What are the signs of arthritis in dogs?

Your dog may have arthritis if he or she:

• develops a limp/favours one or more legs
• seems stiff when getting up
• has changed the way they sit
• moves more slowly, and tries to avoid physical activity
• no longer enjoys taking a walk
• has swollen joints that may be warm to the touch
• licks their joints
• needs more sleep
• seems more bad tempered than before

How soon should I seek treatment?

Unlike human beings, who might ask for help when experiencing an illness, animals are more likely to try and conceal signs of weakness. Dog owners should keep a sharp eye out for any signs of arthritis, and should be aware that their pet may have been experiencing discomfort for a long time before allowing symptoms to show.

Arthritis is a degenerative condition which worsens if your dog does not receive treatment. It can cause the destruction of cartilage, so that eventually bone will grate on bone with every movement. For that reason you should consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog might be developing arthritis.

What are the different kinds of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most prevalent form.

This condition usually affects one or two joints. It causes progressive damage to the cartilage surrounding them. Over time, the cartilage can wear away so much that the bones in the joint rub together -- this causes extreme discomfort. Other symptoms include inflammation or thickening of the joint capsule, excess fluid and swelling.

Osteoarthritis can be caused by natural wear and tear, previous injuries, genetic factors and developmental disorders.

Canine rheumatoid arthritis

Canine rheumatoid arthritis, also known as immune-mediated polyarthritis, is an inflammatory condition. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies the cells in a joint as 'hostile' and attacks them.

This condition causes severe inflammation, tenderness and swelling. Joints often feel 'hot'.

Septic arthritis

This form of arthritis results from the bacterial infection of a joint. The infection itself is usually caused by a wound, allergy or bad reaction to a medicine.

Septic arthritis is a serious condition which is usually handled with antibiotics. If you suspect your pet has contracted it, you should consult your vet for emergency treatment.

How do I treat my dog’s arthritis?

If you believe that your dog has arthritis, you should consult your veterinarian immediately. The sooner your dog receives treatment, the less damage the disease will cause to his joints.

Vets will often try to determine which joints are affected by arthritis by examining your dog and performing tests; this may also reveal the cause of the disease. They often prescribe painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve symptoms.

There are also other treatments that may improve your dog’s quality of life:

• Keep up with exercise.
  Although your dog may not be so keen to exercise due to joint problems, continuing to exercise (though perhaps not as much) will help to keep them mobile and reduce symptoms.
• Use a dog stroller, wheelchair or sling.
  These products can help your dog to stay more comfortable while exercising.
• Maintain your dog’s weight.
  If your dog puts on weight, this will put more pressure on their joints.
• Try other/alternative therapies.
  Some people choose to give their dog additional treatments to help with pain and mobility such as physiotherapy or even acupuncture.
• Follow a healthy diet for joints.
  The right nutrients incorporated into your dog's diet may help with mobility and joint health over time. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in krill and fish oils) and turmeric are both popular options.