New research has revealed that low awareness of osteoarthritis pain symptoms in dogs may be leaving them to suffer in silence despite their owners' good intentions. The Australian consumer research1 commissioned by Zoetis Australia highlights that while 85% of dog owners feel anxious about their dog being in pain, over a third of them (34%) wait until symptoms are obvious before acting on their dog's health.
While 90% of the surveyed dog owners were able to name at least one sign or symptom associated with canine osteoarthritis, a quarter (25%) of respondents revealed that they consider pain to be a normal part of life for most dogs.1 This latest insight suggests dog owners' perception of their dog's pain has the potential to delay interventions that can alleviate suffering and improve quality of life.
Osteoarthritis is a condition that leads to pain and progressive degeneration of the affected joints.4 It occurs when cartilage, which cushions the joints at the end of the bones, breaks down. This can cause pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility due to bone-on-bone contact.5 Without appropriate treatment, osteoarthritis can impact a dog's ability to do the things they enjoy, such as walk and play.
According to Dr Graham Lauridsen, a Veterinarian and Director of Tropical Vets from Atherton in Queensland, the research findings highlight a critical need for more vigilance about detecting and treating osteoarthritis pain as early as possible.
"There are common misconceptions that may be impacting our dogs' quality of life. Firstly, there is the perception that osteoarthritis is an older dog's disease. Secondly, some people believe that seeing dogs 'slow down' is a normal part of their ageing, but it could be due to osteoarthritis pain. Just like humans, dogs can also struggle with the pain associated with this condition. However, they can't tell us when they're in pain, so it's up to us to recognise the signs as early as possible," said Dr Lauridsen.
Approximately two in five (40%) dogs are living with osteoarthritis pain,2 but Australian vets report that only 25% of their canine patients are formally diagnosed with osteoarthritis, while they suspect this disease is present in an additional 24%.3 While there is evidence of underdiagnosis of osteoarthritis in dogs, this is not due to a lack of care from dog owners. Most (71%) Australian dog owners consider their dog a member of the family, and the majority (70%) also agree that pain affects a dog's life as much as a human's.1
With close to half of Australian households (48%) having at least one dog,6 vets are urging dog owners to be aware and recognise the early signs of osteoarthritis pain to ensure the quality of life of thousands of beloved pets is preserved.
"The best thing we can do for our dogs is learn how to recognise the signs of pain. If you notice your dog lagging on walks, limping after walks or exercise, having difficulty jumping or climbing stairs, or they are a little slower to get up, they may be telling you they are in pain. If you're unsure, it is always recommended to seek your vet's advice," said Dr Lauridsen.
The new research also revealed that vets are among the most trusted information sources about osteoarthritis pain management and treatment options. Four in five (81%) respondents trust their vet's advice about new and innovative treatments.1
Dr Megan Lui, Associate Director - Veterinary Operations Companion Animal at Zoetis Australia, emphasised the importance of vets and dog owners working as a team to discuss clinically proven treatment options that will help manage each dog's osteoarthritis pain.
"While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are many ways we can help our pets live a better, pain-free life. Your vet is your best source of support if you suspect an issue with your dog's health. It is through open conversations throughout your dog's life that we can discuss osteoarthritis diagnosis, early intervention, pain management and treatment that is right for them," said Dr Lui.
