Hello,
I am sorry your dog is having so much trouble.
Can he move his rear legs at all?
Are his rear legs cold to the touch?
If you gently press your finger to the skin around his rectum, does the area twitch?
Can he urinate and defecate on his own?
What kind of dog is he?
How long has he been dragging his legs?
Let me know and I will try to help.......
Thank you for the additional information. There are several other medicines that can be prescribed along with the metacam that your dog currently takes. The drug tramadol is a great pain reliever that can be given long term. Please see the following website for more information on this drug.
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1815
The injection your vet speaks about might be the drug called adequan. It is sold in a box with two vials and costs approximately $150 for both vials. Depending on the weight of your dog, you might be able to get 2 injections out of each vial, but your vet may be able to get this drug at different pricing depending on your area. And, the price your vet pays is not necessarily the price you will pay. Please see the following website for more information on adequan.
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1800
Another medicine that your vet can prescribe is called Cosequin. This drug is essentially a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement that can make a huge difference in a dogs life. Please see the following website.
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=542
And there are a host of other pain medicines available (torbugesic, buprenorphine, etc) that your vet may be able to prescribe if necessary. Unfortunately, there are no safe over the counter meds, so please don't give anything unless it has come from your vet. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of soft surfaces to rest on, and that he is not kept outdoors where it is cold. Dogs with achy joints also experience the same discomfort as people with arthritis when a big storm or cold front comes in. Adverse weather can lead to more pain. Restrict activity as much as possible, no running or jumping, no climbing stairs and no rough play. The last thing your big man needs is an injury on top of his achy joints. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. If this has been helpful, please hit the green accept button. Best of luck with your handsome man, I hope he feels better soon :)
Emergency Critical Care Nurse
16+ years of veterinary experience