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Help Prevent Arthritis in Your Pet

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Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

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Relieve joint pain

Pets experiencing joint pain may show symptoms of lameness and a reluctance to play, walk, and climb up and down stairs. A common form of treatment for pet joint pain involves prescription pet medications which help relieve joint pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. These types of medications are also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Although these medications quickly relieve pain, there is also a risk of liver or kidney damage with prolonged use. It is for this reason our pharmacy specialists recommend giving your pet joint supplements (see step 3 below).

Use pet ramps and pet stairs

Over time, jumping on and off furniture can strain your pet's joints, which could lead to joint stiffness or swelling. Using pet stairs and pet ramps allows your pet to climb on and off furniture with ease and at a steady incline. Pet ramps are also great to have if your pet enjoys riding in the car with you.

Help your pet walk and run

Giving your pet a daily joint supplement may help relieve stress and strain on your pet's joints, allowing for easier mobility. Research also suggests glucosamine may help decrease your pet's dependency on NSAID pain medications, which in turn may also decrease the risk of liver damage.

Tip

Make sure your pet stays within a healthy weight range and gets daily exercise. These factors can help significantly reduce your pet's risk of experiencing arthritis pain.