Osteoarthritis is the leading joint disease in dogs and a primary cause of chronic pain. This condition affects approximately 20% of dogs over the age of one. While larger breeds may experience more pronounced symptoms, dogs of any size or breed are at risk as they age. However, research shows that osteoarthritis is particularly common in older, overweight dogs. This illness is not only painful but also highly distressing for your dog, leaving many owners with pressing questions: What exactly is osteoarthritis? What signs should I look out for? Is it possible to cure my dog? We‘ve compiled all the answers you’re seeking in this blog. Keep reading!
Osteoarthritis in dogs or osteoarthritis is a form of rheumatism in dogs in which the cartilage of the The joints become thinner and softer. This means it wears out and absorbs less shock when your dog plays or runs. So your dog literally becomes less agile, just like rust makes a bicycle bumpy. In addition to wear and tear, inflammation often occurs in the knees, elbows, hips, toes and vertebrae of the back and neck. Very painful for your dog!
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs?
Symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs are:
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- moans or squeaks when touched,
- reduced body movement,
- slow running,
- regular breaks during walks,
- more difficult to get up or lie down,
- behavior changes,
- Kreupelheid or stiffness (often after long rest)
- lick your joints,
- decrease in muscle mass,
- thickening of the joints,
- Worsening of symptoms in cold, wet weather
Unfortunately, it is difficult to recognize osteoarthritis in your dog because he can hide his pain very well.
It is also often assumed that osteoarthritis is normal as the dog ages. However, this is incorrect! Your dog can suffer greatly from the pain of osteoarthritis. If your dog shows symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian.
How long can a dog live with osteoarthritis?
“A dog with arthritis lives as long as other dogs. So it’s not a fatal disease! However, your dog may be in so much pain that euthanasia is necessary. And his Quality of life? This does not improve due to inflammation and joint wear. Even a dog with joint problems needs comprehensive care!
What medications should my dog take for osteoarthritis?
The main goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms to provide dogs with the best quality of life possible. There is currently no curative treatment, so osteoarthritis in dogs cannot be cured with drugs. For osteoarthritis, treatment requires a multimodal approach. This means that several factors play a role: not just drug treatment Anti-inflammatories and painkillers are important, but also weight control, Food supplementsa change in diet and exercise. An example of food supplements that can be used they are chondroitin, glucosamine and omega-3. The latter acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and is contained in salmon oil.
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Under no circumstances should you experiment with drugs intended for humans. Painkillers like paracetamol, for example, are deadly to dogs.
Can my dog be cured of osteoarthritis?
“Arthritis in dogs is a shame incurable. Cartilage tissue has limited self-healing capabilities. However, you can manage your dog’s symptoms for as long as possible with the right medications, supplements, diet and lifestyle.
7 tips on how to take care of your dog if he suffers from osteoarthritis
In addition to the treatment recommended by your veterinarian, you can improve your dog’s quality of life if he suffers from osteoarthritis by following these tips:
1. Provide a quiet environment
Your dog may be more sensitive to noise due to osteoarthritis. Give your dog a quiet place, away from other animals and children.
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2. Be patient
Give your dog the time and support he needs. For example, don’t get upset if your walks are slower due to osteoarthritis.
3. Massage your dog
Giving your dog a light massage will promote blood circulation. This gives your dog a feeling of calm and relaxation, and is also a time for both of you. However, it is important to perform the massage correctly. Incorrect massage can cause pain.
4. Give your dog a good place to sleep
Make sure your dog can lie down and sleep sweetly. There are special beds for dogs with osteoarthritis, such as water beds and hammocks. This makes it easier for your dog to get up from his sleeping spot.
5. Prevent obesity
Osteoarthritis is more common in overweight dogs. You can reduce suffering by helping him lose weight. The less weight your dog has to carry, the less strain he will put on his joints and bones. Be sure to ask your vet for help with a special diet plan if your dog is too heavy.
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6. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise
Sufficient exercise is also essential for dogs with osteoarthritis. However, it is advisable to regularly take short walks rather than one long walk.
7. Dress your dog appropriately
Symptoms of osteoarthritis may be more intense in cold, wet weather. To help your dog, you can keep him warm by putting a coat on him when you go out for a walk.
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