Hi Folks
Looking for some help, I have a 9 year old Labrador dog with an arthritic elbow.
Up until the summer he showed no signs other than a slight limp and stiffness after prolonged exercise (4 hours). Very rapidly though he developed a pronounced limp, I believe after jumping stiles during a summer outing, and thinking back he showed some reluctance at the time to jump them but did so anyway without much encouragement.
X-rays shows that the arthritis is well advanced with some lose debris surrounding the joint.
Vets advise was initially absolute minimum exercise and hope that the joint settled down in conjunction with a course of injections (Carprophen I believe) and Carprophen tablets. This showed little or no improvement.
Highest recommended dose of Carprophen gave some relief but this is only possible for short periods as it can lead to damage to kidneys etc.
As an alternative he is now having Metacam added to his food but this is showing no real benefit. The vet cannot suggest any other course of treatment.
Exercise is down to a 500 m. amble each day, sometimes less all at his pace.
Does anyone have any suggestions that may relieve his discomfort or stabilize his condition.
Pothunter.
Looking for some help, I have a 9 year old Labrador dog with an arthritic elbow.
Up until the summer he showed no signs other than a slight limp and stiffness after prolonged exercise (4 hours). Very rapidly though he developed a pronounced limp, I believe after jumping stiles during a summer outing, and thinking back he showed some reluctance at the time to jump them but did so anyway without much encouragement.
X-rays shows that the arthritis is well advanced with some lose debris surrounding the joint.
Vets advise was initially absolute minimum exercise and hope that the joint settled down in conjunction with a course of injections (Carprophen I believe) and Carprophen tablets. This showed little or no improvement.
Highest recommended dose of Carprophen gave some relief but this is only possible for short periods as it can lead to damage to kidneys etc.
As an alternative he is now having Metacam added to his food but this is showing no real benefit. The vet cannot suggest any other course of treatment.
Exercise is down to a 500 m. amble each day, sometimes less all at his pace.
Does anyone have any suggestions that may relieve his discomfort or stabilize his condition.
Pothunter.