As a pet parent, seeing your dog in pain is heartbreaking. One common condition that affects many dogs is canine osteoarthritis (OA). Understanding what OA is and how it can affect your furry friend’s life is crucial to ensuring they receive the best care possible.
Read on to learn some surprising facts about canine osteoarthritis and inflammation, and how to effectively manage your dog’s condition.
Canine Osteoarthritis and Inflammation: 8 Facts You May Not Know
Canine osteoarthritisoften referred to as OA or simply arthritis, is a chronic joint condition. It is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones. This degeneration leads to pain, inflammation and decreased mobility. While it is often associated with older dogs, OA can affect dogs of all ages.
Here are eight facts about canine OA and inflammation that you may not know.
It’s more common than you think
Osteoarthritis is more common than many pet parents think, affecting at least 1 in 3 dogs (1). This high prevalence underscores the importance of early detection and proactive management. Additionally, the prevalence of OA in dogs is increasing because dogs are living longer and more and more dogs are suffering from obesity.
It can start early in life
Although canine OA is typically considered a problem for older dogs, in fact it often begins much earlier in life. Many dogs show symptoms of middle-aged canine osteoarthritis. In some cases, even younger dogs can develop OA due to genetic or developmental issues.
There is no cure
While there is no cure for OA, there are many strategies to manage the condition. These include canine osteoarthritis medications to control pain and inflammation, weight management, physical therapy, environmental modifications and joint supplements. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to tailoring a management plan specific to your dog’s needs.
NSAIDs are the cornerstone of treatment
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for dogs (NSAIDs), such as Galliprantis a cornerstone of canine osteoarthritis treatment. They help reduce inflammation and manage pain, significantly improving comfort and mobility for affected dogs. Traditional NSAIDs work by blocking certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation, thus providing relief from the painful symptoms of OA. Galliprant works differently because it controls canine OA pain and inflammation at the source by targeting a specific receptor.
It is usually caused by abnormal joint development or joint injuries
OA in dogs is often caused by developmental disorders, such as abnormal development of the hip joint (hip dysplasia) and knee dislocation (luxated patella). Injuries such as ligament tears or trauma can also be to blame. These conditions can lead to improper joint function, altered mobility and increased wear and tear over time, predisposing these dogs to osteoarthritis.
Obesity may increase the risk
Carrying excess weight significantly increases a dog’s risk of developing OA. Not only does the extra weight put more stress and strain on the joints, but body fat can also increase inflammation in dogs.
The signs can be easily missed
The symptoms of OA in dogs can be subtle and easily mistaken for normal aging. These include reduced activity, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, stiffness, muscle loss and a noticeable change in the way a dog walks (gait). Being aware of these signs can help in early diagnosis. The sooner dog OA is recognized and treated, the better pet parents will be able to manage it.
Limping may become more common as arthritis progresses
Arthritis begins gradually and steadily worsens over time. However, symptoms can suddenly worsen due to strain or stress, resulting in a noticeable lame (lameness). In fact, canine osteoarthritis is the number one cause of lameness in dogs.
OA in Dogs: Tips and Advice
Caring for a dog with osteoarthritis requires vigilance, understanding and a proactive approach. Recognizing the early signs of OA and consulting with your veterinarian can lead to effective management strategies that can greatly improve your dog’s quality of life.
Maintain a healthy weight, ensure regular exercise and exercise dog arthritis medicinesuch as for example Galliprantas prescribed are key components of OA management. Remember that your veterinarian is your best partner in coming up with a comprehensive canine arthritis treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
By staying informed and engaged, you can help your canine companion lead a more comfortable and active life despite the challenges of osteoarthritis.
Reference:
- Canine Arthritis Resources and Education. Retrieved from https://caninarthritis.org/