How can I help with my dogs arthritis?

I have a Yorkie/mix terrier who is 10 years old. He has started to suffer arthritis in one back leg. Is their anything in herbs,food, doggy vits to help him? and do you have any advice on how to deal with arthritis

Thanks everyone!! :)

Thanks everyone for all your advice, all great answers!

you can get something called cosequin from your vet, it is a supplement with glucosamine chondroition. it might take a few weeks of use to see a good effect but it seems to help. you might also ask your vet about using anti-inflammatories occasionally for bad flare ups. the other thing you can try is water therapy... this is time consuming, but gives some relieve and some people say it helps a lot..... fill your tub with warm water, just enough so that your dogs feet can NOT touch the bottom of the tub- only when supervised put him in the tub to swim, swimming doesn't put any pressure on the joints, but gets them moving and in theory helps keep them from feeling as stiff. if you have to you can hold your dog around the rib cage, and hold him so that his feet don't touch the bottom of the tub and let him swim. you can do that for 5 to 10 minutes (or more if he enjoys it). this can be done twice daily or once daily.... or even just as needed whatever will work with your schedule.

***do not use any people medications on your dog, some of the medications like aspirin, tylenol and ibuprofen can cause liver damage and clotting problems. discuss with your vet safer options***

Your dog should make a trip to his vet first to be x-rayed. The vet can then tell you if his arthritis is bad enough that he needs prescription meds, or if it can be treated with glucosamine chondroitin with MSM and give you the correct dosage. When a dog's in pain, the vet will start them off on a higher dosage for a couple of weeks, then decrease it to a maintenance amount.

Your dog doesn't need to be in pain - arthritis is easily controlled, but a trip to the vet is a good idea to make sure he's getting what he needs.

My 3 have been on glucosamine chondroitin with MSM as a preventative/maintenance for years - that's likely all your dog's going to need.

Glucosamine is a good supplement, because it helps to build "cushioning" between joints which is where arthritis occurs. Also, rimadyl and dermaxx are good non steroidal anti inflammatories, however long term use can cause liver failure, so its safer to start with glucosamine and only use the other 2 if glucosamine gives no relief.

There are many supplements and doggie meds to help alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.

First step is to have your vet do a thorough exam (which may include x-rays) to determine the severity and extent of the arthritis.

Then, you can discuss appropriate treatments for your pup. I have used the glucosamine suppliments with success as well as Remidyl and Previcox. I have also had two dogs receive the 8-injection Adequan series with phenomenal results.

I never, ever use OTC human meds without first consulting a vet. Humans and dogs are not created equal .... we just get along remarkably well.

I had an old dog that got arthritis in her back legs and hip so bad I had to assist her going outside to potty. My vet gave rimadyl and she was like a different dog. I heard derramax works good too. They're a little pricey, but worth it to make your baby feel better.

I use MSM and aspirin for the pain.

there is a pill tht helps dogs with arthrits. you can pick tht up at wal greens wal*mart or CVS. the pill u can buy u put it in the food 4 ur dog and then in a bout 3-5 days u WILL see a change in ur dog i used it with my dog and she couldnt walk b4 now she is like a puppy agian anyway she is 16!!

~GOOD LUCK~