Oct
30
2009
Arthritis In Old English Sheep Dog?
Posted by: Alan in Dog Arthritis Treatment, tags: Arthritis, English, Sheep
I have an Old English Sheep dog, he is now almost 10 years old and he´s got arthritis, so besides Rymadil, is theer anything I can do to easen the pain and disconfort? Does excersise help?
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October 30th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Just watch him and see how he’s acting. If he’s exercising w/o problems, let him keep doing it. Otherwise, don’t. Give him love and attention if he’s in pain!
My neighbor’s dog had arthritis, and my son walked their dog everyday. One day, they showed my son how to use the choke-collar they had for him for walks– The vet recommended it to them, because the dog would pull on the leash, which was bad for her back. The choke collar would stop her from pulling on the leash, and keep her back as strong as possible. I know, it sounds bad but it helped her dog.
October 30th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
I am crying! I was just about to ask if anyone else had an OES. Mine is three and I am sorry for you.
My MIL’s OES had pretty bad arthritis. She got him one of the leashes that can lift the back legs up, she helped him get up, she got a ramp to help him get into the car. Talk to your vet.
October 30th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
When my older dog developed arthritis at the age of 9 I put him on Rimadyl and a glucosamine/condrotion supplement. My vet said the supplement helps some dogs but not others. It definitly helped mine and he lived to be almost 16. Check with your vet to see if he/she has any other suggestions. Good luck!
October 30th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
You should consult with your Veterinarian. There is nothing you can give at home. Your Vet can prescribe other pain medications such as Metacam or Tramadol which can help if Rimadyl isn’t strong enough.
Gentle exercise will help keep the joints lubricated and limber, but you don’t want to overdo it. Taking him out on short walks is better than fetch or running.
Also provide a bed if he sleeps on the floor.
Good luck.