Alternative therapies can reduce joint pain

By Dr. Beth Leermakers

“Jinny has a touch of arthritis,” said the veterinarian who recently examined my 13-year-old foster dog. I’m not surprised, given her age. Between 20-40 percent of all dogs will suffer from osteoarthritic pain at some point in their lives. Osteoarthritis (OA) impacts dogs of all sizes, breeds and ages — not just older dogs. Dogs as young as one year old can suffer from OA. Unfortunately, only 33 percent of dogs with OA are actively being treated.

Five Signs That Your Dog May Have Arthritis Pain 

Limping. Your pet might limp or favor one or more legs, depending on the affected joints. Sometimes the limp may appear worse when your pet first gets up and then improve as he moves around. 

Difficulty moving. If your dog is slow to stand up or has trouble jumping into the car or climbing stairs, arthritis may be responsible. 

Sore neck or back. Arthritic changes can appear in multiple areas of the spine, not just the legs. These changes can lead to a sore neck or an abnormal posture with a hunched back.

Fatigue. Your dog tires more easily, lagging on walks and spending more time sleeping or resting. 

Irritability. Arthritic animals may snap or bite when approached or handled, especially if the petting or handling increases their pain. 

Arthritis can’t be cured, but several remedies and procedures can relieve the pain. 

Monoclonal antibodies. Arthritis pain is not just due to simple inflammation, but to many factors involving nerves and joints. Damaged tissues produce nerve growth factor (NGF), which binds to pain receptors, leading to discomfort and neuronal sensitization (i.e., increased nervous system excitability). 

Launched in Europe in 2021, Librela (bedinvetmab injection) was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2023 to treat osteoarthritis pain in dogs. Librela is a monoclonal antibody therapy administered in the vet clinic (by monthly injection) that targets NGF to control canine OA pain. In one clinical trial, 43.5 percent of dogs given Librela as a monthly injection demonstrated a reduction in OA pain at 28 days, compared to 19.5 percent of dogs that received the placebo. By reducing pain, Librela improved the dogs’ mobility and quality of life. Some dogs may not experience pain reduction until after the second dose of Librela, while others may feel the effects as soon as seven days after the first dose. Jinny’s vet recommended Librela, telling me it is safe for chronic use (unlike the NSAIDS that may cause liver and kidney damage). 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs decrease a pup’s bodily response to inflammation, reducing pain. Certain NSAIDs that can safely be used for dogs are approved by the FDA to help control pain and inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis. Some commonly prescribed NSAIDs are: Carprofen (Rimadyl), Grapipant (Galliprant) and Meloxicam (Metacam).

Side effects. When cells are damaged, an enzyme [cyclooxygenase (COX)] stimulates cells to produce prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain and inflammation, but they also have positive functions such as protecting the lining of the stomach and intestines, maintaining blood flow to the kidneys, and supporting platelet function (responsible for blood clotting). NSAIDs block COX, decreasing the production of prostaglandins (and interfering with their positive functions). NSAIDs can cause these common side effects, like vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea and/or decreased activity level. More serious side effects include ulcers or holes in the stomach and intestines, and kidney and liver failure 

Glucosamine. Glucosamine is a dietary supplement that promotes joint health. Glucosamine supplements may encourage the growth of cartilage cells and help reduce inflammation in joints. Some research studies show benefits, but others do not. Veterinarians advise dog parents that Glucosamine may help, particularly for mild to moderate osteoarthritis — or as a preventative for dogs at high risk for developing arthritis. 

The supplement is safe and worth trying. Glucosamine seems to be more effective when combined with Chondroitin, another dietary supplement. Glucosamine and chondroitin may prevent or reduce the breakdown of cartilage, help repair cartilage, increase the production — and quality — of joint fluid and reduce joint inflammation and pain.

Secondary therapies. When used in conjunction with primary treatments, these alternative therapies can reduce joint pain in dogs: acupuncture, moderate exercise, physical therapy (such as underwater treadmills and massage). 

Arthritis treatments can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life. If your furry friend is showing signs of arthritis pain, consult with your vet to explore the best options available.