Mr D has xrays today on bad elbows

Sorry to take a while to respond - been away flyballing.

I probably mentioned his regime but I can't remember. We are doing (almost) everything recommended which is
- pentosan injections, which he gets 6mthly, and now weekly pentosan tablets between injections. pentosan rebuilds cartlidge.
- joint supplements with green lipid mussel (a natural anti inflammatory), glucosamine, condroitin and omegas.
- metacam (NSAID) for when he is really sore
- up hill walking as often as possible to strengthen the front leg muscles. The physio said the stronger the muscles the longer his joints will last.
- swimming - which we dont do, I cant get Mr D in the water
- keeping his weight down
- icing and warming the joints before/after exercise (I made a couple of elbow covers out of neoprene, they look very cute and he really likes them)
- physio and ongoing stretching and strengthening exercises

The specialist also wants me to put him on Science Diet joint kibble. I'm not sure about that yet as its logistically difficult. Plus I dont know anyone that uses it that can tell me they are happy with it.
 
Sorry to take a while to respond - been away flyballing.

I probably mentioned his regime but I can't remember. We are doing (almost) everything recommended which is
- pentosan injections, which he gets 6mthly, and now weekly pentosan tablets between injections. pentosan rebuilds cartlidge.
- joint supplements with green lipid mussel (a natural anti inflammatory), glucosamine, condroitin and omegas.
- metacam (NSAID) for when he is really sore
- up hill walking as often as possible to strengthen the front leg muscles. The physio said the stronger the muscles the longer his joints will last.
- swimming - which we dont do, I cant get Mr D in the water
- keeping his weight down
- icing and warming the joints before/after exercise (I made a couple of elbow covers out of neoprene, they look very cute and he really likes them)
- physio and ongoing stretching and strengthening exercises

The specialist also wants me to put him on Science Diet joint kibble. I'm not sure about that yet as its logistically difficult. Plus I dont know anyone that uses it that can tell me they are happy with it.

Thanks for this comprehensive list, Caro! I am sure it will help out others in your situation.
 
What great news that Deska's regimen has improved him so much. Thanks for sharing the information, Caro!
 
Wonderful news regarding Deska ! Thanks also for posting the list, which looks comprehensive.

Very interesting regarding the physical warming / cooling of the joints with the neoprene cover and ice. On a similar note, my vet has me warming up / cooling down Snap before and after extensive exercise via a fast paced walk.
 
I am still a little uncertain about the icing regemin. I know straight after exercise I am meant to put the ice on, and before exercise I warm the joints, plus the neoprene helps once he has cooled off a bit as it provides a little compression. Its the 20min ice/heat that gets me confused.
 
I am still a little uncertain about the icing regemin. I know straight after exercise I am meant to put the ice on, and before exercise I warm the joints, plus the neoprene helps once he has cooled off a bit as it provides a little compression. Its the 20min ice/heat that gets me confused.

It makes sense though. Warming up the muscles beforehand, and then icing them so that they don't swell after exercise. Do you feel like it works for you?
 
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