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. 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.

The joints most susceptible to arthritis are the knees, elbows and hips. It is when they are young puppies that the develop[mental 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.

The joint of a dog is comprised of a joint capsule, synovial fluid, articular cartilage and subchondral bone. For a smooth gliding function, the soundness of a joint capsule is extremely important. The production of hyaluronic acid and defense capabilities are of primary concern. To ensure adequate nutrients and lubrication to the cartilage, adequate synovial fluid is needed. This also maximizes the metabolic waste removal from the cartilage.

Osteoarthritis is quite often referred to as the wear and tear joint disease. As OA progresses, the subchondral bone becomes thicker, which increases the load on the cartilage, causing further damage and pain in the joint. The low-grade inflammatory process and joint capsular thickening will cause a decrease in range of motion as well as reduced functioning.

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.

Weight loss reduces the forces placed upon the abnormal joint surfaces. For dogs with hip dysplasia, reducing their body weight has enormous benefits. The most perfect exercise for dogs with arthritis is swimming. This moves all of their joints through a good range of motion without placing the stress and impact of the weight upon them.

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. In addition to this, they prevent inflammation and degeneration of the joint. To find a rich source of Omega-3, feed green leafy vegetables, flax seeds/oil, green-lipped mussels and cold water fish oils. It is best to be purchasing organic cold pressed oils packaged in light resistant containers.

The most widely used nutraceuticals are chondroitin and glucosamine. These products can be used with other remedies, have anti-inflammatory properties and are effective in slowing the progression of arthritis. These have been proven to reduce swelling and help with pain. For the most absorbable into the joint, Glucosamine HCL has led the way.

Boswellia, Tumeric, Ginger and Devils Claw, have been used for centuries by people in India. They all naturally fight joint inflammation and reduce pain associated with arthritis.

Acupuncture is another treatment modality for arthritis. Not only can it change the course of the disease, but it is powerful in alleviating the pain associated with it.

Homeopathy offers a few treatments to look into. Rhus Tox, is good for joints that are worse in cold, damp weather and stiff upon arising. Bryonia is for when the arthritis is worse with exercise and warm weather. Causticum is useful for the older dog that has less pain with heat. Check with your Holistic Veterinarian as to the correct dosages for your dog.

Very effective results can be gained from simple modifications of your home. If you have lots of stairs, ramps are very helpful in going up or down. To minimize neck and back strain use elevated food and water bowels. Beds that are heated help with painful and stiff achy joints. There is a multitude of things you can provide your dog that may be suffering from arthritis pain. As a last resort use surgery and drugs. For the best care for your dog, utilize all other avenues first.

www.treatment-for-dogs.com

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Written by Helga Schmitt using tags: animal health, arthritis in dogs, canine arthritis, canine health, dog arthritis, dog arthritis treatment, dog health, dog health care, dog information, dogs with arthritis, natural remedies for dogs, older dog, pain relief for dogs, Pets