Diagnosing Arthritis In Dogs

Information on common diagnostic techniques for dogs used in current modern veterinary medicine

Dog X-rays

X-rays can show up most (but not all) conditions affecting the bony structures of the joints, limbs and spine, and some soft tissue structures as well. I am often asked why vets need to heavily sedate or anaesthetize an animal for this. For the X-ray to provide as much useful information as possible, your pet must be still during the process. Modern anaesthetics are very safe, and most practices now have a nurse monitoring the animal under anaesthetics constantly. Trying to interpret a poor x-ray can sometimes be just as dangerous as guesswork. So if your vet recommends anaesthetizing your pet to x-ray him, there are good reasons why this is helpful in confirming a diagnosis.

Dog blood samples

Blood samples are useful for looking at for instance, increased white blood cell count for supportive arthritis, Rheumatoid factor, and anti nuclear antibody for auto-immune mediated arthritis's.

Ultrasounds for dogs

Ultrasound is of limited use as far as the bodies bony structures go, as ultrasound waves only penetrate the bone very shallowly.

Dog arthroscopy

Dog arthroscopy - a tiny camera inserted into the joint - a little more specialized, but becoming more prevalent these days. Can show changes in the cartilage which may not show up in x-rays, because cartilage is not mineralised with calcium.

Contrast Radiography for Dogs

Contrast radiography - a dye opaque to x-rays is injected into the joint, and an x-ray taken. This could show up particle of cartilage broken off from the joint surface - or joint mice as they are otherwise known.

This is not a comprehensive list of diagnostic techniques, but covers most of them currently used in modern veterinary medicine.

This information is supplied by The Pet Arthritis Resource Center to help provide a better understanding of arthritis in pets. If you suspect your pet is suffering from arthritis consult your local veterinarian.