Sirius Fun at West Ridge
Doggy Daycare

West Ridge
Animal Hospital

8235 20th Street
Greeley, CO 80634

Phone: (970) 330-7283
Fax: (970) 313-4527
E-mail:

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Common Treatments for Pet Arthritis

Debra Singleton, DVM

WRAH Veterinarian

Arthritis, or degenerative joint disease, has been reported in 1 in 5 adult dogs. The most commonly affected joints include the hips, stifles (knees), elbows, carpi (wrists), and the spine. Treatments for arthritis are numerous. Frequently, medical therapies to relieve pain and inflammation are indicated. Many drugs are currently available for the treatment of arthritis, encompassing a wide range of efficacy and cost. NEVER give human drugs such as aspirin, Tylenol (acetominophen), Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen sodium) to your pet. These drugs are toxic to pets in very small amounts, and may severely affect liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract function.

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
A commonly utilized drug in this category is Rimadyl (carprofen). It works to relieve inflammation and blocks the pain pathways in the body, yet it is sparing of the stomach lining. It may have side effects, which include liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal conditions. We also frequently use the NSAID drug Metacam (meloxicam). Metacam has the advantage of being administered once daily, and it comes in a palatable liquid form. Another NSAID that may be used for pain and inflammation in dogs is Deramaxx. These drugs are all similar in their beneficial actions and possible side effects. Blood work is required for long-term use of ANY NSAID medication to ensure that risks of side effects are minimized. These drugs should NOT be used in combination with any other nsaids or steroids.

CARTILAGE ENHANCERS/ NUTRACEUTICALS
Two drugs commonly used in this category are Cosequin or Dasuquin (oral form) and Adequan (injectable form). These drugs work by providing glucosamine and chondroitin, which are cellular materials necessary for the body to regenerate joint fluid and to slow the breakdown of joint cartilage. Ideally, they will also prevent further joint damage from occurring. Human joint supplement products may also be utilized. These are generally dosed at one regular-strength tablet (500 mg glucosamine + 400 mg chondroitin) per 25-30 lbs, body weight once daily, or divided into two doses.

STEROIDS
Two steroid drugs often used in animals include prednisone (oral form) and dexamathasone (oral and injectable form). Steroids work by disrupting the pain pathways and relieving inflammation. They are approximately 5-20 times stronger than NSAIDs. Steroids must NOT be used concurrently with NSAIDs due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal problems. Steroids have side effects, especially with long-term use, which may include increased appetite, drinking, frequency of urination, and immune suppression.

OPIODS/NARCOTICS
In more advanced cases of arthritis, additional pain relieving medications may be utilized. This class includes Tramadol, a human opiod analgesic medication, codeine, with or without acetaminophen, and morphine. These medications are controlled substances, and strictly monitored. Side effects may include sedation, decreased breathing rate, low blood pressure, nausea, and drug dependence. These medications may be combined with NSAIDS to improve analgesia. Risks to liver and kidneys do exist, and blood work may be required.

NEW/ ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
Alternative methods of treatment for arthritis include acupuncture, herbal supplements, dietary therapies, and physical therapy.

Many patients respond very well to acupuncture, a centuries-old form of Eastern medicine. We recommend using a veterinarian certified in this specialty. We offer this form of treatment, as well as VOM (veterinary orthopedic manipulation) - please schedule a consultation with a veterinarian certified in acupuncture if you are interested.
Physical therapy – specific exercises and therapies can help patients suffering from arthritis - the goal is to help to strengthen muscles, and to increase the range of motion of affected joints. We offer PT consultations, as well as underwater treadmill therapy for arthritic patients. Please schedule a consultation with our physical therapist if you are interested.
Fish oil – Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to decrease the inflammation in arthritic joints. The standard dose is one capsule (at least 60% omega 3) once to twice daily for life. It may be difficult to find the proper ratio of omega 3/6 fatty acids for animals in human preparations. We do carry a specific brand in the hospital with recommended levels – please speak with a veterinarian or technician if you would like to place your pet on this supplement.
Vitamin E – Free radicals contribute to inflammation in arthritis; vitamin E is a free radical scavenger. The standard dose is one 400 IU capsule daily for life.
Doxycycline – This antibiotic has been shown to prevent cartilage loss and decrease pain in human arthritic patients when used at low doses. This drug is not approved by the FDA for this condition, but it is commonly used in arthritic patients and in cancer patients.
Weight loss – it is very important to reduce the stresses placed on an animal’s joints by keeping it in a lean body condition. This may reduce pain and inflammation, and slow the progression of arthritis. Please speak with a veterinarian if you would like a specific dietary/weight loss plan for your overweight pet.

EXERCISE AND ACTIVITY
Regarding exercise, slow walks are generally recommended for arthritic animals in order to maintain muscle mass if the animal is not too painful. Strenuous exercise and non-consistent activity should be avoided. Pay attention to indicators of pain in your animal: difficulty rising, trouble walking or collapse and heavy panting or fever; do not go beyond what your pet can tolerate comfortably. Also, keep your pet warm in colder weather, which tends to exacerbate arthritis pain. Provide your animal with well-padded surfaces and bedding to minimize discomfort.

With the proper multi-modal treatment, including pain medication, supplements, consistent activity, and weight loss, as well as alternative therapies, arthritic patients can lead long, happy lives. Please speak with our staff if you have any qestions or concerns about arthritis in your pet.