What Is Dog Inflammation?
When there’s damage, the body reacts by flooding the area with blood. That rush of blood can lead to inflammation, characterized by swelling, heat, redness, and pain. Dogs can develop inflammation from injury, infection, or other types of damage. Short-term inflammation can aid the body in healing.
However, persistent inflammation can significantly impact a dog’s health, well-being, and quality of life. The body uses inflammation to fight off infections or irritants. This begins the healing process. The increased blood flow can also aid in the healing process for internal injuries.
Types of Inflammation
There are two types of inflammation in dogs, classified by their duration.
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Acute: Develops quickly from injuries, infections, or allergies
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Chronic: Develops over time from untreated acute inflammation or autoimmune diseases
Both types of inflammation can harm your dog’s body if ignored, including the skin, joints, and organs.
How Inflammation Differs From Infection
Inflammation and infection are related but not the same. Infection happens when bacteria, viruses, or fungi invade the body. Inflammation is just a part of the body’s process in fighting an infection. It is an attempt to expel the pathogen from the body. Anti-inflammatories don’t kill infections, and antibiotics don’t treat inflammation.
Common Causes of Inflammation in Dogs
Inflammation is a natural process that helps the body heal. It can be caused by injuries, external triggers, or internal issues.
Some triggers for inflammation in dogs are:
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Allergies (Environmental, such as pollen, mold, or food)
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Sensitivities (Shampoo, food, or chemicals)
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Infections (Bacterial, viral, or fungal)
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Parasites (Fleas, ticks, or worms)
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Physical injuries (Cuts, sprains, blunt trauma, or fractures)
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Trauma
Symptoms and Signs of Dog Inflammation
Inflammation can manifest with obvious, physical symptoms, but it can also exhibit more subtle, behavioral symptoms. Physical signs of inflammation in dogs can include redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. You may also notice scabs, bald spots, or an apparent wound. Behavioral signs of inflammation in dogs include being less active and avoiding movement or jumping.
They may seem irritable, whine more, act restless, withdraw, lick or guard a specific body part, and eat less. When inflammation is deep within the body, especially around the organs, it can be more challenging to detect. Signs include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and difficulty breathing.
Diagnosing Inflammation in Dogs
Some inflammation is expected around external injuries, such as cuts or trauma. Still, if you’re concerned about acute or chronic inflammation, your veterinarian should examine your pet. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical exam to assess your dog’s overall health.
Particular attention will be given to an external swelling. Based on symptoms and physical exam, you may leave with a treatment plan. For more severe cases of inflammation, imaging and laboratory tests may be ordered. X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans can all aid a veterinarian in identifying the root cause of the swelling. Lab results are also helpful and can indicate infections or other bodily imbalances.
Treatment Options for Dog Inflammation
Treating inflammation begins with identifying and removing the underlying cause. Your vet may give anti-inflammatory medicine for a short time or long term, depending on the issue. Dog vests that improve circulation can help reduce swelling without the need for medications. Other natural remedies focus on your dog's diet. Omega-3 supplements, turmeric, and a balanced diet can greatly reduce chronic inflammation in your dog.
