One of the most common problems of older and larger dogs is arthritis in the dogs spine. This can often be caused by too much physical activity in dog training. Many dogs are encouraged to jump for the ball when they are young. This causes jerking of the hind legs and leads to early arthritis. Of course, play catch with your dog, but don’t let him jump too high: Throw the ball “lower” so your dog can catch it but not jump into the air.
What happens in this condition is a deterioration of the tissues in and around the vertebrae. The cause may be related to the aging process. The rupture causes inflammation and some degree of pressure on the spinal nerves that innervate the hindquarters. Difficulty controlling muscle movement and walking develops into paralysis.
The animal falls into the hindquarters and crawls pathetically on its front legs. I have also seen that the front legs are affected. The legs become stiff and unstable, and eventually the animal falls over and cannot get up.
A symptom of arthritis in dogs includes lack of appetite. You will find your dog less active, weak and not eating as much as before. The disease may not be noticed as soon, but you will see fatigue, resistance to walking, climbing and playing. These are signs of the early stage of arthritis.
When there is too much pain and tenderness in the spinal region, it becomes more apparent that the dog has the disease. Progressive loss of control of the muscles of the hind legs with dragging of the legs, rocking of the hind legs and reduced ability to walk and jump. It eventually develops into hindquarter paralysis and can progress to affect the front legs and brain. It is most often seen in older dogs.
We must be attentive to the signs and symptoms of arthritis of the spine of our dogs. This is a deadly disease and it actually leaves our dogs to suffer. However, when treated early, complications can be prevented. Have your dogs checked by the vet regularly.
We can’t always assume that our pets are in good condition. Professional care is more important. Read and research. Information about signs and symptoms wakes us up that something needs to be done.
Arthritis in the spine of dogs is very common in dogs. Early detection is necessary. When the condition worsens, it will cost us too much money and still there is no guarantee of surviving the disease.
Pets cannot talk to you directly. Your feelings can only be expressed through your actions. You have to be more sensitive to them. Not only do you feed them, but you need to spend time with them more often so that you can notice their condition. When you know that you have the symptoms of arthritis in the spine of dogs is when you should consider that your dog needs immediate attention.