Sick dog : need resources. Unappropriated topic I know!

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kimouette

kimouette

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Hi everyone,

I really tried to avoid starting this topic on this specific forum since I know how "out of the subject it is" and I swear I am not gonna start any other thread about that subject! But the thing is, I spent the 2 last days searching for a forum like this one, but for dogs with important diseases, and cant find any popular one!

My mom's Bernese Mountain dog who is only 8 years old has been diagnosed with Wobbler Syndrom. We know it's a degenerative disease but he is responding very well to the strong medicine he is taking right now. My mom is very worried about the food the vet has been prescribing (main ingredient is corn and corn gluten comes second, but honestly I have no idea what a good food for dog is, and know even less about what to look for in a food for dogs with that specific disease), and also we are hoping to find an alternative (a natural or maybe less destructive drug) to the ones he is taking right now.

I started a thread on the only forum I could find for dogs that seems to have recent posts, but unfortunately the forum is not very popular and I really want to find a place where many other dog owners could help my mom!

http://www.dogster.com/forums/Dog_Health/thread/741550

If you guys know other forums, please share!!
 
Oh poor baby! I've never heard of this so had to look it up. Knowing the build of this type of dog, I'm not surprised this happens tho'....they have to carry such a huge weight of those heads with that neck. I found the first article explains it well, the second one gives more info but I don't see suggested food on either site.

http://petsurgery.com/wobblersyndrome.html

http://veterinarysurgicalcenters.com/Wobbler-Syndrome.html

I've changed Harley, my lymphoma drooler, to Hills Science diet - first their 'Ideal weight' and now their Grain free. I noticed a change after a few days on the 'Ideal weight' formula - it seemed to be helping 'tighten up' muscles. I just changed to the Grain free so don't have any feedback on that.

The link to K9diabetes is a good one - I read lots and lots there when I thought one of my pups possibly had diabetes.

BIG HUG to ALL of you,

EDIT TO ADD: Here's another one that DOES have food info!!!!
http://www.greatdanelady.com/articles/wobblers_syndrome_by_dr_wittles.htm
 
Huge hug to you guys for sharing these links!!! I wasn't sure I'd get any replies and now I have new "trails" to explore.

Have you tried Googling it.......lots of info and treatments including surgery on it.
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I have, but I see a lot of contradictory answers. And surgery is not an option since it cost 12,000$, plus 60% of adult dogs do not get any better (some will temporary get better) and some will simply die from the post-surgery requirements : have to stay in a cage for months and many dogs get depressive.

Most websites do contain a lot of info about the syndrome, but wont go any further in terms of alternative medication and food requirements.

http://veterinarysurgicalcenters.com/Wobbler-Syndrome.html
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That website gives the most alarming information, the one that is killing my mother :Although many dogs improve initially with steroids, most dogs become worse again when steroids are tapered or discontinued.

Maybe try this site http://www.k9diabetes.com/ It's a top site for dog diabetes and I'm sure they talk about food also.
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I will create a profile and start a new thread on their forum. Thanks a lot for sharing!!
http://www.greatdanelady.com/articles/wobblers_syndrome_by_dr_wittles.htm
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I found that one an hour ago. I need to double-check the products mentioned... just to make sure
 
kimouette said:
...
http://www.greatdanelady.com/articles/wobblers_syndrome_by_dr_wittles.htm
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I found that one an hour ago. I need to double-check the products mentioned... just to make sure
Click to expand...

There's contact info on her site, you might drop her an email and ask for resources....reading her website, she's a very lovely, loving bean....

Everything I read stinks too....I understand the choice of no surgery, that's a private decision that must be made by wonderful loving beans based on lots of things. I hope you find more GOOD things - please keep us posted....

BIG HUG!
 
Are there any laws protecting companies from telling us the EXACT amount of vitamins minerals inside their food if we ask for it? Or do they HAVE to tell us?
 
