front shoulder - limp

Question
I have a retriever that has had a terrible limp from his right front shoulder for 4 years (he is 5).  I have taken him to vets who say there is nothing that can be done, it should go away.  They didn't prescribe medicine either.  What could this be?  Its getting so bad he is really having trouble walking.  Do vets have orthopedic surgeons?  

Answer
Sometimes goldens can get displasia in their elbows. It isn't uncommon.  I would think that your vet would have checked this out.  Sometimes glucosamine helps. You can get this in any Wal-Mart pet dept. It is a "joint" medicine, in case the associate doesn't know what glucosamine is.  Keeping his weight at the proper weight, usually around 80# for males, and about 70# for females, plenty of excercise and a good dog food will help.  If his pain seems bad on certain days, an asprin might help too. Not tylenol or advil, but regular asprin. I would check out the internet for orthopedic vets. Maybe the Michigan State University's vet program could direct you.  good luck