Home & Family Facts and Notes

Osteoarthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is a progressive condition in which the cartilage in the joint is slowly broken down, and bony changes occur. Any dog with a developmental or congenital joint problem, like dysplasia or patella luxation, is more prone to developing osteoarthritis. Dogs who have had injury to a joint such as a fracture involving the joint or a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the knee will be also more likely to develop DJD.

The signs of osteoarthritis can vary depending up on the joints involved, the age and size of the dog, and the severity of the disease. In general, the first signs may be an altered gait, since the dog will try to put more of its weight on the unaffected limbs. Many times the dog may find it difficult to get up after lying down or would be unable to jump up into the car or may have difficulty to go up or down stairs. Depending upon the amount of pain the dog is experiencing, there may be changes in appetite and behavior. Some dogs will lick or bite at the area that is painful. Some will seek out warmth or soft places to sleep.

There are some recommended commercial brands to help relieve arthritis in dogs. Hill’s (Rx/d) and Purina (JM Joint Mobility) are formulas made for this purpose. The most important joint supplements have been added to the dog food. If you decide to give your dog supplements instead, then go for the weight control formula because that will help his joints too.

It is hard to watch your old friend limp and whimper when he or she walks. Pay attention to his movements and his behavior. Your dog will let you know when the joints are hurting, but only you can help them out and give them the relief they need. With the right medications your dog will not be as good as new, but they will feel less pain.

Arthritis doesn’t have to slow your dog down, take steps when they’re younger to prevent the irreversible damaged caused by arthritis.

Tags: family, abode