A degenerative joint disease, arthritis inflicts dogs just as it does humans. Much of the inflammation and degradation of the cartilage in the joint is what causes the pain and disability in the dog as it ages. Having a cartilage that has been injured lends itself to releasing inflammation-causing enzymes. This disrupts the elasticity and the ability of the joint capsule to nourish and heal itself.

A dog that is arthritic will usually not vocalize its discomfort. a dog may simply refuse to walk for any distance like it used to before. laying down becomes a difficult task for them. Some dogs plainly have difficulty going up and down stairs, let alone attempting to get up or off of a couch or bed.

Dogs can get arthritis in the hips, knees and elbows. Once a puppy is a year or two old, dysplasia which is a developmental disease, can be diagnosed. Arthritic symptoms can be lessened but they will however, never go away. Once the damage is done, it needs to be managed. By following three steps, a dog’s quality of life can be enhanced and the progression of arthritis can be slowed down. The three actions to take are weight control, exercise and pain management if necessary.

The elements of a normal joint are made up of a joint capsule, synovial fluid, articular cartilage and subchondral bone. The soundness of the joint capsule is very important for a smooth gliding function, for the production of hyaluronic acid and defense mechanisms. To provide proper metabolic waste removal from the cartilage in addition to supplying nutrients and lubrication, adequate synovial fluid production is needed.

The wear and tear joint disease is Osteoarthritis. In the progression of OA, there is an increase on the load of the cartilage from the subchondral bone thickening. This leads to further damage and pain in the joint. A decrease in range of motion as well as reduced functioning, is secondary to the low-grade inflammatory process and joint capsular thickening.

Chondroprotectants and Nutraceuticals are effective and popular for treating dogs with arthritis. A thorough treatment plan for arthritis includes weight loss, exercise modification, physical rehabilitation, pain management, nutritional therapy and possibly surgery.

Weight loss reduces the forces placed upon the abnormal joint surfaces. For dogs with hip dysplasia, reducing their body weight has enormous benefits. The most perfect exercise for dogs with arthritis is swimming. This moves all of their joints through a good range of motion without placing the stress and impact of the weight upon them.

For help with dog arthritis pain, Omega-3 fatty acids are hugely beneficial. Not only do these help with the pain associated with arthritis, they normalize the immune system and prevent abnormal cell growth. In addition to this, they prevent inflammation and degeneration of the joint. To find a rich source of Omega-3, feed green leafy vegetables, flax seeds/oil, green-lipped mussels and cold water fish oils. It is best to be purchasing organic cold pressed oils packaged in light resistant containers.

Two products that have anti-inflammatory properties and are effective in slowing the progression of arthritis are chondroitin and glucosamine. These can be used safely in combination with other products. Both of these reduce swelling and help with pain. For the most absorbable, use Glucosamine HCL.

There are herbal supplements such as Boswellia, which naturally fights joint inflammation and has been used by people in India for centuries. Devils Claw, Ginger and Tumeric are also effective in reducing inflammation and pain.

One of the most effective treatments utilized and also used for centuries on people, is Acupuncture. This is extremely powerful in alleviating the pain and in the same breath can entirely change the course of the disease.

Homeopathy offers a few treatments to look into. Rhus Tox, is good for joints that are worse in cold, damp weather and stiff upon arising. Bryonia is for when the arthritis is worse with exercise and warm weather. Causticum is useful for the older dog that has less pain with heat. Check with your Holistic Veterinarian as to the correct dosages for your dog.

Some simple modifications in the home can help with canine arthritis. Using ramps is very helpful for assisting with the dog getting up or down from places and instead of using stairs. Elevated food bowels minimize back and neck strain. Heated beds help with painful, stiff, achy joints. There are many options available for treating arthritis in dogs. Have surgery and drugs be a last resort, for the well-being of your dog.

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