Pano in german shepherd; natural options in treating Pano:

Question
Hello,

Thank you for taking the time to answer this question.  I would like to know your thoughts regarding Panosteitis or "pano." I noticed my 5 month old German Shepherd (male) limping so after research and observation  i decided to take him to the vet.  I explained to the vet that i thought it was pano.  After the exam and some leg manipulation he confirmed it was Panosteitis.  It is my understanding growth disease is more common in large, male dogs. It can show up as young as 4 to 12 months and usually does not occur after a dog is 18 to 20 months.  Now i have read some studies that have linked genetic and food protein to the cause, but there is not enough conclusive evidence to support that theory.  I feed my dog a 75% dry dog food( Taste of the wild) and 25% cooked /natural food diet.  The dog's diet is made up of about 20% to 25% protein; is this to much protein? The vet told me to give the dog 1/2 of a 325mg bufferd aspirin for pain or 2 81 mg baby aspirins.  Should I give him vitamin C or ester C too?  What about a calcium supplement?  Thanks for you help have a great day

Answer
------------------ Update ---------------------
Hi - Please let me know if you use any of my suggestions?
I sure do want to help !
Marie Peppers LPN MA
mtnmmom@gci.net
----------------------------------------------------------

Hi John!  You have done a great job with your research.  The good news is that many times your pal will get better in time.  You are correct in the fact that the scientists can't prove it is genetic.

Yes, a lower Protein food has helped many dogs with symptoms and pain. If you keep the protein under 28%, that would be great for pain control.  Yes, you can give 325 mg of a buffered aspirin or just (1) of an 81 mg baby aspirin per day.

I would supplement with (1) Ester C ( 500 mg) per day, long term.
Also, A Natural Canine supplement of NuVET would be very helpful for the pain, stiffness and NuVET is a great Immune System Booster.
Here is the ordering info for NuVET -  give 2 per day - long term,
http://www.nuvet.com/81098
You don't need the NuJoint Plus at this point.  NuVET helps the hips, legs and joints, too.

The is a Holistic Canine supplement sold by Holistic vets and some breeders.
1-800-474-7044

The food you are using is a good brand - just try to offer more white meats than red.  ( Red meats 2 x per week mixed into the dry kibble)

Keep me posted!

Marie Peppers LPN MA
mtnmom@gci.net