Resources to Manage Canine Osteoarthritis

Lauren Hartley
Nov 25, 2025
2 min read

Introduction: Understanding Canine Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common chronic disease that affects over 75% of elderly animals. It is a common cause of chronic pain, which is unfortunately a top cause for euthanasia. Management of arthritis is important to prolong animal lifespan, and allow our companions a pain free existence.

It is important that owners recognise early symptoms of osteoarthritis such as stiffness, limping, and reluctance to move. A veterinarian should then be consulted for a diagnosis. The veterinarian might recommend multiple means of managing arthritis, such as NSAIDs, physiotherapy, or weight loss.

Physiotherapy for Arthritis

Physiotherapy helps the animal with mobility and pain management. Electrotherapies, such as LASER, can be used in the managing of pain and inflammation. Therapeutic exercises can be prescribed to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint to provide support, and keep the synovial fluids working. Massage can aid in reducing muscle tension and spasms, and improving circulation. Additionally, hydrotherapy can be provided to reduce joint stress and improve mobility.

Overall, physiotherapy has the potential to slow the disease progression of Osteoarthritis and maintain the animal's quality of life.

FAQs About Veterinary Physiotherapy for Dogs

Q. Is Veterinary Physiotherapy covered by my insurance plan?

A. Veterinary physiotherapy costs are often covered by insurance providers, such as Allianz and Agria.

Q. Where can I find a register of Veterinary Physiotherapists in my area?

A. Organisations like RAMP, IRVAP, and NAVP have a list of registered physiotherapy practitioners on their website. Stridewise Vet Physio is registered with the NAVP.

Additional Supportive Resources and Tools

CARE (Canine Osteoarthritis Resources and Education) is a website providing owners with free evidence based tools to manage canine arthritis.
DogMA (The Dog Mobility App) is an app developed by Liverpool University to fascilitate owners tracking of their dogs mobility. Through Questionaires the app allows the owner to routinely monitor their dogs condition, providing tailored advice on whether to seek veterinary suppport.

Supporting Physiotherapy at Home

Your physiotherapist may recommend various adjustments to your pets everyday life to aid in the management of canine arthritis. This may include using ramps to get onto furniture and into vehicles, exercising on softer ground, and raising food and water bowls. Additionally, they will likely provide an at home exercise plan. At Stridewise, we have a good information base of videos provided to owners to illustrate different exercises.