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Arthritis is one of the oldest and most common diseases on earth. Archaeologists have proven that even the dinosaurs had it. The word is Latin in origin and means “inflammation of a joint.” It sounds simple, we know. But there is nothing simple about arthritis. At last count, there were over one hundred different types of the disease. In this article, we will discuss arthritis in canines and how to treat it.

The Humane Society of the United States informs us that there are approximately 77.5 million owned dogs in America. Thirty-nine percent of US households are home to at least one dog, making them the most popular domestic pet by household. Dogs are also the most expensive pet to keep. The average owner spends $ 225 per animal on veterinary visits. One reason dogs are more expensive than other pets is that they are more likely to develop diseases like arthritis.

One in five dogs over the age of seven has some form of arthritis, according to a recent study. The disease can inflame the joint and cause degeneration in the cartilage, fluid and bones of the joints. As you might expect, this often causes pain and discomfort in the affected animal. Let us take a moment to review the most common types of canine arthritis.

As we mentioned, there are hundreds of different types of canine arthritis. But since we don’t have the time to review them all, we will focus on a few of the most popular types. Osteoarthritis, immune-mediated, infective and idiopathic (unknown cause), are the most common types of arthritis in dogs. Because they age faster than many other animals, osteoarthritis (literally bone and joint inflammation) is the most common form of the disease.

What is it?

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease that causes the cartilage to degenerate, which makes moving incredibly uncomfortable, even painful. The hips, the back and the shoulders are most frequently affected areas.

How to spot it

Every animal that has ever drawn breath on this big spinning ball we call Earth slows down as it ages. But arthritis is different. When a dog has the disease, he will refuse to engage in the activities he once enjoyed. He does this because the pain of moving is simply too great for him to endure.

More often than not, the dog will demonstrate less interest in taking walks or going outside. If the animal lives in a multi-level home, he may be reluctant to climb the stairs. Just as in human beings, pain and general stiffness is often worse in the morning. In advanced cases, it may be possible for an owner to detect swelling of the joints.

How to treat it?

One of the most tragic things about canine arthritis is that many pet owners simply cannot afford treatment. Visits to the vet and prescription pills can be incredibly expensive and many owners, particularly older ones, simply cannot afford them. Fortunately, there are inexpensive supplements that are safe, effective and natural.

Glucosamine

A popular natural supplement for humans who suffer from arthritis, glucosamine also works on dogs. Numerous tests have confirmed that glucosamine can help repair damaged joint cartilage by facilitating the production of a glycosaminoglycan, which helps build stronger joints.

If possible, it is best to purchase the supplement from a quality name brand.Like most medications for dogs, the pills must be concealed in an appetizing meal. Because most vets recommend larger doses to start, it may be necessary to pulverize these pills and mix them in with the dog’s food.Otherwise, you pet will probably eat around them.

Anti-Inflammatories

As the name suggests, an anti-inflammatory prevents inflammation in the joints, which means it can alleviate pain, stiffness, and can even reduce swelling. Boswellia, yucca extracts, and aspirin are other affordable, natural anti-inflammatories. Yucca is a plant extract that acts as a kind of natural steroid that can help reduce pain.

Also known as frankincense, boswellia is a drug that works on the vascular system to help reduce inflammation on a cellular level. Finally, aspirin (the kind you find in your medicine cabinet at home) is an age-old anti-inflammatory that can help reduce pain and swelling in the joints. Always consult a veterinarian before you administer any new treatment.

Healthy Diet

When a young dog manifests symptoms of arthritis, it is almost always the result excessive weight gain. Just as in humans, too much body weight puts undue stress on the joints and causes them to break down before their time. A pet owner should work with her veterinarian to create a proper diet and exercise plan.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Known as NSAIDS for short, these prescription pills are the most effective pharmaceutical treatment for advanced arthritis in dogs. Unfortunately, they are also rather expensive. Online apothecaries for pets may offer lower prices for dog owners.

Make sure you search the Internet before you purchase an overpriced bottle from your veterinarian.Your dog is likely an important member of your family, or at the very least, a trusted companion. Make sure her transition from puppyhood to adulthood is as pain free as possible with these helpful tips.

Julie White is a freelance writer who writes about pet care and dog medicine.

Similar to the osteoarthritis that occurs in humans, arthritis in dogs (or canine osteoarthritis) also means an inflammation of one or more joints, which causes a lot of pain to your dogs and may cause disability. A joint is the site where bones meet and when it gets damaged by trauma, swelling due to inflammation occurs. The hips, elbows, and knees are the most common sites of arthritis.

