Osteoarthritis (OA)
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, a form of Degenerative Joint Disease, is the wearing and deterioration of cartilage, tissue, and lubricating fluid in a joint. Joints connect two or more bones (e.g., the femur and the tibia form the stifle joint). The connecting end of each bone is covered by a smooth layer of cartilage that protects the bone from wear. The joint is encased in capsule and this capsule is surrounded by a thin membrane that produces the fluid that lubricates and nourishes the joint.
When the cartilage is damaged, it releases substances that cause inflammation. This inflammatory process produces pain and wreaks havoc on the surrounding tissues and nourishing fluids. This process causes more damage to the cartilage, which brings additional pain and starts the inflammation loop all over again.
Osteoarthritis is characterized as either progressive (not the result of an injury or disease) or secondary (due to a traumatic injury or disease).
- Cartilage wears down, causing inflammation.
- Inflammation worsens pain and joint damage.
- Osteoarthritis can be progressive or secondary.
What causes osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is more often found in middle-aged and senior dogs. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop OA; the additional weight increases the stress on the joints, increasing the risk of joint deterioration. Dogs who are born with congenital joint disorders or who have sustained an injury to a joint are more likely to develop OA. Those dogs on a prolonged course of steroids for another medical condition are also more likely to develop OA.
Although osteoarthritis can be found in smaller breeds, large and giant breeds are more susceptible to the disease. Breeds such as Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler, German Shepherd Dog, Saint Bernard, Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are commonly affected.
- Obesity is a common factor in OA.
- Osteoarthritis affects middle-aged and senior dogs.
- Congenital disorders and steroids heighten the risk.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Initial
• Often difficult to detect
• Minor pain
• Changes in walking pattern
• Weight gain (from reduced activity)
Intermediate
• Reluctance to jump
• Difficulty moving from lying down to standing
• Lameness
• Loss of muscle mass
• Difficulty with stairs
• Wincing or crying out when touched
• Licking or chewing on a specific joint
• Increased sleeping
Advanced
• Significant lameness, limping or reluctance to move
• Popping sounds from the joint(s) when walking
• Significant reduction in the range of motion of the joint(s)
• Deformed appearance and function of the joint(s)
How is OA diagnosed?
Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a thorough physical exam and X-rays. Your veterinarian is looking for a decreased range of motion in the joint(s), stiff walking and standing posture, swelling, warmth, and pain in the joints. She will also look for any deformity in the joint and atrophy in the surrounding muscles. The X-rays could show damage to the bones in the joint.
- Diagnosed via physical exam and X-rays.
- Signs include decreased joint range and stiffness.
- X-rays reveal bone damage and deformity.
Your dog has OA. How can we help?
We focus on improving the quality of life for dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) and their pet parents. Our approach starts with assessing how your dog handles daily activities and identifying practical solutions for pain and mobility issues. We use activities like swimming, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises to build muscle, enhance joint mobility, and promote comfortable, confident movement. Additionally, we recommend suitable mobility aids to support both your dog and you, making daily routines smoother. We provide compassionate guidance to help you manage your dog's OA effectively and support you through the emotional affects of their condition.
- Focus on quality of life and ADLs
- Identify the right equipment at the right time
- Provide emotional support for you