Osteoarthritis

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative change in the joints that can result from wear and tear, injury or inflammation. It involves damage or destruction of the cartilage that protects the joint surfaces and ensures smooth movement. This leads to irritation of the ends of the bones, which can thicken and become deformed. In addition, bone chips or inflammatory products can accumulate in the joint space, further limiting mobility.

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but it can be treated to relieve pain and improve quality of life. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but most commonly affects the hip, knee, elbow and shoulder joints.

How do I recognize osteoarthritis in my dog?

Symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity and the joint affected. Typical signs are:

• Pain when standing up, lying down or climbing stairs
• Lameness or limping after prolonged rest or exertion
• Reduced activity and willingness to play
• Stiffness or difficulty bending or extending the joints
• Cracking or grinding in the joints
• Swelling or heating of the joints
• Behavioral changes such as aggression, anxiety, or depression

To diagnose osteoarthritis in your dog, you should see a veterinarian who can perform a clinical exam and x-rays if necessary.

How do I treat osteoarthritis in my dog?

Treatment for osteoarthritis aims to relieve pain, inhibit inflammation and slow the progression of the disease. There are several ways to do this:

• Medications: The veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications to be taken regularly or as needed. These medications can have side effects, so you should have your dog checked regularly.
• Supplements: there are several supplements that can promote joint health, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or green-lipped muscle extract. These can support cartilage formation and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Through specific exercises, you can strengthen your dog's muscles, promote mobility and improve circulation. This includes massage, stretching, passive movements or water therapy.
• Weight management: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints and worsens the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Therefore, you should make sure your dog is at a healthy weight and not eating too much food.
• Environmental adaptation: You can make your dog's life easier by adapting his environment to his needs. This could include a soft bedding surface, a ramp or stairs to get into the car or bed, non-slip pads, or a warm and dry place to sleep.

How can I prevent osteoarthritis in my dog?

Osteoarthritis is not always preventable, but you can reduce the risk by following these tips:

• Choose an appropriate dog breed: Some dog breeds are genetically more prone to osteoarthritis than others, such as large or heavy breeds or those with short legs or long backs. Before getting a dog, find out about the breed's potential health problems and choose a reputable breeder who pays attention to the health of their animals.
• Encourage healthy development: young dogs need plenty of exercise to develop physically and mentally, but they should not be overworked. Avoid too long walks, too intense games or jumps that can stress joints. Also, make sure your dog is eating a balanced diet that contains all the nutrients they need for healthy growth.
• Avoid injuries: Accidents, falls or fights can cause joint injuries that can lead to arthritis later on. Protect your dog from such situations by keeping him on a leash, not letting him be provoked by other dogs or muzzling him if he is aggressive.
• Get your dog checked regularly: Early diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis can slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. Therefore, have your dog examined by a veterinarian at least once a year and watch for possible signs of osteoarthritis.