1st May 2006

Can you suggest any natural remedies to treat my Labrador's arthritis?

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Question:

My eight-year-old Labrador suffers from arthritis. She has been taken off rymadol and metacam because of bleeding and sickness. After a month without medication she can hardly walk, though she seems fine in herself. She swims every day, but with difficulty. Do you have any suggestions for natural remedies?

Answer:

Osteoarthritis is a common problem in our older pets. Lifestyle management is as important a part of the treatment strategy as anti-inflammatory drugs. Maintenance of an optimum body weight is vital, as obesity will put further stress on the already damaged joints. Regular exercise, within the limits of what your dog is capable of, is important, too. Swimming is beneficial as it allows joint movement without weight bearing. Cartilage supplements and fatty acids (evening primrose oil or fish oil) will help to improve the degenerative changes that occur in arthritis. These can be obtained through your local veterinary surgery.