Alternatives to Rimadyl

Alternatives to Rimadyl

by Tiffani M. Beckman, Vet Asst. & Student of Veterinary Medicine

Alternatives to Rimadyl | Feeding Naturally
B.A.R.F. | Car Sickness | Diatomaceous Earth
Ear Problems | Fleas & Ticks | Hot Spots
Oils & Essential Fatty Acids | Worming | Dairy Products

1. Keep your dog light and lean. Excess weight can put even more strain on the already sore joints. Keep your dog a bit lighter than maybe what you think he/she should weigh.
2. Ample exercise. Walks and swimming are 2 great exercies for dogs with hip problems. Catching frisbees and tearing around retrieving are NOT good ideas.
3. Supplements. Below are a list of supplements that have either proven to help dysplasia or haven't been proven to help but may (anecdotal) -
        1. Cosequin
        2. Adequan
        3. Yucca
        4. Glycoflex
        5. MSM
        6. S.O.D.
        7. shark cartilage
        8. Glucosamines
        9. Chondriotin sulfates
        10. Manganese Ascorabate
        11. Acupuncture
        12. Chiropracty
        13. Gelatin
        14. Vit C
        15. Flaxseed
        16. DMSO
        17. gold bead insertion
        18. Bromelaine
        19. Evening Primrose oil
        20. Vitamin E
        21. Vits A and D - such as in cod liver oil
        22. Hokamix
        23. Cetyl Myristoleate
        24. Golden Treat (brand)

Some pain relievers, such as aspirin, Rimadyl, etc. have been used in the past for treating pain due to dysplasia. I do not recommend any allopathic pain relievers, because of the negative side effects. There are specific homeopathic pain relievers that your homeopathic veterinarian can recommend, as well as specific Chinese herbs. It really depends on the individual animal. As you may or may not know, I advocate a natural diet for cats and dogs. I believe that this can help with preventing dysplasia as well as keeping the animal healthier so that dysplasia doesn't hinder the dog's movements. If you are interested in learning more about feeding naturally, please see my B.A.R.F. article in this series. (Bones And Raw Food). For information on Golden Treat, please contact Cyndi Herzing at cherzing@comwerx.net.

**Disclaimer**
I am not a veterinarian, merely an interested and perhaps informed veterinary student. Please discuss all treatments and exercise programs with your veterinarian before partaking in them. Good luck

Tiffani M. Beckman tabbique@yahoo.com