Osteoarthritis is a serious and growing problem in dogs. Although most often diagnosed in older pets, recent studies show it begins much earlier than many realize. In fact, 20% of dogs over one year old, 40% of those under four, and an astounding 80% of dogs over eight show signs of this chronic and progressive joint disease.
Osteoarthritis occurs when joint cartilage, the cushioning tissue on bones that allows smooth, pain-free movement, begins to deteriorate. This leads to pain, inflammation, stiffness, and eventually difficulty using the affected limbs. Often, the condition develops as a secondary response to an underlying injury or structural issue in the joint.
Despite how common and painful this disease is, truly effective treatments remain limited.
That is beginning to change, thanks to pioneering research by Dr. Diego Portela at the University of Florida, funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation.