HI amycress,
Does he seem to be constipated?
Is he interested in food and water?
Is he walking slower or more gingerly than normal?
He is having problems with steps and is he also having problems jumping on furniture?
Have you checked his anal glands for any swelling or soreness?
**http://www.gcvs.com/surgery/interver.htm
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/intervertebral-disc-disease-thoracolumbar-area-in-dogs/page1.aspx
Although I can't tell you what to use, I can tell you that aspirin has been used as an anti inflammatory. However this can only be used for two days at best or stomach ulcers can develop. When this is used you must tell your vet as other pain medication may have to wait until the aspirin leaves the body. I am going to direct you to a site for side effects and dosing. Do not use products such as motrin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol & Advil)
http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/acetylsalicylic-acid-aspirin/page1.aspx
dog training consultant
24 years training & behavior,pet first aide, Therapy dog eval., PA Animal Response Team