Medical grade class IV Laser therapy Laser therapy uses a laser beam to reduce pain, increase blood flow, decrease inflammation and promote healing. It is a powerful and holistic method to treat and support arthritic conditions.
Conditions we treat
Arthritis in pets
Arthritis is defined as painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints.
Arthritis treatment
When cartilage breaks down
Arthritis involves the breakdown of joint cartilage that protects the bone, which leads to pain and inflammation. It may be the result of:
- A genetic predisposition
- Constitutional factors, such as age
- Biomechanical factors: working or sport animals, muscle weakness, misalignment, etc.
Symptoms of arthritis in pets
Signs to watch for
Arthritis usually develops slowly over time and may not be noticeable until there is severe damage to the cartilage. When the cartilage breaks down, the bones rub together, and the pet begins to display some of the symptoms of arthritis.
- Lameness, limping of one or more legs
- Joint pain, swelling or stiffness
- Pain or slowness in getting up
- Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- Difficulty sitting or standing
- Reluctance to exercise or loss of interest in play activities
- Weight gain from a decrease in physical activity
- Sensitivity when touched in certain areas
Conventional treatment
Medication and surgery
Traditional treatment for arthritis involves the use of anti-inflammatory and pain medications to keep the pet comfortable. Corticosteroids and non-steroidal medications can reduce pain and inflammation in pets suffering from arthritis. Unfortunately, they can cause further damage to the articular cartilage, resulting in a vicious cycle. Also, they are not aimed at slowing down the degeneration or progression of arthritis over time.
Surgery can be beneficial to limit the complication of arthritis that develops when a joint is unstable for a long time, such as an ACL injury or luxating patella. Surgical intervention is also used for severe cases of arthritis, such as a total hip replacement procedure.
Holistic care for arthritis
Start with lifestyle and diet
Besides treating the arthritis, make sure to address the pet’s lifestyle and diet. Obese and even mildly overweight pets have more mobility problems. It’s no secret that extra pounds add pressure to joints, but fat cells also cause more inflammation.
A grain-free diet is recommended because it does not have fillers and grains. Carbohydrates should be avoided since they promote inflammation and aggravate an already inflamed joint.
Holistic therapies
Helping the body heal itself
Whole-body healing Acupuncture Acupuncture provides not only pain relief but also reduces inflammation and supports the entire body’s healing process. Pets accept this type of therapy easily.
Full range of motion Veterinary spinal manipulation Veterinary spinal manipulation therapy promotes proper alignment of a pet’s musculoskeletal structure to make sure that every joint has full range of motion. Then, the nerves that come out from the spinal cord will be able to function better.
Bones and joints Nutritional supplements and herbs An essential component of the healing process: the body needs specialized food for individual cells and tissues to help it heal. Supplements support the bones and joints, helping them withstand physical wear and tear due to aging. Regular use can help reduce pain as well as the need for pain medications.
Summary
The best possible care
These holistic treatments can be very helpful in pets with arthritis, regardless of the severity or the joints involved. These therapies can be done separately or together and can be combined with medications and/or surgery to obtain the best possible care.
Even if your pet does not have current symptoms, it may be the best time to evaluate his needs.
As always, prevention is the best choice.
From our blog
Reading on arthritis
Arthritis in Pets, Helping Them Stay Comfortable Through the Years As we all get older, we tend to get some aches and pains. Getting off the floor may not be as easy as it once was, or walking up those stairs may take… Read more 
Laser therapy can help your pet with issues from ACL repair to sinus problems “Laser therapy.” When you hear these words what comes to your mind? Don’t be afraid to say it. A lot of people imagine something out of a sci-fi movie… Read more 
New Treatment for Osteoarthritis in Dogs Does your dog limp after exercise? Do they feel stiff in the morning? Maybe they are hesitating before jumping into the car or having difficulty going… Read more In their words
The hearts we’ve touched
“Years ago when all other vets gave up on my older dog Katy, Dr. Strickfaden got her back to agility competition form with acupuncture. I’m a big fan!”
“I love the relaxed and quiet atmosphere in the examination rooms and the reception area. It makes a big difference having the lights low and soft music playing. I don’t know how my animals feel about it but it calms me down! The doctors are extremely open to alternative healing and always willing to try new remedies. I appreciate their holistic understanding of health so there’s a better chance of getting to the root of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. I love that Countrycare carries raw food and high quality dry food and treats. I also appreciate the large assortment of natural health products available.”
“I brought my 5 yr old hunting dog into Countrycare because when I came home from vacation we found her unable to walk. Dr S. was amazing. After a series of visits she was back to normal and we were even able to use her duck hunting. We continue to bring her in every couple of months for an adjustment. She is running around like a puppy and we are not retiring her this year like we planned. Without Dr. S she would have probably been put down cause of the extreme pain she was in.”
“Thank you to Dr. Strickfaden and the entire team at Countrycare Animal Complex for “thinking outside the box” and providing many excellent alternative therapies and natural supplements for her. Countrycare is a very special place where love is felt from the moment you walk through the door. We are so lucky to have a vet center willing to practice natural and holistic treatments right along with traditional veterinary medicine.”
“I travel to Countrycare because their philosophy and integrated care incorporates the best of conventional therapies with holistic options. The climate is calm and engaging, and the staff are always pleasant. I learn something new at every visit, and my animals’ health and well being are enhanced. We are greeted by name. Veterinarians and all staff share the best success as well as end of life sadness. My family has lived many places. Countrycare is a truly unique setting, and the best veterinary care I have experienced.”
“We love Countrycare because of the sense of caring & concern we feel the minute we walk in the door. Our English cockers have been patients at Countrycare for about 11 years. The acupuncture that was administered to Bubba for his disc issues added 6 years of quality to his life. When he passed in 2006 Doctor Karen was there with us to share our loss. Our latest concerns are with Shore and her kidney failure and Mickey’s battle with Addison’s disease. Again doctor Karen never gave up until she was able to properly diagnose Mickey’s condition and devise the proper treatment plan. The support staff at Countrycare is always more than willing to address our many concerns. It is comforting to know they will be there when we need them. For us Countrycare is well worth the 30 min. drive from Two Rivers.”
“Thank you for seeing Harlie. She was well taken care of and I was happy that you offered natural alternatives to traditional medicine. She seems to be enjoying her new therapy routine.”
“Frosty receives excellent care, and everyone is friendly, knowledgeable and compassionate. Staff does their best to schedule at times that are convenient for me to drive up from Appleton. And I feel Dr. Strickfaden is absolutely invested in the best outcome for Frosty given his multiple medical challenges.”
See all testimonials →
1 of 8