Can I give my dog anything for 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. Owners are often hesitant to use NSAIDs due to publicity regarding potential side-effects, and will seek alternative options for pain control. Combining a number of treatments is recognised as the most effective way of controlling pain with minimum side-effects. We strongly suggest using a means of measuring pain before the treatment and after to ensure the goals of using it are met. Leaving a dog in pain for whatever reason is not acceptable, and will lead to the condition worsening rapidly.

You can make your dog more comfortable and slow down the progression of arthritis by using simple strategies, supplements and medications. 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. In more painful cases, dogs may need extra help to be comfortable. Supplements for Arthritis Lots of supplements are available for arthritis in dogs, these contain various ingredients, most commonly a source of glucosamine and chondroitin. While clinical evidence for supplements is mixed, they are very safe and anecdotally can be helpful in arthritis cases. Anti-inflammatory drugs combat inflammation in the joints, relieving pain. These can be given long-term or in bursts as needed, but should never be given at a higher dose than recommended by your vet. Cartrophen Injections This joint-supportive injection is given weekly for four weeks and claims to help with cartilage production and protect against cartilage damage.