Treating Pet Arthritis Treating pet arthritis is similar to that of human osteoarthritis. Therapies may include: • Healthy diet and exercise to help maintain proper weight. • Working with your veterinarian to find a drug treatment that helps relieve the pain. • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most common form of pharmaceutical treatment for arthritis in dogs. • You can also use over-the-counter pet treatments with your pet, such as pills or food containing either glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate or Omega fatty acids. Both have shown to help relieve the symptoms of arthritis. • Your veterinarian may prescribe both an NSAID and an over-the-counter treatment that together may help decrease pain and disease progression. Never give your pet human medication without checking first with your veterinarian. Certain medications can be toxic to animals-- particularly acetaminophen and ibuprofen -- and a safe dose will differ between each pet. No matter how you decide to treat your pet’s arthritis, make sure you work with a veterinarian to ensure that you select a program that helps your best buddy.