In a young dog, it usually affects a single joint. In an older dog, multiple joints can be affected. As the disease progresses, the cartilage which covers the end of the bones in a joint degenerate, and irregular growth occurs resulting in alterations inside a normally smooth, well-lubricated joint. When a dog moves these bony growths rub against each other and cause pain. The most commom synptoms are stiffness upon awakening, joint swelling, reduced mobility and limping.
Arthritis can occur in any joint, including the neck, shoulders, spine, hips, and even the paws.
The most common, however, is the hips. Some dogs can tolerate buffered aspirin at a dosage of 5 milligrams per pound. However, we have found the most effective medication for reducing inflammation and pain, with NO toxic or adverse side effects, is Shark Cartilage with a dosage of 1 gram per pound of body weight for long-term use. I was a very abused girl, that is up until about two weeks ago. I was locked inside a chicken coop somewhere close to the Wisconsin state line.