effects, their use is now restricted to only emergency situations.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work on decreasing prostaglandins which are the main cause of pain in arthritis. NSAIDs revive the pet and bring their agility back. A new drug called Grapiprant has shown amazing results in chronic arthritis pain. Other commonly used NSAIDs include Novox, Rimadyl, Deramaxx.
  • Joint supplements with Omega 3 fatty acids are generally administered to pets suffering from swelling, pain, and inflammation of joints. These supplements are known to strengthen the bones and have proved beneficial for other pet body organs as well.

There are other joint supplements present in the market that work as preventive measures for arthritis. They nourish and strengthen joint cartilages and keep the joint moist and lubricated. Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two main ingredients you must watch out for. They work best for joint nourishment.

Few More Ways To Prevent Arthritis

Another great way to lessen the severity of pain in pets is by making them lose weight. More weight puts unwanted pressure on joints which worsens the condition. An optimum weight will thus ensure that the joints are not under stress. Swimming is one of the best exercises to reduce weight and manage arthritis in pets. However, do make sure if the pet is comfortable enough.

Also, make sure you provide comfortable bedding to your pet so that the pressure points are relieved while your pet snoozes.

Nobody likes their pet to be dull and grumpy. They are the best source of entertainment in our otherwise mundane life. When they lose their spark, the complete family also does. Thus, keeping them disease free will ensure a healthy and lively household filled with lots of laughter and happiness.