Comments on: Whats your take on giving your pets steriods for pain?

By: Brn_Eye_Grl

Brn_Eye_Grl — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:05:59 +0000

I've had pets with arthritis in the hind legs and it is sad to see them like that. Also being an arthritis sufferer myself, I can tell you that when it is to the point to where you can't move around well, you want to die. The pain is almost unbearable. So knowing that a HUMAN feels that way with that type of arthritis, you know your pet feels that way too.

They do treat us humans with the steroids and they help TREMENDOUSLY.

So ultimately it is your decision, but definitely do what you can to relieve the pain and stiffness of the arthritis for your loved pet.
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By: Lauren P

Lauren P — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:15:59 +0000

Hmmm, my dog is 11 and has arthritis in his left hind-quarters. I suggest Rimadyl, which is an anti-inflammatory drug.

Although most dogs respond well to Rimadyl, it is capable of causing liver toxicity in some animals, and in the early days of introduction there were significant anecdotal reports of sudden animal deaths arising from its use. These risks are minor. However, i DO strongly suggest your dog (because of his age) to take a blood test before taking Rimadyl, purely to monitor his progress through-out the treatment, and/or any malfunctions that should occur at any point.

Rimadyl is a "kind" drug in the sense that your dog will most probably think that it is a daily treat and will willingly gobble it up with pleasure. There is no force involved in getting your dog to take this medication. I have had no problems with my dog (so far!).

Please note that however great this drug may seem, it cannot be taken with other certain drugs at the same time. I recommend having a chat with your Vet to discuss the medication your dog is on now and whether Rimadyl is best or the other drugs he is taking at the moment.

I hope this suggestion helps you further and your dog has a healthy prosperous life on Rimadyl, (if he does take it).
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By: rotc909

rotc909 — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:25:59 +0000

bless your heart.my dog of 8yrs just passed on last week and that was my little man..he had congestive heart failure and he was on steroids and water pills and some pain meds,,it looks like your doing everything as good as possiple.i was gonna say if he has to get on high places 'get a pets stairs.they have 3 or 4 steps,,your dog is blessed to have such nice family members as your self and your family…..good luck to your loyal friend and you and yours…..god bless!!!
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By: Mo

Mo — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:04:59 +0000

I have a 12 year old Irish Wolfhound. Huge girl with terrible arthritis. I finally took her to the vet and now we have meds for her. It is called Deramaxx. This has helped her a lot.And she eats senior food with Glucosamine. You are not going overboard. You love him just like we love our dog. Good luck to all of you.
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By: G. Daddi

G. Daddi — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 06:49:53 +0000

Hi,

I would definitely talk to your vet about what other alternatives there are. You can try additional natural supplements. Be careful with drugs like Rimadyl, Deramaxx and even aspirin. They are all NSAIDs and can have major side effects. You can go to the site below to see what you need to look for in terms of side effects if you do end up deciding to give your dog Rimadyl.

http://www.dog-arthritis-resource.com/side-effects-of-rimadyl/

Other than that I would suggest that you make sure he sleeps in a warm environment. Cold weather will make arthritis feel worse.

Oh, and if you have hardwood floors, I would put mats down so that he doesn’t slip when he turns corners. This helps prevent further injury to his hind legs.

Hope this helps.

G. Daddi