Pet Lover's Guide to Canine Arthritis and Joint Problems

Part of the Pet Lover's Guide series, this handbook covers the most common joint disease in dogs ? osteoarthritis ? its causes, and its surgical and medical treatment in a non-technical, informative, and useful manner. Part I explains what osteoarthritis is, its signs, causes, and an examination of common findings by radiograph and other imaging techniques, joint fluid analysis, and arthroscopy. Part II covers treatment options, including nutrition and weight management, exercise, physical therapy, medications and other supplements, and finally, surgical interventions. Part III covers arthritis in the various joints (shoulder, elbow, carpus, hip, knee, and hock). Part IV deals with treatments for severe arthritis, including steroids, arthrodesis, amputation, euthanasia, and alternative therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic, and herbal medicine).