THREATMENT FOR CANINE ARTHRITIS | TIME TESTED WAYS

If you are looking for treatment for canine arthritis you have to make a decision as to whether you want to use traditional medicines, over the counter medications, or home remedies. All three can be effective ways to reduce your dog抯 pain and discomfort. Imagine being able to help your best friend live a more full and quality filled life.
I am sure you already know this but arthritis can be very painful. Did you know, however, that 55% of all dogs afflicted with arthritis in the United States do not get any treatment for canine arthritis?

Now I will get straight to the point and later introduce you to some links where you can find great home remedies for treatment of canine arthritis and other illnesses and ailments your pet may suffer from over the years.

TREATMENT GOALS

To reduce pain associated with arthritis

To improve the function and mobility of the effected joints

To encourage repair of the joints if at all possible

To prevent further degradation of the joints

To slow down the progression of the disease in the joints

To increase exercise options in order to reduce weight gain and improve health

As mentioned earlier there are different ways to go about treatment for canine arthritis. Here are some natural treatments that are available at pet stores.

NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR CANINE ARTHRITIS

Glucosamine ?Safe for both dogs and cats. Made from shellfish. The pet抯 body produces natural glucosamine but when cartilage damage gets to be too much the pet抯 body cannot produce enough. Glucosamine supplements are readily available at pet stores without a prescription. Some dog foods will contain glucosamine but some studies suggest it will not contain enough.

Chondroitin sulfate ?Also available as a dietary supplement without a prescription. This product effectively reduces pain but does not lubricate the joints like glucosamine.

Omega fatty acids ?Used to reduce inflammation. They also work to reduce pain and swelling.

Now to ones most commonly prescribed by your vet for treatment for canine arthritis .

PAIN MEDICATION FROM YOUR VETERINARIAN

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also called NSAID扴. These are non-narcotic pain relievers.

Common NSAID抯 used are Rimadyl, Etogesic, Meloxicam, Phenybultazone, Ketoprofen,and Piroxicam.

Be careful with NSAID扴 because there can be harsh side effects to your pet from using these medications. Your vet will want to closely monitor your dog if they are on these medications.

Now to over the counter treatment for canine arthritis .

DIRECT PAIN MANAGEMENT WITH OVER THE COUNTER MEDICINES

Aspirin ?Used for pain relief but be careful as long term use can cause internal bleeding just like in humans. If you decide to use aspirin then use buffered aspirin. Never use ibuprofen or acetaminophen on dogs. Aspirin should never be given to a cat.

The decision for treatment of canine arthritis is yours as it is in your own health decisions.

In this economy nobody can afford to waste money on vet bills. Click on the links in the last paragraph and discover great home remedies to use for your pets that will allow you to save a bundle.