There are several signs that your dog may display if they are suffering from arthritis. Your dog may favor a limb, sleep more, have difficulty sitting or standing and seem to have stiff or sore joints. Other signs of arthritis in your dog may be their hesitancy to jump, run or climb stairs. Decreased activities, no interest in playing and weight gain are additional signs of arthritis.

It is important to take your pet to their veterinarian for an arthritis evaluation. After a complete examination, if a diagnosis of arthritis is made, then your vet will advise you of the available arthritis treatments for dogs. Interestingly enough, these arthritis treatments for dogs are similar to that of humans.

It is important for your dog to have a healthy diet and get exercise to help maintain proper weight. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs are the most common form of pharmaceutical arthritis treatment for a dog. There also are over-the counter pet treatments such as pills or food that can aide in treating your dog's arthritis. Some of the over the counter treatment options are glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, omega fatty acids and Boswellin.

Glucosamine is a charged sugar molecule that is a key component of the extra cellular matrix of cartilage. It absorbs and releases water with each step thereby acting as a shock absorber for the joints. Glucosamine also stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans which are important proteins found in cartilage. This helps to slow the deterioration of joints and ease the pain.

Chondroitin sulfate serves to attract fluids into proteoglycan molecules which assist in two ways. First it draws nutrients into the cartilage and second it increases the flow of fluid into your cartilage to add resiliency. Chondroitin also helps protect existing cartilage from premature degeneration and provides structure and flexibility to your joints.

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are constituents of fish oils that act as anti-inflammatory agents. This helps to reduce pain where inflammation is present.

Boswellin is another form of an over the counter medication that can aid in the arthritis treatment for dogs. Boswellic acids improve blood supply to the joints and maintain the integrity of blood vessels. Boswellin also helps reduce swelling and improve mobility in stiffened joints.

There are several different arthritis treatments for dogs. Your dog may see improvement within a few weeks. It is important to see your veterinarian to first determine if your dog has arthritis and then which is the best treatment option for them. Your best friend deserves the best treatment and just like us, there is simply no need for your dog to suffer with the pain of arthritis…especially when there are arthritis treatment options available for your dog.

Make the call today and talk with your vet about your dog's symptoms. If your dog is diagnosed with arthritis, then do the research, talk with your vet and make a decision to seek appropriate treatment.

Arthritis treatment for dogs is readily available! Call your vet today.