Q: My 12-year-old Lab has severe arthritis in his back. Are there any new treatments?
A: Sorry to hear that. The mainstays of arthritis treatment in dogs have combined a number of approaches. Weight management can play a huge role in helping arthritis. Controlled exercise can also be immensely beneficial. As far as medication, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) have been invaluable. Feeding a diet rich in Omega 3 fish oils has also shown great benefit (Hill’s Prescription J/D and Purina JM).
A new monthly injectable drug called Librela (Bedinvetmab) has also shown great promise for pain management in dogs. This medication is a novel drug that is a monoclonal antibody and targets Neural Growth Factor (NGF). NGF is a mediator for spinal cord pain and Librela stops the pain by blocking NGF.
NSAID’s, Omega 3 fish oil diets and Librela have all been substantiated through scientific studies. Other options include acupuncture, physical therapy, tramadol, gabapentin, and amantadine.
For further information, please visit www.Veterinarypartner.com and read Medications for Degenerative Arthritis in Dogs and Cats.
Paws and Claws Column
By Dr. Frank Lavac, MS, DVM
If you have any questions, you can contact Dr. Lavac at 310-828-4587.
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