Understanding Osteoarthritis in Dogs

What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint conditions affecting dogs, especially as they age. Studies estimate that 80% of dogs over the age of 8 years and up to 40% of dogs between 8 months and 4 years are affected by OA. Early detection is key to managing OA throughout your pet’s life.

OA begins long before visible signs appear. Simply put, OA is the inflammation of the entire joint and its structures. Early intervention can improve joint function, mobility, and pain management from puppyhood to senior years.

While any disease diagnosis can be scary, the good news is that an OA diagnosis is very manageable when caught early.

Why Vets and Dog Owners Trust Arthramid®

Arthramid® is a unique patented 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG®) that is injected directly into the joint to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Arthramid goes beyond other therapies, incorporating a dynamic bioscaffold technology to safely and effectively manage osteoarthritis long-term.

  • Long-lasting relief from osteoarthritis
  • Improves mobility and joint health
  • Safe, non-invasive, and backed by 20+ years of research
  • Works for all stages of osteoarthritis, from early to advanced
  • Reduces the need for daily pain medication or frequent injections
  • Safe for use in multiple joints

NOTE: Arthramid® is a registered S4 for the treatment of lameness in horses (APVMA No. 86728). Use in non-equine species is currently extra-label and at the veterinarian’s discretion.

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Australian Canine Arthritis Trial

A pivotal clinical trial for Arthramid is currently underway in Australia, assessing the safety and efficacy of its patented 2.5% iPAAG hydrogel for managing elbow osteoarthritis in dogs.

With a strong track record across horses, dogs, and humans, this trial (conducted through select veterinary practices in New South Wales and Queensland) aims to formally extend Arthramid’s indications to include canine osteoarthritis.

 

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Learn more about OA

Watching Your Dog for Signs of OA
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Dr Brunke: How to treat OA
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Talk to your veterinarian to find out if Arthramid is right for your dog.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the leading cause of chronic pain in dogs. It affects 80% of dogs over the age of 8 years old and up to 40% of dogs between 8 months and 4 years of age. OA is a disease that can affect young and old dogs, and early detection makes it easier to manage throughout your pet’s life.  OA starts long before visible signs appear.  Simply put, OA is the inflammation of the entire joint and its structures.

Early intervention can improve joint function, mobility, and pain management from a puppy to senior years. While any disease diagnosis can be scary, the good news is, when caught early, an OA diagnosis is very manageable.

What dogs are at risk?

Some breeds are more likely to develop OA due to genetics and joint structure:

High-Risk Breeds:

  • Labrador Retrievers
  • German Shepherds
  • Golden Retrievers
  • Rottweilers
  • Bulldogs
  • Pugs
  • Boxers
  • Great Danes
  • Mastiffs
  • Saint Bernards
What are other risk factors?

Certain lifestyle and health conditions can also contribute to OA:

  • Dogs with inherited joint conditions (hip/elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, osteochondrosis)
  • Dogs being over-weight or obese (puts additional stress on joints)
  • Previous joint injuries or surgeries
What is Arthramid?

Arthramid is a unique patented 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) that is injected directly into the joint to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

Arthramid goes beyond other therapies, incorporating a dynamic bioscaffold technology to safely and effectively manage osteoarthritis long-term.

How does Arthramid work?

Arthramid targets the joint’s synovial membrane – the soft tissue that produces joint fluid. After injection, it gradually integrates into this membrane, a process that takes approximately 2 weeks.

Through this action, Arthramid reinforces and supports the joint capsule to:

  • Reduce stiffness and restore flexibility
  • Enhance stability in the joint
  • Improve joint fluid quality, which cushions, nourishes cartilage, and reduces friction
  • Help break the cycle of arthritis and optimize overall joint health long-term

With Arthramid, your dog can enjoy a more active, comfortable life – helping them get back to running, playing, and moving with ease.

How is Arthramid administered?

Arthramid is administered through intra-articular joint injection. It is typically injected under general anaesthesia or heavy sedation using a 20–23 gauge needle. The gel integrates into the synovium of the joint, improving function and resolving lameness.

Post-treatment care may involve cold packs and rest, and NSAIDs can be helpful if needed.

What is different about Arthramid compared to other treatments for Osteoarthritis?

Arthramid is a patented 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (iPAAG) that integrates into the synovium of the joint, providing bio-mechanical support and restoring elasticity and tensile strength. Unlike conventional therapies that may only mask pain, Arthramid targets the synovial membrane directly, modulating the inflammatory response and improving joint fluid quality long-term.

How safe is Arthramid?

Arthramid is a biocompatible, non-resorbable hydrogel that has been used extensively in multiple species, including dogs, horses and humans. It has a low incidence of adverse events, with most reactions being mild and transient. The product induces a low-grade, macrophage-driven response that if it occurs, responds well to anti-inflammatory treatment.

How effective is Arthramid?

Arthramid has shown significant efficacy in managing osteoarthritis. Studies indicate that over 80% of dogs remain lame-free after one injection. The gel improves joint function and reduces inflammation, providing long-term benefits. Clinical responses are typically seen within 2 to 4 weeks.

Is Arthramid used in other species?

Yes, Arthramid is used in multiple species, including horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, and humans. It is effective in treating osteoarthritis and other joint-related conditions across these species

What can I expect after my dog has had Arthramid?

After your dog has had Arthramid, you can expect a gradual improvement in joint comfort and mobility. The gel integrates into the synovium within approximately two weeks, but visible improvement may take up to six weeks.

 

Do I need to rest my dog after Arthramid? 

Your dog’s joint comfort will gradually improve as Arthramid takes effect.

The gel integrates into the joint’s synovial membrane within 2 weeks, but visible improvement in your dog’s movement and comfort may take up to 6 weeks. Trust the process and allow time for the treatment to deliver its full benefits.

How to Support Your Dog’s Recovery post-injection

To help your dog get the most out of their treatment, follow these simple steps:

  • Rest for 48 hours: Keep activity minimal for the first two days
  • Controlled exercise: Stick to short, gentle leash walks for the next 2 to 4 weeks, slowly increasing duration as your vet advises
  • Vet check-up: Schedule a re-examination with your vet 4 to 6 weeks after treatment
  • Continue rehab: If your dog has a rehab plan, keep following it as recommended

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