Nov 6, 2009

How do you tell if your pet has OA?

Posted by Bob under Dog Arthritis
  • Do they limp?
  • Are they less active, sleeping more often, not interested in normal routines?
  • Are they reluctant to jump up on the bed or into the car?
  • Do they sleep less and circle a lot to get comfortable when lying down?
  • Do they have difficulty getting up from a “sit” or a “lie down”?
  • Do they have muscle atrophy?
  • Stand over your dog looking down on his spine- do you see the front end of your dog well developed while the back end has gotten skinny?
  • Do they lick the top of their paws?
  • Do they lack stamina on walks? i.e Used to walk a mile every night, now 3 blocks is their limit
  • Do you feel and hear crackling and popping in your dog’s joints?

These signs could mean that your dog has arthritis. Your veterinarian can confirm a diagnosis of OA with a good physical examination, a good lameness examination and x-rays. Note I separated out the physical exam from the lameness. The physical exam encompasses the total animal, but the lameness is about their gait, stride, range
of motion, and joint pain tolerance.

Have you discussed options for treating arthritis with your veterinarian?

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