IS YOUR DOG SLOWING DOWN BECAUSE OF AGING?

Age-Related Osteoarthritis

Just like humans, joint disorders are common degenerative diseases that are more likely to affect older dogs. Osteoarthritis (OA) is common in older dogs and is a progressive disease; however, sometimes, it can be triggered by an injury to a joint, such as a knee injury that damages the cartilage. OA can affect one or more joints anywhere in the body; however, the most common joints affected in dogs are the hips, knees, shoulders and elbows.

In OA, the surface cartilage in the joints breaks down and wears away, allowing the bones to rub together. This causes pain, swelling, inflammation and loss of motion in the joint. The long-term deterioration of the cartilage is progressive and permanent. Untreated pain and loss of mobility may lead to other health issues, such as immune suppression, digestive troubles and insomnia.

Signs of Joint Pain

Physical and behavioural changes may include:

• Reluctance to walk, run, climb stairs, jump, or play
• Change in temperament (e.g. withdrawn, more anxious or less tolerant)
• Becoming quiet, withdrawn, and inactive
• Increased licking of a painful/sensitive area
• Limping or stiffness, especially after lying down
• Change in grooming habits
• Unexpected reaction when handled or touched
• Showing uncharacteristic aggressiveness when approached (an attempt to protect themselves from further pain)
• Whimpering

NSAIDs for Joint Pain Management

When joint pain sets in, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed by a veterinarian could be helpful. The objectives in managing osteoarthritis include minimizing joint pain by reducing the inflammation and slowing the progression of the cartilage damage, resulting in increased joint flexibility and ultimately improving quality of life.