Veterinary Care

• Arthritis gets worse over time, so there's no avoiding taking the dog to the vet. Surgery is only needed in extreme circumstances. A variety of painkillers can be used, including corticosteroids such as prednisone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and carprofen (brand name, Rimadyl). However, these drugs can have strong side effects, so the lowest possible dose is given. Another type of drug is called chondroprotectants, which help to strengthen the cartilage left in the dog's joints. The most popular drug is called Adequan. Human arthritis medication is much too powerful for dogs and can make them very ill. There are also nutritional supplements available that are classified as chondroprotectants.
  
  

Diet

• Obese dogs are prone to arthritis.
  
  Overweight dogs need to loose weight to lessen their pain. Any dog at a good weight needs to maintain it. Older dogs have a slower metabolism and need less protein and fat than do younger dogs. Fatty treats such as human sweets or semi-moist dog treats should be cut out because they are high in calories. Nutritional supplements that act as chondroprotectants may be given only with the veterinarian's approval. These include omega-3 fatty acids, sea cucumber, glucosamine and chondroitan sulfate.
  
  

Exercise

• Regular exercise not only helps to keep and maintain a dog's weight but also helps keep the joints flexible. The most recommended exercise is swimming, which gives the joints a workout without having to pound against the ground. But even regular walks of 20 minutes will help keep a dog supple. The dog may need some massage to help warm up his limbs before walking. Arthritic dogs should be exercised when it's warmer in the day than the chill of early morning.
  
  

Home Changes

• According to The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats, some simple changes around the home will make life more comfortable for a dog with arthritis. Keep the dog indoors in a heated bed or a bed in a warm, dry room. Use a non-slip ramp to help the dog get into a vehicle. Use a sling made out of an old towel to help the dog stand up. Use raised feed bowls so the dog does not have to bend her head down to eat. Invest in a dog sweater to keep her warm in winter if she has a thin coat.