Hi Kimouette

I"m sorry to hear about your mom's dog.
kimouette said:
I have, but I see a lot of contradictory answers. And surgery is not an option since it cost 12,000$, plus 60% of adult dogs do not get any better (some will temporary get better) and some will simply die from the post-surgery requirements : have to stay in a cage for months and many dogs get depressive.
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Have you had an MRI or CT done of the cervical spine? I wouldn't hang your hat on that statistic (only 60% get better). Prognosis depends on many things. If he were a young dog with a congenital malformation of several areas in his spine, well it doesn't look good. If he's an older dog with a single area of disc extrusion/bulging, surgery can make a world of difference. Part of the problem in researching Wobbler's is that it is a "syndrome" i.e. a group of symptoms in a particular patient group. In reality, there is the "wobbler's" of young giant breed dogs who have malformations in the spinal column (almost always in multiple spots along the spine), and there is the older-dog "wobbler's" which basically means intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in the neck area of a large breed dog. As you can imagine, there is a big difference in prognosis between these two types, and it is also very dependent on the type of injury. If you are not consulting with a neurosurgeon, or an orthopedist experienced in neurosurgery, I'd get a consult asap. A regular vet doesn't cut it in this case.

Why has the dog been prescribed a special food? Is he overweight? I am not sure why your mum is concerned about the corn in particular-? Disc disease is not a dietary issue. Is there another health issue she's concerned about?

As far as changing from the drugs he's on -- I assume he's on steroids, and there are no natural alternatives that are as powerful.
 
Why has the dog been prescribed a special food? Is he overweight? I am not sure why your mum is concerned about the corn in particular-? Disc disease is not a dietary issue. Is there another health issue she's concerned about?
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Because he is obese!

About the food here's an explanation I posted on another forum (still haven't got any replies though) :
http://www.mastiff-forum.com/showthread.php/3730-Wobbler-Syndrome?p=30414#post30414

And for all the other questions you asked here is a copy of his file (translated from french with google.. with plenty of mistakes I assume!):


  • Translated version of Maestro - Rapport de la vétérinaire neurologue.pdf

    Pet name: Maestro
    Species: Canine
    Race: Bernese Mountain Dog
    Gender: Male sterile
    Birth Date: June 3, 2004

    REPORT OF CASES REFERRED:

    DATE OF PRESENTATION:
    On Wednesday, January 11, 2012

    REASON FOR SUBMISSION:
    Maestro was presented to the neurology department for reassessment of severe paresis 4 legs and proprioceptive ataxia of four legs.

    History:
    Since the initiation of medication, the owners have noted a remarkable improvement in the general state of Maestro. Indeed, he is now alert, playful, moves easily, just not on slippery surfaces. It is also difficult to keep him at rest when he wants to run, jumps and plays with other dogs in the household. He eats well and has no vomiting or diarrhea. He is currently receiving gabapentin (300 mg TID) and dexamethasone (0.75 mg in the morning). Following the reduction of the dose of dexamethasone Maestro showed signs of pain so we put him back to 0.75mg/day

    DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES

    PHYSICAL REVIEW:
    T: 37.5 ° C, P: 120 bpm; A: pants; MM: pink and moist, CRT <2 seconds.
    Weight: 46 kg, decreased 0.8 kg in 2 weeks!
    Fitness: 8/9, severe overweight.
    No heart murmur, arrhythmia and no normal breathing sounds.
    Abdominal palpation soft and comfortable.
    Subcutaneous skin mass, 3 cm on the left chest, just caudal to the axilla.
    Soft mass and non-bonded. Stable.
    The rest of the examination revealed no other abnormalities.


    NEUROLOGICAL REVIEW:
    Mental state: Alert, less anxious and very interactive.
    Gait and posture:
    - Rises much more easily from sitting to standing or lying to seating
    - No problem getting up in position of sternal recumbency side 2.
    - Moves much more easily, with much less hesitation and to a longer distance than in the previous visit.
    - Moderate paresis of 4 legs.
    - Proprioceptive ataxia moderate of four legs, worse in pelvic legs and slightly more to the right.
    - Circumduction of the upper extremities, especially on the left.
    - Hypertonicity of the upper extremities when moving.

    Cranial nerves:
    •No abnormalities noted.

    Postural reactions:
    •Delayed proprioceptive response to the placement of four members, somewhat more pronounced in the thoracic and pelvic members rights.

    Spinal reflexes:
    •Withdrawal reflex to this pelvic limbs, incomplete flexion of the tarsus bilaterally.
    •Jerk slightly increased bilaterally.
    •Reflex and perineal skin of the trunk bilaterally present and adequate.
    •Withdrawal reflex to low thoracic legs, somewhat more pronounced in right, but improvement in muscle strength since last visit.

    Back pain / neck:
    • No pain induced by palpation of the back along the entire length.
    •Slightly reduced amplitude of lateral cervical movements, movements adequate up and down.

    ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

    Maestro delivers a great improvement in his condition following the introduction of medical treatment. While the primary condition was not fully determined, it remains however difficult to predict how his condition progresses. The cervical spondylomyelopathy caudal remains the most likely cause of the presentation of Maestro.
    The owner, inquired about possible surgery during the consultation. This could be considered, but the diagnosis should first be established beyond doubt. In addition, several different defects can be present in patients with spondylomyelopathy and understanding those present in Maestro would better clarify the potential surgical and specify the long-term prognosis. A magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal column cervical would be indicated to better determine the condition in question before consider surgery. Meanwhile, medical treatment will continue to maintain an optimal quality of life at Maestro. The medication adjustment will gradually be done over the coming weeks.

    RECOMMENDATIONS:

    1. Gabapentin 600 mg: Give ½ tablet orally every 8 hours until the next reassessment. This medication can cause mild sedation. Do not stop medication.

    2. Dexamethasone 0.5 mg: Administer orally 1 - ½ tablet per day for one month, then decrease the dose to 1 - ½ tablet every two days until the next revaluation. If you notice a deterioration of Maestro following the transition to an alternate day administration back to 1 - ½ tablet daily. This medicine is a cortisone and should be administered with a meal. The main side effects of dexamethasone are: an increase in the catch of water and frequency of urination, excessive panting, increased appetite, hence the importance of restricting the portions of food to avoid gaining weight, digestive system disorders (vomiting, diarrhea). If you experience vomiting, diarrhea, blood or digested blood (black) in Maestro’s stool, please stop the administration of dexamethasone and contact us immediately.

    3. Ideally avoid the stairs for the rest of the life of Maestro. These could aggravate the injury to the spinal cord by increasing micro-trauma. The use of a ramp is recommended if the stairs are to be used at home. Make sure however that this ramp is covered with an anti-skid coating to minimize the risk of falls for Maestro.

    4. Maestro should not wear a collar, but a harness. This allows a better control and limits the impacts on the animal's neck. Vest Harness ® are uniquely designed and are recommended for Maestro. You can find them in good pet stores or online

    5. Maestro has lost about 1 kg in 2 weeks! You are on the right track! Continue diet and slowly increase his exercise level. If Maestro tends to slide on the floors of the house, you can facilitate its travel by installing anti-slip mats in areas where it circulates frequently. This will allow a better grip and limit the risk of falls. In winter, boots can be used to increase traction on ice or snow. Neopaws ® boots are uniquely designed and could be a good choice for Maestro. These bootes are also interesting if Maestro hangs claws on the ground or is injury.

    6. Limit the exercise of Maestro to a controlled exercise with the harness. He should not jump, make fast starts or walk too long distances. Limit it to exercise control.

    7. These recommendations will help slow the progression of the condition, but will not prevent it completely. Perform close monitoring of Maestro’s disease to detect any new abnormality.

    Thank you for your confidence in the South Shore Animal Hospital and we invite you to contact us for additional information.
    ______________________________

    Dr. Mylene-Kim Leclerc
    Miriam Golden, TSA
    Diplomate ACVIM-Neurology
    Technician at the Department of Neurology
    neurologie@hvrs.com

And now here the plan I suggested my mother after reading, comparing and gathering infos from all over the net :

Translated version of Maestro-GO.docx
  • ******************** Maestro
    Find a "recipe" in all this and start implementing it BEFORE lowering the dosage of current medications, then lower the dosage while continuing the natural recipe to see if you can gently get rid of drugs. But if Maestro shows signs of pain, increases his medicine back to its original dosage and try something else.
    The only thing that can be done outside the following natural alternatives I to replace dexamethasone with Meloxicam (paired with Milk Thistle to protect the liver). To make this replacement, we must first get Maestro’s blood test

    Once dexamethasone is replaced with Meloxicam, Maestro still receives a painkiller, but at least without the catastrophic long-term effects of steroids! And from there, we try natural products from which the list is well detailed in the Word document named "Pain Management".

    Through all these tests that can be done to get rid of strong medications, NEVER forget the basic things: the ideal weight of Maestro must be reached and, we must give him more fibers (ideally pure pumpkin or green beans, but not too much since we don’t want to increase his caloric intake), and milk thistle to protect him as much as possible of all side effects of drugs.

