Pet Forum

Let's talk about dog arthritis, also known as canine arthritis. Let's define it and then discuss the causes, symptoms, treatments and pictures of dog arthritis.

What is dog arthritis? Arthritis results from inflammation in the joints and is generally divided into two types, degenerative and inflammatory, according to the source of that irritation.

What causes dog arthritis? Canine arthritis is caused by a result of wear and tear on an otherwise normal joint as the dog ages. This is called primary osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis may also occur as a result of another condition being present, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. Then it is called "secondary osteoarthritis."

What are some symptoms of canine arthritis? Canine arthritis is a very painful joint inflammation and joint degeneration. It is devastating for any dog to deal with. May people can't tell that their dogs have this condition because dogs often have a hard time displaying that they are in pain. They can't exactly walk up and tell you that they are hurting. So what are some of the symptoms of canine arthritis? One of the first symptoms you should notice is changes in behavior. Some of these changes are: trouble getting up, reduced motion, slow moving, avoiding stairs, slow to lie down, walking very carefully, avoiding jumping, playing less or not playing at all, sleeping more often, less excited to see you when you come home, and weight gain. If you notice even one of these symptoms in your dog, take your dog to a vet.

How can dog arthritis be treated? Before trying any treatment options, you should get an accurate diagnosis of the dog's health which is usually done by a physical exam combined with x-rays performed at your veterinarian's office. Get an accurate diagnosis before you determine the treatment for dog health care. Treatment and prevention are personal choices but involve several options when considering the dog's health. Traditional medicine involves the use of Rimadyl. Rimadyl is effective but must be used with caution because it can cause liver failure in some breeds.

Dog arthritis pictures:

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