Dog arthritis

Question
I have a great dane with some pelvic problems that my vet suggested I give him medication for, The vet said Lodine is the same as the 'Rymadyl'
(spelled closely) which I buy at the local wal nart pharmacy at 1/4 the cost. Caesar does not tolerate this medicine well since he has a delicate stomach, and I have had some sucess by giving him 10mg pepcid in a hot dog 1 hour/1st prior to the lodine. Caesar wakes up inside, and I want him to have the benefit of the medicine before he goes out when I leave for work. He runs and plays well but has a quiver in his hind quaters when he over does, ( or plays ruff with Cleopatra - both halequin danes, had danes for years these are # 7 & 8). Any help would be greatly apprecaited. thanks, Fernando

Answer
Hi there!  Etodolac(Lodine) is NOT Rimadyl.  It is the human form of a drug called ETOGESIC for dogs.  (aspirin family) if your vet got the 2 confused. RUN AWAY, they got 2 potentially dangerous drugs mixed up.

Etogesic is KNOWN for stomach upset. Its an aspirin drug that can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding and toxicity if not taken correctly. Rimadyl can cause liver problems if not taken carefully.

Perhaps you need to speak with another vet to get your dog on the RIGHT medication, and some joint supplements too.

Good luck!