D O G H E A LT H
TEXT: DR MEGAN ESTERHUYSEN (BVSC)
ARTHRITIS IS IT ALL IN THE GENES?
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n my previous article, we discussed how arthritis is not just an 'old dog disease'. We explained that many breeds are predisposed to certain juvenile orthopaedic diseases and could be suffering from the effects of progressive arthritis from an early age. The question we will tackle today is whether arthritis is all about your dog's genetics or if there is anything you can do to lessen the impact of this chronic and progressive condition? The good news is that certain other factors also play a role in your dog developing arthritis, and these are within your control. So, don't despair! There is plenty you can do to increase the chances of your dog living a long and healthy life. So, let's dive in and see where you can have a significant influence:
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NUTRITION Firstly, let us discuss an essential, everyday factor in your pet's life, and that is nutrition! Not all dogs are the same; hence they all have very different nutritional needs. Developmental orthopaedic disease refers to a group of skeletal abnormalities primarily affecting fast-growing, large and giant breeds such as Rottweilers and Labradors. Yet, I often hear clients complain about the price of diets, which are specifically formulated for large breed puppies. My advice to these owners is always the same, "Rather spend the money on an excellent quality food until they are fully grown than have a dog that cannot enjoy walking or playing when they are only two years old". The most frequent problems we encounter regarding the nutrition of these DQ|1C
