Does your dog suffer from osteoarthritis? Or is your beloved four-legged friend exhibiting symptoms similar to osteoarthritis? Then it is fine and essential to do something about this as soon as possible. You obviously want to give your dog a nice and pain-free life. But how do you recognize osteoarthritis in dogs, and what can you do about it? You can read everything you need to know about this condition here.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis in a dog can manifest itself in several ways. Thus, not every dog has to have the same osteoarthritis symptoms. A symptom may also occur at certain times. Thus, you often see dogs behaving differently after walking. This often occurs in dogs with osteoarthritis in the front leg. These are the symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs:

• Stiffness and lameness;
• Reduced playfulness/activity;
• Changes in motion;
• Signs of pain or sensitivity;
• Reduced muscle mass;
• Behavioral changes such as irritability or aggression;
• Difficulty getting up and lying down.

Do you notice your dog showing symptoms of osteoarthritis? If so, always consult a veterinarian to determine the condition.

How long should a dog be allowed to walk with osteoarthritis?

It is important to pay close attention to your dog while walking. This will allow you to estimate what kind of walk your dog needs. Be sure to take short walks, but maybe go for a little more often than usual.

Also, let your dog walk at his/her own pace. Avoid running or hills where the joints are used differently. To be sure how long your dog can walk, it is best to ask your veterinarian for advice.

How long can a dog with osteoarthritis live?

The lifespan of a dog with osteoarthritis is often impossible to estimate. It depends on several factors that can affect quality of life. Below are some factors that can affect the longevity and quality of life of your dog with osteoarthritis.

1. Timely diagnosis and treatment.

The earlier osteoarthritis is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis. In fact, further damage can be prevented at an early stage.

2. Effective and preventive treatment

It is important to use the right treatment method for your dog. In addition, preventive treatments can also be done. Thus low level laser therapy is an appropriate way to treat or prevent your dog’s osteoarthritis.

3. Race and age

Some breeds are more prone to osteoarthritis. In addition, older dogs are more likely to develop the condition. Therefore, life expectancy depends on these factors.

4. Living Environment

The dog’s environment also plays a role in osteoarthritis. For example, it is best for a dog with osteoarthritis to avoid stairs and sleep on a soft bed. This reduces stress on the joints.

Can a dog with osteoarthritis grow old?

A dog with osteoarthritis can certainly grow old, especially with proper care. Although osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, there are things you can do to reduce symptoms and pain.

What can you do about osteoarthritis in dogs?

To treat osteoarthritis in a dog, there are several things you can do. It is important, however, to discuss options such as medication with the veterinarian.

There is no miracle cure for osteoarthritis in a dog because it is a chronic condition. Fortunately, there are tools that can reduce symptoms. Below we tell you some of the well-known treatment methods.

Medication and painkillers for osteoarthritis in dogs

Anti-inflammatories and painkillers: various painkillers and medications are available from the veterinarian. Consult with your veterinarian about what is best for your dog.

Supplements: (nutritional) supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help with the cartilage health of your dog with osteoarthritis.

Weight management, exercise and physical therapy

Diet: being overweight puts extra pressure on joints and can worsen symptoms. Make sure your dog is at a healthy weight.

Physical therapy: professional therapy can help your dog improve mobility and strengthen muscles around joints. Nowadays, physical therapy includes laser therapy in dogs is used.

Low level laser therapy/red light therapy

Treatment: LLLT, also known as red light therapy, uses a low frequency of laser light to stimulate cell growth and repair. This can help reduce pain, inflammation and various conditions. In addition, it helps improve mobility of dogs with osteoarthritis.

Application: this laser therapy was first performed by the veterinarian or physical therapist. Nowadays, you can also very easily treat your dog yourself from home. We’ll tell you more about the use of red light therapy in dogs in a moment.

Osteoarthritis in dogs and low level laser therapy

Low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is a good treatment for your dog’s osteoarthritis. Laser therapy is also a good treatment method for other complaints in dogs.

Does laser therapy work for dogs?

Low-level laser therapy uses low levels of laser light to stimulate cellular processes. This can help relieve pain and symptoms. Here’s why laser therapy can work for your dog:

• Pain relief;
• Anti-inflammatory effect;
• Better blood flow;
• Accelerated recovery.

Is there science behind red light therapy?

The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your dog’s body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used in both humans and animals.

What can PowerCure do for your dog?

The PowerCure laser has already helped many dogs reduce pain, complaints and conditions. Thus, we have already received many good experiences from dogs and their owners. The cost of laser therapy in dogs is also often less than what you have to pay for other treatment methods.

You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. So you can treat your beloved four-legged friend yourself in their familiar place. And the laser is not only useful for your dog, but it can also be a good tool for yourself, your roommates and your other pets. And it can be used for almost any complaint!

Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help you with? Then especially take a look here.