Osteoarthritis is a common condition affecting many dogs, causing discomfort and mobility issues. Watching your furry family member struggle with pain and stiffness is heartbreaking, especially when all they want to do is play fetch or enjoy their daily walks. Our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team sees this issue frequently so we explain how you can keep your dog comfortable and active despite this condition. 

Osteoarthritis signs in dogs

Osteoarthritis in dogs is a sneaky condition that shows up uninvited. This condition occurs when their joints’ cartilage breaks down as they age, affecting roughly 25% of dogs. Unfortunately, this condition can’t be reversed and is most common in senior pets.

Dogs with osteoarthritis lose cartilage—the soft tissue that cushions the joint—over time and can develop small bony pieces within the joint, causing pain and swelling. Here are some common signs to look out for:

  • Stiffness and limping — Especially after resting or sleeping, your dog might move like they’ve suddenly aged.
  • Shifting legs when walking — You might notice your dog shifting their weight from one leg to another, trying to avoid discomfort.
  • Swollen joints — Look for swelling around your dog’s joints, which can be a telltale arthritis sign.
  • A posture or gait change — Your dog may start moving differently, as though they’re trying to find a comfortable way to walk.
  • Reluctance to play or exercise — If your dog used to fetch like a champ but now gives you the “Are you serious?” look, arthritis might be to blame.
  • Behavior changes — Grumpiness, restlessness, or even unusual joint licking can indicate discomfort.

Osteoarthritis management for dogs

You have many options for helping your dog cope with arthritis. Managing osteoarthritis requires a combination of care strategies that can make your dog’s life more comfortable:

  • Weight management — Extra pounds can put additional stress on a dog’s joints. Our veterinarian may prescribe a reduced-calorie diet along with regular exercise to help improve your dog’s mobility.
  • Exercise — Gentle, consistent exercise is great for your dog’s arthritic joints. Short walks, stretching, and swimming are especially beneficial because they’re low-impact. 
  • Comfortable living — Make your dog’s environment as joint-friendly as possible. Orthopedic beds, nonslip rugs, and easy access to favorite spots can help. 

In some cases, your veterinarian might recommend a rehabilitation plan that could include physical therapy, massages, swimming, and the use of an underwater treadmill. Dogs with osteoarthritis can live long, happy lives if their condition is well-managed with medications and supportive care. This condition shouldn’t shorten your dog’s life, but it can cause significant discomfort if not treated appropriately.

Librela: A new hope for arthritic dogs

Enter Librela, the superhero your dog didn’t know they needed. Imagine a treatment that swoops in to save the day, tackling osteoarthritis pain head-on. Librela is a monthly injectable treatment that specifically targets osteoarthritis pain, making this medication a game-changer for your achy and stiff pet.

So, what makes Librela so special? Librela contains bedinvetmab, a monoclonal antibody that blocks nerve growth factor, which is a major player in osteoarthritis pain. Think of it as sending in a highly trained SWAT team to neutralize the enemy—in this case, pain—with precision. And the best part? This medication provides relief with fewer side effects than traditional pain medications. Consider how Librela benefits your arthritic dog:

  • Effective pain relief — Many dogs show significant improvement in their pain levels, often acting like their younger, more playful selves
  • Long-lasting — With a single injection each month, this medication is incredibly convenient for both you and your dog.
  • Few side effects — Because Librela targets pain precisely, your dog’s side effect risk decreases in comparison with those commonly seen with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). Your dog can enjoy being pain-free with no stomach upset or other issues.

Imagine your dog feeling spry again, ready to go on those evening neighborhood jaunts without the limp. Librela can make that a reality. By specifically targeting your dog’s arthritis pain, this medication helps your dog move comfortably and enjoy life to the fullest. It’s a win-win for both of you.

Osteoarthritis can be a bummer for your dog, but the condition doesn’t have to steal their joy. If you’re looking for a way to give your best pal some relief from osteoarthritis discomfort, request an appointment and ask our veterinarian about the best treatment options for your pet. Our compassionate Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team is here to answer your questions, so give them a call today. Together, we’ll help you have more life, more memories, and more moments with your pet.