Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis in dogs is a condition involving the swelling or inflammation of one or more joints. Common In Senior Dogs.

SOURCE & CAUSES OF ARTHRITIS IN DOGS

Most dog arthritis is related to age. However, an injury or disease can also be common causes. There are generally two types of arthritis seen in dogs:

Rheumatoid arthritis - This is an immune-mediated disease where the immune system attacks the healthy joint tissue. This type of arthritis is a progressive disease. In dogs, this is very uncommon.
Osteoarthritis - This is the kind of arthritis most humans and dogs suffer from. Osteoarthritis is the result of damage to the cartilage around a joint, usually from some type of injury where new bone is formed around the joint, causing stiffness and pain. The normal aging process in a dog can be a major factor in this as well.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS IN DOGS

Pain and stiffness of the dog’s joints
Lameness
Swelling around joints
Loss of appetite or depression may show as your pet is in pain.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS FOR ARTHRITIS IN DOGS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam. Your veterinarian will most likely do the following:

CBC/Chemistry Panel - These blood tests will evaluate various internal organ functions, including the heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, metabolism, and electrolyte balance. The CBC (complete blood count) is a measure of the amount and different kinds of red and white blood cells that are present in the dog’s body.
Radiographs - This will show the affected area(s) and help your veterinarian determine where and what type of arthritis your dog has.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT OF ARTHRITIS IN DOGS

Treatment options will depend on the degree of severity at time your dog is diagnosed. The treatments for arthritis in dogs include the following:

Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs if the arthritis is result of infection.
Reduced calorie diet if obesity is a factor.
Surgical repair of bony tissue to relieve arthritis symptoms.
A long-term course of steroids and anti-inflammatory agents.
Dietary supplements added to encourage new cartilage growth in the joint(s).