-----Arthritis
River Road Veterinary Clinic
Box 309
Norwich, Vermont 05055
Phone: 802-649-3877 Fax: 802-649-1345
email: RRVC@Valley.net.com
www.rrvetclinic.com
Dr. Christine Pinello - Dr. JoAnne Giel - Dr Kathy Ling Newcomb
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common sources of chronic pain treated by veterinarians. It is observed most frequently in dogs. Signs of osteoarthritis are reluctance to walk, climb stairs, jump and play, limping, difficulty in rising from a resting position, yelping in pain when touched, or a personality change.
The actual number of dogs suffering from a degenerative joint disease is unknown because many owners attribute subtle changes in their pets' behavior to old age or slowing down, when the problem is really osteoarthritis. Causes of arthritis include hip or elbow displasia, degeneration from aging, inherited arthritis, infection, blood diseases, allergic or immune-mediated diseases, and cancer.
Radiographs and laboratory analysis of a blood sample are necessary to determine the type and extent of arthritis, which is usually a controllable rather than a curable disease. Therapy is designed to minimize discomfort for the pet and to delay or prevent progression of the arthritis. Therapy can help to control pain, to increase mobility, to prevent continued degradation of the joint, and to provide support for reparative processes.
TREATMENTS
Aspirin is a potent pain medication. Clinical use of aspirin includes management of inflammatory and/or degenerative joint disease. Buffered aspirin of Ascriptin (aspirin with maalox) is recommended to decrease the incidence of gastrointestinal disturbance. Many dogs with mild pain do very well on aspirin.
Cosequin is a capsule that provides the building blocks necessary for cartilage formation on the joint surface and increases the amount and viscosity of the joint fluid. Improvement with cosequin may not be noticeable for up to six weeks; however, both dogs and cats respond well to it. Cosequin has no known side effects.
Adequan, an injectable drug, helps to build replacement collagen for the joint, increase the quality and quantity of joint fluid, and inhibit inflammation.
EtoGesic is a pill form of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with potent pain relief. It is recommended for management of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. One advantage to this drug is once a day dosing. This drug is commonly used in older dogs therefore bloodwork is recommended to be sure the kidneys and liver are functioning properly.
Rimadyl is a relatively new drug for osteoarthritis. It decreases inflammation and may protect the articular cartilage. Since Rimadyl is metabolized by the liver, e prefer to prescribe it only after bloodwork has determined that this is a suitable therapy. Rare incidences of loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea have been observed with rimadyl, but this drug remains the most effective pain reliever.
Phenylbutazone is used for control of inflammation in musculoskeletal disorders. It does have severe side effects, however, and you should discuss the possibility if its use with your veterinarian.
The best discussion on how to manage pain in your animal depends on the general health of the pet, as determined by a physical and laboratory testing of a blood sample. The severity of pain and the cost of treatment should be factors in your decision.
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