What do vets recommend for dogs with arthritis?

Anti-inflammatory medications, known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are frequently used to manage your dog’s condition and can offer a dramatic improvement in mobility and quality of life. There are many licenced drugs available that come in different formulations and are given in different ways and generally they are very well tolerated. However, as with all medications, side-effects can happen, but following advised dosing, as well as keeping a close eye on your dog’s appetite, toileting and thirst will significantly reduce the likelihood of them occurring. Developments in NSAIDs in the last decade have created more COX-2 selective drugs which should reduce the side effects seen, however adverse reactions can still happen. Combining a number of treatments is recognised as the most effective way of controlling pain with minimum side-effects. Owners are often hesitant to use NSAIDs due to publicity regarding potential side-effects, and will seek alternative options for pain control. We strongly suggest using a means of measuring pain before the treatment and after to ensure the goals of using it are met.

Lots of different treatments are used for osteoarthritis in dogs. This is because each case is different, and because using multiple treatments together often has a better outcome than using a single treatment alone. Many of these involve changes you can make at home, with support from your Vets4Pets team. Help at home Using ramps to get into the car, restricting the times your dog needs to use stairs, and providing a thick comfortable sleeping spot are all ways you can make life easier for your arthritic dog at home. Exercise strengthens the muscles that support joints. Moderate amounts of low-impact exercise also improve mobility. Weight control All dogs with arthritis benefit from being a healthy weight. Approximately half of all dogs are overweight or obese. Some dogs with arthritis do not need any medication or supplements at all, and are simply managed with changes to diet, exercise and home routine. Anti-inflammatory drugs combat inflammation in the joints, relieving pain. Your vet may recommend which is best for your dog. Lifestyle changes and medication are the most common treatments for arthritis, however there are other treatments available to consider that might be suitable for your dog.