Arthritis in Dogs

Let's face it, there is currently no known cure for arthritis! 

Anyone who says they have such a cure is being economical with the truth. This is confirmed by all the recognised authorities who have conducted numerous tests and clinical trials into the subject. But don't give up! There is much that can be done to ease your dog's pain and suffering. 

Arthritis is probably the most common serious condition affecting dogs (about one in four or five) and one of the most difficult to treat. The problem is that most of the main treatments available carry some sort of disadvantage. In some cases the disadvantage is more serious than the arthritis, severe though the pain may be.

First, Let's Look at the Dangers

This is especially true of some of the anti-inflammatory drugs which are available. Look at any forum or message board on this subject and Rimadyl and Carprofen come in for much critical comment. Side effects are the most serious concern and in some cases can be fatal.

A report by the US Food and Drug administration states...

"The most common side effects from NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) include vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, lethargy, and diarrhoea. Serious side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, perforations, kidney damage, and liver problems.

"The side effects of NSAIDs are very well known and very well documented," says Michele Sharkey, D.V.M., in the CVM's Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation. But this information is not always getting to the pet owner, she says. "If the pet owner can recognize a possible reaction, stop the medication, and get veterinary help, it could mean the difference between a good outcome and a disaster."

A further problem with NSAIDS appears to be that some vets are unfamiliar with the results and side effects and don’t recognise the symptoms.

Treatments such as oils and creams, applied externally, which are sometimes effective with humans are much more difficult to apply to dogs, especially if the coat is thick. The same is true of massage, which in the short term can inflict more pain on the dog and suffering on the owner. Injections of any kind can be a traumatic experience for pet and owner.

A significant factor in all these treatments is the continuing cost, which over a year can be very substantial, especially if the treatment has to be administered or monitored by the vet.

A simple and effective alternative to drugs and creams is Magnotherapy. In some quarters, this treatment is derided as being "all in the mind", possibly because people cannot believe that something as simple and easy as a special magnetic collar or sleeping pad can bring such relief to animals. However, there is considerable scientific proof that the beneficial effects of this Magnetic Therapy are not just due to a placebo effect.

To learn more, visit Magnotherapy