Canine Arthritis

Arthritis (inflammation of joints).

Q: Do both dogs and cats get arthritis?

A: Yes, but it is more common in large breed dogs and less common in small dogs and cats. The reason large dogs are more prone to arthritis has to do with their weight - A 100-pound dog will be more debilitated by painful arthritis than a 10-pound pooch. Also, large dogs who grow too fast can experience hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other common bone problems.

Q: Is arthritis the same in pets as it is in people?

A: No. Arthritis that commonly comes with old age in humans is rare in dogs and cats. In dogs and cats, arthritis is usually caused by developmental or degenerative disease or may be caused by traumatic injury resulting in joint instability. Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from arthritis.

Q: What are the signs of arthritis?

A: Your pet may experience lameness in one or more limb. They may be less inclined to go for a walk or climb stairs. Your pet may be stiff, especially in the mornings, or the joints may be swollen.

Q. What treatments are available for arthritis?

A. If your pet is overweight, start dealing with the obesity problem. If the arthritis is due to trauma, surgery may be an option. Anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary to control pain and inflammation (I would find out if there are any long-term side effects to medication.) There are other options to explore, like acupuncture. There are holistic alternatives that can be explored as well and should be discussed with your holistic vet.

Q. What products help support the joints?

A. Vitamin C. Vitamin C will help keep tissue healthy and protect against further joint deterioration. (Use a sodium ascorbate or another form of buffered vitamin C, as plain ascorbic acid may cause an upset stomach.).

Vitamin E (d-Alpha Tocopheryl) protects cell membranes. Protects unsaturated fatty acids from attack by oxygen and oxidation to combat the spread of free radicals.

Glucosamine HCL Provides the joints with the building blocks they need to repair damage and build cartilage. Stimulates the body's manufacture of collagen, the protein of the fibrous substance that holds the joints together.

MSM (Methylsufonylmethane) is a naturally occurring chemical which provides a dietary source of sulfur. It is thought to work by reducing pain in swelling in the joints.

Chondroitin Sulfate is a major constituent of cartilage and provides structural support for cartilage and joints.

Boswellia Serrata: Boswellic acids have an anti-inflammatory action. Boswellia inhibits pro-inflammatory mediators in the body, such as leukotrienes that cause allergy symptoms.

Yucca Schidiera An all natural supplement that reduces pain and swelling. Yucca cleanses swollen and injured tissues promoting blood flow and tissue repair.

Hyaluronic Acid helps protect cell structure, defends against bacterial infection and supports healthy skin and joint function. An important constituent of joint fluid, where it serves as a lubricant and plays a role in resisting compressive forces.