Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease that affects both soft tissue and bones in a joint. It is caused by the loss of smooth cartilage that covers and protects the ends of the bones in movable joints. When cartilage wears away, bone is exposed, and when two bone ends touch, pain and inflammation occur.
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but the most commonly affected are: hip, elbow, shoulder, stifle (knee), carpus(wrist), hock (ankle), and the intervertebral joints of the spine. Unfortunately, this is a progressive condition that will continue to worsen over time. What causes it?
Wear and tear or abnormal stress on a normal joint are the common causes of osteoarthritis. These may be caused by injury, being overweight, or participating in activities that require constant twisting and turning (Frisbee, etc.). Osteoarthritis can also result from normal stress on a abnormal joint.
Which dogs are at risk?
Large breed dogs and dogs with certain body shapes (like dachshunds) are most prone to the disease. Some breeds of dogs develop degenerative joint disease at a very early age. There is a greater chance that osteoarthritis will occur if your dog injures or fractures a joint.
What are the signs?
Symptoms vary with age, with the joints involved, and with the severity of the disease. They can be as subtle as a decrease in activity, and may include limping, soreness, whimpering, difficulty getting up, or even licking the painful joint.
How can you manage this condition?
Weight reduction, controlled exercise, pain control, and joint supplements help keep your dog mobile and comfortable.
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