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 HomeDr.
NooDr.
Noo's Monthly CareTipsAugust
- Aching Joints
Although the approach to treatment mav be different in dogs who
simply develop mild arthritis because they are old, compared with
young dogs that have predisposing factors, the principles are the
same.
Appropriate control of exercise and body weight is extremely important.
Dogs who are overweight, or who over-exercise, put increased stresses
on their joints which can lead to worsening of the disease.
Small amounts of regular lead exercise are far more helpful than
irregular off-lead exercise, although in most cases exercise may
be increased as the dog gets better.
Those dogs who require medical treatment usually benefit most from
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which reduce pain and joint
Inflammation and thus help to stop the vicious circle that causes
increasing joint disease.
In some severe cases other drugs such as steroids may be used to
give increased pain relief. Nutraceuticals such as essential fatty
acid supplements are helpful in some cases, and other food supplements,
for example chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine, may be useful
too.
Herbal and homoeopathic medications have been used with apparent
success in certain instances, and other alternative therapies such
as acupuncture may be beneficial.
The most important thing is to seek prompt veterinary attention
if joint disease is suspected. Whether a recent joint injury is
causing lameness, a young pup seems to limp intermittently, or an
older dog has difficulty rising and enjoying his walks, the sooner
appropriate treatment is instituted, the more positive the outcome.
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