Arthritis treatment in dogs will depend to a large extent on the underlying cause. Arthritis brought about by infectious causes and inflammatory joint disease are usually addressed with specific medications. Joint injuries, such as rupture of the cruciate ligament or congenital diseases affecting the joints, such as luxating patella, are often treated with surgery to correct the problem. Dogs with hip dysplasia and degenerative joint disease may undergo hip replacement surgery. The first objective when addressing arthritis is to ease the pain and slow down the progress of the disease. Observing simple life changes can also go a long way in improving an arthritic dog’s condition. These measures include:
- Weight management – Help your obese or overweight dog to lose weight in a healthy manner to decrease the strain that is placed on the damaged joints.
- Keep your arthritic dog moving with regular low-impact exercises. Appropriate physical activity can help decrease the stiffness and strengthen the muscles and tissues that are supporting the affected joints.
- Make some changes in your home to make it easier for your pet to move around, such as ramps, elevated feeders, rugs on bare floors, and a warm, soft bed.
If your dog is suffering from arthritis, do speak with your veterinarian Lakewood Ranch, FL about treatment options that are available for your pet.
Helalth Care 