Don’t worry! A diagnosis of arthritis from the vet is not a death sentence for your dog. Arthritis is a common degenerative disease in dogs that affects their joints and can make it harder for them to move. However, with advances in veterinary medicine, arthritic dogs can still live a pain-free and happy life.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis is commonly seen in older dogs, but younger dogs can also develop it. If your dog is limping, having trouble getting up, reluctant to move, has spinal issues, tires easily, is irritable, has muscle atrophy, or is licking at a painful joint, they may have arthritis. Keep an eye on your dog for any changes in behavior that could indicate arthritis.
Body Language
Here are some signs that your dog may be suffering from arthritis:
– Whining
– Weakness
Other Signs
Other signs of arthritis in dogs include limping, difficulty getting up and moving, unwillingness to go up and down stairs or jump into the car, stiffness, unusual behaviors like irritability or aggression, and licking the painful joint.
History of Arthritis in Dogs
The first known cases of arthritis in humans can be traced back to 4500 BC, but the history of arthritis in dogs is less clear. Veterinarians began diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis in dogs in the late 1960s, and since then, there have been more cases of arthritis in dogs. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis is the most common form in both humans and dogs.
Science Behind Dogs Developing Arthritis
Arthritis in dogs occurs as they age and their joints wear down. It can also be caused by obesity, congenital abnormalities, athletic injuries, and trauma. When the cartilage in a joint becomes damaged or wears down, it leads to pain, inflammation, and damage. Dogs’ back legs are often the first to be affected by arthritis because they use them for jumping. Active dogs and overweight dogs are more at risk of developing arthritis.
Training Your Dog to Live with Arthritis
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are things you can do to support your arthritic dog. Make changes to their environment to make it easier for them to move, such as moving their bed to a more accessible spot and using ramps or lifting them into the car. Talk to your vet about joint supplements and anti-inflammatory options like Omega 3 and 9.
“Supporting your arthritic dog can make all the difference in their quality of life.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Arthritis in dogs is common but not a death sentence: An arthritis diagnosis in your dog does not mean the end. With advancements in veterinary medicine, arthritic dogs can lead a pain-free and happy life.
2️⃣ Watch for signs of arthritis: Keep an eye out for signs such as limping, difficulty moving, muscle atrophy, irritability, and licking painful joints. Different dogs may display different behaviors, so it’s important to pay attention to changes in your dog’s behavior.
3️⃣ Support your arthritic dog: Make changes to support your dog’s mobility, such as moving their bed to an accessible spot, using ramps for cars or stairs, and preventing them from jumping on and off furniture. Talk to your vet about joint supplements and anti-inflammatory options like Omega 3 and 9 to help ease their discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. What are some signs that my dog may have arthritis?
– Limping, difficulty getting up and moving, unwillingness to go up and down stairs or jump into the car, stiffness, unusual behaviors such as irritability or aggression, and licking the painful joint are all signs that your dog may have arthritis.
2. Can arthritis in dogs be treated?
– Yes, there are a host of treatment options available to help ease the pain and increase the quality of life for dogs with arthritis.
3. Why are older dogs more commonly affected by arthritis?
– While younger dogs can also develop arthritis, it is more commonly seen in middle-aged to senior pets due to the regular wear and tear on their joints over time.
4. What factors contribute to the development of arthritis in dogs?
– Dogs can develop arthritis due to factors such as obesity, congenital abnormalities, athletic injuries, trauma, and regular wear and tear on their joints as they age.
5. How can I support my dog with arthritis?
– You can support your arthritic dog by making changes that will help them get around easier, such as moving their bed to a more accessible spot, preventing them from jumping on and off furniture, using a ramp to help them get into the car, and lifting smaller dogs in and out. Additionally, you can ask your vet about starting them on joint supplements and anti-inflammatory options like Omega 3 and 9.
