As your pet ages, they’re more susceptible to diseases like arthritis. Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease, which means your pet experiences more pain overtime. If your pet is diagnosed early, it increases our ability to treat it and support them in living a higher quality of life. If your pet is prone to arthritis, early detection can help them continue to live a long and happy life.

What is arthritis?

As a degenerative joint disease, it worsens overtime without proper treatment. There is no cure for arthritis but our team can recommend treatments unique to your pet’s needs that will help them maintain their quality of life. The protective cartilage provides a cushion between your pet’s joints but as it wears away, arthritis causes pain and inflammation, which can affect your pet’s movement. The disease commonly affects furry friends’ lower spine and limbs.

Are there risk factors for arthritis?

Though any pet can develop it, regardless of their age, there are some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a diagnosis. For example, large dog breeds like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are more prone to the disease. Obesity can create more stress on your pet’s joints, which can speed up the deterioration of the cartilage. Middle-aged and senior pets are more susceptible because as your pet ages, so do their joints, which are more affected by wear and tear. Other risk factors include injuries (especially if left untreated), genetics, improper diet and if your pet has contracted Lyme disease.

What are the signs I should look out for?

Depending on your pet’s age and breed, they are more prone to disease. Early diagnosis allows us to create a treatment plan that helps alleviate any pain your pet is experiencing. If you notice any of the signs below in your pet, you can book an appointment with our team at 705-476-3913. Signs you can look out for are:

• Limping
• Increased tiredness
• Engaging less in play or other activities they enjoy
• Changing behaviour like irritability