Arthritis in Old Dog's

Arthritis in dogs is defined as inflammation of the joints, the primary sign being lameness. This may be seen as difficulty rising after laying down, or reluctant to bear full weight on one leg. Some dogs will get arthritis of their backs, and this is displayed with a hunched abdomen and reluctance to move.

Signs of arthritis in dogs:

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

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.

What are NSAIDs

Information you should know before giving your dog an NSAID for arthritis pain? - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed medications used to treat arthritis in dogs.

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.

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 arthritis medication.

Pain Management for Arthritis in Dogs

Weight control - Arthritis problems can be greatly alleviated in dogs 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 in dogs. 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, andomega-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.

Arthritis Supplements

Cosequin® is a nutritional supplement that helps dogs maintain healthy joints. Cosequin's active ingredients include glucosamine and chondroitin, and it can have a positive impact on joint health, while avoiding the side effects that can sometimes accompany prescription drugs. Side effects are rare, but may include diarrhea.
Glyco-flex® for Dogs is nutritional supplement containing glucosamine as well as Perna Canaliculus (green lipped mussel - which is a good source of protein, minerals, and chondroitin sulfates). It is used for maintaining healthy joints, and is recommended for younger dogs or dogs predisposed to hip or joint dysfunction.
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.

Synovi-MSM is a complete supplement for joint health with MSM, Glucosamine HCL, Perna Canliculus and Vitamin C. It produces significant relief of pain and stiffness along helping reduce swelling and inflammation. Synovi-MSM prevents pressure build up in cells, permitting nutrients in and pushing toxins out.
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.

Glyco-Flex III contains Dimethylglycine and is used for maintaining healthy joints, and is recommended for geriatric, working and sporting breed dogs, as well as a follow-up to orthopedic surgery.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has been demonstrated to provide hip and joint support

Glyco-Flex III

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 and can be found in a Joint Enhancer
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. Glucosamine can be found in a dry dog food specifically for Older Dogs

*** Diabetic dogs or dogs that are overweight and have problems with glucose tolerance should have their blood sugars monitored if they are given glucosamine supplements.

Arthritis pain relief medication

** Great Pricing for Arthritis Pain Relief Medication can be found 1800-PetMeds

FDA-Approved NSAIDs medications for Use in Dogs - Consult with your Veterinarian to determine the best arthritis medication for your dog.

NSAIDs help to control signs of arthritis in dogs, 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.

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
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
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.
Zubrin® (tepoxalin) tablets are given orally to dogs for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Manufacturer:Schering-Plough Animal Health Corp.
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.
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.
Novox (generic carprofen)- capsules Manufacturer:IMPAX Laboratories Inc./ distributor Vedco Inc.

** Remember that recommendations for drug doses and weight loss program should be made by a licensed veterinarian.

Additional Dog Arthritis Resources

Online Resources: