AN INTRODUCTORY REVIEW OF CANINE ARTHRITISBy Brian Daubs

Introduction Brian Daubs, DVM, currently serves as the chief of surgery

at the Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital in Rockledge, Florida. Possessing over 15 years of veterinary experience, Dr. Brian Daubs provides treatment and care for a wide range of canine conditions, such as arthritis and associated muscle and joint diseases.

A degenerative joint disease characterized by pain and inflammation, osteoarthritis occurs due to a breakdown in the cartilage between joints and bones. Cartilage breakdown causes bones to become exposed, which leads to painful bone and joint damage. Alternatively, developmental arthritis can set in as a result of incorrect development of the hip or elbow joints.

Canine Arthritis Symptoms of canine arthritis range from limping

and difficulty walking to swollen joints and loss of flexibility. Due to the slow progression of arthritis, pet owners rarely see signs of pain during the early stages of the disease. Instead, pet owners typically notice a lack of energy and difficulty performing common activities, such as climbing stairs or getting into a vehicle, as a first indicator of concern. More athletic dogs may exhibit a significant reduction in stamina or a loss of interest in extended outdoor play.

Conclusion Veterinarians divide treatment into two

categories: surgical and non-operative. Surgical solutions may consist of joint replacement, arthroscopic cleaning, or platelet rich plasma therapies that promote healing for bones and soft tissue. Non-operative treatments primarily focus on alterations in the dog’s daily life to reduce stress on the joints and build muscle strength. Pet owners can take preventive measures against arthritis development through proper care and regular vet check-ups.