Rimadyl.

Question
I was wondering what the effects were of Rimadyl. I have a beagel Labrador mix and she's about six to seven years old. I'd also like to know the common weight to mg/pill amount ratio. I think she's about 50 to 60 lbs. Thank you~. ^_^

Answer
Hi Shauna,
Rimadyl has some pretty bad side effects.  Here is what I found on the internet. It can include any or all of the following:
- loss of appetite
- refusal to drink
- unusual pattern of urination, blood in the urine, sweet-smelling urine, an overabundance of urine, urine accidents in the house
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- black, tarry stools or flecks of blood in the vomit
- lethargy, drowsiness, hyperactivity, restlessness, aggressiveness
- staggering, stumbling, weakness or partial paralysis, full paralysis, seizures, dizziness, loss of balance
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin, mucus membranes and whites of the eyes)
- death
You may want to try a different route. There is something called "Chondroitin". It is a natural defense to hip dysplasia and arthritis in humans and pets without side effects. Chondroitin sulfate based treatments also tend to provide better long term results. Rimadyl often only works as long as the drug is being administered.
I'm not sure what the dosage would be for your dog on either drug.  You need to talk to your Veterinarian about that.

God Bless,
Becky