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When it comes to osteoarthritis in
dogs or dog arthritis, natural and alternative therapies are safer and
can be just as effective as commonly prescribed drugs, according to
Allen M. Schoen, DVM, adjunct professor at Tufts University School of
Veterinary Medicine.
Drugs may relieve pain, but they also can cause further degeneration of
your dog's joints and health, Schoen explains. Non-steroidal drugs, such
as Rimadyl, can damage the liver, while steroids may cause muscle
atrophy, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney disease, and
Cushing's disease. "My goal is to maintain joint health and overall
health, in addition to relieving pain and inflammation," he says,
adding that a combination of natural and alternative therapies yields
the best results.
Glucosamine sulfate: Daily glucosamine sulfate helps protect and
lubricate joints, says Schoen. It may take four to six weeks before you
see results.
Other Supplements: Daily doses of vitamin A, E, and Ester-C help the
arthritic dog.
The mineral selenium acts as an antioxidant. An essential fatty acid
supplement from
fish oil or flaxseed oil works as an anti-inflammatory.
Acupuncture:
Schoen highly recommends
acupuncture for dogs with arthritis. It increases circulation to the
muscles and joint capsule, which provides more oxygen and slows cell
degeneration. It also relieves painful muscle spasms; increases leg
strength by stimulating nerves and muscles; and releases endorphins to
make the dog feel better, he explains. Acupressure can help your dog
between sessions.
Herbs:
Boswellia, an herb and devil's
claw are both anti-inflammatory, while alfalfa provides basic building
blocks for the joints. Schoen also uses a variety of Chinese herbs.
Physical therapies:
Schoen recommends an exercise
program of frequent short walks, daily stretching, and massage for
canine arthritis sufferers. If available, try physical therapy,
swimming, Tellington Touch, trigger-point therapy, or underwater
treadmill exercise at an animal rehabilitation center.
Chiropractic care:
Chiropractic adjustments help
increase mobility so a dog doesn't compensate for stiffness or pain by
walking abnormally, which can create other problems. Veterinary
Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM) is a gentle, preferable form of
chiropractics.
Homeopathy:
For those who prefer homeopathy,
the most common remedies for arthritis are Bryonia and
Rhustoxicodendron.
Diet:
Be sure your dog isn't overweight.
Schoen recommends a properly balanced natural
diet, preferably home
prepared.
"Natural and alternative therapies slow the progress of
osteoarthritis, strengthen the
dog's joints, muscles and overall health
and enable the dog to live a longer, happier
life," says Schoen.
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Acupuncture
Dog receiving acupuncture
for forelimb pain
Acupuncture
Dog receiving acupuncture
Acupuncture Chart
Canine chart highlighting
some primary acupuncture points
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