What should you know about canine arthritis?
Canine arthritis is more common than you may think. It can affect dogs of any age, breed or sex.
In fact, studies have shown that as many as 1 in 5 adult dogs have arthritis.2 Although there is no cure,
chronic arthritis pain can be managed with the help of diet, exercise, surgery and proper medication.
Constant activity can damage your dog's cartilage, putting strain on joints and inducing arthritis, a
degenerative joint disease. Unfortunately, the symptoms of arthritis are easily missed and
often misinterpreted. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following signs:
General risk factors – how does your dog measure up?
AGE
There are many factors that can affect the biological age in dogs: breed, size, weight and activity level.
While the chart above provides a general reference, you can find additional information at
www.dogage.com.
DogAge helps determine the biological age of a dog by using science and statistics. This will replace the
old, inaccurate "times 7" method and allow you to know how old your dog really is.
SIZE & WEIGHT
Heavier dogs place more stress on their joints. Your dog is at considerably higher risk for arthritis and
other joint problems if overweight.
What are additional risk factors?
BREED
Breeding involves years of careful genetic selection. While this process has produced
many of the traits you love, it also can predispose dogs to certain hereditary conditions. For example,
hip dysplasia is a common joint disease that can become a serious issue in certain breeds
as young as 1-3 years old.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Just as with humans, an active pet is a healthy pet. Frequent exercise can help stretch the muscles
and keep joints functioning well. See your veterinarian to develop an exercise regimen
that's right for your pet's specific needs.
What can you do to help manage canine arthritis?
Although canine arthritis is incurable, it can be managed. By following a few steps, you can
ensure that you and your dog will have many healthy and happy years together.
- Lighten their load If needed, reducing your pet's weight can
significantly decrease the burden on loadbearing joints. Consult your veterinarian for
a weight management program for your pet.
- Get their paws in gear Moderate exercise can help strengthen joints
and reduce the chances of further damage. To establish an adequate, low-impact routine,
consult your veterinarian.
- Get safe effective help With modern advances in medication, there's no reason for your dog
to be slowed down by the pain and discomfort of arthritis.
- Stick with the program Arthritis is a chronic disease that requires
continuous treatment. Although you will probably notice an improvement with
medication and therapy, it is important to stay faithful to your veterinarian's
instructions in order to maintain your dog's quality of life.
We invite you learn more about canine arthritis and how Pfizer's
pain
management medication can help.
