by Joshua Keyes DVM

Created on: July 01, 2008   Last Updated: December 06, 2008

Years ago, the arthritic dogs were difficult to treat. If a golden retriever suffered with hip dysplasia, it could be surgically treated, but there were not many options for safe medical management. If Rover was getting old, having a hard time getting into the car or climbing stairs, there weren't many medications available to help him feel better for a few more months or years. We were limited to using corticosteroids, aspirin and other medications with serious side effects.

Today, we have more choices for the medical management of arthritis in our canine companions. Non-steroidal anti-imflammatory drugs for the treatment of dogs began to emerge with the introduction of carprofen (Rimadyl) in the 1990's. Now that product is accompanied by etogesic, dermaxx and a number or other prescription medications, all of which require careful consideration of the risks and benefits of using them for a given patient. Most of the time, pet taking these medications are screened periodically for potential effects on the patient's liver and/or kidneys.

Apart from these medications, I think we really need to be mindful of natural approaches to the managemnt of arthritis in dogs. A patient with arthritis should be kept at an optimal weight. Any amount of extra weight can place additional stress on jints that are already painful. When I see an overwieght dog who is slowing down as he ages, the owner may be right in asking for medical assistance, but she also needs to know that every pound of weightloss will make her dog a little more comfortable.

Exercise is important for dogs with arthritis, too. As your dog gets older, you need to think about whether or not you have been providing enough movement for his joints. Is he a house pet who sleeps while you work ten hour days? If so, you may need to take him for more leisurely strolls. This, of course, is only an option if you are addressing the issue of arthritis early on. But if you do, adding frequent moderate exercise to whatever medications you and your vet decide upon may help your dog considerably.

Early introduction of nutraceutical compounds to the aging dog's diet may also help. Consider Dasquin and other porducts like it. Since glucosamine-containing products are intrinsically safer and more benign than non-steroidal or steroidal anti-inflammatories, it's wise to use them early and consistently.

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