Arthritis treatment for canines

Question
My black lab is almost 12 years old.  last year she had arthritis problems in her left shoulder.  Once treated with Remydil she was fine.  Now she has developed a severe limp in her right leg. we have treated her with the same medication but she is not responding.  We have also injected her with a cortisone shot in the shoulder joint. I have become aware of two medications that my vet has not mentioned.  One is Meticam and the other is Conker Canine.  I have no idea if i am spelling those medicines correctly but i am interested in the conker canine.  any web sites you know of to help me?

thanks

Annette

Answer
Hi Annette!

Meloxicam (metacam) is an AWSOME drug! Not only is it pain managment it also is an anti-inflammatory! I use it in my surgical patients for the drs at my cat hospital all the time.

The downside of metacam is that you MUST do a blood profile first. Unlike Rimadyl over the long run it can damage the liver, metacam can do that to the kidneys.

I have not heard of Conker Canine. Do a google search on this medication, you may find the site you need.

Has your vet done xrays of her shoulder and hips/knees? Its nice to see what is going on in there especially since labs are PRONE to hip dysplaysia and dejenerative joint disease.

Also, have you tried Cosequin? A neutraceuitcal for the joints that help with inflammation and joint lubrication?

Hope this helps some!