Arthritis is a condition that affects humans and many types of animals including dogs. It is a degenerative condition in the joints that causes pain and discomfort for anyone suffering from it. For dogs it can be inherited with other disorders such as hip displasia or happen due to joint injuries. Joint infections and immune-mediated joint disease can also bring on arthritis. Some dogs have traits that are more commonly linked to the condition.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis found in dogs and averagely affects one out of five. It can be caused by aging or be found in younger dogs due to other conditions. Larger breeds and overweight dogs are affected more due to the additional stress put on ligaments and joints. Dogs experiencing this condition experience lameness, stiffness, and joint pain or discomfort. These symptoms are at their worst in the morning and after naps. They may become irritable and have behavioral changes. Cold and damp areas increase the symptoms. Osteoarthritis is progressive condition and can make your dog miserable.
A vet will take x-rays to check for space between the joints. Treatment includes physical therapy, weight control, pain relievers, and agents that repair the cartilage. Moderate exercise will maintain your dogs muscle mass and maintain the flexibility of their joints. Over exercising will cause negative affects. They should not be allowed to jump or stand on their back legs. Exercise should be done with a leash or harness so they do not further injure themselves. Swimming is one of the best exercises for them because it relieves joint pressure.
Another interesting item given for treatment of arthritis is chondro-productive agents. These serve the same functions that some dog supplements provide. While it is great to know what can be done to ease arthritis symptoms and help your dog be more comfortable, wouldn't it be better if you could lesson the affects of osteoarthritis or prevent it from occurring? This is very likely if your dog receives the proper nutrition they need throughout life.
Dog vitamins and supplements can be great preventative medicine for your pet. They help prevent many of the same diseases we experience due to aging and other health conditions. These helpful items help prevent joint conditions, promote healthy skin, strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, maintain brain functions, and prevent intestinal track infections. For years these products have been available as individual doses and giving them to your dog can be troublesome. Products are now available that allow you to give them all the things they need once a day with their food. Keeping your dog healthy is easy and costs less with these products.
Sometimes arthritis is caused by other conditions and unfortunately cannot be prevented. Supplements can help build cartilage between the joints and slow the affects of arthritis allowing your dog to be more comfortable. As their owner, it is your responsibility to do everything you can to prevent them from getting sick and ensure they have the nutrition they need. Give them a good supplement product that will not break your pocket but allow them to have a healthy and full life.
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