How Do I Know If My Dog is Suffering From Joint Pain?
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from joint pain due to many conditions or injuries. As a pet owner, it’s important to recognise common signs of joint pain in your dog so you can get them the help they need. Rather than leaving them to suffer, you can implement a treatment plan and try to alleviate their pain.
Causes of Joint Pain in Dogs
Joint pain in dogs can be caused by conditions such as arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, ligament tears or injuries due to trauma. It’s always critical to take your dog to the vet for a professional diagnosis so they can get the appropriate treatment. Other conditions that may lead to joint pain include infection, spinal disc disease, lupus or cancer.
Signs of Joint Pain in Dogs
The most common signs that your dog may have joint pain include:
- Excessive panting or heavy breathing
- Lethargy and lack of interest in activities they would usually enjoy
- Trouble with stairs, jumping or running
- Limping or favouring one leg over the other
- Licking or chewing on the affected area
- Shivering, shaking, or trembling
- Refusal to move when commanded
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, get them checked out by a vet as soon as possible. The earlier you catch joint pain in dogs, the easier it is to manage the symptoms and provide them with relief.
Treating Joint Pain in Dogs
The treatment of joint pain in your dog will depend on the underlying cause. Common treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, weight management and supplements. In some cases, surgery may also be required if the condition is severe or chronic.
As an example, dog joint supplement chews by Zamipet Australia are designed to help support your dog’s joint health and reduce inflammation. Supplements can contain natural ingredients such as turmeric, green-lipped mussel extract, vitamins C and E, MSM, glucosamine, and hyaluronic acid.
When is Surgery Necessary for Dogs?
Of course, your vets will always do everything possible to avoid surgery. However, there are some cases where it may be necessary to operate on your dog to provide them with relief and long-term health benefits. The most common surgeries for dogs with joint pain include hip replacement, knee repair, or ligament reconstruction.
Often, surgery is chosen when the condition is severe or when the condition is likely to worsen in the future. Your vet will let you know if it’s appropriate for your pet and what post-surgery care may be needed.
Preventing Joint Problems for Your Dog
The best way to protect your dog from joint pain is to watch out for any signs of sudden pain or lameness. Also, try to keep them active and maintain a healthy body weight as this will reduce the amount of strain on their joints and reduce inflammation.
What’s more, give your dog regular check-ups with the vet throughout their life to catch any early signs of joint problems before they become severe. Additionally, you can look into natural supplements and joint chews for dogs to help support their overall joint health.
Recognising the signs of pain in your dog is important so you can take action before it’s too late. If you suspect that your dog has any kind of discomfort, consult a vet immediately for an official diagnosis and treatment plan!
