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Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis in Dogs: Advanced Welfare Guide

An in-depth guide to immune-mediated polyarthritis in dogs, covering diagnosis, welfare impacts, treatment approaches, and long-term management.

Key Facts

IMPA involves the immune system attacking joint tissues causing painful inflammation
Multiple joints are typically affected simultaneously
Dogs show stiffness, reluctance to move, fever, and shifting lameness
Primary IMPA has no underlying cause; secondary IMPA is associated with other disease
Corticosteroids are the main treatment but have significant side effects
Long-term management requires careful monitoring and dose adjustments

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred management of IMPA requires balancing disease control with treatment side effects. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation effectively but cause polydipsia, polyphagia, weight gain, and immunosuppression. Adding steroid-sparing drugs (leflunomide, azathioprine, ciclosporin) reduces steroid requirements. Physical rehabilitation supports joint function and quality of life.

What You Can Do

Provide comfortable, easily accessible resting areas and bedding
Monitor for signs of disease flare or treatment side effects
Regular joint assessments help guide treatment adjustments
Physical therapy and hydrotherapy support mobility and wellbeing