dog HEALTH
The definition of arthritis is
inflammation in a joint. This can occur
in dogs because of many different factors
(infection, immune-mediated disease,
injury, genetics). The most common
type of arthritis seen by veterinarians is
osteoarthritis. This causes pain in a joint
because of degeneration of cartilage
and other joint structures causing
inflammation. Often this is referred
to as degenerative joint disease (DJD), ß
which is a progressive, chronic process.
Large breed dogs
Young, large breed dogs can develop
DJD because of genetics or nutritional
issues. Growing too quickly places stress
on joints and causes early wearing of the
cartilage. Use a specific type of food for
large breed puppies, or adjust feeding in
other ways so that large and giant breeds
of dogs (examples: Golden Retrievers,
Boxers, Great Danes) do not grow so
quickly that their skeletons cannot
support them.
Young dogs
The hips and elbows are common joints
that develop problems. Although genetics
play a role, this is a multi-factorial syndrome,
dependent on nutrition, rate of growth and
exercise. The instability in the joint allows
abnormal wearing, which will eventually cause DJD and arthritis. Large and giant breed dogs are affected most often.
Elbow dysplasia is another syndrome in which the elbow joint is not perfectly formed.
Parts of the forelimb bones may not fuse properly or may even break, causing pain
and degenerative changes to the joint
surfaces.
SIGNS OF ARTHRITIS
- Your dog is lame on a certain leg
especially after exercise, or seems stiff
after lying down for long periods.
- Your dog may not be able to run or play
as he once did.
- Your dog may exhibit pain if touched in a
certain area.
If you see these signs, or suspect an
injury, seek your veterinarian’s advice.
Your vet will start with a full physical
exam to rule out other problems and
will perform an orthopedic exam.
Older dogs
Older dogs more commonly suffer from
arthritis, due to injury, general wear and
tear, or congenital problems that did not
reveal themselves earlier.
One of the most common types of
injury is a torn cruciate ligament in the
knee joint. This results in instability of
the knee, or stifle joint, which causes
degenerative changes and chronic
arthritis. Dogs also develop arthritis in
their spines, shoulders, wrist, or ankle.
Being overweight is also a common
risk factor for developing arthritis.
Treatment
Weight loss: Overweight, arthritic dogs
will generally improve their quality of life
if they can lose the extra pounds.
Surgery: Younger dogs with signs of hip
and elbow dysplasia may benefit from
certain types of surgery if the DJD has
not progressed past a certain point.
These surgeries may not completely
prevent arthritis, but may slow down the
degenerative changes.
Supportive care: Moderate exercise,
padded bedding, massages and application
of heat can all be beneficial. Some
dogs improve with physiotherapy and
exercise programs, which can include
swimming. You should also provide
non-slip surfaces, such as laying rugs over
smooth floors and steering clear of icy
surfaces.
Acupuncture: Therapies such as chiropractic
and acupuncture are available
and your veterinarian should be able to
refer you to a practitioner that is trained
to use these modalities in animals.
Joint supplements: Glucosamine,
chondroitin sulfate and many other
substances can be found in a variety of
foods, pills and powders. Many of these
supplements act to create healthier joint
fluid and surfaces by providing the
necessary building blocks. They will not
‘cure’ arthritis, but may lessen the clinical
signs. Ask your vet for more details.
Anti-inflammatories: These control
pain and swelling. Usually a nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory is prescribed.
Some dogs require these drugs only when
experiencing flare-ups or bad days, others
benefit from daily therapy. Ask your vet
about options.
– Marti Hopson, DVM
