Arthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease. This condition can affect one or more joints and can lead to pain, stiffness, joint swelling, lameness and reduced mobility, all of which can result in a reduced quality of life.
That's why it's important for you to recognize the potential signs of a dog's arthritis pain, and notify your veterinarian so treatment can start early.
As the disease progresses, there can be additional destruction of cartilage on the bone surface, and production of extra bone around the joint. If properly treated, the progression can be slowed significantly allowing dogs to continue enjoying their favorite past times such as walking, running and swimming.
- Arthritis is one of the most common sources of chronic pain that veterinarians treat.3
- Arthritis affects as many as one out of five adult dogs in the U.S..2 And these are just the cases that have been diagnosed. The actual number of dogs suffering from arthritis is unknown because many dog owners attribute the subtle changes in their dogs to "old age" or "slowing down."
- While many cases of arthritis occur in older, overweight and larger breed dogs, the disease can affect dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds.
- With the exception of joint replacement, there's no cure for degenerative joint disease and arthritis in dogs. But the pain associated with these conditions, and the stiffness and lameness they cause, can be managed.
There's no reason for any dog to suffer from the pain of arthritis. Pain can have a tremendous impact on your dog's quality of life. When your dog's in pain, he won't be as active. And that can lead to weight gain and additional stress on joints that are already sore. But when your dog feels less pain and is more comfortable, he will be more active, more fit, and more willing to participate in the family activities you love to do together.
Unfortunately, dogs can't tell us where it hurts. In fact, they can't even tell us when it hurts. So sometimes it's difficult to know when your dog is in pain. What we do know is that dogs experience pain and discomfort the same way humans do.
Dogs display a wide variety of responses to pain:
- They may be violent and vocalize - or be quiet, withdrawn and inactive.
- They may be aggressive when approached, as they try to protect themselves from further pain, or they may be subdued or withdrawn.
- Their ears may lie flat against their head.
- They may lick the affected area.
The key is to look for a change in your dog's behavior. Because arthritis is a progressive condition that manifests itself over time, the signs of pain become more apparent as the condition becomes more severe.
It is important to observe dogs closely for the signs of arthritis, including:
- General decrease in activity or exercise
- Reluctance to walk, run, climb stairs, jump or play
- Stiffness or decreased movement of joints
- Limping or lameness
- Difficulty rising from a resting position
- Lagging behind on walks
- Soreness when touched
- Yelping or whimpering in pain
- Acting aggressive or withdrawn
- Exhibiting other personality changes
If you notice any of these changes, see your veterinarian. The sooner the condition is recognized, the sooner your dog will feel less pain and become active again.
Important Safety Information: RIMADYL is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication available only by prescription through your veterinarian. As with other NSAID-class medications, signs of RIMADYL intolerance may include appetite loss, vomiting and diarrhea, which could indicate side effects involving the digestive tract, liver or kidneys. Some of these side effects may occur without warning and, in rare situations may be serious, resulting in hospitalization or even death. If these signs occur, discontinue RIMADYL therapy and consult your veterinarian.
The product information provided in this site is intended only for residents of the United States. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries. The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.
