This page contains our current "Seasonal Article." To view other pet related articles and archived articles, please click on the Blog button above. Caring for the Arthritic Dog Arthritis in dogs is a fairly common condition for several reasons. Dogs tend to live longer, thanks to the modern age of preventative medicine and the availability of superior nutrition, and older dogs tend to become arthritic, similar to humans. Another reason that arthritis is more common is that obesity is more prevalent in dogs now more than ever, and the extra weight causes stress on the joints. Most overweight dogs experience symptoms of arthritis at some point in their lives. There are two types of arthritis, inflammatory and degenerative. Inflammatory arthritis is caused by infection, such as Lyme disease. Degenerative arthritis is caused by the destruction of the cartilage in the joints from the normal wear-and-tear of life or from traumatic injury. Some of the signs of arthritis in a dog are an unwillingness to go up or down stairs, difficulty getting up from a sitting or lying down position, exercise intolerance, limping, crying out in pain when touched, and a disinterest in playing. In some cases the pain of arthritis can cause a loss of appetite. Medications that can help improve the quality of life for a dog with arthritis include pain relievers, nutritional supplements, and omega-3 fatty acids. Pain relievers, such as Rimadyl or Previcox should be given to a dog under a veterinarian's instruction. It is not recommended that dogs be given over the counter human pain killers such as Tylenol or Advil as the side effects are numerous and sometimes fatal. Nutritional supplements like GLC 1000, Arthriease, Adroitin M, or Phycox can help rebuild and prevent future destruction of the joints. Available over the counter or through a veterinarian, these supplements need to be taken over a period of time to obtain results, usually 2-4 weeks. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements (fish oil), such as Derma 3 or Allerg-3, have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help dogs suffering from arthritis as well and are very safe to use. As with glucosamine/chondroitin, fish oil capsules need to be given over time before they are beneficial. In some dogs with mild to moderate arthritis, the use of nutritional supplements and fish oil capsules can reduce the need for prescription pain medication, or even eliminate it, depending on the degree of damage to the dogs' joints. Royal Palm Pet Supply also carries Chondro Flex Omega which combines glucosamine and Omega 3 Fatty Acids into one convenient product. Alternative methods of pain relief such as canine acupuncture and massage are becoming increasingly popular. These treatments are surprisingly inexpensive considering the benefits that a dog can receive from them. There are many ways to keep an arthritic dog comfortable at home, in addition to those already listed. In cold weather climates, providing a warm and comfortable sleeping place is essential. In split level homes, a bed on the ground floor and one upstairs can eliminate the need for the sore dog to climb the stairs if he is not feeling up to it. There are many very nice dog beds on the market, with orthopedic pads, heating elements, and so on. A wonderful bed for a larger dog is a crib mattress; it provides plenty of firm support with the comfort of a human-grade sleep surface. Smaller dogs that like to jump on the couch or bed can benefit from doggy stairs; soft-sided portable stairs made for dogs with difficulty jumping due to injury or arthritis. These can make a huge difference in preventing further injury. Exercise is still important for an arthritic dog. Joint movement increases fluid circulation around the cartilage, bringing nutrients and removing toxins. Swimming is an excellent exercise if your dog enjoys it, and of course walking at a comfortable pace. Any signs of lagging behind, limping or disinterest should be acknowledged, and an adjustment to the exercise schedule should be based on the dog's comfort level. Diet may play a role in controlling the advancement of arthritis because excess weight puts additional strain on the joints. If your dog is overweight consider feeding a high-quality, low calorie diet or ask your veterinarian about switching to a prescription weight loss diet (Science Diet R/D or W/D). Most dog biscuits on the market are packed with empty calories, but a dieting dog doesn’t have to forego treats altogether. Use alternatives such as small amounts of lean cuts of beef, chicken or turkey, or even baby carrots. Healthy commercial treats, like Rewards Treats are beginning to emerge on the market as well. A dog with arthritis can lead a happy and comfortable life. It is up to the dog owner to be diligent and observant of their dogs' behavior and make the necessary changes to accommodate his needs. The loving attention of a devoted dog owner can go a long way in helping a dog to live with and overcome the pain of arthritis.