As joints age they degenerate, losing cartilage and mobility by growing abnormal bony projections in to and around the joint spaces.  Arthritis is the term we use to describe the pain and inflammation that occurs in joints, and can be severely debilitating if allowed to progress unchecked.

In the pelvic model pictured, the hip joint on the left is normal, and the hip joint on the right in this model is severely arthritic due to hip dysplasia.  This is the most common problem seen in elderly dogs, but can be greatly improved with a few simple changes in management.

A careful evaluation from your veterinarian can determine which joints are painful and develop a plan for correcting or reducing the problems from arthritis. Alpine Animal Clinic can treat your dog or cat with pain control, joint supplements, surgical intervention, Certified Veterinary Acupuncture, or rehabilitation therapy with our Certified Rehabilitation Veterinarian and Licensed Veterinary Technicians.  We are uniquely staffed with Helena's only veterinarian and licensed tehnician certified in Canine Rehabilitation (final certification pending 2011), and Helena's only Certified Veterinary Acupuncture licensed veterinarian.

Getting your dog or cat back in to action with comfort and increased mobility is our goal, and this will increase quality of life and extend life expectancy. You can have your friend back out on the trail or just simply playing in the yard. Come see how to improve comfort in your pet today.