Pet Arthritis News

Archive for March, 2010

Dog arthritis is one of the most common diseases that affect canines, especially large breed dogs (60-90 lbs). Just as human arthritis, dog arthritis tends to get worse with age

Here are 10 tips that may help your arthritic dog:

1. Slip-free Flooring. Hardwood and tile floors are slippery and can be very difficult for dogs with arthritis to move around. Placing carpet or area rugs will help secure your dog’s footing. This can help prevent your dog from slipping and getting injured.

2. A Soft Bed. Soft bedding can help support your dog’s bones and joints and make your pet more comfortable. This can be especially important in thin dogs in which bony prominences are likely to rub on hard surfaces. Some beds are made especially for dogs with arthritis, such as waterbeds, hammock beds, and beds with plenty of extra cushion.

3. Ramps or Cubes. Stairs and furniture can become difficult obstacles for your aging companion. Ramps or specially designed cubes can help pets safely climb stairs, get into or out of bed or get in

and out of your vehicle. Ramps can be made of plastic or wood and are available from many pet catalogs. A new product called “Puppy Stairs” are soft modular cubes that fit together in combinations that permit pets to climb up or down from beds or sofas. These cubes are made of soft rubber, have rounded corners and washable covers.

4. Medication. Various medications are available that can help your dog feel better. Medications include drugs such as Deramaxx®, Rimadyl® or Etogesic®. These drugs are classified as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and work to suppress inflammation and pain. Other medications such as Cosequin® can also be beneficial by providing your dog’s body with necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. See your veterinarian to discuss if any of these medications could benefit your dog.

5. Peace & Quiet. As your dog ages, he may not be as tolerant or patient as he used to be. Sore joints make it difficult for your pet to enjoy rambunctious playful children. Supervise playtime and consider keeping your dog away from very young children. Even parties and holiday time can be distressing for an arthritic dog. Your dog may want to join in the festivities regardless of the discomfort. To reduce joint pain and inflammation, you may want to limit your arthritic dog’s time as the center of attention.

6. Massage. By massaging your dog, you can increase his or her flexibility, circulation, calmness and a general sense of wellness. Professional animal massage therapists are available to provide your pet a more thorough treatment.

7. Weight Control and Dietary Therapy. Arthritis is more of a problem in obese pets. Weight loss can be beneficial by reducing the workload on your dog’s bones and joints. In addition to basic weight loss, there are diets formulated for dogs with arthritis that may be beneficial for your dog. Diets, such as Hills® Science Diet® j/d™ and Purina® JM Joint Mobility™ have been shown to help dogs with arthritis maintain weight, reduce pain and improve mobility.

8. Exercise. Modest daily exercise can help some dogs. Special care is needed, so it is important to first see your veterinarian, who can recommend an appropriate exercise program. Exercise can strengthen your dog’s muscles and ligaments thus reducing your dog’s injury potential and risk.

9. Extra Time. Don’t rush a dog with arthritis. It often takes them extra time to walk, climb stairs or get in and out of the car. Support and help your arthritic dog if needed or just give your pet the extra time to get around.

10. Grooming. Grooming should not be neglected, especially in the older dog. Arthritic dogs have a difficult time keeping themselves clean, especially in those hard to reach areas. Help your dog stay clean by trimming the hair around the rear end. Brushing will help remove mats and tangles, which can injure delicate older skin. Follow these top 10 tips, and you’ll be able to keep your arthritic dog living longer, stronger, happier and healthier.

Dr. Debra Primovic
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/caring-for-your-senior-dog-top-10-tips-to-help-your-arthritic-dog-103574.html

Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed, and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance, personality, and health requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the Yorkshire Terrier:

Often called a “Yorkie,” the Yorkshire Terrier is a smart dog with a beautiful coat. As with other terrier breeds the Yorkie has a lot of energy but it is also a very devoted attitude toward its family. While some controversy exists as to the origin of this breed, most people believe it is the result of breeding both English and Scottish terriers. Interestingly, the first name given to this breed was the “Broken Haired Scotch Terrier.” This particular dog was around 13 pounds and had wiry hair. The entire purpose of the development of the Yorkie was to help keep rats and other small critters out of small places within the home.

It was not until the late 19th century when the official name “Yorkshire Terrier” was given, a name representing Yorkshire England. Another fascinating aspect of this breed is that it is believed the father Yorkie that started this breed was actually an accident. However, from this accident, it was discovered the dog had good energy, was highly intelligent, very devoted, and beautiful. Today, the Yorkshire Terrier ranks as the third most popular dog according to the American Kennel Club.

Physical Appearance

This small breed of dog usually weighs between five and seven pounds, although it looks bigger due to the long, flowing hair. What you typically notice first about the Yorkie is its tall and proud stance. Without doubt, the Yorkie is a self-confident breed, one with curiosity, cleverness, and spirit.

The coloring for the Yorkie is a steel blue and tan although you might also see some with black or silver/gray in the coats. The face and legs are tan, and while most have a straight coat, there are some dogs with a slight wave. Keep in mind that if you plan to show your Yorkshire Terrier, wavy hair is not acceptable. The hair of the Yorkie has to be brushed daily and clipped. In fact, for show dogs, the care of this dog’s hair is quite complicated. For instance, pet owners will apply oil to the hair, followed by wrapping it in rice paper to keep the ends of the hair strong and shiny. In addition, the American Kennel Club would look for the nose, lips, rims around the eyes, and paw pads to have dark pigmentation.

Temperament and Personality

While a wonderful breed, the Yorkshire Terrier is not for everyone. This breed does have a high level of energy and if not properly trained, can be somewhat strong-headed. However, this independence and intelligence is also an attraction. Since this dog gets along well with children and other pets within the home, it makes a great family addition. The one downside is that the Yorkie can become injured if not handled properly. Therefore, it is generally not a breed recommended for households with real small children.

It is important to provide the Yorkie with outside time to help burn off some of the energy. We also strongly recommend training for this breed. Again, carrying the terrier traits means being strong-willed and determined. Therefore, you want to start while the puppy is young, teaching him or her that its place within the home.

Health

For the most part, the Yorkie is a strong, healthy breed of dog. Unfortunately, as the dog ages, the development of cataracts is common. Other possible health problems include arthritis and a collapsed trachea. To keep the trachea from collapsing, you want to use a harness rather than a collar around the neck. This way, when or if the Yorkie were to pull, direct force would not be placed on the neck.

Other potential health problems, although not as common, include various genetic disorders. For instance, the liver shunt, known as Portosystemic Shunt, occurs when a part of the dog’s blood bypasses the liver. The result of this is the blood not being cleaned of dangerous toxins. Spotting this problem can be a challenge in that symptoms might involve changes in behavior, poor muscle development, seizures, and so on. If you have any concerns whatsoever, you should have your Yorkshire Terrier checked by a reputable veterinarian.

Dan Stevens
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/getting-to-know-the-yorkshire-terrier-92405.html

Unlike human beings, dogs do not have the ability to communicate that they are feeling ill. Dogs are not even like children who can cry and indicate their discomfort. The illness of your pet dog has to be deduced by observing the behavior of the dog. Dogs have a comparatively higher pain threshold as compared to humans. Hence, they will cry out only when they are under severe pain and discomfort. By then, things become too late. Hence, the onus is upon the owner of the dog to find out whether his dog is ill or not. The best way to do so is to observe the normal behavior of the dog. If you can differentiate between normal and abnormal behavior of your dog, you can easily find out whether your dog is ill or not.

After waking up in the morning, make it a point to greet your dog by stopping all your activities and observe its behavior for at least one minute. Do not restrain the behavior of the dog. Just observe the dog for a minute.

Observe your dog during the morning and evening outdoor activities. Let your dog walk in front of you and observe it. Watch it when it moving up or down the stairs or when it standing or sitting. Watch for at least ten seconds.

Do make sure that you watch the first twenty seconds of your dog eating its meal. Further, watch it for at least twenty seconds in sleep and watch a complete urination and a bowel movement

Do not expect to immediately know everything about your dog’s behavior. Keep on observing and you will discover that you can discern subtle variations in the behavior of your dog. Even if you are not conscious of the same, you will find that your observations come up when talking to your vet. If you observe any explicit abnormality, do not get worked up. It is important to objectively watch the abnormalities and describe them correctly to your vet.

