Question:
We have a 10-year-old German shepherd (60 pounds). Like many shepherds, she has developed painful hips. Our veterinarian has prescribed glucosamine with chondroitin and an NSAID (Rimadyl; 75 mg) to be given once every 12 hours. Can I substitute the more affordable human ibuprofen, aspirin or acetaminophen?
The vet also requested liver tests after the first 10-day trial is over. Is this necessary? While we want to keep her comfortable, we would also like to save on expensive drugs.
S. & P.M., Stratford, CT Jun 28, 2010
Answer:
Poor German shepherds top the list of breeds for the highest number of diseases of hereditary origin. DO NOT give your dog any human NSAIDs -- they could kill her. Liver tests are advisable because of the potential toxicity of NSAIDs such as Rimadyl. You should give your dog a wholesome diet, ideally with organically certified ingredients and such supplements as chondroitin, glucosamine, MSM, turmeric, fish oil and silica, coupled with massage therapy (as per my book "The Healing Touch for Dogs").
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