Arthritis
in Dogs
by
J.R. Rogers
Is
your dog suffering from arthritis or hip dysplasia? Here is
a review of possible treatments.
The
Mainstream Treatments
-
Nonsteroidal
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Aspirin may dampen pain,
but do nothing to treat arthritis. Possible side effects include
vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and cramps. Do not
use either Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen.
-
Rimadyl
(Carprofen): An NSAID developed especially for dogs. Produced
by Pfizer. Often effective at reducing pain and inflammation,
however ineffective at treating disease or rehabilitating
cartilage. Less side effects than other NSAIDs, however death
is a possible occurrence with a bad reaction.
Pros:
Often reduces pain quite quickly
Cons: Have adverse side effects from ulcers to stomach
upset to death. Does nothing to rehabilitate cartilage or treat
disease.
Suggested Usage: Use only when your pet is experiencing
severe pain. Use during the first few days of beginning a glucosamine
regimen, as it can take 1-4 weeks for even a high quality glucosamine
formula to begin to alleviate pain. Try to avoid long term use
of NSAIDs and do be cautious when using Rimadyl as severe side
effects such as bleeding ulcers, liver problems, kidney problems,
or in some cases death.
Note:
Do not administer any medication to your pet without first visiting
your veterinarian.
Dietary
Supplements: Glucosamine & Synergistic Ingredients
-
Glucosamine
is a charged sugar molecule that is a key component of the
extracellular matrix of cartilage. It absorbs and releases
water with each step, thereby acting as a shock absorber for
the joints. It is the essential and principal ingredient that
determines the quantity of proteoglycan (water-holding) molecules
that are formed in the body. Glucosamine also stimulates the
production of glycosaminoglycans (GAG's) which are important
proteins found in cartilage. They serve to "bind"
the water within the cartilage matrix, slowing the deterioration
of your joints, and easing your pain.
-
Chondroitin
sulfate serves to attract fluids into proteoglycan molecules
which assists you in two ways. First, it draws nutrients into
your cartilage. Secondly, it increases the flow of fluid into
your cartilage to add resiliency. It also serves to protect
existing cartilage from premature degeneration by blocking
"bad" enzymes that destroy cartilage and as well,
prevent nutrient replenishment. A naturally occurring component
of cartilage aids in the lubrication and cushioning of joints.
Chondroitin also provides structure and flexibility to your
joints.
-
Manganese
is a mineral that enhances the effectiveness of both glucosamine
and chondroitin sulfates and synthesizes the production of
healthy cartilage. It is essential for a healthy immune system
and aids in the production of mucopolysaccharides, which are
critical for maintaining healthy joints.
-
Yucca
has a lengthy history in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.
The root is rich in saponins that elevate your body's ability
to produce "natural" cortisone. Helps to block the
release of toxins from the intestines that inhibit the normal
function of cartilage. Yucca, also has anti-inflammatory properties.
-
Bromelain
helps to inhibit pro-inflammatory compounds which reduces
pain and swelling.
-
Omega
3 & 6 fatty acids are constituents of fish oils that act
as anti-inflammatory agents. This is essential to reducing
pain where inflammation is present. Usually, these ingredients
are sold as stand alone products in health food stores or
included in feeds.
-
Boswellin
has been used for centuries in the Indian Ayurvedic system
of medicine to maintain healthy joints. Boswellic acids improve
blood supply to the joints and maintain the integrity of blood
vessels. At least one study has indicated that they may open
up collateral blood circulation to provide a more adequate
blood supply to your joints. Boswellin also serves to reduce
swelling and improve mobility where individuals experience
stiffness in the joints.
-
Vitamin
A (Beta Carotene) is essential for growth and repair of body
tissues and it also aids in bone formation.
-
Vitamin
C (Ascorbic Acid) mobilizes the body's self-defense mechanisms
that in turn, assist your pet's immune system in overcoming
disease. It is also a powerful antioxidant required to produce
collagen, which is the main supportive protein in cartilage,
tendon, and connective tissue. Collagen is the protein that
"holds our bodies together" and is critical to the
structure and integrity of healthy joints, not to mention
every cell in our bodies. Vitamin A also protects against
bone deterioration.
-
Vitamin
E (Tocopheral) is an antioxidant that acts to protect red
blood cells and fatty acids from oxidation damage. It also
assists your body in maintaining healthy membrane tissue.
Pros
of Glucosamine & Other Ingredients: In addition to easing
the pain, glucosamine actually aids in the rehabilitation of cartilage
and assists in rebuilding the joint structure. Furthermore, there
are no serious side effects like there are with NSAIDs.
Cons:
About 4-5% of pets develop minor diarrhea. This can be alleviated
by reducing the dose, giving with a meal, and splitting the dose
between morning and evening.
Suggested
Usage: A glucosamine supplement in liquid form has shown to be
absorbed much more effectively than glucosamine in capsule/pill
form. A high quality liquid glucosamine formula with the above
synergistic ingredients is recommended. For information on a liquid
glucosamine product that contains all of the above recommended
ingredients, click
here.
Non-ingested
Treatments:
-
Exercise
-
Weight
Reduction
-
Massage
-
Acupuncture
-
Hydrotherapy
-
Magnets
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The
Arthritis Resource Center for Dogs