Besides going to the Vet, because she is very old, and it causes her too much pain to get in the car, so any suggestions?
And dont say shoot her or put her down, it isnt her time, she is still so full of life and such a part of our family.
I heard Glucosamine, any comments? Thanks.
She is a large black lab.
Symptoms are worse now with the cold weather.
2007-01-10 13:42:53 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
Thanks to all of you, for great advice and kindness :)
2007-01-12 11:51:51 · update #1
Yes, glucosamine can help alleviate some of the pain if arthritis is the problem. But sometimes seemingly hip/knee problems are actually a problem related to the lower spine. Believe me, I do understand what you are saying about the dog getting in and out of the car to get to the vet. But there are two things you can do to get him there. You could put him into a crate and put the crate into the car. That way there is no climbing involved and not to mention, that is the safest way possible to transport a dog in a car. If you don't have a crate or whatever, just pick him up and put him into the car, then pick him up again to get him out of the car. I too have a very old dog and I am reluctant to bring her to the vet unless it is absolutely necessary. But if she were in pain, I would take her there. Good Luck!
2007-01-10 13:51:18 · answer #1 · answered by Goddess 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There are many Glucosamine and similar supplements on the market. I use Synovi-MSM for my dog.
http://www.vetamerica.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=155
As with anything that is just a supplement, you are not going to give her instant relief. If her pain is severe, using a pain reliever prescribed by you vet is the best answer to help her and maintain her quality of life. This may require bloodwork before starting the medication and at intervals while she is on it, as it can have an effect on the liver. Other options might be acupuncture or Adequan injections. There are vets who make housecalls. Maybe that would be an option.
Good luck! You are very fortunate to have had your dog for so many years.
2007-01-11 03:16:48 · answer #2 · answered by GSDoxie3 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
As many has said here, Glucosamine combined with Chondroitin may help in a long term sense. For immediate relief, try plain, good old buffered aspirin. Never give a dog Tylonol or any other acetominaphin product.
2007-01-10 15:50:10 · answer #3 · answered by bakfanlin 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A glucosomine/condroiton supplement should help some, although it does take a few weeks to kick in. In the mean time, an orthopedic pad to sleep on with help with morning pain and you can give her plain, buffered aspirin if it is really bad, but you may want to check in with the vet (even just call) to make sure they are okay with it. The dosage varies from vet 5mg-15mg for each pound you dog weighs (10mg/lb-40lb dog would take 400mg 2x a day). The possible side effects include gastrointestinal upset, slow blood clotting time and renal failure if overdosed. My collie has taken it from time to time (recommended by my vet) and it seems to really help, especially on cold, damp days when her legs are more stiff.
Another suggestion is to make sure she is eating a high protein dog food with absolutely no corn or wheat in them. These two things can cause joint swelling.
2007-01-10 14:30:55 · answer #4 · answered by alapinklady 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Definitely get her started on Glucosamine. Synovi G-3 is a good product. You can also get coated aspirin to give her to help with the pain, try not to use it every day as it can cause stomach problems and give it with a meal. I 325 mg tablet a day. Make sure she has a nice thick bed to lay on and keep her indoors.
2007-01-10 13:51:36 · answer #5 · answered by manetna2 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
YES Glucosamine combined with Chondroitin may help. I gave
this to my dog and it helped her, beats expensive surgery - it is
worth the shot.
good luck
2007-01-10 13:55:28 · answer #6 · answered by my-stang 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