Canine Osteoarthritis Part II continued. Pest & Termite Control and Lawn Spraying


Recent research indicates that fat cells actually secrete hormones and inflammatory mediators that contribute directly to OA and inflammatory pain! Many pets can have improved mobility and func- tion with just weight loss and exercise. In a study of dogs that were free fed vs. those fed a 25 percent reduced diet, the heavier dogs had a much higher incidence of hip dysplasia even though they were not considered obese. Exercise can be very helpful in improving


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mobility and function. Typically, the pain must first be mitigated and then judicious exercise and reha- bilitation can be designed for a long term strategy to help the patient progress to a much greater level of comfort and function. Environmental modifications can be intro-


Free Flea Prevention Dusting Free Perimeter Ant Control ($125 value)


or


duced to make it easier for a debilitated pet to nav- igate their environment. Throw rugs placed over tile and wood floors can be a huge help to providing traction. A roll of yoga mat material can be cut to size and is an inexpensive way to provide floor run- ners for excellent traction throughout the home. Steps or ramps can be used to help pets access favored sleeping spots and to get in and out of the family vehicle. Arthritic dogs often have difficulty rising from


overly soft beds, so firm support is ideal. Thick orthopedic beds can help reduce morning stiffness in some dogs. For the more seriously debilitated pet, a Help’EmUp harness can be a very useful. An individualized treatment plan can be created


for any dog based on the severity of their osteoarthritis, the joints affected, loss of function, environment and overall health status. It may vary from something as simple as weight loss and a joint supplement to a multi-modal therapy using treat- ments and strategies involving several therapy cate- gories. While some degree of osteoarthritis may be inevitable with age, there are now many therapy options which help to minimize the negative impact of OA. Our dogs can retain (or regain) their mobil- ity and live longer, happier, and pain-free lives through effective treatment strategies and proactive osteoarthritis management.


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To read Part I of Dr. Baird’s article, Canine Osteoarthritis, visit TheNewBarker.com/Archives and click on Winter 2016/17 edition of The New Barker dog magazine.


727.322.3202 www.PestControlNaturally.com Y 74 THE NEW BARKER


Dr. Elizabeth F. Baird, DVM, CVPP, CCRT, CVMA owns and practices at Country Oaks Animal Hospital & Kennel and Steele Pain Management & Rehabilitation Center, Palm Harbor. 727.785.6524.


www.TheNewBarker.com


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