Is Your Dog Struggling With Arthritis? Here Are The Signs...
In this blog, we will be discussing some of the signs that your dog might have arthritis. It is important to recognize the signs and get treatment sooner rather than later. It is a condition that can be treated, but if the signs are missed your pup might be experiencing pain without you truly knowing.
Arthritis is a common condition in dogs that can cause significant pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The most commonly affected joints are the hips, knees, and elbows but any joint may be affected.
It is estimated that more than 1 million dogs suffer from arthritis in the US alone, with prevalence significantly higher in geriatric dogs compared to younger animals.
Arthritis is caused by two main factors; disease-related changes that lead to an inability of the joint to function normally (osteoarthritis) or inflammation due to infection or immune-mediated causes (rheumatoid arthritis).
Treatment often involves controlling pain with anti-inflammatory medications while encouraging exercise, proper nutrition, and weight management as part of a long-term plan for managing the condition.
Working closely with your veterinarian is important to ensure that all treatment options are explored and discussed before making a decision on how to best manage the condition in your pet’s individual case. With proper management and treatment, dogs diagnosed with arthritis can often still lead active lives free from pain.
Signs Your Dog Might Have Arthritis
1. Difficulty in getting up and moving around - If your dog is having trouble rising or appears to be stiff when standing then this could be an early sign of arthritis.
2. Problematic walking patterns - Your pup may start slowing down on walks, become less active, or begin limping while moving around. These changes in their gait can point to joint problems such as arthritis.
3. Trouble climbing stairs - As dogs age they can have difficulty navigating stairs due to joint pain caused by arthritis. Pay attention if your pet avoids climbing steps or takes them slowly with small steps.
4. Reluctance to exercise - Arthritis often causes a decrease in activity levels and enthusiasm for exercising, so pay attention to your pup’s energy levels throughout the day.
5. Sleeping more - Dogs suffering from arthritis will often want to rest or sleep more than usual due to joint pain, so if your dog is sleeping for extended periods this could be an indication of a possible health issue.
If you think your furry friend might be experiencing signs of arthritis please visit a veterinarian as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment options. Early detection and proper care can help improve their quality of life and make them feel better!
Canine Rehabilitation Can Help Your Dog If They Struggle With Arthritis
Canine rehabilitation, also known as physical therapy for dogs, is a specialized form of treatment designed to improve and restore movement and function in injured or disabled dogs.
It helps your dog stay active by providing exercises and activities that encourage mobility and strength. Canine rehab not only helps maintain muscle tone, but also facilitates improved range of motion and coordination over time.
Canine rehabilitation can help with arthritis in your dog by reducing inflammation and pain associated with the condition.
By providing hands-on manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise programs, aquatic therapy, balance training, massage, and acupuncture, canine rehab can effectively treat arthritis in your pet.
In addition to therapeutic exercises that target areas affected by the condition, appropriate medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain.
By combining medical treatments with therapeutic exercises and activities, canine rehabilitation can enhance the quality of life for your pet. It helps improve mobility, strength, and coordination while reducing pain and discomfort associated with arthritis or other conditions.
Regular visits to a veterinary rehabilitation specialist are recommended in order to prevent any further complications and maintain an optimal level of health in your dog. With the right intervention, your furry friend will be able to lead a happy, active life even when faced with physical challenges.
Are You Unsure If Your Dog Is Showing Signs Of Arthritis? Come See Us!
It can be difficult to know when your dog is struggling with pain, especially arthritis. We know that you care so much and that you just want answers on what is causing your pup pain.
So if you are unsure and you want to start the conversation on the next steps in treating their pain, make sure that you reach out to us and we can book a time to come see you! That's right, we will do the driving for you and will come to your home so you do not have to fight the traffic!
Starting the process of finding treatment for your dog is simple and with our offer of a Free Phone Consultation, we can begin to discuss the concerns that you might have about your pup and the treatment process. If you want to start that process, give us a call at (321) 319-4008.
No matter what kind of signs your dog is presenting, don’t waste any time getting in touch with your vet to explore the matter more thoroughly. And, if rehab is needed, be sure to reach out to Happy Paws Rehabilitation and Wellness right away to make your first appointment.
We look forward to helping your canine live a happy and healthy life!
-Dr. Samantha Peters
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