Alternatives to Rimadyl
1. Keep your dog light and lean. Excess weight can put even more strain on the already sore joints. Keep your dog a bit lighter than maybe what you think he/she should weigh.
2. Ample exercise. Walks and swimming are 2 great exercies for dogs with hip problems. Catching frisbees and tearing around retrieving are NOT good ideas.
3. Supplements. Below are a list of supplements that have either proven to help dysplasia or haven't been proven to help but may (anecdotal) -
1. Cosequin
2. Adequan
3. Yucca
4. Glycoflex
5. MSM
6. S.O.D.
7. shark cartilage
8. Glucosamines
9. Chondriotin sulfates
10. Manganese Ascorabate
11. Acupuncture
12. Chiropracty
13. Gelatin
14. Vit C
15. Flaxseed
16. DMSO
17. gold bead insertion
18. Bromelaine
19. Evening Primrose oil
20. Vitamin E
21. Vits A and D - such as in cod liver oil
22. Hokamix
23. Cetyl Myristoleate
24. Golden Treat (brand)
Some pain relievers, such as aspirin, Rimadyl, etc. have been used in the past for treating pain due to dysplasia. I do not recommend any allopathic pain relievers, because of the negative side effects. There are specific homeopathic pain relievers that your homeopathic veterinarian can recommend, as well as specific Chinese herbs. It really depends on the individual animal. As you may or may not know, I advocate a natural diet for cats and dogs. I believe that this can help with preventing dysplasia as well as keeping the animal healthier so that dysplasia doesn't hinder the dog's movements.
