Canine Arthritis Treatments - Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) Vs Corticosteroids

Canine arthritis can be very uncomfortable and painful for your dog. Arthritis or osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage between joints begins to wear away and slowly becomes thinner. Nerves do not exist in cartilage and therefore there is no pain with regular joint movement. However bones have nerves and when the cartilage is gone, they touch causing pain for the dog. There are many treatment options available when discussing dog care and arthritis. If the condition requires medical treatment, you might end up asking yourself which treatment is best for your dog. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAID's and Corticosteriods are among the most common treatments available. Both of these treatments have their advantages and disadvantages.

NSAID's reduce pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and other conditions. When irritation or an injury occurs, the body responds by becoming inflamed in that area. This is a sign that something is wrong. NSAID's block the chemicals that cause inflammation and have been approved for dogs only. Their most common use is for osteoarthritis and post surgery pain. Before they are prescribed, the dog should have a thorough history and physical exam done as well as blood and urine tests. They shouldn't be used in conjunction with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. When considering giving your dog these medicines, make sure they have no pre-existing conditions that may be affected by the medication. It can cause kidney problems if dehydration occurs or there is a pre-existing condition. Other side affects such as liver issues, stomach, and intestinal issues have been known to occur but are not as common.

Corticosteroids are another form of anti-flammatory drug that reduces swelling, irritation, and immune deficiencies. They have been proven to be very effective if used appropriately but are also known to cause bad side affects if taken too much or misused. The adrenal gland produces corticosteroids naturally in dogs. Because this is a natural process, side affects are more common and widespread. Each dog may react differently due to additional amounts of the substance entering their body. Side affects are more apparent if used for a prolonged period of time and are unlikely if used only for short-term use. Some side affects are diarrhea, vomiting, weight gain, behavioral changes, elevated liver enzymes, and diabetes mellitus. Dogs under long term use are more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections because corticosteroids suppress immune responses.

Dog health is important to pet owners and it is better if these types of medications never have to be used. By not using them, there are no adverse affects and only naturally occurring conditions will arise. You may not be able to prevent everything, but here are some things that can be done. Give your dog regular exercise that provides a good range of motion. This way fluid will move through the joints lubricating and keeping them healthy. Give your dog the right dog food and the right amount. Use dog nutrition supplements to prevent conditions from occurring and also slow down the progression of arthritis and other conditions. By doing these things, your dog will be healthier and have a life with little pain as possible.