Why the dog 'Snickers' lost her joy in life and regained it thanks to modern pain therapy. A real-life example of how early diagnosis and proper therapy can help dogs with osteoarthritis.
Berlin. 'Snickers' was a cheerful, athletic dog who could hardly stand still – until the first signs of pain caused by osteoarthritis appeared at the age of two and a half. From then on the search for a suitable therapy for the dog began. Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive joint disease and cannot be cured – however, pain caused by osteoarthritis can be effectively and long-term relieved with appropriate, holistic therapy. Studies show that around 40 percent of all dogs (1−3) are affected by osteoarthritis and the associated pain over the course of their lives.
The diagnosis is often a shock for owners – but at the same time it is the first important step to take timely countermeasures and improve the quality of life. The story of the dog 'Snickers' shows how challenging the search for the right therapy can be, but also what innovative options there are today to relieve pain in the long term. “At first we thought it was a harmless injury,” remembers owner Teresa. But the veterinary examination revealed certainty: osteoarthritis in both elbow joints.
From the diagnosis of osteoarthritis to the appropriate therapy –
and why the search often takes longer
After arthrosis-related pain has been identified, the veterinary practice discusses possible therapeutic approaches with the owners – always individually tailored to the dog.
Osteoarthritis progresses individually and every dog reacts differently. Several factors influence the success of therapy:
- Individual progression of the disease
- Influencing factors to be remedied surgically
- Different sensations of pain
- Concomitant illnesses that complicate treatment
- Different effectiveness of supplements and medications
- Holistic therapeutic measures including consistent everyday adjustments,
such as physiotherapy, exercise, weight management, nutritional adjustment - Regular adjustments to therapy
An innovative therapy option opens up new hope
After many setbacks, Teresa took another step in close consultation with her veterinarian: a modern, long-lasting pain therapy that is administered under the skin once a month and was specifically developed for the treatment of pain caused by osteoarthritis. Over time, there were clear changes: 'Snickers' was able to enjoy short walks again, and later also longer excursions. Step by step, her old joy of life returned.
Today, many years after the diagnosis, 'Snickers' is over ten years old and regularly accompanies Teresa in everyday life and on trips. In addition, she receives joint food and additional preparations, such as nutritional supplements, which support the therapy in a meaningful way.
Since osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, it is even more important to take the first signs seriously. The Zoetis osteoarthritis checklist helps dog owners to recognize possible signs at an early stage and to obtain an initial assessment so that, if in doubt, they can visit a veterinary practice.
Sources:
1 Wright A., et al., JSAP 2022 1–10
2 IHS Markit and Stonehaven Consulting: Canine and Feline Pain Market Animal Health Market Analysis, 2021
3 Enomoto M., et al. Sci Rep. 2024 Feb 3;14(1)