Arthritis impacts your pet’s joints, limiting mobility and causing pain. If you start noticing your pet limping or moving more stiff than usual, these could be early signs of the disease. Early diagnosis allows us to create a treatment plan specific to your pet’s needs, since no two cases of the disease are the same.
Why is it a degenerative joint disease?
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease because as the protective cushioning (cartilage) between your pet’s joints continues to wear away, their condition worsens. Without the cartilage, your pet’s bones will rub against each other, which causes pain and inflammation. Arthritis is most common in the hips, knees, elbows, lower back and wrists. For some pets, symptoms won’t manifest in the early stages of the disease. When you do start noticing changes in your pet, it’s important to contact us at 905-983-9010.
Is there a way to slow it down?
Unfortunately, the disease cannot be cured but our team can support your pet with strategies for pain management to ease aches and pains. Besides medications, we’ll also recommend:
- Weight management to ease the strain on joints
- Nutrition counselling to integrate omega-3 fatty acids, which decrease inflammation
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- Acupuncture to support pain management
- Massages to ease inflammation and swelling
- Exercise to improve mobility and alleviate stiff joints
Is it preventable?
Some pets are predisposed to developing it because of their genetics. However, there are a few steps you can take, starting in your pet’s early years to decrease the likelihood of developing it. For example, if your pet gets injured, ensure you have regular post-injury checks to ensure their joints heal properly. It’s also important to incorporate calcium and omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods in their diet for healthy development.
