Arthritis in hunting dogs

Arthritis in hunting dogs

Arthritis is a disease of the joints. It can be caused by too much stress on the joints over a period of time or by an underlying medical condition. Just like people, dogs can get arthritis. Unlike humans, they cannot express their pain out loud. This is why it is important for every dog ​​owner to be aware of the symptoms of arthritis in dogs and how to treat them. It is equally important to understand the different causes of arthritis and how to prevent it.

Causes of Canine Arthritis

Arthritis can be either a degenerative or an inflammatory disease. Older dogs are more susceptible to degenerative arthritis due to wear and tear on their joints. The joints hold the skeleton together and can be described as hinges. Cartilage protects the joints. The destruction of this cartilage causes arthritis in dogs.

In some cases the cause is unknown, although it is often due to excessive stress on the joints over a period of time. In other cases, arthritis simply flares up. A disease such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can cause this condition in dogs.

Canine Arthritis Symptoms

Since dogs cannot pass on their emotions, a dog owner must pay attention to them. Symptoms of arthritis in dogs include:

Limp

Cannot be executed

Unwillingness to play

Difficulty getting up

Yep or bark when touched

Resistance to touch

Difficulty climbing stairs

Slow walking

These symptoms should be examined by a veterinarian to diagnose arthritis. Because arthritis in dogs can be the result of an infection, dog owners should not attribute this condition to age alone.

Treating Arthritis in Dogs

Treatment for canine arthritis in some cases includes medication with painkillers. There are several medications on the market that can relieve the painful inflammation associated with arthritis. Any medication given to the dog should be taken on the advice of a qualified veterinarian.

Other treatment options include surgery in some cases. It is also recommended to ensure that the dog gets enough rest and is kept warm. A veterinarian is the best person to recommend treatment for the dog in a case where arthritis has been diagnosed.

In the event of an infection causing inflammatory arthritis, the underlying disease must be treated. Again, the vet may prescribe treatment and painkillers to treat both the infection and the painful symptoms of the disease.

Canine Arthritis Prevention

When it comes to degenerative arthritis in dogs, owners can protect their dogs by ensuring they don't become overweight. Extra weight puts strain on cartilage and can cause arthritis. A healthy diet is necessary for every dog's health and can help keep the dog at its proper weight.

Adequate rest is also required. Dogs should not be overworked without being allowed to rest. Many dogs will work to the point of exhaustion because they want to please their owners. Dog owners should ensure that their hunting companions are properly rested and kept warm after a day of hunting so that they can help prevent this disease.

Additionally, ensuring that dogs do not fall prey to diseases that can cause arthritis is a key factor in prevention. Dogs should be protected from Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and other tick or mosquito bite infections that can cause this painful inflammation of the joints.

Inspired by Geoffrey English