Pet Library : Arthritis
ARTHRITIS
 
  •       Arthritis affects 45% of large dogs, 27% of small dogs, and 90% of older cats
  •       Arthritis shortens pets lives
  •       Arthritis makes pets reluctant to play, exercise and interact with their family
  •       Arthritis is painful
  •      Arthritis is diagnosed by physical exam and radiographs
 
For osteoarthritis (like hip dysplasia and other common forms of arthritis), we treat pets with several modalities at the same time:
 
      Weight Loss- Keeping your pet thin is the single most important thing that you can do for your pet.
 
      Moderate, regular exercise – this includes once or twice daily walks that are longer than 10 minutes, swimming, or prescribed exercises. Arthritic pets do not get enough exercise on their own.
 
      Pain medications – we can prescribe medication for your pet. Do not use Aspirin, Buffered Aspirin, Ascriptin, or another pet’s medication for your pet.
 
       Glucosamine – every day for the life of your pet.
Dasuquin and Glycoflex are excellent brands made exclusively for pets. Beware using other brands!
 
      Omega 3 Fatty Acids
 
      Acupuncture – Which can be done here by Dr. Butler. Many dogs and cats get remarkable relief with acupuncture treatments.
 
      Adequan injections – Adequan is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan in an injectable form. This works more effectively than oral Glucosamine for some pets. We give 2 injections a week for four weeks then repeated injections as needed. For many pets, the injections are given every 4 to 6 weeks after the initial series.
 
      Surgery-when appropriate.

   Prescription Diets - We are thrilled to offer prescription diets for dogs that have glucosamine and omega 3 fatty acids allready included. One of these diets even has the appropriate calories for weight loss.