Like people, many pets can suffer from arthritis. The symptoms for pets are the same as they are for humans, they experience pain, swelling and stiffness. Also known as degenerative joint disease, arthritis can change your pet from happy and energetic to lethargic and pained.

Arthritis is the breakdown of the protective cartilage that covers and protects bone joints causing the affected joints to become inflamed and painful. Older dogs especially are prone to arthritis due to their cartilage deteriorating, larger breeds are also at risk as there is more weight and stress put on the joints.

There are a few signs that your pet could be in pain such as: limping, difficulty running or jumping, moving at a slower pace when out for walks, difficulty getting up and lying down and yelping or crying when they move. This is obviously painful for your pet and upsetting for you as their owner, however there are a few things you can do to help alleviate their pain.

Feeding your dog the correct diet is very important and a premium pet food which contains glucosamine is ideal. Glucosamine is a building block of cartilage, the tissue found at the ends of the bones and along the joints. It is a sponge-like mass of cells that acts like a cushion to the joints. Glucosamine is found naturally in the body and made up of glucose and an amino acid, glutamine. It helps to produce glycosaminoglycan which helps to build and repair cartilage and other tissues.

By feeding your pet a premium pet food that is rich in a glucosamine supplement specifically designed for animals, you're helping them to repair their cartilage and take a step towards a happier and more energetic lifestyle. Even though glucosamine is a great supplement, it is not a cure for Arthritis. If your pet suffers from Arthritis it's best to ask your vet about other treatments.

As well as feeding your pet a premium pet food, there are a few other ways you can keep an eye on their joint health as they get older.

- Your pet should maintain a healthy weight. Overweight pets will put more strain on their fragile joints.
- Don't over exercise, it's important to stay healthy but keep in mind that too much friction on your pet's joints may cause more pain and inflammation.

- Try and make it easier for your pet at home by making sure they don't need to walk up too many stairs and they have easy access to their bed or kennel.

By following these easy instructions and feeding your pet a premium pet food with a glucosamine supplement, you'll be making it a lot easier for your pet to live a long and happy life.