Osteoarthritis—or OA—is a painful condition involving progressive joint inflammation and cartilage breakdown. Unlike in humans, canine OA often affects young individuals, so early diagnosis and management is key to a dog’s quality of life from a young age.

The 4 pillars of canine OA management are pain relief, weight control, diet optimization and exercise modification. The sum of these treatments is greater than each part. Treatment with an effective analgesic reduces pain, which encourages more exercise. That results in weight loss, which knocks back joint pain. And if supportive care and medical therapy alone aren’t enough, other options include joint injections or surgical treatment.

In short, dogs with OA don’t have to be doomed to a painful life. Pooch parents in partnership with veterinarians make all the difference.