Dog limp

Question
I have a 7 year old lab-golden retriever mix who has recently begun to
favor one of her back legs.  After a nice round of ball catching, she
limps a bit.  I'm not sure if she has pulled a muscle or may be developing
a little arthritis.  She doesn't seem to be in a lot of pain and I'm
wondering if it would be OK to give her a little aspirin or tylenol?

Answer
Hi Barbara,

Most large dogs develop arthritis as they age. Although there are no miracle cures, much can be done to make older dogs with arthritis more comfortable and improve their lives.

Aspirin is perfectly ok for dogs. To reduce stomach irritation, use buffered aspirin or safety coated aspirin and give the dose at mealtime. Use 5 grain (325 mg) aspirin tablets.
A 60 to 80 lb dog may be given one tablet twice a day(every 12 hours) or 1/2 tablet three times a day (every eight hours).  A 30 to 40 lb dog gets half as much; a 15 to 20 lb dog a quarter as much. Give aspirin only on a "as needed" basis, and not longer than 2-3 days in a row without first clearing it with your vet.

If your dog stops eating while on aspirin it is imperative that you stop giving the aspirin and contact your vet if the loss of appetite lasts for more than one day.

These are newer drugs which are much more effective than aspirin and for long term use, safer. Like the arthritis drugs people take, they are expensive (about a dollar a day) but can make a huge difference in the lives of arthritic older dogs.  They are prescription drugs which must be obtained from a veterinarian.

There are dozens of products for animals intended to relieve arthritis by promoting joint and cartilage health. Their active ingredients usually include glucosamine, chondroitin, and often an assortment of miscellaneous vitamins and minerals. Their use has become nearly universal among veterinarians, no safety problems have arisen, and they are generally quite effective. Dogs showing even the earliest signs of arthritis should be receiving one of these products. They work best in the early stages of arthritis, while there is still reasonable joint function left to preserve. A glucosamine/chondroitin combination better than glucosamine alone.

You can read more about the use of glucosamine, chondroitin here:

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=542&S=1&SourceID=52

http://www.ivillage.com/pets/expert/vet/articles/0,,287564_272294,00.html

It is usually possible to improve the quality of life for arthritic pets a great deal. If there is not a quick response to these medications, looking for problems other than arthritis would be a best. Your vet can help you decide if this is necessary.

I hope I've been a help. Best of luck,

Patti