Arthritis is very common in dogs, occurring in one out of five adult dogs in the United States. It occurs in dogs of different breeds, sizes, and ages, but the risk of developing arthritis is particularly high in senior dogs and large-breed or obese dogs. Improper nutrition and injuries are other causes that would put your dogs in the risk of having arthritis.

Some indications may be manifested by your dog if it suffers from arthritis.

Most dogs may feel lazy from time to time. If your dog, which is normally active, starts to sleep all day and remains sulky for a long period of time, your dog may be experiencing pain. Decreased activity and difficulty in sitting and standing are positive indications that your dog may be suffering from arthritis. Some dogs suffering from severe arthritis also develop fever as an inflammatory response. Loss of appetite is also one indication that there is something wrong with your pet.

There are ways in which one can control pain and inflammation brought about by arthritis in dogs. Managing your dog’s weight by giving it a balanced diet may help lessen the pressure on his joints. Regular exercise such as a 20-minute walk may also help reduce your dog’s joint pain. Being observant about your dog’s actions and feelings, as well as regular trips to the veterinarian can also help you detect and manage your dog’s arthritis pain. When dogs are diagnosed with osteoarthritis, veterinarians commonly prescribe NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Deramaxx is an NSAID specially formulated for dogs. It is introduced to control pain and reduce inflammation, as well as to hinder the progression of the disease. Every pet owner should be wary of the symptoms of arthritis for it is very hard to treat arthritis in dogs especially when it has reached its advanced stages.

Deramaxx is a type of NSAID that belongs to the coxib family. NSAIDS such as ibuprofen and naproxen control pain by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. These enzymes produce chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins produced by COX-1 enzymes play an important role in our normal bodily functions. On the other hand, prostaglandins produced by COX-2 enzymes are responsible for activating inflammatory reactions such as swelling and pain. The difference of Deramaxx from other NSAIDS lies on its ability to select the COX-2 enzymes that produce prostaglandins responsible for pain and not COX-1 enzymes that produce prostaglandins which are necessary in performing important bodily functions such as blood clotting and increasing blood flow in the kidneys.

Deramaxx is the most commonly prescribed NSAID to manage pain and treat arthritis in dogs. It is only dispensed upon a veterinarian’s prescription. If your dog shows some indications that it has arthritis, it is best to consult your veterinarian to provide your pet with immediate relief.

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Painful, stiff joints and decreased mobility associated with osteoarthritis in dogs and cats can be heartbreaking to witness. Your pet trusts you to protect it from threats both internal and external. Fortunately, there are a variety of pain medications available on the market today that have been proven effective at managing inflammation and discomfort due to arthritis. Consult with your veterinarian and select one based on your animal’s particular needs, physical makeup, existing prescription profile and temperament. Here are a number of options to get your started in treating your pet.

Novox (carprofen)

Available in caplets designed to be taken orally, Novox caplets are typically prescribed for the relief of pain and inflammation accompanying osteoarthritis in dogs as well as managing postoperative pain associated with soft tissue and orthopedic surgical procedures in dogs.

With your veterinarian, establish a medication plan and administration system that will keep your animals as comfortable as possible. In order to minimize the possibility of stomach upset and ulcers, administer the caplets with food. Potential side effects include possible mild upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness and aggression. If you observe other side effects in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Gabapentin Capsules or Tablets

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and pain medication commonly prescribed to relieve chronic pain in cats or dogs. Given by mouth, it may be applied by itself or in combination with other medications. Dosages vary. Gabapentin may be administered in 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg capsules or, alternatively, in tablets up to 600 mg or 800 mgs. An oral solution is also available. If you pet is nursing or pregnant, Gabapentin is not recommended for use. Gabapentin is also not recommended for animals who are suffering from kidney or liver disease, or living with a blood disorder. If your pet displays an allergic reaction to Gabapentin, contact your veterinarian to reevaluate your animal’s prescription.

Norocarp (carprofen)

Norocarp is an anti-inflammatory indicated for the relief of mild to severe pain and inflammation in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. It’s an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) that has been prescribed either to relieve your dog’s arthritis associated pain or to manage pain following a surgical procedure. It should be emphasized that his medication is recommended for dogs only. Norocarp is effective in controlling stiffness and pain from arthritis in addition to improving your dog’s personal mobility, granting significant relief and overall improvement in quality of life. As each dog possesses a unique body chemistry, responses are variable. However, most dogs enjoy a noticeable reduction in pain sensation. Norocarp is currently available in both caplets and chewable tablets for easy administration.