    And here's the plan:
    1. Weigh today and weigh next week to control weight with new food, then every week until he reaches is ideal weight! And check often to make sure it is maintained
    2. Have the blood work done on maestro and make a real follow-up please! To see if the liver and kidneys are ok + diabetes ... if everything looks good, we request Meloxicam!
    3. Fibers: 2c./jour pumpkin or green bean: effect of aid against diabetes and liver damage that could be caused by assault on drugs ...
    http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Can_you_give_ ... supplement
    http://www.ehow.com/how_4424984_add-fib ... -diet.html
    4. For weight, use calculator to adjust amount if necessary:
    http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-feedi ... calculator
    5. Milk thistle to protect liver
    http://www.petwellbeing.com/products/dog-liver-disease - directions
    6. Nutrition recommendation (ok with the new food we bought): High quality protein but less than 22-24%, without too much phosphorus and calcium
    Option to be considered (alternative to drugs currently used):
    7. NSAIDs (Meloxicam!) Instead of AIS (see Pain Management doc. Word to compare the effects dry, according to testimony Meloxicam would have less and therefore without Steroids)
    8. Cosequin supplements :
    http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.as ... d=11529852
    10. Natural stuff, I’m giving you that but without any conviction:
    http://www.soignezvotreanimalaunaturel. ... urellement
    11. 1000mg fish oil reduces inflammation!
    12. Gold Beats acupuncture implants (about $ 800): read the testimonials before you say no
    http://www.dolforum.com/forum/showthrea ... Gold+beads
    13. Specialized collar?
    http://lauriesportraits.ipower.com//wob ... _wrap.html
    14. A small-memory foam mattress would be a lil luxury that could be helpful!

And FINALLY, here's the "Pain management" document mentioned in the above paragraph:
  • http://www.squidoo.com/doghealthmedicines
    The Corticosteroids That Are Used For Dog Medicine
    #3 Class Of Prescribed Dog Medicines & Side Effects
    The Corticosteroids Prednisone, Prednisolone, and Dexamethazone must only be given as dog medicines occasionally in measured doses, OR reserved for dogs in the twilight of their lives. Dexamethazone, in the form of Azium or Vorem has the same harmful side effects as prednisone. It should only be given when all other medications have failed.

    Dog Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethazone: Are steroid hormones that mimic the effects of natural cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal gland. They break down stored resources (fats, sugars and proteins) so that they may be used as fuels in times of stress.

    Prednisone and Dexamethazone are used on dogs to treat autoimmune diseases. The uses that Prednisone and Dexamethazone has been prescribed for are diverse:
    1. Treatment of excessive itching.
    2. Alleviation of asthma and other allergies.
    3. Managing emergencies like injuries to the spinal chord.
    4. Controlling rejections during organ transplants.
    5. Treating kidney disorders.

    Prednisone, Prednisolone, and Dexamethazone suppress the immune system and therefore have been used to treat auto-immune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and kidney diseases.

    Prednisolone side effects in dogs and Dexamethazone side effects are very serious and harmful. Even if these dog medicines are used for a short period of time, their side effects are:
    1. Renal (Kidney) disorders.
    2. Abnormal thirst and urination levels.
    3. Excessive hunger, fluid and weight gain.
    4. Insatiable diet.
    5. Increased blood sugar.
    6. Decreased resistance of infectious diseases (decreased immune system).

    Dexamethazone and Prednisolone side effects in dogs that occur after a considerable period of usage are:
    1. Ulcers in the digestive tract.
    2. Pain and inflammation in pancreas.
    3. Diabetes.
    4. Degeneration of muscles
    5. Unpredictable change in behaviors and mood swings.
    6. Thinning of the skin.
    7. Liver changes

    If Prednisone or Dexamethazone is continued for more than a week it can affect the normal functioning of the adrenal glands permanently.

    This results in a dependency on the drug, since the dog's body is unable to create its own natural corticosteroids.

    The most dangerous Dexamethazone and Prednisolone side effect is hyperadrenocorticism in dogs. Also known as Cushing's disease, this condition is caused by an overdose of these drugs.

    Predisone and Dexamethazone can lead to conditions like Cushing's disease in dogs and Addison's disease, both of which can prove to be fatal.



    Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Agents (NSAIDs) That Are Used For Dog Medicine
    #5 Class Of Prescribed Dog Medicines & Side Effects

    NSAIDs are commonly used for dog arthritis. If your dog suffers from arthritis, please visit my Dog Arthritis page for more information about arthritis in dogs, and 2 products you can use that would be better for your dog with no side effects than the below listed dog medicines.

