Osteoarthritis pet medication targets the source and the symptoms of this joint disease. Arthritis afflicts 25% of all dogs over the age of five, causing pain and loss of mobility that decreases their quality of life. Medications with ingredients that rebuild and restore cartilage can minimize these symptoms by helping the dog's body to heal itself.

How Osteoarthritis Pet Medication Works

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage that cushions joints, and it will get worse if not treated. A dog suffering from arthritis will experience stiffness, pain and difficulty participating in even ordinary activities. There are several categories of medications that can be prescribed, but their purposes fall into two categories: pain relief and cartilage re-growth.

Depending on the dog's condition, a vet may recommend painkillers such as steroids or non-steroidal inflammatory drugs. These reduce swelling that leads to arthritis pain, but do nothing to address the source of the problem. Osteoarthritis pet medication that contains cartilage-building ingredients is formulated to help the dog's body repair, rebuild and maintain healthy cartilage. Once this is achieved, the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis diminish, and the dog regains freedom of movement.

Nutrients that are produced naturally by the dog's body can be given as supplements. Chondroprotective agents such as glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, can reverse the effects of arthritis. Osteoarthritis pet medication that contains these substances will give a boost to a dog's body at a time when it has been compromised by age and the ravages of joint disease.