There is no cure for osteoarthritis and reversing the disease process is unfortunately not possible at this point (neither in pets nor in people). The best treatment for arthritis is prevention, and understanding osteoarthritis is important even if your pet may not have significant arthritis at this point.
Natural over-the-counter treatments. Pills or food containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate or Omega fatty acids have shown to ease arthritis symptoms in dogs. Acupuncture and massage.
Since the degeneration of the joints and increase in joint inflammation tend to be progressive over time, dogs may go through various stages of osteoarthritis. Sometimes arthritis progresses quickly and other times that progression may take years.
Although there is no cure, veterinarians can offer a range of treatments to manage arthritis by delaying its progression and keeping dogs mobile and comfortable. If you have a dog, it's important to identify any signs of arthritis that your dog might be showing early, to ensure they receive effective treatment.
Arthritis is a long-term condition that needs life-long management. Arthritis slowly worsens over time, but if well managed, most dogs can live happily for many years after diagnosis. Let your vet know if you think your dog's pain isn't well controlled or you see symptoms returning.
In summary, the best medical recommendation for dogs with arthritis is that they should exercise regularly, ideally 30-60 minutes every day, and not engage in high-impact activities such as running, jumping and rough play. But, you do have to factor in your dog's quality of life as well.
With proper care and frequent physical exams, dogs with osteoarthritis commonly live a normal life expectancy! Your PetWellClinic veterinarian will help you find the right nutrition plan that supports your dog's joint health and helps normalize their body weight and condition.
Regular physical activity is paramount to the treatment of osteoarthritis both in humans and animals. A lifestyle of regular activity that is moderated away from intermittent extremes of exercise (such as long hikes on the weekends) and activities to which the pet is not conditioned is essential.
If your dog has arthritis, grain-free food may be the way to go. Many processed commercial dog foods contain grains such as wheat, rice, soy, and spelt, which can cause your dog's blood sugar levels to fluctuate and increase painful swelling. Limiting the grains in your dog's diet can decrease their inflammation.
Pre-Osteoarthritis (STAGE 0-1)
In contrast, stage 1 dogs are clinically normal (not showing any signs of OA), but at risk due to the presence of one or more risk factors, e.g. breed disposition, joint injury, intense activity, and/or radiographic signs of dysplasia or joint trauma.
Most commonly, arthritis affects older dogs and is caused by wear and tear on the joints. But it can also be the result of: an injury such as ligament damage or broken bones. hip dysplasia, which is a deformity of the joints, often caused by bad breeding.
Moderate Exercise and Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, massage, and daily exercise can be very beneficial to dogs with arthritis. Consider daily exercise in moderation: Start with short walks, up to 10 or 15 minutes, three to four times per day.
So, what causes OA to worsen and suddenly flare up? Sometimes there is no definitive cause, however, too much exercise and unmanaged pain can be triggering factors.
Go for a (slow) walk
That all depends on what your dog can handle — but know the pace will be a little slower and the distance shorter than what you once would have done. Short, leisurely strolls of 5 to 10 minutes might be plenty for some dogs, while others might be able to handle longer walks.
Warm, high pressure weather causes the tissues to be flexible and move easily. Dogs are more active and generally feel better in those warm, sunny months. But as the cold air and low pressure move in, joints can swell and tissues become less flexible. This can lead to stiffness, pain, and generally less activity.
While glucosamine is essential for dogs suffering from arthritis, it's also important to note that glucosamine can be effective as a preventative measure as well, helping to slow the potential progression of degenerative joint disease in younger dogs with healthy joints.
Sit to stand exercises to strengthen the dog's back legs
For dogs with arthritis in the back legs (hip, stifle or tarsus), asking the dog to sit squarely on their hocks and then move into a stand position is beneficial for strengthening the muscles supporting the hind leg.
Severe Arthritis, Stage 4
These symptoms will significantly impact the dog's quality of life. You will see severely abnormal limb loading, shifting of weight, restlessness when standing and a reluctance to move.
Your pet will get tired from all the worrying about his arthritis or osteoarthritis pain. That's why dogs with this condition will often end up sleeping all the time.
STAIRS AND RAMPS
Jumping down from a bed or out of an SUV puts a lot of force on the joints and is not recommended for any dog—with or without arthritis! You can use stairs or ramps to help your dog, particularly when getting down/out. Many dogs will also benefit from assistance in getting up or jumping in.
Some things you can do is help your pet maintain a healthy weight and try natural remedies for arthritis. Another option is canine massage therapy. Performing a massage can relieve the pain symptoms and slow down the progression of arthritis.
On arthritic dogs, you can apply heat to help soothe their achy joints: shoulders, elbows, and wrists in the front legs, and hips, knees, and ankles in the back legs. For dogs with an injury or recovering from surgery, it can be used on any part of their body that has been affected.
Fortunately, dogs often live comfortably for years following a DJD diagnosis, so long as proactive steps are taken to manage this condition.