Caring for your furry friend means staying attentive to their health, including their bones and joints. Bone and joint conditions are common in dogs, especially as they age or are highly active. Whether it’s a limp, difficulty climbing stairs, or signs of discomfort, these issues can significantly affect your dog’s quality of life.
Complete Pet Care Animal Hospital is here to walk you through seven common bone and joint conditions in dogs, their symptoms, and treatment options. You’ll also learn preventive measures and when to consult trusted emergency vets Wake Forest, NC.
1. Arthritis
Symptoms:
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
- Swelling or tenderness in joints
- Changes in behavior (e.g., irritability or lethargy)
Treatments:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints
- Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
- Alternative Therapies: Hydrotherapy and acupuncture
2. Hip Dysplasia
Symptoms:
- Difficulty getting up
- A “bunny hop” gait when running
- Limping or stiffness in the hind legs
- Audible clicking sounds from the hip joint
Treatments:
- Weight Control: Helps minimize symptoms
- Physical Therapy: Strengthens hip-supporting muscles
- Surgery: Hip replacement or femoral head osteotomy for severe cases
3. Elbow Dysplasia
Symptoms:
- Limping or favoring one front leg
- Pain or swelling around the elbows
- Reduced range of motion in the affected leg
Treatments:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Controlled exercise to prevent strain
- Surgery: Removal of bone fragments or joint alignment correction
4. Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)
Symptoms:
- Severe pain and swelling in the affected area
- Noticeable lumps in the bone
- Limping or inability to bear weight
Treatments:
- Surgery: Amputation to alleviate pain
- Chemotherapy: Helps target cancer spread
- Palliative Care: Pain management for untreatable cases
If you suspect your pet has osteosarcoma, consult emergency vets Wake Forest, NC for immediate evaluation.
5. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Symptoms:
- Weakness in the legs
- Reluctance to move, jump, or climb
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (severe cases)
Treatments:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants
- Crate Rest: To prevent further damage
- Surgery: Required in severe cases
6. Cruciate Ligament Injuries
Symptoms:
- Sudden lameness in a hind leg
- Swelling around the knee joint
- Abnormal gait or inability to bear weight
Treatments:
- Rest and Rehabilitation: Limited activity and physical therapy for minor injuries
- Surgery: Procedures like tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) for advanced cases
- Weight Loss: Reducing stress on the knee joint
7. Patellar Luxation
Symptoms:
- Intermittent skipping or hopping motions
- Sudden limping, usually in one leg
- Difficulty extending the leg fully
Treatments:
- Mild Cases: Managed with weight control and limited activity
- Severe Cases: Surgical realignment
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Contact a vet Wake Forest, NC provider if your pet shows any of the following signs:
- Sudden or severe limping
- Swelling or tenderness in joints
- Changes in behavior (lethargy, aggression)
- Difficulty standing, sitting, or moving
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Emergency vets Wake Forest, NC can provide expert care for critical situations.
Proactive Care is Key to Pet Health
Early intervention and the proper care can manage bone and joint conditions. By recognizing the signs, implementing preventive measures, and working with Complete Pet Care Animal Hospital, you can ensure your pet enjoys a happy, active life.
If your pet is showing signs of discomfort, schedule a consultation with Complete Pet Care Animal Hospital, trusted emergency vets Wake Forest, NC offers.
