Osteoarthritis (OA)—the most common form of arthritis in both people and dogs—is a painful, degenerative disease that affects highly movable joints. The weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, elbows and stifles (knees) of dogs, are the most susceptible to this debilitating condition. Dogs suffering from the everyday pain of OA may have difficulty jumping onto your bed, climbing stairs, even getting in and out of the car.
No dog should be in pain.
No dog owner should be in doubt.
Many times the signs of osteoarthritis are mistaken for old age. But OA isn’t inevitable. What you really need to know about OA—the effect it has on a dog’s joints, its signs and how to tell if your dog may be suffering from OA pain—can be found here.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from arthritis pain, contact your veterinarian. And be sure to complete the handy, printable OA Checklist to see if your suspicions are well-founded. Since you’re around your dog every day, you are the best person to recognize the subtle signs of osteoarthritis in your dog. Just remember that only your veterinarian can diagnose OA and prescribe a medication to help you control your dog’s everyday pain.
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