Things to Consider Before Choosing The Best Dog Joint Relief Method

The most common causes of joint pain in dogs are degenerative and developmental disease. Degenerative problems such as arthritis, a chronic inflammation in the joints which causes damage leading to pain. As this disease progresses ligaments may deteriorate and your dog may develop osteoarthritis. Hip and elbow dysplasia are considered to be genetic diseases where ligaments between joints become loose, providing less support. This results in the abnormal structure of the joints and cartilage may wear down over time leading to exposed bones, which if they begin to rub together not only cause further deterioration of the joint but inflammation and pain. Joint pain can also be the result of injury and natural wear and tear associated with the aging process or more severe conditions such as Lyme disease or bone cancer. It is important to meet with your veterinarian first to determine the cause of joint pain and to choose the best dog joint relief method.

Your veterinarian will carry out a physical assessment and take history of your pet's symptoms. You should mention any changes you have noticed in your dogs mobility such as symptoms of lameness, changes to your dogs gait, if they are favoring particular legs, have developed a hop like gait, have shown difficulty walking up the stairs or getting into cars or reluctance to carry our exercise. Similarly any changes in their personality should be described such as signs of aggression or withdrawal and if you have noticed your dog licking or biting certain areas of their body. There are many options for dog joint relief, your veterinarian may prescribe anti inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDS for help reduce inflammation and pain. Due to the side effects associated with NSAIDs, many pet owners look to natural supplements to help reduce the need to use these long term. They are also useful for use in asymptomatic dogs to prevent joint problems and dog joint pain later in life. These joint supplements often contain comprehensive vitamins and minerals as well as ingredients proven effective for joint support such as glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. They are also particularly useful for supporting cartilage within the joints and preventing wear and tear unlike NSAIDs which typically only provide short term dog joint relief.

Diet and exercise play are important for dog joint relief. It is important to ensure your dog receives the optimum amount of vitamins and minerals whilst ensuring your dog is not over exercised which can create stress on the joints. Instead moderate exercise is also important to maintain a healthy weight in your dogs as extra weight can also cause stress on the joints. Household adjustments such as harnesses and ramps can be used to help support your dog's mobility at home. In advanced cases of problems such as hip dysplasia, surgery may be required.