Once the process of observation becomes a habit, you will realize that it does not take more than four to six minutes of your day. Soon, you will learn to discern subtle changes which may indicate to an illness. There are very few symptoms, called pathognomonic symptoms, which indicate a specific illness. Generally, symptoms are vague and general. You will learn to recognize them as well.

It is advisable to take aged dogs out for walks more often as they are more susceptible to arthritis. Frequent exercise can delay the problem. Further, aged dogs become lazy and frequent moderate helps circulation.

Unlike humans, a weak bladder in dogs is not a minor irritant but an indication of a bladder infection or the possibility of a kidney problem in the future. Bladder infections are common irrespective of the age of the dogs. On the other hand, kidney diseases are more common in aged dogs. It is one of the most common problems found in old dogs.

Kelly Marshall
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/is-your-aged-dog-sick-how-to-find-out-698091.html

I took my mini poodle to the Vet to-day as he seemed stiff around his back end..I thought it was arthritis he`s getting on..He needed X-Rays..they have cost £250..thats before any treatment he may need…why so expensive?P.S. I cant have pet insurance now as hes over 9 years old…

I too love my pet dearly but I think we are taken advantage of…£250 for an X Ray seems excessive but Vets have a monopoly and we have no choice but to pay…as other replies have said the charges are based on the fact we are so emotionally involved with our pets and will pay almost anything…its one of the perils involved with owning a pet we know the vets bills will take our eyes out..

4. The first step in handling stress is
A. removing all stressors from your environment.
B. becoming aware of your own reaction to it.
C. trying to relax through meditation techniques.
D. catching up on missed sleep.
5. What is the purpose of breathing exercises?
A. To release endorphins
B. To release adrenaline
C. To settle the body and mind
D. To decrease your sense of awareness
6. Which one of the following choices is a mental symptom of distress?
A. Sleep disorders C. Memory loss
B. Hallucinations D. High self-esteem

What does the acronym HALT stand for?
A. Hungry, angry, lonely, tired
B. High-strung, anxious, labored, tense
C. Healthy, active, lean, toned
D. Help, avoid, learn, talk
8. Eustress is a form of
A. estrogen. C. positive stress.
B. negative stress. D. endorphin.
9. How often should you use deep, relaxing breathing techniques?
A. Every day
B. Only during periods of stress
C. No more than twice a day
D. Only when you’ve gotten enough sleep
10. Which one of the following symptoms indicates that a person is in the alarm stage
of stress?
A. High level of concentration C. Blurred vision
B. Hyperventilation D. Racing heartbeat

11. What is the purpose of the mantra during meditation?
A. It lets everyone know you’re meditating.
B. It allows you to concentrate on one peaceful sound.
C. It helps to relax the muscles.
D. It helps to release endorphins.
12. Which one of the following choices best represents a potential stressor?
A. A surprise gift C. A long-awaited salary raise
B. An unexpected visit D. A decrease in gas prices
13. How can doing something for someone else help to relieve stress?
A. It helps you to sleep better.
B. It helps you become numb to social issues.
C. It can get you time off from work or school.

D. It gets your mind off your own troubles.
14. How can you reduce the stress of completing a project?
A. Put off the project until the last minute.
B. Work on the project well into the night.
C. Take a break from the project when you need it.
D. Devote at least eight hours a day to the project.
15. Which of the following physiological symptoms are signs of stress?
A. Arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome
B. Hearing and vision loss
C. Dental cavities and bone loss
D. Headaches and elevated blood pressure
16. When should you suggest a client use progressive muscle relaxation?
A. Before the client begins an intense exercise routine
B. When the client is stressed while driving
C. After the client eats a large meal
D. When the client is having trouble relaxing
17. How does regular exercise improve cardiovascular function during times of stress?
A. It increases oxygen supplies and lowers triglyceride levels.
B. It reduces the amount of endorphins released in the body.
C. It reduces carbon dioxide supplies and raises triglyceride levels.
D. It increases the level of hormones circulating in the body.
18. Distress is a form of
A. disease. C. positive stress.
B. negative stress. D. expected stress.

19. Which one of the following choices might be an appropriate image for visualization?
A. The pet you had as a child
B. A picture of a favorite relative from the past
C. A car driven very fast
D. A beach at low tide
20. What nutritional supplement is recommended for helping the body handle stress?
A. Iron
B. Zinc
C. Vitamin C
D. No supplements are recommended for stress management.