    ETODOLAC, Etogesic: Etodolac is prescribed and used once a day to manage dog arthritis.Etodolac side effects are diarrhea, vomiting, or mopyness and inactivity. When given at the recommended dose, side effects are rare. But if the dose is trebled, Etodolac side effects are vomiting, intestinal bleeding, and weight loss. Like all of the NSAIDs, Etodolac side effects may cause sudden liver failure. Do not Etodolac if your dog already has a liver disease, as Etodolac side effects may cause sudden liver failure in dogs that don't even have a liver disease. Etodolac side effects can cause kidney damage in dogs without a prior kidney disease. This is because Etodolac limits blood flow to the kidneys. If your dog already has some kidney blood flow damage, more might result. Dogs receiving diuretics (such as Lasix furosemide) are more susceptible to Etodolac side effects. Etodolac should also not be given as a dog medicine in combination with the corticosteroids prednisolone, prednisone, and dexamethasone. As with all NSAIDs, Etodolac side effects can cause life-threatening stomach punctures so dogs on this medication need to be monitored closely.

    FIROCOXIB, Prevacox: Firocoxib is similar to Dericoxib. Firocoxib has been prescribed as a dog medicine for the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis in dogs. Firocoxib side effects are the same side effects listed above for Dericoxib.

    MELOXICAM: is used for the treatment of the acute and chronic pain associated with dog muscle disease and dog arthritis. Do not use Meloxicam if your dog already has a liver disease, as Meloxicam side effects may cause sudden liver failure in dogs that don't even have a liver disease. Meloxicam side effects can cause kidney damage in dogs without a prior kidney disease. This is because Meloxicam limits blood flow to the kidneys. If your dog already has some kidney blood flow damage, more might result. As with all NSAIDs, Meloxicam side effects can cause life-threatening stomach punctures so dogs on this medication need to be monitored closely. Dogs receiving diuretics (such as Lasix furosemide) are more susceptible to Meloxicam side effects. Meloxicam should also not be given as a dog medicine in combination with the corticosteroids prednisolone, prednisone, and dexamethasone.
    OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS: Some sources claim that omega-3 fatty acids, obtained from fish, are helpful in controlling chronic pain. Many veterinarians dispense it because, as far as we know, it is completely safe when given in moderate amounts.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
    Pain Management
    Options and Alternatives for Dogs

    B-Naturals Newsletter

    January 2007

    By
    Lew Olson,
    PhD Natural Health, LMSW-ACP

    Pain Management Options and Alternatives

    Years ago, chronic and acute pain that our pets may have suffered was not an issue that was addressed by either the pet owner or the Veterinarians. However, more recently the benefits of proper pain management have become important for both recovery of an injury or maintenance of a chronic disease and also to maintain appetite and comfort for our dogs with health and pain related issues. At the same time, pet owners have become more aware of the need for pain management for their dog’s illnesses and/or injuries, however may have found they are overwhelmed by the growing list of medications that are now available to choose from.

    Today, there are many choices are available, and this month’s newsletter takes a look at some of the various options and alternatives.

    The most common causes for our dogs to need pain management include:

    Post Surgery
    Arthritis pain
    Cancer pain
    Orthopedic problems
    Injuries and wounds

    Pain medications fall into several categories, but prescribed medications generally fall into three areas:

    1. Steroids
    2. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and
    3. Opiates.

    Each of these types of pain medications act to reduce pain, but use different techniques.

    Steroids
    Steroids include such drugs as prednisone and dexamethasone. These are very strong drugs that have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. They also have strong side effects and are not meant for long term use in managing pain. One of their main uses is to suppress the immune system. While short term use, at lower doses is unlikely to cause side effects, long term use or short term use at high doses can cause the following symptoms:

    Increased thirst and appetite
    Panting and/or restlessness
    Diarrhea and/or vomiting
    Some dogs can develop stomach ulcers from prednisone use
    Long-term use of prednisone may result in loss of hair coat, weakening of the muscles, liver impairment and behavioral changes.

    Steroid use should *never* be combined with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, which includes aspirin. Steroids should be avoided in very young animals and pregnant animals. They should also be avoided in dogs suffering from liver or kidney problems. Additionally, do not use steroids if a dog has a fungal condition, as steroids can make these conditions worse.

    Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (Meloxicam)

    Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), unlike steroids, are not hormone based. Their pain control is due to blocking prostaglandin production, which is what triggers the pain. These products have become the most well known and highly used in the Veterinarian community for pain management. Like steroids, this category of drugs helps bring down inflammation. Reducing inflammation is probably most helpful for dogs suffering from arthritis and certain orthopedic problems. These drugs can also be helpful after major surgeries. While NSAID drugs were used more frequently, the side effects from these drugs have become more apparent, so certain cautions have been taken. It is important to have blood work done on your dog, to make sure their kidney and liver functions are in normal ranges prior to administering these drugs. The side effects caused by NSAIDs include:

    • Decrease or increase in appetite
    • Vomiting
    • Change in bowel movements such as diarrhea or black, tarry, or bloody stools)
    • Change in behavior such as decreased or increased activities levels, seizure, aggression, or lack of coordination
    • Yellowing of gums, skin, or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
    • Change in drinking habits (frequency or amount consumed)
    • Change in urination habits (frequency, color, or smell)
    • Change in skin (redness, scabs, or scratching).

    Should your dog show any of these symptoms, stop this drug immediately and contact your veterinarian right away.
    The following web site lists manufacturer contact information to call and report any side effects. Veterinarians are encouraged to give pet owners a handout with information on NSAIDs that address the benefits and side effects of the dispensed drugs. http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2006/506_nsaid.html
    Most common NSAIDS used today are Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Metacam, Meloxicam and Zubrin. A more complete list is on the web site listed above. When considering long term use, please have your veterinarian administer periodic blood panels, to make sure your dog does not develop any kidney or liver problems. Always give these medications with food, as these drugs can cause gastric problems. Used correctly, NSAIDS can give good quality pain free life for a dog suffering from arthritis problems.

    Some of these drugs, such as Piroxocam and Metacam are also felt to help in suppressing cancer cell growth. http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/rdvm/cancerInfo/new.asp

    Opiates

    While these drugs certainly aren’t new, a fresh prospective has been given to using them for dogs as pain blockers. While they don’t have the anti-inflammatory strength of steroids and NSAIDS, they have the ability to block pain without side effects that may cause organ problems, gastric upset and the more serious side effects of long term steroid use. An additional benefit of opiates is that they can be combined with either steroids or NSAIDS if needed. *NOTE: Never combine NSAIDS with Steroids. (This includes aspirin, which is a NSAID).

    Tramadol is a very good alternative for dogs that suffer from kidney or liver issues, are prone to gastric upsets, or just can’t tolerate the NSAIDS family. It can be given two to three times daily as needed, and has few side effects. It is not entirely without side effects, but less than the NSAIDS and steroids. It can also be combined with NSAIDS and steroids if needed. For more information, here are some information sites:
    http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_tramadol.html
    http://b-naturals.com/May2005.php
    http://www.caberfeidh.com/Pain3.htm - This link is part 3 of Christie Keith’s very detailed and wonderful article on dogs and pain medications. I do recommend reading all three parts, so I’ve also included the links for Part 1 and part 2.
    http://www.caberfeidh.com/Pain1.htm
    http://www.caberfeidh.com/Pain2.htm

    For surgeries, the Fentanyl patch can be used. This is morphine, delivered via the skin with an adhesive patch. I used this in one of my dogs that had his rear leg amputated, due to bone cancer. It is important to have a veterinarian that has experience with this drug to ensure you are getting the proper milligram dose for the size of the dog. This type of pain medication would be used in the more extreme pain cases. For more information on the Fentanyl patch and its use with dogs can be found here: http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_fentanyl.html

    Over the Counter Pain Relievers

    It is very important to understand that many of the OTC (over the counter) pain remedies that we use for our everyday aches and pains may not be effective for our dogs and some may be lethal.

    These OTC medications/remedies include:

    Tylenol/Acetaminophen: This drug can cause severe liver problems in dogs and must be avoided. There are other medications that contain this drug as well, including certain prescription codeine drugs. This drug is even more lethal to cats. Signs of distress include salivation, vomiting, weakness, and abdominal pain.

