By Dr. Rene Smit
What is Osteoarthritis:
OSTEO = bone
ARTHRA = joint
ITIS = inflammation
Inflammatory condition of one or more joints
Progressive and permanent deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the body’s joints
Very common in older animals due to normal wear and tear on the joints as the animal ages, but it can affect younger animals after a traumatic injury or those with joint and bone development problems
Leads to pain and discomfort
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
If you notice one or more of these signs below, please bring your pet in for an assessment at our #FreePainClinic (bookings essential)
· A noticeable decrease in activity
· Reluctance to walk, jump, play, climb stairs etc.
· Reluctance to rise from sleeping position
· Stiffness, limping or favoring a limb
· Licking or chewing on areas that may be painful
MANAGEMENT
The physical changes to the cartilage unfortunately cannot be reversed. Management is aimed at keeping your pet as comfortable as possible by controlling pain, reducing the severity of the symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Carrying excess weight on damaged joints is not only painful but can also speed up the process of cartilage breakdown. If your pet is overweight, please come in to discuss special diet options with us at our free weight clinic, and your first bag of #Hills food is for FREE
EXERCISE ROUTINE Daily low-impact exercises (such as walking and swimming) can improve muscle tone and range of motion. You can also contact Pawsitive Pawsabilities for assistance when designing a suitable exercise plan including hydrotherapy. Contact us for more details and contact numbers.
COMFORTABLE BED It is advisable to provide a soft and supportive bed to take pressure off your pet’s joints when they are resting. There are several options, including orthopedic foam style mattresses that provide extra cushioning. We now stock these ultra cool #Sealy dog mattresses.
PAIN MANAGEMENT Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are commonly given to relieve pain and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis. It is important that these medications are used only as prescribed by a veterinarian as they are not risk free and may lead to liver, kidney and digestive problems.
JOINT SUPPLEMENTS Certain nutraceuticals, such as #glucosamine, #chondroitin, #MSM and omega-3 fatty acids can act to protect the joint cartilage by reducing inflammation, thickening the joint fluid and improving blood supply to the joint. This helps to provide pain relief for longer periods of time and slows the progression of joint damage. Please see below for a few of the supplement options available.
#PENTOSAN GOLD INJECTIONS
Pentosan polysulphate sodium & Glucosamine
We recommend a course of 4 once-weekly injections, and thereafter a monthly booster injection.
These great supplements are also available in our store at an affordable price.
#GCS JOINT CARE ADVANCED
Glucosamine, Chondroitin sulphate, Collagen, MSM & Omega-3 Fish Oils
Chrondroitin sulphate, Glucosamine & ultra-pure MSM
MEDPET ARTHRITIS CARE TABS Glucosamine HCL, MSM & Green lipped mussel extract
Feel free to contact us on 0126645763 or visit our website www.lytteltonanimalhospital.com for more information on our practice.