Arthritis Spray for Dogs

Arthritic dogs can be treated with a spray.

Arthritic dogs can be treated with sprays that are designed to improve joint stiffness and ease pain. The "homeopathic" sprays are an alternative to aspirin and the various tablet medications available from veterinarians and pet stores. A relatively new and inexpensive product, it is typically sprayed into the dog's water bowl.

How It Works

Sprays typically are added to a dog's water bowl.

The majority of arthritis sprays for dogs rely on formulas of diluted plants and minerals. Considered a homeopathic remedy, a spray provides an alternative for dog owners who have difficulty giving their finicky pets tablets. The spray is added to the dog's water bowl; when the dog drinks, the ingredients are absorbed into the membranes of the mouth and get into the blood stream, effectively reaching all parts of the body. Some products recommend spraying the product directly into a dog's mouth. It can take days or weeks to improve a dog's condition; the more chronic the arthritis, the more time it takes to make a difference.

Types

Older dogs can benefit from arthritis remedies.

Sprays can be found at various pet stores and through Internet pet supply companies. Some offer free trial products, and different spray brands include a variety of instructions for administering their product. Dr. Franks Joint Pain Spray, for example, recommends eight to 10 sprays into a water dish once or twice a day; Bounce, which is formulated in part from honey bees, recommends dosing right into the dog's mouth; and Simple Medicinals Pet Arthritis Oral Spray can be sprayed in the water or on the dog's tongue. Product labels provide dosing methods and amounts.

Allergic Reactions

Diagnose the arthritis.

Although the sprays claim to be homeopathic or all natural, some dogs can have adverse reactions. These are typically minimal and are usually due to the dog being allergic to one or more of the ingredients in the spray. Owners should contact a veterinarian and stop use of the arthritis spray if the dog becomes ill or exhibits unusual behavior or symptoms after beginning treatment with arthritis spray.

Arthritis Diagnosis

Dogs should be diagnosed with arthritis before being given arthritis remedies.

A veterinarian can determine if the dog in question suffers from arthritis. Giving the dog various arthritis treatments will do no good if arthritis is not the culprit. Veterinarians can also discuss treatment options, including tablets and sprays, and can provide additional information about side-effects and benefits.

Side Effects

Joint sprays have limited side effects.

The side effects of arthritis sprays are non-existent or minor compared to the risk associated with some other arthritis treatments for dogs. For example, long-term use of common pill-form and injection joint medications can cause stomach pain, bloody stools, skin rashes, vomiting, kidney and liver problems or irregular appetite. A veterinarian can help determine if a spray is an adequate alternative medication for an arthritic dogs who suffer side effects of other types of treatments.

References

• Joint Pain in Dogs: Guide to Dog Joint Pain Spray
• Pet Info: Dog Joint Pain Spray Treatments
• Dog Arthritis Care Guide: Deramaxx