LAB SUFFERING FROM HIP DYSPLASIA AND ARTHRITIS
02/05/2008: Jill from Dania Beach, Florida writes: "My 12 1/2 year old 100lb lab/shep mix has been suffering from hip dysplasia and arthritis for about 3 years, and what I thought was an allergic skin reaction for the last 3 months.

For the pain he was getting regular acupuncture combined with Tramadol (up to 3x per day) and Metacam every night.' He's been geting triple strength gluco chews as treats. He's also getting 1000mg organic flax oil 2-3x per day since the rash began, along with 100mg diphenhydramine for the itching.

The last two acupuncture visits left him worse than when we began so I'm hesitant to bring him again, but after so many wonderful visits I will eventually return. His pain has been getting worse. Twice in the last month he refused to get out of the car, and wouldn't use a ramp or steps. The other day a young dog jumped on him at the park and he's been much worse since. Today he was wobbly in his rear legs.

My friend who recommended this wonderful site also recommended I give him Shark Cartilage and Cats Claw, so I purchased some today and both dogs and I began that regimen today. I added garlic granules to their food but they wont eat that. Tomorrow I will buy some borax and try the peroxide and borax treatment for the itching.

My question is, has anyone here had any success reducing pain and increasing muscle tone with a large dog this age? Everything else about him is fine. Thanks for any insight, we very much appreciate all responses."