| Have you noticed that your once vivacious and active | | | | - Decreased interest in play and other activities |
| dog is now a bit sluggish and disinterested in doing the | | | | - Attitude or behavior change |
| fun activities that you used to do with him? If so, one | | | | - Increased sleeping |
| ailment that may explain this behavior is canine arthritis. | | | | - Being less alert Once you notice signs of arthritis, |
| Just like arthritis in people, the condition in dogs can also | | | | take your dog to the vet immediately. The sooner your |
| be very painful and very debilitating. | | | | dog is diagnosed with arthritis, the sooner you can get |
| If your dog is suffering from arthritis, activities that | | | | your happy and healthy dog back. If your dog is |
| should be easily accomplished by a healthy dog may | | | | diagnosed with arthritis, the vet may suggest the |
| be very difficult, be it moving up and down the stairs or | | | | following treatment options: |
| leaning down to reach his food and water bowl. | | | | - A drastic change in diet and increased exercise if |
| The first step to ensuring a better quality of life for | | | | weight is an issue |
| your dog that may be suffering from arthritis is | | | | - A combination of pain relievers |
| knowing the signs of the ailment. Signs that your dog is | | | | - Supplements containing Omega fatty acids or |
| suffering include: | | | | glucosamine |
| - Difficulty sitting down or standing up | | | | - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs As your dog |
| - Favoring a limb | | | | gets older the arthritis will likely increase, at which time |
| - Moving in a stiff manner as if the joints are sore | | | | more intensive treatments may be needed. |
| - Hesitancy to do activities it once did readily such as | | | | To find out more about canine arthritis, visit the website |
| running or jumping | | | | of the Austin Veterinarian Clinic today. |
| - Weight gain | | | | |