I’m sorry, I am failing to see where you are needing HELP. Can you please elaborate in the additional details what you don’t understand?

I can feel my cat Smudge’s hip bones through her short fur, but she seems to not be stiff or anything like that. However, my cat’s hip bones are becoming more and more prominently felt whenever I pet her and Smudge is a 14 year old shorthaired cat who’s going to be 15 in June of this year. She doesn’t seem to be in any pain when she’s petted, but I’m concerned that her hip bones becoming more and more easily prominently felt may be a sign of arthritis. Is this reason enough for my concern for my cat? Smudge’s eating okay and also doesn’t seem to be losing any weight lately, but she’s 8 pounds, which is the proper weight for a cat her size, according to the vet.

I don’t think that prominent hip bones are a sign of arthritis. It develops quite slowly actually and a cat will just seem "stiff" as it starts to move around when getting up from a nap or in the morning.

My 22 year old cat’s arthritis was pretty severe and she still got around all over the place. From the bedroom to the kitchen, out to lie on the deck in the warm morning sun, around to her favorite tree to scratch her nails etc. I did get some "pet steps" for her about a year before she died to help her to get up on my bed where she liked to nap and be with me at night.

I felt the "boniness" more in the area of her shoulders than at the hip.

One of the arguements against acupunture or other alternative healing practices using energies Science hasn’t proven exist is that clients feel better because they expect the treatment to work, that they’re victims of the placebo effect.

Do you think the same can be said for pets that receive such treatments? Can a dog or cat feel better because they believe this alternative treatment will work? Or can they feel better because they’re getting all this extra attention from their owner and the healing practitioner?

I had a wolf-dog who had some acupunture treatments for arthritis in her hips while she was also being treated for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. She seemed pretty happy when she was getting her acupuncture treatments. I don’t know if it was releiving her pain or if she was enjoying the attention and dried chicken treats.

- P.
Thought Bandit,
You must not own a dog. As a dog owner, it’s not difficult to tell when your dog is happy. They have a panting, open-mouthed "smile" and their ears perk up.

Placebo effect requires cognitive processing. Accupuncture works on dogs because it is a real science, not because dogs are perceiving that they will get better if needles are stuck in them.

If you have ever undergone accupuncture (I have), there is a seriously unpleasant side to it (the needle stick, the immobility). Dogs are not acting out a placebo in those terms. Yet dogs DO have symptom and pain reduction when accupuncture is applied to their bodies.

That is why dogs and other lower animals are the perfect test participants to prove whether a placebo effect is skewing the data.

Placebo has to do with believing you will get better because you are convinced that something that should realistically have no effect DOES have an effect just because of some data you are given that is not necessarily true.

Although animals (especially dogs) can be made worse or better if they are touched by ad physically near a human who loves them and they consider part of their "pack," they cannot wish themselves well like a human can.

So although a dog can die if left alone when ill or heal faster if a human it loves is beside it in a a recovery cage (yes there are many such annecdotal cases proving such) they cannot cognitively believe a sugar pill is a pain pill and show placebo results. So assuming at any level that they are experiencing a placebo effect is erroneous at best.

I hope this helps!

ok so my pet who’s
-a Beagle (mix probably)
-around 10 yrs old
-outdoors dog
-some arthritis
-overweight (although we take him on daily walks)

has had some health issues:

Skin: early this summer one day we found a patch of skin that had gone pink w/hair loss on the back of his neck. And with that there was an ulcer/hole in his upper fore-right leg that was pink, pussy, slightly deep, & about the size of a penny or dime appear over night. Well we took him to the (mobile) vet & he said that it was probably just allergies & the hole was just an irritated allergy patch. Well he responded so quickly & barely looked at my dog so I’m not too sure if he’s right. he said if we continue treating it it will just heal, well the allergie patch seems to be healing (even though it has multiplied) & I don’t know about the ulcer (which has like the symptoms of a larvae or something)

Eye: well for a few months my dog has had like a small tumor i guess on his upper right eyelid. It’s the same color of his eyelid & stuff. Well it wasn’t growing & the vet said it’s just benign. Well just like the other day it grew a bit. And with it came red bumps on it (like 2). I’m really scared & don’t want it to grow any larger or spread. It doesn’t seem like Cherry Eye by the way.

