Even Dogs Can Have Arthritis

(This article is from Lionsco's Pet Information Blog)

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint, which can cause pain and or swelling. Several types exist, including rheumatoid, degenerative, and infectious arthritis, each of which has a different cause. There are two forms of arthritis that may effect dogs - osteoarthritis and traumatic arthritis. An arthritic joint can cause immense pain, especially in the morning and in cold weather.

Causes

Osteoarthritis may be a condition in itself, or a result of other conditions such as hip dysplasia. It is a progressive and painful disease that will seriously affect the quality of life of the affected dog. It may affect one of more joints, and the seriousness of the condition will depend on which joints are affected, and general health of the dog. Obese dogs are more prone to osteoarthritis.

Traumatic arthritis is caused as a direct result of an injury to the joint, for example the result of a road traffic accident or a sprain while exercising. Poor nutrition, especially in the early months of of your dog's life, is another cause of the condition. It may also occur as a result of poor husbandry or old age, or be hereditary.

Symptoms

Swollen joints, difficult in walking, and lameness. As your pets friend and owner it is important to watch for trouble. These are signs of arthritis:

• Becomes less active
• Gets up Slowly
• Walks stiffly or limps
• Has swollen joints
• Yelps, especially during exercise
• Hesitates or refuses to climb stairs
• Has a fever
• Seems depressed

Comprehensive examinations help your veterinarian detect and treat arthritis before it becomes too painfully. If your pet doesn't receive regular exams, the arthritis may already be advanced when you notice it. If you do notice signs or arthritis, see a veterinarian immediately. Your doctor will perform a complete physical examination and may use blood tests, X-rays, and joint fluid analysis to help determine the cause and severity of the arthritis.

Medical Treatment

Your vet will advise you as to what action you should take, as this will depend on the underlying cause and treatment being given. Careful exercise routines detailed by the vet will prove beneficial in many cases. Swimming is good, as it exercises the dog's muscles without putting pressure on affected joints.

Some of the tools your veterinarian may use to treat your pet:

• Antibiotics help treat infectious causes of arthritis. Immunosuppressive drugs are effective against autoimmune disorders.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help control the debilitating effects of degenerative arthritis. These medications can effectively control pain and inflammation in dogs. In fact, your older dog may act like a puppy again!
• Chondroprotective agents, including glucosamine and chodroitin, are natural compounds that the body uses to replenish joint materials.
• MSM; natural dietary sulfur, antioxidant vitamins, and fatty acid supplements may decrease the inflammatory effects of arthritis.
• Cortisone can be effective in the treatment of arthritis but can have side effects with prolonged use at high dosages.

Veterinary care can help reduce inflammation and ease the pain of arthritis. The treatment for arthritis may include anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers, and in some cases surgery may be needed. All cases of osteoarthritis should should be treated seriously. Don't wait until your dog can walk before consulting the vet. You can also ask your vet to recommend pet supplies that can help your pet ease the symptoms of arthritis. Pet beds, and pet strollers are some sample products

Improving Pet-Owner Relations with Pet Strollers

Besides taking care of pets, owners have other hobbies and interests too. Some are indoor, while most are outdoor activities. Sometimes it becomes a problem for owners to leave their pets at home and go out. They usually worry about their safety, but more bothered of feeling sad that the pets don’t get to go with them. No more of that sad part.

Pet strollers now make it possible for owners to bring their pets along with more ease and convenience. Having a portable, wheeled containment, pets would no longer be left at home, but can now participate in their owners’ other activities.

Take a Walk or Go Jogging

People love to get out every morning and do some stretching and get fit by exercising. Parks and beaches are the ideal places to burn some calories. Take a walk or go jogging with your pet inside a stroller. While you take a step towards fitness and health, your pet enjoys the great scenery and cold morning breeze.

Going Downtown

Sometimes owners have to run some errands downtown and they just can’t leave their pets behind. If downtown is just a few blocks away from your home, don’t bother taking the car anymore so you can save gas. Make walking more fun and enjoyable by bringing your favourite buddy along inside a dog stroller. You won’t get bored because you have your pet’s company.

Watching in Stadiums

Alright, so you don’t want to miss your favourite sports team game and you also want your pet to cheer for them. Well, why not take him along. You can seat near the isle so you can keep an eye on him. Pet strollers also provide pets the best seats during sporting events and concerts.

Bond with your pets more often and never make them feel alone. Get those pet strollers and bring them where you go and share them your interests.

Pet Care On-the-Go

Most pet owners are always on-the-go and are too busy to take care of their pets. This is quite sad especially for pets who usually find themselves alone at home or in the hands of sitters. Owners usually find it hard to carry their pets around or keep them safe from the crowd, but with today's pet strollers, things can be easier.

Ideal for pet owners who are always on-the-go, pet strollers can provide safe, comfortable, and portable containment. Owners can now take their pets along leisure walks, downtown visits, grocery shopping, and anywhere else. These strollers are also beneficial for old and arthritic pets. They can be saved from the burden of long walks and running. At the same time, injured or sick pets would also love pet strollers especially during vet visits. The latest line of dog strollers have become more stylish and also have storing capabilities wherein pet care stuffs or toys can be stored and brought along too.

If time and circumstances allow, it's really a good idea to bring the pets along. This is to ensure that they are given the pet care they deserve and that they also get to spend time with you.