Just like humans animals have joint and bones problems. As they age the lining of their tissues, bones, and joints wears thin and begins to degenerate, leaving your beloved pet with Degenerative Joint Disease, arthritis, or osteoarthritis. What can we do about it?
What is DJD? Joints are made up of a tough fibrous joint capsule that joins the bones. The joint capsule is lined by a thin membrane that produces the joints fluid. This fluid is like a lubricant and carries nourishment to the spongy cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. The articular cartilage cannot supply any of its own nourishment or oxygen. The articular cartilage receives nourishment from small vessels in the underlying bone and through absorption from the joint fluid.
Degenerative Joint Disease can be caused by any other type of joint diseases, including infection, or may follow surgery. Also if your animal gains excessive weight or is obese he will have a great chance of getting this disease. The cartilage will become brittle and can tear from the bone and detach from the joint. This is excruciating pain for the animal and can even make it hard to walk.
This disease is said to be non-inflammatory, mild inflammation plays a part in causing clinical signs. Damaged cells of the cartilage let loose substances that cause inflammation, pain, and additional damage to the cartilage. It can then become a vicious cycle.
Arthritis usually occurs in large dogs. This is because they have more weight to carry around and are usually more active. By being so active they have more opportunities for an insult to the joint or bone.
Unfortunately the damage done by DJD is irreversible. There are new products that can slow the damage of the disease and help healing of the cartilage. Putting your pet on a regular enhancer or vitamin at a young age is essential. You must also monitor your pets weight and make sure they get exercise. Try using StemPets by StemTech, this is a unique stem cell enhancer. It strengthens bone marrow and can help your animal’s optimal health.
Some signs that your animal may have arthritis are favoring a limb, difficulty standing, sleeping more often, and weight gain. Also if your pet is hesitating to jump, run, or climb the stairs this is a sign that their joints are in pain. After two weeks of this behavior you need to take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. They will then give your furry friend an x-ray. If they do have arthritis you will then start a treatment plan.
When an animal gets DJD or arthritis there are many ways to make your animal feel comfortable. Giving them a soft place to sleep is easier on their bones. A gentle exercise, but avoiding strenuous activity is helpful. Arthritis effects one in every five dogs! So make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your furry friend feeling great.
Steven Johnson is interested in maintaining a vital, active, and healthy lifestyle. For more information on pet care products, as well as other life-enhancing nutrients please visit his website Alternative Health Supplements
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