Asprin and dogs. ...

[bobbie]

My Holly Belle has arthritis. I know someone that gives her dog Buffered Asprin, and says it's safe. I've heard Asprin in any form is not safe for dogs.

I've been giving her MSM but it does not seem to help.
Just wondering if anyone else thinks asprin is OK for dogs.

[Emma]

Whether it is OK, and the dosage, depends on the individual dog, and all underlying medical conditions. I suggest you check w your vet before giving your dog aspirin.

Also, there are other alternatives for arthritis, depending upon the type - e.g., glucosmine/chondroitin.

[Noofies]

The problem with aspirin is that though it reduces inflammation and pain, it actually contributes to joint degeneration. Have you tried glucosamine along with the MSM? If so, and it's still not enough, then aspirin as needed for bad days is probably what I'd do. I have fewer reservations about aspirin than I do with any of the other NSAIDS available for dogs. But please, do check with your vet to make sure it's OK, and to get the correct dose. (And don't let him talk you into using Rimadyl or Deramaxx until you've given aspirin a try first. I don't like either of those drugs, but I'd use them in a quality-of-life situation if necessary.)

[bobbie]

Well..I have asked my vet and she said it causes stomach problems later.
Holly is 12 years old, 65 pounds. Her eye-sight and hearing are getting bad.
I've had her on glucosamine and MSM capsules, but she actually seemed to have more trouble getting up than without it. Maybe I'll increase dosage.

Thanks for replies!

[CJB]

Try giving her Wobenzym-N, or Bromelain. Both are often very effective at treating arthritic inflammation. Keeping the diet free of grains also helps, as does giving salmon oil daily. Both those things reduce inflammation, which will decrease pain.