He doesn’t seem to show any discomfort or pain but I’ve heard it can take a lot for dogs to show any and I definitely don’t want to wait ’til that happens.
Please Please help me. I know this sounds cheesy but I’m an only child and I was very shy when I was little so this dog was my first friend, I’ve had him since I was 3 & he’s been through everything with me. Especially in the financial condition we are in right now we just can’t really afford surgeries or anything. We medicate him everyday but I just want it to get better. I’d be willing to give up all my savings to save him but of course I can’t do anything without my parents permission.
So thanks in advance & please help me & my pet Timmy

Take him to another vet and get a second opinion.

My almost 10 yo choc lab needs something for arthritis. Vet suggested Rhymidal (sp) but I’ve read a lot on here about Deramaxx. What is the average cost of these meds per month?
Thanks!

I have used both on my dogs & found Deramaxx is better, but more expensive. I just picked up 45 Deramaxx today from my vet & it cost me $103.50. The Rimidyl I was giving my a whole pill a day.The Deramaxx is 100mg pill & I give my dog 1/2 pill a day. I think I was paying around $1.50 per pill for the Rimidyl. You can go on line & simply type in Deramaxx & hit search. You will need a perscription from your vet to get either medicine on line.

One thing to keep in mind is that our metabolism and animals’ are different. There are some supplements that are fine for a human but can cause damage to a cat or dog. Always consult your vet before giving vitamins or supplements to your dog or cat.

Remember, vitamins and supplements for your pets shouldn’t be used to replace seeing a vet. Your pet cats and dogs should have regular checkups and be taken to a vet if they appear to be ill. You should make sure you always inform your vet of any type of vitamins or supplements you are giving your pet.

This is especially true if you cat or dog is being treated for a condition which requires medication. This is because some medications will act adversely when taken with other types of medication or supplements. Always consult your veterinarian and ask for their recommendations before starting your pets on vitamins or herbal supplements.

Listed below are some of the common vitamins and supplements that are being given to pets to promote health and treat ailments.

Glucosamine and Chondroitan- These are well known and are commonly prescribed by veterinarians to treat pets who are suffering from arthritis and joint pain. They are known to help rebuild cartilage and thicken joint fluid which cushions and protects the joints.

Milk Thistle- This has been used for pets with liver problems such as hepatitis. It is suppose to protect liver cells from toxins.

Ginger- This has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries as an anti-inflammatory and also for stomach problems. It has been known to help animals with car sickness and with digestive problems, including diarrhea and gas.

Vitamin C- This vitamin is a powerful anti-oxidant which is said to help combat the aging process and cancer. It has also can be used for hip dysphasia, arthritis and urinary tract problems.

Echinacea- This supplement is said to improve the immune system and helps to fight off infections and diseases.

Slippery Elm- The bark of this tree is used to help the digestive system in pets who suffer from upset stomachs and constipation.  It has also been known to be used as a cough suppressant.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids- The oils from cold water fish have been known to be beneficial to pets. They have been used to aid in treatment of heart disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis and kidney disease.

Choline- This supplement can be helpful to pets that have cognitive disorders and seizures.

There are certain vitamins that seem to help different parts of your pet’s body. For example Vitamin A is used for healthy skin and coat.  Vitamin E helps to ease the discomfort of arthritis and cancer. Vitamin D is essential for bone development, and nerve and muscle functions. Vitamin B helps with growth and metabolism.

Make sure you read the directions thoroughly and always give the recommended dosage to your pet. You might want to consult with your vet on the dosage for your particular pet. Remember, even though a vitamin or supplement is considered natural that doesn’t necessarily mean it is safe. Always closely monitor your pet after you have given them any new type of vitamin or supplement to watch for signs of an allergic reaction. The items listed above are just a few of the different varieties of supplements available for use on pets. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on which type of product will work best for your four-legged companion.

To make sure your pets stays healthy and will enjoy a long life, you might want to consider buying pet insurance in case there will be unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. You have health insurance on the rest of your family and for peace of mind you might want to get pet insurance on your four-legged companions.

Karen Corey
http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/common-natural-supplements-and-vitamins-for-pets-712119.html