Deramaxx (deracoxib)

Deramaxx is an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) prescribed to manage mild to moderate pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Please note that this pain management drug is exclusively for the treatment of dogs. Deramaxx does not offer an effective cure for canine osteoarthritis. However, it has been proven effective in mitigating pain and can effect a dramatic improvement in your dog’s comfort and mobility. Signals that may indicate that your dog is suffering from pain symptoms related to canine osteoarthritis include observed limping or lameness, decreased activity, reluctance to stand, walk or run, climb stairs, or a noticeable struggle in trying to engage these activities. Available in chewable flavored tablets for easy ingestion and convenient administration, Deramaxx is available in a 25 mg dosage, as well as 75 mg and 100 mg tablets. Please consult your veterinarian to determine the optimal dosage for your dog.

Rimadyl Chewable (carprofen)

For dogs enduring the painful symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, Rimadyl is an effective pain control medication that also works as an anti-inflammatory, so your pet can enjoy a more comfortable recovery while remaining active. Currently available in chewable tablets for simple administration, Rimadyl is best given with food in order to prevent upset stomach or developing ulcers in your pet. Reaction will vary with each animal, but most pets do enjoy a significant reduction in pain and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis. In order to determine the correct dosage for your pet, consult your veterinarian. In order prevent harmful interactions, it is necessary to establish a medication plan based on any other prescriptions your dog may be on.

Possible side effects can include mild dyspepsia, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness and aggression. If you observe any other side effects in your dog, or if your dog becomes listless and irritable, consult your veterinarian immediately.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from arthritis, speak with your veterinarian about options for treatment, including the solutions mentioned above. In a little while, your furry companion will be ready to romp around like a youngster again.

Jackson Pauloski is a freelance writer who writes about pet care and pet meds.

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Dogs may also suffer from arthritis. Arthritis which means “inflammation of a joint or joints,” may cause a lot of pain and distress to your dog and may even threaten your dog’s life. When a dog has arthritis, its joints, which are the points of connection of two bones, are inflamed due to damage, usually caused by trauma. Dog arthritis is so common that it occurs in one in every five adult dogs in the US. It can happen to all dogs, regardless of breed, size, and age. However, the risk of developing arthritis is higher in dogs of old age, and in large-breed dogs. Other causes of dog arthritis include improper nutrition, injuries, and obesity.

Most pet owners cannot easily detect if his or her dog is suffering from arthritis. Most dogs would manifest certain behaviors that could be telling signs of arthritis. While some dogs may feel lazy on occasion, most dogs who become lethargic and remain to be so for a long period of time may be suffering from arthritis.

Inactivity and sudden change in their mood, as well as observed difficulty in performing motor skills such as standing, sitting, and running are indicative of pain caused by arthritis. When the arthritis has become severe, your dog may develop fever. Weight loss due to loss of appetite is also an indication that your pet is sick or is in distress.

If your veterinarian diagnosed your dog with arthritis, he or she might suggest that you take some of these measures to control pain and inflammation:

Give your dog a balanced diet so you can manage its weight. Having less weight may help lessen the pressure on his joints. Take your pet to a 20- to 40-minute walk regularly, because exercise helps in reducing your dog’s joint pain. Be watchful about your dog’s actions and behaviors, so you can monitor the progress of its arthritis. Taking regular trips to the veterinarian is also very helpful in managing your dog’s arthritis pain. While there is no known cure for arthritis, doctors commonly prescribe pain relievers such as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, specially formulated for pets to ease their discomfort.

There are a number of branded NSAIDs available in the market that you can choose from. But if you are looking for discount pet meds, you can try Novox, which is a generic brand equivalent of Rimadyl (carprofen). It is cheaper but has the same efficacy as other branded pet meds.  Novox comes in caplet forms, and introduced orally. Like any NSAID, it helps ease dog pain caused by arthritis by inhibiting enzymes that produce prostaglandins – the chemicals responsible for triggering inflammatory responses such as pain and swelling. Pain relief efficacy may be recognized within hours of introducing Novox to your pet, and anti-inflammatory effects can be seen after a number of days. As with any medication, Novox may also come with side effects such as stomach upset and diarrhea. When administering any medication to your pets, it is always best to consult your veterinarian or your pharmacist.

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