    Aspirin: Aspirin is in the class of NSAIDS. It can have the same side effects as other NSAID drugs including intestinal bleeding and gastric problems. Always check with your vet to make sure aspirin is an appropriate choice for your pet and what the proper dosage should be. A safer form of aspirin for dogs is the Herbspirin <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=67> , which is an herbal tincture of the natural form of aspirin (willow bark), given in the gum line, with meals. Never give aspirin or other NSAIDS on an empty stomach.
    Keep all human over-the-counter drugs out of your dog’s reach. Human OTC pain relievers are also known as NSAIDs. In addition to aspirin, this group includes acetaminophen products (TylenolTM), Ibuprofen products (AdvilTM and NuprinTM) and drugs such as Celebrix, Naprosyn (Naproxen) and Phenylbutazone. The following is a good website with more information on OTC drugs and dogs: http://www.canismajor.com/dog/nsaids.html <http://www.canismajor.com/dog/nsaids.html> .

    Supplements for Pain Relief and Arthritis

    There are some other forms of medications that can be helpful for inflammation and pain in dogs. Some of these can be found in health foods stores, on the Internet or from your Veterinarian. All of these can be combined with most prescription pain relievers.

    Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate and Manganese (Flexile Plus) <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=79&amp;PHPSESSID=2c1b6c695a8ba06c2ff315526894d3ddhttp://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=79>

    These substances are found naturally in the body, but are felt to be in inadequate amounts in the body when arthritis or inflammation is present in the joints. Glucosamine can help with keeping synovial fluid in the affected joints. Chondroitin Sulfate is found in cartilage, and is thought to help keep cartilage healthy and to help repair damaged areas. Manganese is a mineral in the body and helps with keeping muscles relaxed (which often stiffen when affected area has inflammation) and to help Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate get to affected areas. These do not work as fast as the drugs listed above, but for long term use are found quite effective.

    Animal Based Omega 3 Fatty Acids

    These Essential Fatty Acids are oils from deep water fish, either EPA fish oils <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=141> or Salmon Oil <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=83> . Omega 3 fatty acids help to control inflammation and also help to protect the immune system. Plant based oils are generally high in omega 6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation, so they need to be avoided. General dosage would be 1,000 mg (180 EPA, 120 DHA) per 20 lbs of body weight. But for dogs affected by inflammation, give a therapeutic dose of 1,000 mg per ten lbs of body weight.

    Bromelain

    Bromelain is an enzyme from pineapples. It can help reduce inflammation when given away from meals. Suggested dosage is 250 mg per 25 lbs of body weight, twice daily. It’s action can also be enhanced for certain conditions such as panosteitis and rheumatoid arthritis, if given with Borage Oil <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=19> . Borage oil dosage would be 500 mg per 50 lbs of body weight twice daily, in between meals with the Bromelain (ProBrom) <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=21> .

    Antioxidants

    Certain antioxidants, especially Vitamin E <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=90> and Vitamin C can help promote healing and help with joint pain. Again, the effects are not immediate, but can be seen after a few weeks use. Dosage amount is 100 IU of vitamin E per ten lbs of body weight, and 500 mg of Vitamin C with bioflavanoids <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=81> per 25 lbs of body weight daily.

    Yucca Intensive <http://b-naturals.com/product_info.php?products_id=47>

    Yucca is most effective for dogs in the liquid form, as the anti-inflammatory properties are found in the sap of this plant. This supplement needs to be given with food, and dose is one drop per ten lbs of body weight, given once or twice daily, depending on the extent of the discomfort.

    Adequan Injections

    This can be found at your Veterinarian’s office. It is comprised of injectable “polysulfated glycosaminoglycan” (mostly chondroitin sulfate) and is generally given twice weekly over a period of a few weeks.
    http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_adequan.html

    Hyaluronic Acid

    This is a newer form of using a substance found in the body. This is currently in many supplement oral forms for dogs, although research is still showing better response with injection into the affected joint. My own local orthopedic veterinarian surgeon told me it may be more effective when used in a newer injury, and has found less effectiveness in injuries more than six months old. But more research is being done and hopefully more information will be soon become available.

    Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

    This is such an extensive subject, that I couldn’t begin to cover it all here. But finding a Veterinarian that practices acupuncture and TCM is often a great way to help with pain and inflammation. Traditional Chinese Medicine also offers alternatives in treating many conditions, including arthritis and recovering from illness and surgeries. For more information on these treatment practices, here is the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture: http://www.aava.org/

    For a brief overview of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine:
    http://www.canismajor.com/dog/accupunc.html

    All of these suggestions listed here are not inclusive, there are many more treatments and remedies available and being used today. As I hear more, I will update this series as needed.

    I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday Season. Bean and I want to wish you a Happy and Joyous New Year!!

    Lew and Bean


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