Arthritis is a prevalent condition that affects a significant number of dogs, particularly as they age, leading to joint pain and inflammation. This condition, characterized by inflammation, swelling, or tenderness in one or more joints, can stem from various causes including genetics, age, infections, diseases, injuries, or overuse. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how to help your canine companion manage arthritis and improve their overall joint health.
Understanding Dog Arthritis Treatment
A multimodal approach, combining various medications and joint supplements, is the most effective strategy for managing arthritis in dogs, ensuring a good quality of life and successful treatment. Alongside veterinary care, adjustments to your dog’s daily routine and environment can significantly alleviate their discomfort. It is crucial to consult with your veterinarian before initiating any treatment plan.
The Importance of Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is paramount in alleviating joint pain for dogs. Obesity exacerbates pressure on the joints, leading to increased pain and discomfort. By controlling your dog’s weight, you can help ease their pain as they mature. Discuss your pet’s ideal weight and long-term weight management strategies with your veterinarian.
Tailoring Exercise for Joint Health
Physical therapy, massage, and consistent, moderate daily exercise can be beneficial for relieving joint pain in dogs. Opt for short walks, around 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times a day, maintaining a regular schedule without high-impact activities like running or jumping. This approach minimizes stress and pain. Consulting a certified small animal physical rehabilitation practitioner can provide a tailored exercise program, including passive stretching, range of motion exercises, and underwater treadmill sessions.
Exploring Physical Therapy Options
Veterinary physical rehabilitation aims to restore or enhance mobility, function, and quality of life for dogs. Key goals include weight reduction, pain and inflammation management, improved range of motion, enhanced balance, and increased muscle strength. Common techniques encompass passive range of motion exercises, treadmill work, underwater treadmill therapy, massage, and specialized therapeutic exercises.
Arthritis Medications for Dogs
While there is no cure for arthritis in dogs, several medications can effectively manage joint pain and inflammation.
- Librela: This monthly injection, administered by your veterinarian, is an anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibody therapy designed to treat osteoarthritis-related pain in dogs.
- Corticosteroids: In certain situations, steroids may be prescribed for short-term or long-term use to combat inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. It is vital to avoid using steroids and NSAIDs concurrently due to the risk of stomach ulcers. Always inform your veterinarian about all medications your pet is currently taking.
Beneficial Dog Arthritis Supplements
When selecting supplements for your dog’s arthritis, prioritize those containing:
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- Glucosamine hydrochloride
- Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, including Eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
- Chondroitin sulfate
- Green-lipped mussel
These ingredients are known to support canine joint health. For breeds predisposed to arthritis, starting joint supplements as early as eight weeks of age is often recommended. Always consult your vet before introducing any supplements or dietary additives, as they can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Nutritional Support: Dog Food for Arthritis
While some over-the-counter large breed diets may include omegas or glucosamine and chondroitin, prescription veterinary diets are specifically formulated to support joint mobility.
Considering Alternative Therapies
For pet parents of dogs with arthritis, alternative therapies can complement primary treatments and help alleviate pain. These may include:
- Acupuncture: The insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body has shown clinical evidence in reducing chronic dog joint pain when used alongside a multimodal therapy approach.
- Laser Therapy: Low-level lasers utilize penetrating light to enhance blood flow and oxygen to the joints, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.
- Shockwave Therapy: This treatment employs high-intensity sound waves to decrease inflammation and manage arthritis.
- Electrical Stimulation: Also known as neuromuscular stimulation, this technique aids in strengthening muscles and mitigating muscle wasting in dogs with mobility issues. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can also be used for pain relief.
Lifestyle Modifications for Comfort
Simple adjustments to your home environment can significantly reduce your dog’s pain and anxiety.
- Nonslip Surfaces: Dogs experiencing arthritis may fear walking on slippery floors like hardwood or tile due to limited mobility and the risk of painful falls. Implementing nonslip mats, rugs, and carpets can help them navigate the house more confidently. Placing these rugs at the top and bottom of stairs, and near furniture, can reduce the impact on their joints.
- Orthopedic Dog Beds: Low-profile orthopedic dog beds can ease joint pain and make it easier for your dog to get up. Ensure your pet’s resting areas have thick, comfortable bedding with nonslip mats to prevent injury or pain when standing.
The most effective arthritis protocol for your dog will likely involve a combination of medications, therapies, and supportive aids to ensure their comfort and happiness. The ultimate goal is to provide your furry companion with a high quality of life and pain-free days. Discuss with your veterinarian to determine the optimal blend of therapies and arthritis medication for your dog.
Written by: Tiffany Tupler, DVM, CBCC-KA
