For many of us, watching our companions grow older is a rewarding and comforting experience. It can be hard to believe the same bundle of energy running around the house years before, has now grown into the mature, calm and loving old friend sitting at our feet. When our friends begin to show signs of ageing, slowing down or stiffening up, they need our help and understanding. Unlike a human friend, our furry companions can’t take responsibility for their own care. They rely on us!

Age brings along a series of diseases, most of them preventable or at least treatable if discovered in the early stages. Did you know the most common source of chronic pain that affects one in five Australian dog is arthritis? Just like humans can be affected by this disorder, so can our companions.

Arthritis is a painful disease condition that affects joints either individually or generally. The cartilage lining of the joints wears down and the lubricating oil in the joint is less than it should be. Arthritis can affect one or more joints anywhere in the body; however, the most common joints affected are the shoulders, elbows, knees and hips.

Pets suffering from arthritis will often display the following signs:

1. Pain or ‘stiffness’ when getting up or down, especially after rest.
2. Difficulty climbing steps, getting into the car or even just jumping up.
3. ‘Laziness’ or lack of desire to play or walk.
4. Licking, chewing or over-grooming a particular joint.

The good news is that we can help! Although arthritis is not a curable disease, there are many medications available that aid in the management of it. Often a tentative diagnosis can be made following a thorough physical examination and from the symptoms described by you.

We look forward to helping you assist your companion in ageing gracefully and living a happier, healthier, pain-free life!

If you require any further information on arthritis, the treatments available or to book an appointment, please contact us.

For many of us, watching our companions grow older is a rewarding and comforting experience. It can be hard to believe the same bundle of energy running around the house years before, has now grown into the mature, calm and loving old friend sitting at our feet. When our friends begin to show signs of ageing, slowing down or stiffening up, they need our help and understanding. Unlike a human friend, our furry companions can’t take responsibility for their own care. They rely on us!

Age brings along a series of diseases, most of them preventable or at least treatable if discovered in the early stages. Did you know the most common source of chronic pain that affects one in five Australian dog is arthritis? Just like humans can be affected by this disorder, so can our companions.

Arthritis is a painful disease condition that affects joints either individually or generally. The cartilage lining of the joints wears down and the lubricating oil in the joint is less than it should be. Arthritis can affect one or more joints anywhere in the body; however, the most common joints affected are the shoulders, elbows, knees and hips.

Pets suffering from arthritis will often display the following signs:

1. Pain or ‘stiffness’ when getting up or down, especially after rest.
2. Difficulty climbing steps, getting into the car or even just jumping up.
3. ‘Laziness’ or lack of desire to play or walk.
4. Licking, chewing or over-grooming a particular joint.

The good news is that we can help! Although arthritis is not a curable disease, there are many medications available that aid in the management of it. Often a tentative diagnosis can be made following a thorough physical examination and from the symptoms described by you.

We look forward to helping you assist your companion in ageing gracefully and living a happier, healthier, pain-free life!

If you require any further information on arthritis, the treatments available or to book an appointment, please contact us.