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We are sometimes surprised that companion animals can develop the same diseases as we humans. It surprises us because it reminds us of how alike we are when it comes to biology and genetics.
Once we are aware of this, we should pay more attention to possible symptoms of human-like illnesses in our dogs and cats, although the treatments are not exactly the same.
That's why at PeritoAnimal we want to talk to you about arthritis in dogs, its causes and treatment, as it is a very common disease in dogs that is best prevented before it appears.
What is arthritis?
It is a degenerative joint disease, common once the dog reaches a certain age. It appears when the cartilage in the joints begins to wear down, which generates osteophytes, which little by little worsen the symptoms and deteriorate the dog's quality of life.
Causes of Arthritis
Despite being a common disease in dogs, certain factors make them more likely to develop it. These are:
- The age. From the age of 8, it is normal for joints and bones to wear out, causing arthritis.
- overweight. Obesity makes the joints have to carry more weight than they should.
- Genetics. Some breeds, such as the German Shepherd, are more likely to suffer from this disease.
- big breeds. The greater the dog's weight, the more work the joints must do to hold the animal.
- Joint operations. If your puppy has had joint surgery in his life, he may develop arthritis as he reaches old age.
Arthritis Symptoms
Please pay attention to the following symptoms that could indicate your puppy has arthritis, as an early diagnosis will contribute to a better quality of life and to stop joint degeneration:
- It stays behind when you take him for a walk.
- Has stiffness and difficulty getting up in the morning.
- Starts limping.
- He is not interested in playing and even stops running or even walking.
- Chronic pain.
- Difficulty climbing beds or furniture and climbing stairs.
- He complains when his paws are touched.
- Emits moans, because it has pain.
- Loss of appetite.
- Stay away from their owners.
- The eyes lose their shine.
- Sometimes he can get aggressive, as a way to protect himself.
- Feels pain when scratching or licking.
- Your mood is down.
- Flatten the ears against the head.
- In general, your usual behavior changes.
If your dog has one or more of these symptoms, it should take him to the vet right away.
Arthritis Treatment
O pharmacological treatment must be prescribed by the veterinarian. It usually consists of anti-inflammatory drugs that do not contain steroids, and supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine. You must not self-medicate your dog nor give him prescription drugs for humans, as they are toxic to him.
At home, you can help your dog in the following ways:
- Place a sponge bed that is orthopedic for more comfortable rest.
- Raise your food and water containers so you don't have to bend down.
- Walk the dog on soft, earthy surfaces.
- Control your diet, as an increase in weight will only be harmful.
- Massage your loin, neck, hips, knees and elbows daily, this will help relieve stiffness.
- Be sure to exercise.
- At bedtime, make sure there are no drafts and do not let him sleep on the floor, as the cold increases the pain.
- If possible, place makeshift ramps with a plate or can so the dog doesn't climb too many stairs.
With these recommendations, but those prescribed by your doctor, you will improve your quality of life considerably.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.