Dog Arthritis Symptoms
Canine arthritis usually develops slowly over time and may not be noticeable
until there is severe damage to the cartilage. The reason for this
is that the articular cartilage (the cartilage covering the end
of each bone) lacks blood vessels and nerves, acting really as a
shock absorber between two bones. The dog continues to run and
play as the cartilage is wearing away.
When the cartilage eventually breaks down, the bones rub together,
and the dog begins to display some of the symptons of arthritis in dogs:
- Lameness
- Joint swelling and stiffness
- Pain or slowness in getting up
- Muscle atrophy
- Slowness of movement
Diagnosis
During your pet's regular checkup, your veterinarian will examine
the dog's joints by palpation, or feeling the joint area. For
osteoarthritis, a radiograph or ultrasound examination will show
the mineral deposits on the bones.
Arthritis in Dogs, Natural Treatment
To help improve the cartilage, reduce inflammation and provide dog joint pain relief, many
holistic veterinarians recommend nutraceuticals containing glucosamine
sulfate, chondroitin sulfate and/or methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
Glucosamine sulfate is one of the safest and most widely-used
ingredient for arthritis. It helps rehabilitate damaged cartilage
by stimulating the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and
chondroitin sulfate, the essential component of cartilage. Glucosamine
has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity, which
helps to relieve some of the joint pain the dog may be suffering.
Chondroitin sulfate is another natural substance found in the body and it works
to prevent enzymes from degrading the building blocks of joint
cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is often used in combination
with glucosamine, however, when used alone, glucosamine sulfate
helps the body to manufacture its own chondroitin.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is often recommended by veterinarians for animals with joint conditions. The sulfur in MSM can be utilized by the body in the formation of compounds such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, as well as the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Arthritic joints often have low levels of both sulfur and cysteine. Animal studies have found MSM helps to maintain normal articular cartilage.
Other natural ingredients to look for include:
- Green-lipped mussels (Perna mussels)
- Helps to repair cartilage as they are rich in glycosaminoglycans,
vitamins and minerals.
- Bromelain - Inhibits inflammatory compounds
and reduces pain.
- Boswellia - An anti-inflammatory which
allows for increased blood supply to he joints to help stimulate
repair.
- Vitamin C - Important in the production
of collagen which is needed for soft-tissue support for joints.
- Zinc, selenium and manganese - Helps
the body utilize antioxidants.
To repair and promote healthy cartilage and ease dog joint pain, we recommend these dog arthritis medications:
ArthriSoothe Gold by NaturVet
 ArthriSoothe-GOLD provides optimal levels of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Green Lipped Mussel, Hyaluronic Acid and MSM. This combination is recommended to help support, maintain, and contribute to rebuilding damaged cartilage and tissue. ArthriSoothe-GOLD is also recommended to help improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. The antioxidants Ester-C (Vit. C) and Vitamin E help protect against free radicals that cause cellular damage.
ArthriSoothe-Gold comes in liquid and tablets.
To purchase or read
more about ArthriSoothe Gold Liquid..
To purchase or read
more about ArthriSoothe Gold Tablets...
Arthroplex by Thorne Research
 Arthroplex
contains glucosamine sulfate to help stimulate the production
of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and chondroitin sulfate, the essential
component of cartilage. This formula also includes Vitamin C to
enhance collagen production and Boswellia serrata which acts
as an anti-inflammatory.
To purchase or read
more about Arthroplex...
MSM-750 by Thorne Research
 This formula contains 750 mg. of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). The sulfur in MSM can be utilized by the body in the formation of compounds such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, as well as the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Animal studies have found MSM helps to maintain normal articular cartilage.
To purchase or read more about MSM-750...
Hip Action Treats from Zukes
 Zuke's Hip Action Treats' unique formula combines a variety of natural nutrients to keep dogs active, mobile and pain free. The cornerstone nutrients, Chondroitin & Glucosamine HCL, have demonstrated great success in naturally conditioning joints and enhancing comfort. Secondary nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, copper, zinc, selenium, manganese and numerous amino acids have been added for their enzymatic benefits and to assist in the transportation of Chondroitin & Glucosamine to aching hips and joints. Vitamin C alone has been extensively used by many dog owners to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with canine hip displasia.
To purchase or read
more about Hip Action Treats...
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Conventional Treatments for Dog Arthritis 
