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View Full Version : Big dog peeps, come on in.

clutchdust
03-10-2011, 12:38am
I've mentioned this before in a couple different places but I have a 10 year old mastiff. If you have big dogs, you know that 10 is pretty much about that time. I'm getting really conflicted because I think we might be making that last trip to the vet in the near future. I just don't know when the right time is.
She has really bad hips and they're getting worse. I've noticed a big difference just in the last 3-4 months. Used to be that she would trip on uneven ground and stuff, not that hard to believe. But lately she's having trouble with even the simple stuff like turning around. I've even seen a leg just give out while walking in a straight line once or twice.
Problem is, aside from that she really doesn't seem to be in pain or even really worn out. She's still kind of playful, for a 10 year old dog. She eats well (although her farts smell like she at a dead fish out of rhino shit). I even catch her playing every so often, rolling on her back in the back yard.
So what's that point? When she can no longer walk? I just don't know. Makes me sad.
Here's a pic taken just a few months back after she got done rolling on her back.
http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff330/clutchdust/Cloe.jpg?t=1299735509
NeedSpeed
03-10-2011, 12:42am
Tough call. If she's not in pain and no real problems with bathroom type stuff, let it go. If she seems happy/content, I wouldn't off her just yet.

Well, that didn't sound good, but ya know.
SteelCityBlue
03-10-2011, 12:45am
i've decided when i have to carry mine up and down the stairs, it's time

and add a dollup of plain yogurt to the dog food will ease the gas
clutchdust
03-10-2011, 12:48am
Thanks. Did not know that.
Fortunately we don't have any stairs to worry about. Damn good thing since she's still a good 125#.
Sea Six
03-10-2011, 12:48am
Both you and your dog will know it when it's time. :sadangel:
NeedSpeed
03-10-2011, 1:14am
Yep, that's the truth.
oyealiz
03-10-2011, 1:51am
It doesn't sound like time to me.

Sounds like she's still enjoying living. :)
Sea Six
03-10-2011, 2:19am
Are you using any medication or nutritional supplements at all?

Nikken Products makes a couple of supplements that gave my last Golden about another 1.5 years before we started on actual medications.

This is it. (http://www.nikken.com/shop/details/!kenzen-pet-joint)
clutchdust
03-10-2011, 12:09pm
Only med we give her is Rimadil(sp). It's supposed to be an arthritis med. Doesn't make things any better, but she doesn't seem to be as bothered by the arthritis. I think it's a NSAID and mild sedative. She ran out a couple weeks ago so lately she's been getting a small taste of my Vicodin stash.
Bob CTS
03-10-2011, 12:19pm
Both you and your dog will know it when it's time. :sadangel:

:iagree:

It is never easy.
Sea Six
03-10-2011, 12:39pm
Only med we give her is Rimadil(sp). It's supposed to be an arthritis med. Doesn't make things any better, but she doesn't seem to be as bothered by the arthritis. I think it's a NSAID and mild sedative. She ran out a couple weeks ago so lately she's been getting a small taste of my Vicodin stash.


This is it. (http://www.nikken.com/shop/details/!kenzen-pet-joint)

Order a bottle of this product. Seriously... it may be just the thing.

If Rimidol is not working, there is another product that is Rx from your veterinarian for joint pain.

I'd get the Nikken product first, and try it.
Curvette
03-10-2011, 2:28pm
Both you and your dog will know it when it's time. :sadangel:

::(:cry:
I understand your love for your dog and the sadness you must be feeling. Looking into those eyes, knowing how much he loves you ..... .
:cry:
My black lab is 11. My best friend and traveling partner.

I can't imagine the day.. :sad: