Dog arthritis treatment?

QUESTION:

How do you treat dog arthritis?

answered by Phil Zeltzman

ANSWER:

Once arthritis is actually proven, there are many options to help your pet:

. Weight loss or weight control.

. An "arthritis" diet.

. Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, MSM).

. Exercise, either through low-impact activities or physical therapy.

. Pain medications: non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or morphine-like drugs.

. Environmental changes, such as keeping your pet in a dry & warm place, or providing thick, soft, clean padding. Other suggestions include minimizing access to stairs, elevating the food and water bowls, or building ramps.

. Periodic re-evaluations with your vet.

In some cases, surgery is an excellent way to treat arthritis. From simple procedures (removing a flap of cartilage or part of a bone) to more complicated surgeries (fusing a joint, or a total hip replacement), ask your vet if your arthritic pet would benefit from surgery.