Black Lab with arthritis

by Candice
(ON,Canada)

Hi, My very lovable dog Angel has arthritis as well she tested positive for very early stage renal disease.
She was on glucosimine and fish oil. Our vet recommended this other supplement called Sasha's. As well as J/D food. I assume it takes a little while for it to get into her
system and make a differents. But ever since we switched the supplements she seems to be limping more.
It could also be because we have had alot of damp weather too though. My question is, Is there anything more I can safely give her that won't be hard on her kidney's like possibly Asprin just as needed when she is really limping alot on the damp colder days?

Hi Candice,

Aspirin should not be given to dog's with renal disease, and definitely not without your attending vet's okay. It would be best to talk to your vet about adjusting dosages on medications he has already prescribed.

Thanks,

Dr. Chris

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Black Lab with arthritis

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Aug 03, 2010
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14 Year Old Male Golden Retriever With Arthritis
by: Anonymous

Wow, 14 years is old for a Golden, you must take very good care of him!

(1) Do these drugs become less effective over time in dogs as they do in humans? The liver likely gets more efficient at processing the medication so it lasts for a shorter time. Have you discussed adjusting the dose with your vet?

(2) Are there other drugs (NSAIDs) that could be used in place of the Rimadyl and Tramadol? Not really as far as NSAIDS go, but have you tried adding neutraceuticals like Cosequin DS?

(3) Do these drugs cause increased thirst & water intake? An excessive dose of Rimadyl can make the dog thristy, but this would have to be a huge amount. When I take NSAIDS I don't feel thirstier then normal.

(4) Lastly Pasha's appetite is diminished. Is this medication-related? The main potential side effect of Rimadyl are GI related, so depending on your dog's dose and dosing schedule you should talk to your vet. How does your dog's stool look, is it darker then normal?

Aug 02, 2010
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Dogs & Arthritis
by: Anonymous

We have a 14 yo male golden retriever, named Pasha, who has suffered very long term with arthritis. He does not have hip dysplasia. Pasha has a great deal of trouble getting to his feet if he has been lying down for a long time, e.g., first thing in the morning. Once up, however, he seems to get around fairly well.

Pasha has been on the NSAIDs Tramadol & Rimadyl for a number of years and the meds seem much less effective than they had been. My question is fourfold: (1) Do these drugs become less effective over time in dogs as they do in humans? (2) Are there other drugs (NSAIDs) that could be used in place of the Rimadyl and Tramadol? (3) Do these drugs cause increased thirst & water intake? (4) Lastly Pasha's appetite is diminished. Is this medication-related?

Except for this one issue, we are told that Pasha seems to be in remarkably good health, especially for his very advanced years: That wonderful Golden personality (and sense of humor) is still very much intact. His love of people seems as strong as ever. He still loves getting up on the beds and couches as long as he has a buddy there next to him. (He was never one for climbing on the furniture when nobody is around.) What can we do for our old friend?

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