What Is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Just like humans, dogs can get arthritis too, and it may start at a very young age. At Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness in West Caldwell, we specialize in arthritis management for dogs through evidence-based rehabilitation techniques. To put it simply, arthritis is an inflammation of the joint that leads to joint swelling, thickened tissue around the joint, and cartilage degradation, all of which increase stiffness, muscle weakness, and pain. It’s a vicious cycle if left untreated.
Signs of Arthritis in Pets
As an owner, you are with the dog day in and day out and are the most qualified to notice subtle changes in your dog’s mobility or behavior. Here are several indicators of OA in pets to be on the lookout for:
- Slowness when changing positions or when rising from lying down
- Stiffness that may or may not go away after a bit of walking or movement
- Intermittent lameness, especially after exercise
- Hesitant to jump in the car, onto the couch, or go up the stairs
- Slowing down on walks or being less willing to go the normal distance
- Unusual or increasing number of stops during walks
Arthritis Management Approaches
Our first instinct may be to start administering joint supplements or pain meds to help our dogs feel better. The truth is, effectively treating and managing OA in pets requires a multimodal approach.
A multimodal approach includes the following things:
- Pain Control
- Weight Management
- Regular Low-Impact Exercise
- Joint Protection
- Physical Rehabilitation
Unfortunately, our first inclination is to let our dog relax and not “push too hard,” similar to our sweet grandparents, whom we love to lock arms with and help up every curb we see. But as you can see from the list, our multimodal approach is going to take some targeted exercise and rehabilitation techniques to start making a difference.
How Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness Can Help
At Alpha Rehabilitation and Fitness, our Canine Rehab Practitioners are trained to evaluate your dog from a movement and functional perspective. Ask yourself the following:
- Is your dog having trouble taking the stairs?
- Have you stopped being able to take your pup out on the weekends to hike?
- Is your dog no longer able to jump on the couch and lie down with you to cuddle?
- Is there a muscle flexibility restriction, pain in the joints, or a decrease in body awareness or balance?
These are all examples of functional activities. As canine rehabilitation practitioners, we identify what is specifically holding your dog back from doing those things. Serving West Caldwell and surrounding communities in northern New Jersey, our team understands that managing canine arthritis requires a personalized, comprehensive approach.
If you notice any signs of arthritis in your dog, don’t hesitate to contact Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness at (908) 454-2273. We’re ready to help!