My older dog has trouble getting up & around at times. He acts "old", and can't climb steps or jump on the couch like he used to. Waht could be wrong?

Many older dogs and cats develop arthritis as they age.  Sometimes this is related to an old injury, but it can happen to any pet as they age.  Many of the symptoms: trouble standing up from a lying down position, difficulty climbing steps or stairs, etc., are directly related to the pain he feels in his joints.  Sometimes animals will stop eating & drinking, not because they don't want food or water, but because it hurts too much to get up & go to their bowls.

We can screen your pet for arthritis.  Sometimes we will recommend blood tests or xrays to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.  If arthritis is the diagnosis, there are several medications on the market now to alleviate the pain, restore better joint function, and make "getting older" a little easier!

Caution: NEVER give dogs or cats over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers designed for humans without calling us first!  Many of these drugs are toxic to animals, causing serious illness and even death.

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