I am heartbroken at my dog’s suffering. How can I stop his pain? The hardest part of watching my dog suffer, is the onset of canine osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, or more commonly dog arthritis.

Signs and symptoms of Canine Arthritis Most owners are alerted to problems when their dog becomes reluctant to walk, climb up stairs, jump around, or play. Other signs include difficulty getting up from a resting position, limping, lagging behind, swelling at the joints, personality changes, and painful reactions to touch. These symptoms are caused by the wearing away of cartilage around the joints over time from normal activity or from and injury.

While aging is the main cause of canine arthritis, it may also be caused by weight and is more prominent in larger and mixed breeds. A veterinarian can diagnosis arthritis during a physical exam and on x-rays.

Prescription Drug Side Effects are horrible! The traditional treatment for dogs (and humans) suffering from arthritis is the prescription of nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to treat pain, such as Asprin, Carphrofen, and Etodalac. Unfortunately, as with any medication, these also offer the risk of side effects such: gastrointestinal problems, liver toxicity, and the potential for development of stomach ulcers.

Many people are now searching for safer, all-natural prevention and treatment for their pets that not only treats pain, but can prevent wear and even help to repair damage already done. The remedies strengthen the immune system, encourage the elimination of toxins, strengthen and protect the skeletal system, and generally improve the overall health of your animal.

Owners are now seeking out holistic medicines such at Pet Alive Muscle and Joint Support to obtain the healing components of ingredients such as Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), Spirulina (Arthrospira platenis), and Calcium Flouride.

Devil’s Claw, for example, is being used world-wide for its anti-inflammatory properties which researches have found to improve osteoarthritis, fibrositis, rheumatism, small joint disease, and lower back pain. In contrast to NSAIDs (prescription drugs), Devil’s Claw is beneficial to the digestion, as it has been shown to treat liver and gall bladder disorders.

More ways to help your pet In addition to supplements, it is important for dogs to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, good nutrition, and weight management. For dogs already suffering from arthritis, swimming, walking, and other non-strenuous activities are best, avoiding high-impact activities, and maintaining and regular and frequent exercise regimen.