Sparky is moving at a slower pace. He doesn't run to the door, or jump up on the furniture anymore. Since Sparky's graying in the muzzle, you assume these behaviors are a sign of aging.

But if Sparky is having difficulty with routine movements, he may be suffering from arthritis.

Our pets are just as susceptible to the disease as we are. Arthritis is a condition in which joint cartilage deteriorates, making surfaces that are supposed to glide over each other become rough. Joints become inflamed from decreased lubrication, and movement is more difficult and often painful.

According to Best Friends veterinarians, there are medications, therapies, and ways to modify your home to help Sparky be more comfortable.

Diagnosing arthritis
Many illnesses may mimic the symptoms of arthritis, so it must be properly diagnosed. The first step is recognizing the signs:

• Reluctance to walk, climb stairs, jump, or play
• Difficulty performing routine movements, including rising from a resting position.
• Limping
• Lagging behind on walks
• Yelping in pain when touched
• A personality change
• Resisting touch
• Audible clicking when walking

If you suspect arthritis, consult your veterinarian immediately. He will need to determine what kind of arthritis a pet has, using a combination of a medical history, physical exams, X rays, blood tests, and occasionally additional medical tests.

There are three types of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in animals as well as in humans. Most elderly pets suffer from osteoarthritis to some degree. It is often seen in large-breed dogs, because their frames have to carry the most weight.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis in which the dog's immune system produces antibodies against the body's own protein.

Infectious Arthritis is caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection in the joint.

Medical and other treatments
Anti-inflammatory drugs (prescribed only by a vet) can decrease the swelling in joints and make movement easier. Some veterinarians also recommend dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which fortify the cartilage in damaged joints. In rare cases, surgery may be an option.

When performed by a licensed practitioner, alternative therapies can relieve arthritic pain. Canine massage therapy, which is both emotionally and physically beneficial to a pet, is an increasingly popular option (see Massage Therapy Goes to the Dogs in this issue of Between Friends).

Dr. Sarah Robertson of Best Friends Animals Hospital in Spring, Texas also stresses the importance of exercise and proper weight maintenance. "Obesity increases the stress on an animal's joints and makes it harder for them to move," she said.

"Light activity helps strengthen muscles, keeps ligaments and tendons flexible, prevents obesity and circulates blood to stiff joints," she said. You may have to provide an incentive to get an arthritic pet moving, Dr, Robertson says. Keep the exercise session fun, short and low-impact.

Modify the environment
Simple objects like a slick floor or steep step can become real physical challenges to arthritic pets.

• Keep food and water dishes accessible and at a comfortable height
• Consider purchasing or constructing ramps for steps
• Supply a warm, dry bed that's far away from joint-stiffening drafts
• Place non-skid runners on slippery surfaces
• Groom your pet regularly. As animals lose flexibility in their joints, they can't reach around to scratch or groom themselves properly.

Finally, Dr. Robertson reminds owners of arthritic pets not to be discouraged. Although you my not be as energetic or playful as you used to be, there are other activities that can replace that special bonding time. After all, there's nothing like a quiet, gentle petting session to soothe nerves - and aching joints.

For more information on canine arthritis, consult your veterinarian, and see www.healthypet.com, and http://www.arthritis-cats-dogs.com