Arthritis affects one in every five adult dogs in the U.S. and is one of the most common sources of
chronic pain that veterinarians treat.
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Definition - Arthritis is defined as
inflammation of the joints, the primary sign is lameness. This may be
seen as difficulty rising after laying down, or reluctant to bear full
weight on one leg. Some pets have arthritis of their backs, and this is
displayed with a hunched abdomen and reluctance to move.
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Signs to watch for:
Favoring a limb
Difficulty standing or sitting
Sleeping more
Stiff or sore joints
Hesitate to run, jump or climb stairs
Weight Gain
Decreased activity
Behavior change
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What should you know before giving your dog an NSAID? |
Never give aspirin or corticosteroids along with an NSAID to your dog.
NSAIDs should be approached cautiously in dogs with kidney, liver, heart and intestinal problems.
Never give your dog an NSAID unless directed by your veterinarian.
Don’t assume an NSAID for one dog is safe to give to another dog. Always
consult your veterinarian before using any medication in your pet.
Only give the NSAID as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose, the
frequency, or the length of time you use the drug unless first discussing this with your veterinarian.
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When giving a pet an NSAID, watch for these side effects |
Decrease or increase in appetite
Vomiting
Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or black, tarry, or bloody stools)
Change in behavior (such as decreased or increased activity level, seizure, aggression, or lack of coordination)
Yellowing of gums, skin, or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Change in drinking habits (frequency or amount consumed)
Change in urination habits (frequency, color, or smell)
Change in skin (redness, scabs, or scratching)
These side effects are the most common. But not all possible side
effects are included on the Client Information Sheet or on the drug
label. Always contact your veterinarian if you have questions about your
dog's medication.
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Controlling pain and maintaining function of affected joints |
Weight control- Arthritis problems can be greatly alleviated
in pets carrying too much weight, simply by shedding those unneeded pounds reducing the stress placed on joints.
Exercise - It is important to keep joints moving, so regular moderate exercise is encouraged.
Swimming and hydrotherapy may be an option so the joints can be manipulated with minimal pressure.
Massage - can be a great way to relieve some of the discomfort of arthritis. Using your fingertips, rub firm circles into the muscle. Then
progress to using the palm of your hand. Doing this daily will increase blood flow and make your pet less painful
Neutraceutical supplements - such as
glucosamine,
chondroitin, and
omega-3
fatty acids. These act to provide precursors needed to
repair damaged arthritic cartilage. (available in
some veterinary prescribed diets)
Comfortable Bed
- Keep your dog warm and comfortable, especially at night.
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FDA-Approved NSAIDs medications for Use in Dogs -
Consult with your Veterinarian to determine the best arthritis medication for your pet.
NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Inflammation--the
body's response to irritation or injury--is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs work by blocking the production of
prostaglandins, the body chemicals that cause inflammation.
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Etogesic (etodolac)- is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can be given once daily to
manage the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
Manufacturer:Fort Dodge Animal Health
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Rimadyl (carprofen)
(pronounced “Rim-a-dill”) is a 24-hour, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is
administered once a day.
Pfizer Animal Health
Read FDA
report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Metacam (meloxicam)-
Metacam 5 mg/mL Solution for Injection for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
Manufacturer:
Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc.
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Zubrin® (tepoxalin)
tablets are given orally to dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
Manufacturer:Schering-Plough Animal Health Corp.
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Deramaxx (deracoxib)- is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
that is proven safe and effective in controlling the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis.
Manufacturer:Novartis Animal Health US Inc.
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Previcox (firocoxib) - chewable tablets are not a cure for osteoarthritis, it can control the
pain and inflammation and improve your dog's mobility.
Manufacturer:Merial Ltd.
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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Novox (generic carprofen)- capsules
Manufacturer:
IMPAX Laboratories Inc./ distributor Vedco Inc.
Read FDA report
Product details from Drs Foster and Smith
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** Remember that recommendations for drug doses and weight loss program should be made by a licensed veterinarian.
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Resources |
Arthritis Foundation
Arthritis.com
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Terms |
Cosequin®
A nutraceutical is a nutritional supplement which has pharmaceutical properties, but is not a medication. The
ingredients of Cosequin are derived from natural sources; chondroitin sulfate is derived from cartilage and glucosamine from crab shell. Therefore, Cosequin is
entirely natural.
Glyco-flex®
contains a unique combination of GlycOmega(TM) (Perna canaliculus from an exclusive New Zealand source) plus DMG, Glucosamine,
MSM and other active ingredients that have been proven beneficial for dogs requiring joint support.
Perna canaliculus, commonly known as the New Zealand green-lipped mussel, is a natural source of glycosaminoglycans (including chondroitin-4 and -6
sulfates and hyaluronic acid), minerals, amino acids and omega 3 fatty acids - compounds that can make a significant contribution to canine mobility and comfort.
Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a naturally occurring compound that has been shown to support joint structure and function. Studies also indicate
that DMG acts as a powerful antioxidant to help promote healthy joints and connective tissues.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has been demonstrated to provide hip and joint support.
Chondroitin
sulfate is a naturally occurring substance in the body. It is a major constituent of cartilage—the tough, elastic connective tissue found in the joints.
Omega-3
fatty acids are vital for normal function of every organ system in the body, particularly the immune system. A lack of omega 3s (or relative excess of omega 6s)
contributes to allergic and degenerative disorders, causing:
Joint inflammation and arthritis
Allergy dry itchy skin, recurring skin infection recurring ear infections
Autoimmune disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease
Loss of mental alertness in older dogs
Oils such as cod liver oil derived from cold water fish are an excellent source of omega 3s and a more practical way of supplementing our pets’ diets:
Omega - 6
essential fatty acids have many important roles in the body, including
Maintenance of healthy skin and hair coat
Ensuring normal pregnancy and lactation
Ensuring normal growth in kittens and puppies
Ensuring normal cell membrane structure and function
Enhancing skeletal muscle activity in working dogs
Glucosamine
is a natural nutrient occurring in the body that promotes cartilage and joint repair.
Glucosamine supplements serve to aid in the body's repair of cartilage and improve the general health of joint formations.
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Arthritis products can be found at |
1-800-PetMeds
sales prescription and non-prescription pet medications along with health and nutritional supplements at substantial savings, direct to the consumer. Shop
there online store
View Joint Care Products
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Drs. Foster & Smith - Pet owners can trust that Drs. Foster & Smith-brand products offer the absolute best quality
available. These products are made in America, are available only through Drs. Foster & Smith, AND are frequently less expensive than pet supplies found in
retail pet stores.
Maximum Relief Arthritis Kit
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PETSMART- At PetSmart, they
believe pets are family, and encourage you to bring your pets into the stores when you shop.
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