Dog Arthritis - Everything about Signs, Early Diagnosis and Treatment

One day you may notice changes in the mood and activity of your dog, so if your dog isn't feeling his best you may suspect a cold or stomach virus but it could be arthritis. In fact, arthritis affects one in every five adult dogs and is one of the most common sources of chronic pain that veterinarians treat.

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

How do you know if it's arthritis? Your dog can't explain what's wrong with him, so it's important to watch his non-verbal cues closely and take even subtle changes seriously.

Signs that your dog may have arthritis:

• Favouring a limb
• Difficulty sitting or standing
• Sleeping more
• Seeming to have stiff or sore joints
• Hesitancy to jump, run or climb stairs
• Weight gain
• Decreased activity or less interest in play
• Being less alert

If your dog seems to have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks take him to your veterinarian for an arthritis evaluation, which will involve a physical exam and possibly X-rays. The best thing to do for your dog in managing his arthritis is to get a diagnosis and start a treatment plan as soon as possible.

Therapies should include:

• Healthy diet and exercise to help maintain proper weight, as overweight dogs will suffer more due to stress on the joints.
• Choosing some good quality proven supplements like Winston's Joint System combined with Winston's Pain Formula.