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Written by Veterinarians

Managing Your Pet’s Osteoarthritis: A Vet’s Guide to Cutting-Edge Treatments

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By Christopher W. Shapley, DVM CVA CVCH CVFT

Did you know that osteoarthritis affects up to 20% of adult dogs? This chronic condition isn’t limited to our canine companions – it’s also common in cats, horses, and other pets. As a veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of this disease on our beloved animals. Let’s explore osteoarthritis in depth and discuss some cutting-edge treatments that can help our pets live more comfortably.

What is Osteoarthritis in Pets?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and progressive joint disease commonly found in dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animal species. This degenerative condition is caused by the gradual wearing down of cartilage in the joints, leading to inflammation in the joints and bones. The result? Pain and difficulty using the affected limb(s).

It’s crucial to note that OA isn’t just a senior pet problem. It can develop at any age due to various factors.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

Several factors can contribute to the development of pet osteoarthritis:

  • Obesity: White Adipose Tissue, or ‘fat’, is a leading contributor to OA. It not only increases the load on joints but also produces inflammatory compounds.
  • Congenital disorders: Conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patella luxation are common causes, especially in dogs and large breed cats.
  • Joint injuries: Acute injuries such as cranial cruciate ligament damage or previous fractures can lead to OA.
  • High activity levels: Repetitive high-impact activities in highly active or performance/competition breeds can contribute to OA development.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis typically presents itself as:

  • Lameness
  • Stiffness
  • Excessive vocalization
  • Irritability or aggression
  • Muscle wasting
  • Reduced desire to walk, play, or exercise
  • Difficulty standing from a lying position

Veterinarians can diagnose OA through physical exams, gait evaluations, radiographs, and sometimes MRI or CT scans.

Traditional Osteoarthritis Treatment Methods

When treating joint pain in dogs or arthritis in cats, veterinarians often prescribe:

  • NSAIDs (e.g., carprofen, galliprant, meloxicam) to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Additional pain management drugs like gabapentin
  • Joint supplements containing chondroitin and glucosamine
  • PulseVet® shock wave therapy
  • Acupuncture and other forms of Eastern medicine

Advanced Care for Osteoarthritis: Assisi Loop® Therapy

The Assisi Loop uses targeted pulsed electromagnetic field (tPEMF™) technology to relieve pain and promote healing. It works by:

  • Influencing cellular behavior through electrical changes around and within cells
  • Improving blood supply to the affected region
  • Increasing oxygen pressure
  • Activating and regenerating cells to reduce pain and inflammation

Real-Life Success: King's Story

Let me share a case that illustrates the potential of these advanced therapies:

King, a 10-year-old German Shepherd, came to our Integrative Medicine Department with pelvic limb weakness and osteoarthritis in his right elbow. Traditional treatments hadn’t improved his condition after six weeks.

While acupuncture and herbal formulas helped his pelvic limb weakness, his elbows remained sensitive. Class IV Laser Therapy showed little improvement. It was then that we decided to try the Assisi Loop.

King’s owner used the Assisi Loop on his left elbow twice daily. After two weeks, we saw significant improvements:

  • Decreased elbow discomfort
  • Improved range of motion
  • Better forelimb gait

Even when regular appointments became challenging due to the owner’s work schedule, continued use of the Assisi Loop at home helped maintain King’s progress. 

Empowering Pet Owners: The Future of Osteoarthritis Management

Osteoarthritis can significantly impact our pets’ quality of life, but with advancements in veterinary medicine, we have more tools than ever to manage this condition. Advanced therapies like the Assisi Loop offer new hope for pets suffering from chronic joint pain, providing non-invasive, at-home treatment options that can complement traditional care.

Remember, every pet’s situation is unique. While King’s story is encouraging, it’s essential to develop a tailored treatment plan for each individual animal.

Take the Next Step: Consult Your Vet About Advanced Osteoarthritis Therapies

If your pet is showing signs of osteoarthritis, don’t wait. Consult with your veterinarian to see if Assisi Loop therapy or other advanced treatments could benefit your furry friend. Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment approach can help keep your pet comfortable and active for years to come.

Visit zomedica.com to learn more about innovative osteoarthritis treatments for pets, or contact your local veterinarian to discuss personalized care options for your furry companion.

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