when to see a vet?
The signs of arthritis are not solely linked to this disease and can also be common clinical signs of other diseases. Diagnosis is key and the only professionals trained and legally permitted to diagnose are vets.
Without a diagnosis the wrong disease may be treated. This means your dog may be getting the wrong medication, you may be getting the wrong advice, you may be investing funds inappropriately, and worst of all your pet may not be getting the treatment they require, leading to suffering.
A vet will listen carefully to your observations, read your dog’s history, and perform a thorough examination. He or she may suggest further investigations to ensure an accurate diagnosis is made before prescribing a treatment plan. It is better to know what is happening with your dog than to speculate.
YOU SHOULD SEE YOUR VET
If your dog is deteriorating, whether on a treatment plan or not. There could be other underlying treatable causes that require attention, or the clinical condition may be progressing and need increased interventions.Your dog may also be having a reaction to a chosen intervention, meaning a new treatment plan will have to be worked out in conjunction with your vet.
If your dog has a sudden deterioration, called an acute flare. Some of these incidents can be explained by over-exuberant activity, or doing too much for their body’s capabilities, and some may seem to have no apparent cause but still require treatment. An acute flare tends to last up to a week, but should resolve with consideration to the medication and daily living activities. If it does not resolve within 1-2 weeks then please consult your vet again, as further investigating may be needed.
If your dog develops other clinical signs such as vomiting or diarrhoea - especially if they are on medications. Sudden onset acute and transient gastro-intestinal signs are common in dogs due to scavenging tendencies and endemic viruses, however they can become quite serious especially if the dog is on medications that may influence their gut’s recovery.
For a regular assessment to ensure your management plan is still effective. Ideally every 3-6 months check in with your vet, and if your dog is on medications be proactive and get a blood sample or urine sample. Pain fluctuates, and sadly OA is a progressive disease. A pain control plan may work initially, but over time it may be insufficient - having an objective assessment by a vet can be very beneficial.
When thinking of adding further therapies to your plan. They can guide you as to what would be suitable additions and what may be unwise. They will help point you in the right direction to find suitably qualified professionals and/or therapists.
