Part of the Pet Lover's Guide series, this handbook covers the most common joint disease in dogs - osteoarthritis - its causes, and its surgical and medical treatment in a non-technical, informative, and useful manner. Part I explains what osteoarthritis is, its signs, causes, and an examination of common findings by radiograph and other imaging techniques, joint fluid analysis, and arthroscopy. Part II covers treatment options, including nutrition and weight management, exercise, physical therapy, medications and other supplements, and finally, surgical interventions. Part III covers arthritis in the various joints (shoulder, elbow, carpus, hip, knee, and hock). Part IV deals with treatments for severe arthritis, including steroids, arthrodesis, amputation, euthanasia, and alternative therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic, and herbal medicine). Full--color line art and photographs make it easy for the reader to see and learn about joints, injection sites, and mobility dysfunction, while a cartoon dog illustrates some of the text's key topics in a useful and entertaining manner. Special boxes labeled "Where We Stand" present the author's strong opinions on specific (sometimes controversial) issues in a highlighted, easy-to-find format. Key terms are highlighted, making them easy to locate and reference - these terms are also included in the glossary with clear, simple definitions.

Important information is bulleted and placed in a shaded box, bringing the main points to the reader's attention in a quick and useful way. Rear and front limb rehabilitation programs are shown in tables, identifying appropriate exercises and modalities for specific problems. Profiles of specific exercises present step-by-step instructions for owners on how to perform particular exercises with their pet. Informative drug charts describe the dosage, mechanism, and side effects of particular drugs. Clear readability makes information easily accessible to pet owners, helping them better understand their pet's diagnosed joint disease and their options for surgical and medical management. Written by established, recognized veterinarians, this book is a reliable source for veterinary professionals. Special How to Find an Orthopedically Sound Puppy section gives prospective dog owners step-by-step information on how to minimize the risk of joint disease for their new canine family member.