Unfortunately, many canines are euthanized, or put down‚ because of aggressive behavior resulting from the pain of dog arthritis. This often tragic situation is sometimes avoidable if we are aware of any triggers for dog aggression. Dog arthritis is a very common cause of chronic pain and as such a common reason for aggression in dogs, so we should be aware of the signs.

Warning Signs

If you notice any of the following warning signs in your dog, you may be able to detect the onset of arthritis and takes steps towards early intervention:

• Reluctance to walk, climb stairs, jump, or play
• Limping
• Yelping or whimpering when touched
• Lagging behind on walks
• Difficulty rising from a resting position
• Stiffness when rising from rest
• A personality change
• Resisting touch
• Out of character snapping and biting

Read More…

Can You …Safely… Relieve My Dog’s Pain?

One of the most frequent questions I get asked by people whose dogs are suffering from arthritis is: “Isn’t there a pill you can give him to relieve his pain?”

And while there is no “magic pill”, there are drugs like Rimadyl, Metacam, Previcox, and other NSAIDs. The problem is, these drugs have been found to produce side effects in some dogs, and these side effects can leave some dogs worse off than they were before they started taking them.

Now there’s a dilemma for you and for me as the vet who has to prescribe these NSAIDs. Prescribing these drugs is not something I take lightly. In fact, I have dedicated years of my life to researching dog arthritis treatment options, and I’ve treated countless dogs that have this disease. I’m very up-to-date on the risks and rewards of NSAIDs.

The Rewards?

Mild to near-miraculous relief from pain. What a joy to see a formally pain-wracked dog suddenly running and jumping again, or at least being able to hop on and off the couch and take a walk on the leash without cringing in pain!

The Risks?

Minor side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Appetite loss
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Loss of energy or depression

But then there are some major side effects that might affect your dog including:

• Internal bleeding
• Stomach or intestinal ulcers
• Organ failure

Of course, not every dog is going to experience these side effects. But you don’t care about every dog. You just care about yours. That’s why you need to stay as up-to-date on the risks of administering NSAIDs to your dog as I do.

As an owner of a dog with arthritis, it’s your obligation to know as much as possible about the medications your dog may be taking so you, along with your vet, can make intelligent and informed decisions. Your dog can’t ask the vet about side effects and risks, but you can.

Free Ebook on the Risks of Prescription Medicines

If you want to know what I know about the potential risks of NSAIDs and your dog, you can download my free ebook “The Risks of Prescription Medicines in Dog Arthritis” at http://www.dogarthritisplan.com . It’s a quick read that will enable you to better understand whether or not NSAIDs are right for your dog. That way you can discuss treatment options with your vet and be confident that you’re making the right decision.

Now you can stay up to date with all the latest dog arthritis posts on Twitter. Look for dogarthritisdoc on Twitter and follow me.