CARTROPHEN and Osteoarthritis.
With the wettest September I remember for a long time, it feels like it might be a long winter this year.
Damp and dank days ahead mean that we need to pay attention to any joint diseases in our pets, especially arthritis/ osteoarthritis.
Many human arthritis sufferers claim they can predict rainfall due to the level of pain in their joints. A recent study conducted in the US explains why:
“67.9 percent of the people surveyed responded that they were sure changes in the weather had an effect on their pain. Most of the patients reported that they can feel a change in their pain before rain or cold weather occur,” said Robert Jamison, Professor at the Harvard Medical School and chief psychologist at the Pain Management Centre at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Chestnut Hill.
Jamison revealed however that the factor that may be responsible for increased pain is not snow, cold or rain, but actually, a change in barometric pressure.
As the barometric pressure falls, tissues in the body may expand. As the tissues expand, they put more pressure on nerves that control pain signals.
“It doesn’t take much expansion or contraction of tissue to affect a pain trigger,” Jamison said.
So, how do you know if your pet might have arthritis?
The score chart below will give you some clues:
How does your dog feel about the following statements?
If your dog is otherwise healthy, the total score allows a prediction of whether or not your dog is suffering from arthritis:
6 or greater = extremely likely
3-6 = highly likely
1-3 = likely
0-1 = It is unlikely your dog has arthritis,
but keep an eye out for early signs, and if concerned, speak to your vet.
There are several pathologies that contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, but the most significant lead to loss of cartilage integrity, and the disability of joint fluid to load bare and lubricate. This eventually leads to a joint that can’t function properly, and is often painful. If you imagine any mechanical joint, eg: in a digger arm, you can see how important lubrication and structural strength are for it to be able to function. The same principles are true inside the body.
How can your dog get relief from arthritis?
CARTROPHEN VET® is a revolutionary advance in the treatment for arthritis in dogs. In fact, millions of dogs around the world are enjoying the benefits of this superior and scientifically proven treatment. Cartrophen Vet is a Prescription Only Medicine, so you must consult with your veterinary surgeon about starting any dog on this treatment.
There are two principle treatments for arthritis: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and Disease Modifying Osteoarthritis Drugs (DMOADs). Both are effective at relieving the pain associated with arthritis but DMOADs uniquely treat the underlying disease processes and not just the symptoms. Cartrophen Vet injection is a DMOAD and has none of the unpleasant side effects associated with NSAIDs.
Furthermore, most pet owners prefer injections to tablets when treating their pets
(Veterinary Times Extra 2006, 36(42):3).
How is Cartrophen Vet administered?
Cartrophen Vet is an injection given by your veterinary surgeon in four weekly doses. This is a convenient way to ensure that your pet receives the appropriate dosage without daily regimen. It is essential that your dog completes all 4 injections to ensure optimal benefit and modification of the disease process.
The frequency of treatment varies from once a year for mild cases and up to three times a year for severe cases.
Your veterinarian may vary this regimen to obtain the optimum reduction of arthritic symptoms.
How long will it take to see results?
The timing for results varies from dog to dog and the severity of arthritis. In some cases they will receive relief in a few days following the first injection to those that see improvement at the end of the fourth injection. If you are not seeing any results, consult your vet.
How safe is Cartrophen Vet?
Cartrophen Vet has a history of safe use in dogs of over 20 years. There are some very rare cases of side effects but these tend to be mild and short lived.
