Arthritis in Dogs
Diseases are inevitable to the animal kingdom. Dogs are no exception to the rule. Throughout their life span dogs can be affected by numerous diseases, arthritis being one of them.
Usually older dogs are more vulnerable to arthritis. Arthritis in dogs is very similar to that of human beings. Obese and inactive dogs are most likely to suffer from this disorder. A degenerative disease, arthritis causes stiffness in joints and the muscles. Pain associated with arthritis can be severe for some dogs.
However, arthritis is not limited to older dogs only. Even younger dogs can be affected by this disease. Causes of arthritis in young dogs are accidents and injuries. If your dog has met with severe injuries in its younger days, there is every possibility that it might develop arthritis later in life. Conditions such as canine hip dyslexia can also lead to arthritis in dogs.
Dog arthritis symptoms
Dogs suffering from arthritis exhibit certain signs. Every pet owner should be aware of their dog’s health and keep them away from diseases and discomfort. Some of the symptoms of dog arthritis are listed below.
1. Laziness: - One of the first symptoms of arthritis is laziness. The dog will tend to sulk in one corner and sleep throughout the day. Some might consider laziness to be a normal activity among dogs but laziness in previously active dogs can be a sign that your dog is suffering from arthritis.
2. Pain in the legs: - Try and make your dog stand on its hind legs. If it fails to do so, then it might be suffering from arthritis.
3. Weight loss: - Dogs suffering from arthritis tend to lose body weight. Arthritis may even affect a dog’s appetite. If your dog refuses to eat its regular food then you know that it’s time to take your dog to the veterinary.
4. Fever: Dogs with advanced cases of arthritis may develop high fever. Fever accompanied by pain is a serious sign that your pet is suffering from an advanced case of arthritis. Provide your dog with first aid whenever such a situation arises.
5. Reduced muscle tone: - Some dogs have a well built body. If your dog suddenly loses its physique it may be due to arthritis. If suffering from arthritic pain, your dog will stop running and exercising. If this kind of a situation arises, check it for sure that your dog is suffering from arthritis.
Arthritis is a very widespread disease among dogs. If your dog is old, arthritis is a major concern if you do not go through the necessary precautions. While almost all senior dogs are bound to suffer from arthritis, extra care and proper measures can be taken to prevent your dog from catching arthritis.