Pet Information > ASK Experts > Dogs > Dogs > Arthritis

Arthritis

19 9:37:28

Question
My labrador dog 7 years old has developed sign of arthritis. During winters he faces problem in walking and limps.
Kindly suggest to solve the problem or to reduce it.

Answer
Arthritic is incurable.  You can give a pain killer such as Meta Cam or Rymadyl.  Here such medicines must come from the vet.  Giving many common pain killers such as Tylenol will kill the dog.  

The only other thing you can do is keep the dog lean to reduce the weight its joints have to bear.  Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx