Myalldale Pty Ltd ABN 53 051 095 160
ARTHRITIS CARE
Arthritis is a chronic condition which can be managed to reduce the rate or progression, pain and
inflammation that the disease causes your dog/cat.
1. Medications
Initially, anti-inflammatories such as Rimadyl, Carprofen or Metacam may be prescribed to settle
the joint inflammation. Strict rest during this time is required. Other painkillers such as Tramadol
or Gabapentin may be used. Long term anti-inflammatory therapy may be necessary and your vet
will discuss this with you if this is the case.
Cartrophen injections: These are a safe and effective nutriceutical which can be very effective in
aiding arthritis with minimal side effects. These injections inhibit the enzymes involved in cartilage
destruction, stimulate joint fluid production and are anti-inflammatory. These commence with one
injection weekly for 4 weeks, then continuing monthly or 3 monthly depending on your pet’s
progress.
2. Exercise Modification
Dogs with arthritis will benefit from frequent, low intensity exercise. Daily walking is encouraged.
Many dogs will experience acute flare ups if they engage in strenuous exercise such as off leash
running, very long walks (1-2 hours) or stair climbing etc.
3. Weight Control
Weight control is the single most important thing you can do for your pet to help with their arthritis.
A combination of dietary control (restricted portions and possibly a weight control diet such as
Hill’s Metabolic initially to help lose weight followed by a joint diet such as Hill’s J/D) and gentle
exercise will be the best way to achieve this aim.
4. Environment
Provide a warm environment and a well-padded bedding area. Additional warmth helps
chronically inflamed joints. Well insulated hot water bottles are helpful. This is particularly
important in winter.
5. Diet
Hills J/D is a diet specifically designed for dogs and cats with arthritis. It is lower in fat, has high
omega 3 fatty acid levels, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), glucosamine, chondroitin and antioxidants
and has been clinically proven to ease arthritis symptoms and increase mobility.
Our priority is your pet’s well being.
Myalldale Pty Ltd ABN 53 051 095 160
6. Laser therapy
Provides rapid analgesia and on longer term use, reduction of inflammation within the affected
joints. It has been shown to improve the quality of life as well as mobility of arthritic patients,
especially severely affected ones. Our current protocol is 2 treatments weekly for 2 weeks, then
weekly for 2 weeks, then fortnightly or monthly treatments.
7. Nutriceuticals
Dietary supplements including PAW Osteosupport, Megaderm and Glucosamine/Chondroitin may
be beneficial for some dogs with arthritis by decreasing inflammation and providing the building
blocks for cartilage. Fish oil capsules can also be effective at higher doses.
8. Stem Cell therapy
Stem cell therapy is a new and effective method of fighting arthritis. Stem cells are harvested from
your dog’s own fat and injected directly into joints to stimulate the body’s own repair mechanisms.
Please ask one of our staff for more information about this procedure.
Our priority is your pet’s well being.