Accepted Answer

Dear XXXXX, If any case could be described and have a huge probability of the description likely allowing for a good tentative diagnosis,if indeed an accurate diagnosis it is your description.It "most probably", almost certainly age related osteoarthritis(arthritis) and thus degenerative joint disease.Not definitively but almost certainly.If that is the problem,first of all as it relates to this problem you can go to the veterinarian and start her on (a) a good nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory for pain such as rimadyl,previcox or other such very similar products for the pain.If not adequate other novel pain meds can be added.(b) use either an injectable product called adequin better given by a vet to slow up progression of disease or orally a product called Dasequin,or a combination of both.Finally radiographs could be used to decipher the extent of compromise.Before any meds are given blood work should be done to assure the pet can handle the pain meds safely and ongoing periodic blood monitoring to assure no complicaions affect the kidneys or liver.Always non steroidals have gastrointestinal side efects so you must monitor for any color change in the stool,and for inappetence,abdominal pain and vomiting,but they are usually very safe. Please dont forget to press "Accept" so I may be credited for my time and any bonus no matter how small is most welcome.Sincerely,Dr.Richard Silverberg

Edited by RichardHS on 9/26/2008 at 6:07 AM