Canine Degenerative Joint Disease
Joint abnormalities, infection, trauma or stress to joints, obesity and genetic disposition in certain breeds are all factors that can lead to canine degenerative joint disease. Canine degenerative joint disease is progressive. A trip to the veterinarian will help relieve pain and inflammation.
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Identification
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Canine degenerative joint disease is the loss of the cartilage that protects the ends of bones in movable joints, and cause osteophytes. Osteophytes are bony projections that form on the end of bones and increase the dog's pain.
Symptoms
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Symptoms associated with canine degenerative joint disease include limping, difficulty raising up from a resting position, yelping in pain when touched, and unwillingness to walk, climb stairs, play or jump.
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Causes
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Canine degenerative joint disease commonly occurs in older dogs, and also in dogs that suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia. Larger breeds are most commonly afflicted with hip and elbow dysplasia particularly German shepherds, rottweilers, Saint Bernards, golden retrievers, labradors and mastiffs.
Prevalence
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Cartilage wears away over time causing bones to rub together, creating inflammation and pain in the joint.
Treatment
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Canine degenerative joint disease can be treated with medication and surgery. Dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia benefit more from having the affected joint surgically replaced. Medications help slow the progression and ease the pain to help the dog live more comfortably.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Fotolia.com, courtesy of Ken Marshall
