Arthritis is a degenerative disease impacting your pet’s joints overtime. If left untreated, your pet can experience pain that will negatively impact their quality of life. Our veterinary team will create a treatment plan to support your pet’s wellbeing. To book an appointment, please contact us at 403-288-7299.
What causes arthritis?
There are some risk factors that make pets more susceptible to developing arthritis. If your pet is overweight, the extra pounds cause added stress on the cartilage cushioning the joints, increasing the rate it breaks down. Middle-age and senior dogs are also more prone to developing the disease because of natural wear and tear of the joints, caused by years of use. Some pets are also genetically predisposed to the disease, like large dogs including German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
What are the signs?
Pets who have arthritis experience pain and inflammation in their joints, which can manifest as any of these signs:
- Limping
- Stiffness
- Weight gain
- Irritability
- Lack of movement
Is there a cure for arthritis?
There is no cure but we’re able to treat the disease so it doesn’t negatively impact your pet’s quality of life. Arthritis is treated with a combination of pain medication, therapeutic treatments (like acupuncture and physiotherapy) and joint supplements. If your pet is overweight, a weight management plan could help ease some of the strain added weight creates on their body. The goal of weight management isn’t just getting your pet to a healthy weight but improving their overall health. This includes incorporating a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
