Arthritis medicines for dogs had never been so useful and functional until today. With the alarming population growth of dogs with arthritis, experts know that it is important to administer reliable medicines for dogs to control or prevent arthritis.
Like humans, dogs have a remarkable array of cartilage, bones, and ligaments that make up the canine skeletal system. Just like the typical bone structures in humans, dogs' bones are also connected by joints. These joints provide flexibility for jumping, running, moving the neck and head, climbing, and trotting.
Joint Damage
For proper lubrication and to ensure that bones maintain flexibility, a thin membrane known as synovium provides synovial fluid. However, due to the joints' wear and tear and intermittent cases of diseases or injuries, joints can be damaged and may cause inflammation or arthritis.
The most common cause of dog arthritis is old age. Due to the wear and tear of the joints or cartilages, a protective layer that guarantees bone flexibility, joint inflammation or arthritis develops. And dogs cannot simply escape this condition. And even if there cannot be marvelous medications to treat dog arthritis, much can be done to help dogs bear the pains arthritis can bring.
At some point, surgery can be administered to dogs with severe cases of arthritis. However, most dogs experience manageable arthritis and are simply given medications to control pain. Along with the right diet and consistent exercise, dogs can effectively manage the bouts of arthritis attack.
Pain Relievers
One of the most distracting effects of arthritis in dogs is pain. Unlike humans, who have higher tolerance for pain, dogs may find it hard coping with the soreness and throbbing that arthritis can bring.
Hence, it is important that dogs be given pain relievers. Health experts say that pain relievers used by humans can also be used in dogs. Although dogs are prone to side effects, controlling pain can still be provide significant relief.
For so many years, aspirin has been the most common pain reliever for humans. With this, experts say it can also be used in dogs. However, dog owners should take note that aspirin can also cause stomach irritation in dogs especially if the medication has been taken with an empty stomach. Hence, it is advisable that aspirin must be taken during meals.
Also, keep in mind that dogs should not be given more than two tablets of aspirin in a week. Try to consider your dog's weight as well for proper dosage. For example, a 30 to 40 pound dog should take half tablet twice a day.
Fewer Side Effects
On the other hand, some medicines are said to be more effective and have fewer side effects. One good example is Rimadyl, generic name for Carprofen. This medication aids in controlling pain. However, just like any drug, long-term use may cause adverse effects such as liver damage. Hence, veterinarians suggest that dogs are subject to regular blood tests just to assess the normal functioning of the liver.
Some medicines are also effective in stimulating the creation of joint fluid known as synovial fluid. They can also impede the accumulation of harmful enzymes that trigger swelling or soreness in the joints. These medications attach to torn or broken cartilage to increase metabolism, thus, speeding up the progress of repair.
One good example is Adequan or polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. This is an injectable medication for dog arthritis. Since it is injectable, Adequan is said to be fast acting and effective when administered through intramuscular injection. Best of all, experts say that this specific type of arthritis medication for dogs can provide pain relief as long as six months.
Some medicines are designed to provide fast relief with minimal side effects and gastrointestinal problems. And with the natural behavior of dogs, some medicines provide ease in administering treatment.
Supplements
Supplements count as one of the most important medications for dogs with arthritis. These medicines do not just provide reliable pain relief but can also promote proper shaping of cartilage and joint.
Veterinarians suggest that these medicines should be administered in dogs that are still at the earliest stage of arthritis. In this way, further damage and inflammation in the joints can be prevented. Moreover, these medicines try to preserve the remaining joints to facilitate growth and repair and maintain the normal functioning of the skeletal system.
To date, there are still no medications that can effectively eliminate dog arthritis. But with the help of arthritis medicines for dogs, such as pain relievers and supplements, dog arthritis can be bearable. To be on the safe side, make sure to discuss all treatments with your veterinarian.
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