Q:
Favorite0
On the recommendation of our Vet, we have been treating our Schnauzer (42 lbs) with 100 mg. of Rimadyl, twice daily but he hasn't improved very much. She said the next step would be a Orthopedic Specialist. Can you recommend another treatment option before we have to take him to the Specialist? He is 7 yrs. old.
A:
Coaches1
There are a few things I do to help the joints. ARTHRO-IONX or PROMAXOL can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and stimulate healing. To dose ARTHRO-IONX I would split the dose and give a half dose with breakfast and a half dose with supper. After there is improvement you can give a whole dose once a day. In addition I give PROBIOTICS and OMEGA 3,6,9. These also help to decrease inflammation in the body. I would feed a grain-free food. The flavor even makes a difference. According to Chinese food therapy if your dog tends to be warm and seeks to spend time in cool places then a cooling diet is best. The cooling proteins are fish and turkey. Beef is neutral. Chicken is warming. If the pet seeks to be in the sun or by the heat then a warming diet is best. If the joint is inflamed then adding more heat into the diet can make symptoms worse. If there already has been wear on the joints a glucosamine supplement with manganese and MSM is good to give.
I would recommend having a veterinary chiropractor check your dog. It often improves movement. Acupuncture is usually beneficial as well. Please let us know how you do.