Canine Degenerative Joint Disorder

Has your dog been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disorder? Sometimes the term "DJD" is used interchangeably with "arthritis", "osteoarthritis", and "inflammatory joint disease".  It's a common condition in dogs and researchers believe as many as 20 percent of all dogs will experience arthritis at some point in their lives.

DJD is characterized by the loss of the smooth cartilage that covers and protects the end of the bones in the joint area. Since bones have nerves, it hurts when one bone rubs against another bone. The job of the cartilage is to protect the two bones from touching. But when the cartilage wears away and the bones are exposed, any movement can create pain and inflammation in the effected joint area as those bones rub against each other. DJD is also known to cause osteophytes to form on the bones. These are small, spurs of new bone that develop near the joint and cause additional pain for the dog.

There are two forms of Degenerative Joint Disorder. Primary Degenerative Joint Disorder usually happens as a result of normal wear and tear, which is especially common in aging dogs. Secondary Degenerative Joint Disorder occurs as a result of another condition affecting the joint such as elbow or hip dysplasia. Dogs with injured joints, such as a fracture involving the joint, or a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the knee, are more likely to develop DJD.

What to look for when you are concerned about DJD:                   

• Slight decrease in physical activity and playfulness
• Standing up slowly, showing signs of stiffness
• Reluctance to go up and down steps or jump on furniture
• Muscle atrophy in the effected limb
• Changes in appetite

It's also important to note that cold weather can accentuate the signs and symptoms of DJD. This is in part because of the frigid temperatures, but also because of the barometric changes in the atmosphere.

Conventional dog joint pain care involves a routine that is very similar to those suggested for humans, including changing the diet, incorporating regular exercise and taking anti-inflammatory drugs to ease swelling and pain. Over the counter drugs such as aspirin may dampen pain, but do nothing to treat your pet's arthritis. Possible side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and cramps. Conventional pharmaceuticals might lead to steroidal medical prescriptions. However, due to the many potential side effects of these drugs, including liver and kidney problems, vomiting, ulcers and excessive urination, more and more pet owners are turning to natural dog joint care. Studies show that natural remedies can be as effective as prescription drugs in alleviating joint and muscle pain, without the potential adverse reactions of these chemical-based drugs.

Thanks to the wonders of CM8™, animals suffering with joint diseases such as DJD, arthritis, bursitis, osteochondrosis (OCD), hip dysplasia and other degenerative problems with the shoulders, elbows and stifle joint can experience long-term relief without drugs. CM8™ is a patented compound in an all-natural formula that is clinically proven to promote optimal joint health in your dog, cat or any other pet.

Learn more about how CM8 works by clicking HERE.