Medications and Supplements For Dogs With Arthritis

Medications and Supplements For Dogs With Arthritis

When your pup is feeling distressed, it can be overwhelming to know how best to comfort them. Fortunately, there are numerous methods available for relieving discomfort and improving your pup’s quality of life.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and aspirin, are frequently prescribed to relieve pain in dogs. While these drugs reduce inflammation, they come with some side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, gastrointestinal irritation/bleeding and liver/kidney damage.

Opioids, or strong pain relievers such as morphine and codeine, may also be used in dogs with severe arthritis to control pain. Unfortunately, these drugs have serious side effects so they should only be given temporarily to maintain a dog’s quality of life.

Glucosamine is another option for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases. This joint supplement is made from a naturally occurring substance which helps stimulate cartilage growth and protect existing cartilage.

For many dogs, acupuncture can be a successful way to reduce their discomfort. This involves placing very fine needles in various parts of the body and stimulating natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been scientifically proven to be an effective treatment for dogs suffering from arthritis or other chronic conditions that cause joint inflammation and pain. Studies have demonstrated that they can reduce pain and swelling, increase fluid in joints, and protect existing cartilage.