Arthritis (or osteoarthritis) is a chronic degenerative disease of the joint, in which the cartilage in the joint is damaged. Cartilage reduces the impact on the ends of the bones in joints. When cartilage is damaged, a series of inflammatory changes occurs, eventually leading to destruction of the cartilage, and subsequent damage to the underlying bone. As cartilage contains no nerves, if your pet is showing any signs of pain, the source of it is the underlying bone, which is being affected.
Arthritis is a very common condition in cats. One study showed that 90% of cats over 12 years of age suffer from some degree of arthritis. Yet another study concluded that 22% of all cats have radiographic changes suggestive of arthritis, with 33% of those showing clinic signs. The most commonly affected joints are the elbows and the hips, and are often times not correlated with limping. Instead, the affected kitties may show signs that are misinterpreted as ageing. Some of these signs may be: reduced jumping (up or down), more matting over the back, resistance to being brushed, irritability, inappropriate elimination, sleeping more.
History of the breed: Germany is credited with refining the breed, although it was seen in various parts of Europe in the 1700’s. Great Dane enthusiasts will tell you that there are 2 types of Danes, Danes that were bred to be estate Guard Dogs, and Danes that were bred to be hunting dogs.
A Dane that is meant to guard large estates has the job of being an imposing presence on the property. The Dane’s ears traditionally are cropped to give them an alert look, but at Westgate Pet Clinic we love the natural long ear. Because Danes were bred to relax around their owner’s property, they can make very good house dogs, even in apartments. They tend to sleep throughout the day, thus earning them the nickname, the “Gentle Giant”.
Danes were also bred to be used as boar hunters. Some Dane’s show more of this predatory drive and will sometimes tackle and pin smaller dogs. It is very important that your Dane be well trained and obedient because of its large size.
Health Concerns: As with many large breed dogs, Danes tend to have a shorter life expectancy. Problems known to arise in this breed are: