My senior dog's hind leg shakes. What meds or injections help?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jenny, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 7th, 2017

  Keeping him at a lean body weight will definitely help his joints. Dogs bear 60% of their weight on the front legs and 40% on the back legs, so it is easier having a back leg amputated than a front leg. Any older dog can develop arthritis even without have a traumatic injury at a younger age. If he is slowing down or having a hard time getting up, then you can talk to your vet about appropriate long term NSAID's and other pain reliever options that are designed for long term use in arthritic dogs. There is some blood testing needed to get started and to monitor while on, but there are several combinations to provide very good pain relief to extend his quality of life. Your vet can also discussed different diets and a proper portion to maintain an ideal body weight for his lifestyle. They make food that help joints and mobility with additives as well as weight management formulas.

  

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• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on July 7th, 2017

  What a handsome boy! Trio/Scrappy is very lucky to have ended up with you :) Dogs who are missing a leg are often at higher risk for orthopedic issues such as arthritis, since the three remaining legs are having to do extra work and support more weight. There are quite a few things that can be done to help with this.
  
  I would suggest starting him on a daily glucosamine/chondroitin supplement such as Dasuquin, as well as an omega-3 fatty acid supplement such as Welactin - these have both been shown to be helpful in preventing arthritis and improving pain and stiffness in dogs who are already affected. These can be purchased over the counter or ordered online without a prescription.
  
  If he still seems stiff and sore at times, you could consider talking with your veterinarian about prescription anti-inflammatory medication, or alternative treatment modalities such as acupuncture or laser therapy, as these can also be very helpful for dogs with arthritis and other orthopedic problems.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 2nd, 2019

  Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. Poor Max. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck.

  

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