Pet arthritis affects millions of dogs each year. In fact, it is estimated that one out of every four dogs will have signs of arthritis by the time they reach middle age. For most dogs, this will be around their fifth year. The symptoms of arthritis in dogs are the same as in humans: stiffness and loss of mobility, whimpering when the joints are touched and a reluctance to engage in activities that require a range of movement.

Pet Arthritis--Causes And Treatments

Arthritis is a disease that affects the cartilage of the joints. Under normal circumstances, cartilage wears out and gets replaced in adequate amounts, ensuring that the bones have a cushion between them. As dogs age, however, their bodies lose the ability to produce enough cartilage to replace that which is lost. Many factors contribute to the loss of cartilage in dogs: injury, disease and the ravages of oxidative stress, to name a few.

The good news is that there are effective treatments for pet arthritis. Which one is best is determined by each dog's condition. Options range from supplements to surgery. Most dogs that do not have joint abnormalities can be treated with medication and nutritional supplements. A promising development in arthritis treatment is the discovery of chondroprotective agents that target joint health. These are natural substances that repair and rebuild cartilage at the cellular level.

Thanks to advances in the treatment of joint disorders, there is a good chance that an animal with pet arthritis can live a long and healthy life. The key is in protecting and building cartilage, the shock absorbers that cushion bones and keep them from rubbing together. Nutrients that contribute to the well being of the dog will strengthen him against the stresses that cause joint disease.