The Vet Practice

Just like us humans,  many dogs and cats suffer from the pain of arthritis as they age - and it bcomes particularly more painful in the colder weather.

The good news is that this pain can be minimised.

There are several different approaches to managing the pain of this common condition to make your pet's life more comfortable..

The extent of the joint or bone degeneration is best assessed through X-Rays. From the results, a pain management plan can be suggested.

This may include any combination of the following:

• Anti - inflammatory medications
• Natural supplements
• A course of injections
• Special foods fortified with specific nutrients

Signs of arthritis and painful jpints can usually characterised by the following behavioural signs:

• Reluctance to run or jump
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty rising or climbing steps
• Reluctance to be touched in specific areas

One of the most important ways of reducing stress and avoiding further damage to joints is to maintain a healthy weight. This can be achieved through a combination of exercise and a healthy eating plan.

Overweight dogs with arthritis will find exercising difficult therefore making it even harder to lose weight.. The most important first step is to reduce the pain of exercising to allow your dog to become more mobile.

So, if your dog (or cat) is showing any of these signs of pain - please see your vet - soon!