Osteoarthritis is the third most common problem in dogs reported by pet insurance groups. Osteoarthritis is seen more commonly in older dogs, but even young dogs with elbow or hip dysplasia can have osteoarthritis. On radiographs, there will be bone spurs and chips and joint swelling. The joints may feel enlarged or hot on palpation.
Most people think arthritis symptoms are worse in cold, damp weather, but there are actually some forms of arthritis that are worse in hot, dry weather. No pet should have to suffer from the pain of arthritis, as there are so many treatments available to help them. Traditional veterinarians will tend to grab an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) as the first line of defense, as these medications will decrease inflammation and pain. But they come at a cost; many dogs will develop liver or kidney disease secondary to drug usage.
There are many alternatives available. In my practice, we use supplements like glucosamine/chondroitin/hyaluronic acid, colostrum, PSGAGS, and omega 3 fatty acids to help rebuild joints and decrease inflammation. We use therapies like acupuncture, cold laser therapy, and chiropractic manipulation to decrease pain. Weight management is very important for these dogs, so a species-appropriate diet with an appropriate amount of caloric density is paramount. Chinese herbs and homeopathic remedies can also be used to decrease pain and inflammation.
Don’t settle for poorly managed pain for your dog. For more information, check out by book From Needles To Natural, the chapter on degenerative joint disease.
somewhere i have a great hip dysplasia photo. If not i'll try to find one at work
Most people think arthritis symptoms are worse in cold, damp weather, but there are actually some forms of arthritis that are worse in hot, dry weather. No pet should have to suffer from the pain of arthritis, as there are so many treatments available to help them. Traditional veterinarians will tend to grab an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) as the first line of defense, as these medications will decrease inflammation and pain. But they come at a cost; many dogs will develop liver or kidney disease secondary to drug usage.
There are many alternatives available. In my practice, we use supplements like glucosamine/chondroitin/hyaluronic acid, colostrum, PSGAGS, and omega 3 fatty acids to help rebuild joints and decrease inflammation. We use therapies like acupuncture, cold laser therapy, and chiropractic manipulation to decrease pain. Weight management is very important for these dogs, so a species-appropriate diet with an appropriate amount of caloric density is paramount. Chinese herbs and homeopathic remedies can also be used to decrease pain and inflammation.
Don’t settle for poorly managed pain for your dog. For more information, check out by book From Needles To Natural, the chapter on degenerative joint disease.
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somewhere i have a great hip dysplasia photo. If not i'll try to find one at work
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