DOG ARTHRITIS - Learn out this can be treated with natural supplements

Dog Arthritis is a common ailment as dogs age. It is similar to humans as calcification and inflammation cause joint pain and reduced activity. But there is a cure for this common problem and it doesn't involve a visit to the local vet's office. We have learned that natural supplements can be extremely effective in fighting the effects of arthritis in dogs. First, you should observe the signs of dog arthritis.

Signs of Dog Arthritis

1. Limping and general reduced activity
2. Favoring one of the front or back limbs
3. Morning activity or cold weather makes dog less active
4. Difficulty rising from a resting position, especially in the morning.
5. Pain to the touch
6. Reluctance to jump

If you suspect your dog has arthritis, you should know the different forms of dog arthritis. They are listed below

Types of Dog Arthritis

1. Osteoarthritis - The most common form of arthritis and most easily treated. Develops slowly as the dog ages.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis - This is an immune mediated disease and can affect the whole body. Several joints can be affected and the lameness can come and go without notice. Considered a more serious condition than dog osteoarthritis.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease - This is where the discs in the vertebrae develop calcification and become rigid. They become less able to withstand compression. This can lead to a severe injury and paralysis if the discs rupture or herniate.
4. Stifle Joint Disorder - This is a condition in which the knee and joint becomes unstable. This is usually from a stretched or torn ligament. This can also cause the joint cartilage to become damaged and inflamed.
5. Canine Hip Dysplasia - This is caused by looseness in the socket connecting the thigh-bone and hipbone. This development usually occurs when the dog is young. A common sign is to hear a clicking sound when the dog walks.

Treatment Options

1. Free and Easy for Dogs - This is a natural supplement which has had excellent results. It uses powerful and proven supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, ester-c, msm and hyaluronic acid. Many studies have been done which have proved the effectiveness of these supplements. Read the success stories from other users who have used this product.
2. Rimadyl & Deramaxx - These drugs are obtained by prescription only. They are called NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Rimadyl was introduced by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals in January 1997 to help treat dogs with inflammation and pain associated with surgery or canine arthritis. It is effective but it must be used with caution. Read " What Your Vet May Not Tell You About Rimadyl". You need to have blood work done to monitor the liver enzymes to ensure your dog doesn't have a toxic reaction to the drugs.
3. Surgery - Surgery can be a easy decision or a very difficult decision. Often, money is a concern and some surgeries like disc surgery can cost around $3,500. Often, the age of the dog has to be considered when making this decision. And the outlook and prognosis is very important. You do not want the dog to suffer unnecessarily. At the very least, you should only consider surgery after ensuring an accurate diagnosis has been made. This may involve taking x-rays and a myelogram. A myelogram is done by injecting dye in the spinal canal to enable your doctor to detect abnormalities of the spine, spinal cord, or surrounding structures.

Summary - Dog Arthritis can be a very debilitating disease if left untreated. Dog owners should pay close attention to their animals and take prompt action when symptoms are noticed. Often a natural supplement is all that is needed to hep your dog. Sometimes more aggressive treatments are needed such as surgery. The most important thing is to notice the problem and then decide what treatment is best for your dog.