Pet Arthritis Treatment
With dogs living longer than ever before, it is very common for dogs to suffer from neurological conditions and/or arthritis in their senior years. Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints, making life uncomfortable and painful for a geriatric canine. This condition can sneak up on an owner because dogs are very good at hiding pain. Owners of an older dog are invited to chat with our veterinarian at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton about possible symptoms to watch out for concerning arthritis. The sooner a neurological condition or arthritis is discovered, the better for the pet.
What Causes Arthritis in an Aging Dog?
Arthritis is caused by ligaments degenerating over time. This will happen faster if a pet is overweight. Keeping an older dog at a healthy weight, feeding it a high-quality diet, and allowing for plenty of exercise are the best ways to prevent arthritis. There are several signs to watch for that indicate your senior pet is suffering from arthritis. Talk to our veterinarian about any concerns you have noticed. These include limping, difficulty moving, sore neck, a hunch in the back, tiredness, irritability, decreased muscle tone, and licking, biting, and chewing in the painful area.
How is a Geriatric Canine Treated for Arthritis?
There are many options for treating arthritis. It is important to find the most effective pain management techniques to keep an older dog active. Prescription medication can be used, corticosteroids are an option, and so are adding nutritional supplements such as glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, chondroitin sulfate, and green-lipped muscles. Other options for pain management of arthritis include physical therapy, dog rehabilitation, acupuncture, cold laser treatments, and CBD products. Talk to our veterinary team about these methods to reduce inflammation in an aging dog and find the best treatment option for your geriatric canine.
Veterinary Care for Older Pets in Clifton
Call Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton at (973) 509-5225 to schedule an appointment to discuss pet arthritis treatment and dog rehabilitation with our veterinarian.