A degenerative joint disease
Much of the inflammation and degradation of the cartilage in the joint is what causes the pain and disability in the dog as it ages.
Having a cartilage that has been injured lends itself to releasing inflammation-causing enzymes. This disrupts the elasticity and the ability of the joint capsule to nourish and heal itself.
A dog that is arthritic will usually not vocalize its discomfort. a dog may simply refuse to walk for any distance like it used to before. laying down becomes a difficult task for them. Some dogs plainly have difficulty going up and down stairs, let alone attempting to get up or off of a couch or bed.
Dysplasia
The joints most susceptible to arthritis are the knees, elbows and hips. It is when they are young puppies that the developmental disease dysplasia is developed. This is noticed when they are approximately one or two years of age. If there has been arthritic damage done, it can not be reversed. The severity and symptoms can be minimized through various treatments. To take a non-surgical approach, there are three steps to adhere to. The dog’s weight must be kept under control, they need regular exercise, and some method of pain relief may be necessary to increase their quality of life and slow down the progression.
A normal joint is made up of a joint capsule, synovial fluid, articular cartilage and subchondral bone. The integrity of a joint capsule is important for the production of hyaluronic acid and defense mechanisms, and a smooth gliding function. Proper synovial fluid production is required to ensure metabolic waste removal from the cartilage as well as supplying nutrients and lubrication.
Canine Osteoarthritis
The wear and tear joint disease is Osteoarthritis. In the progression of OA, there is an increase on the load of the cartilage from the subchondral bone thickening. This leads to further damage and pain in the joint. A decrease in range of motion as well as reduced functioning, is secondary to the low-grade inflammatory process and joint capsular thickening.
Chondroprotectants and Nutraceuticals are effective and popular for treating dogs with arthritis. A thorough treatment plan for arthritis includes weight loss, exercise modification, physical rehabilitation, pain management, nutritional therapy and possibly surgery.
Solutions
By reducing the weight of the dog, it lessens the forces placed upon the abnormal joint surfaces. Any dog with hip dysplasia will only benefit from a reduction in their weight. Swimming is the ultimate exercise for a dog with arthritis. All of the joints are mobilized without excessive strain and weight placed upon them. They reach a great range of motion and actually feel good while exercising.
One substance that is very beneficial for dog arthritis pain is Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids prevent abnormal cell growth and normalize the immune system. They also prevent inflammation and degeneration of the joint. When looking for sources of Omega-3, look at green leafy vegetables, flax seeds/oil, green-lipped mussels and cold water fish oils. Be sure to purchase organic cold pressed oils packaged in light resistant containers. The quality of oils will vary.
Nutraceuticals such as chondroitin and glucosamine also have anti-inflammatory properties. They are effective in slowing the progression of arthritis and can be used with other products. It has been shown that they reduce the swelling and help with the pain. Glucosamine HCL is one of the best since it is easily absorbed into the joint.
Some herbal supplements that have been used for centuries in India are Boswellia and Tumeric. These naturally fight joint inflammation and are effective in reducing pain. Devils Claw and Ginger are also very helpful in the treatment of arthritis.
If you want to change the course of the disease, relieve the pain from it and use something totally natural, Acupuncture has been around for centuries. The results on animals is astounding.
Another method of treatment for arthritis is Homeopathy. Causticum is useful for an older dog that has less pain with heat. Rhus Tox is very effective for joints that are worse in cold damp weather and stiff upon rising. When the arthritis is worse with exercise and warm weather use Bryonia. Check with your dog’s health care practitioner for correct dosages for your individual dog.
Some simple modifications in the home can help with canine arthritis. Using ramps is very helpful for assisting with the dog getting up or down from places and instead of using stairs. Elevated food bowels minimize back and neck strain. Heated beds help with painful, stiff, achy joints. There are many options available for treating arthritis in dogs. Have surgery and drugs be a last resort, for the well-being of your dog.
About the Author:
Helga Schmitt has been keenly exploring and researching dog health, physiotherapy and rehabilitation actively for the past 20 years. She is a Chartered Herbalist, Holistic Nutritionist and she holds a Certificate in Homeopathy. She strives to educate dog owners about healthy choices. For your Free dog Health Book and to read more on dog arthritis, go to www.treatment-for-dogs.com.
Totally Natural and Safe Remedies to Help Your Dog’s Arthritis
A degenerative joint disease, arthritis inflicts dogs just as it does humans. Much of the inflammation and degradation of the cartilage in the joint is what causes the pain and disability in the dog as it ages.
Dog Arthritis Treatments – Totally Natural
For help with dog arthritis pain, Omega-3 fatty acids are hugely beneficial. Not only do these help with the pain associated with arthritis, they normalize the immune system and prevent abnormal cell growth.
Training Dog Guide Dog Pain Relief Options
It is important that you choose one of the dog pain relief options for your pet so that they no longer have to live with the pain and discomfort of arthritis. None of these options are difficult, and your pet will thank you for it.
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