Our visit to the new whitecoat!

[anna_66]

Well, we decided to go to another vet, I had heard such good things about her from so many people, so we decided to give her a try! I'd been wanting to find another vet since Keisha's death, but couldn't find one with as wonderful of a reputation as Dr. Young.
Anyway, the reason for our visit, was of course to have everyone checked for heartworm, Angus was due for his rabies, boosters & we wanted to have his thyroid checked again, and his hind quarters checked out.
Good news for everyone~heartworm tests came back negative:D
She is sending his thyroid tests to Michigan, so in a couple of weeks we should have those results.
Angus has been having a hard time getting up(he didn't usually seem to be sore), he'll spread his front legs out in front of him to help so, she checked his nerve reflexes and said they are all fine, but she did notice that he is much smaller in the hind end than he is in the front. To make a long story short, we're trying a couple of things. Walks up hills for one, new food (Eukanuba Senior Plus w/Glucosamine & Chondrotin Sulfate) (http://www.eukanuba.com/en_US/jhtmls/product/sw_ProductDetail_Page.jhtml?productid=105&localeid=en_US&brandcode=E&speciescode=D&pagetypeid=PD&tabclicked=1&breedsizecode=&lifestagecode=&_DARGS=%2Fen_US%2Fjhtmls%2Fproduct%2Fsw_ProductLis t_droplet.jhtml.3_A&_DAV=1), he got a shot of Adequan (http://www.luitpold.com/animal_health/canine/education/education.htm), some GLYCO-FLEX III (http://www.discountpetmedicines.com/products_at_absolutelypets.com/glycoflexiii2.htm) (and I paid alot more than that for his:eek:, I'll check the internet next time!).
Not only that, but have you ever heard of VOM (Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation) (http://www.vomtech.com/)? I know I hadn't, I didn't know they had chiropractic care for dogs! At this point, I'm willing to try anything to help him have a better quality of life. Today after all of that he actually "jumped" up from a laying down position! That is the first time I've seen him do that in a very long time:D So I don't know if it was the VOM or the shot, maybe a little of both!
If any of you (Sue, Sandra, Candy or anyone else) have heard of any of these treatments, please let me know what you think of them. One more thing, I can't find the Eukanuba dog food through the pet store, but they do have Nutro. Do you think this would be just as helpful as the Eukanuba?
I won't even tell you how much it costed for all of this, I'm still in shock myself:rolleyes:

Sorry this was so long, just wanted to let you know everything & see what everyone thinks!

[ramanth]

Glad to hear all the doggies are fit. :)

I've never heard of those treatments, but if they work, then that is great!

Give Angus, the leaping pup ;) , a hug for me.

[lovemyshiba]

What a day you've had!!!
I'm so happy to hear that everyone is good!!!
Sounds wonderful that Anugs is jumping up again---anything you can do to improve his quality of life.
Give all of them a big kiss from me:)

[Cinder & Smoke]

Anna ~

Glad you (*and Angus*) are happy with the new White Coat!
Do some http://www.google.com searches with the new drugs as the search term. I found a few - but there are PAGES of returns...

Adequan® Canine (POLYSULFATED GLYCOSAMINOGLYCAN) page (http://www.luitpold.com/animal_health/canine/faq/faq.htm)

GLYCO-FLEX III page (http://www.vetriscience.com/glycoflex3.html)

Another Glyco-Flex III page (http://www.medi-vet.com/info/glycoflex.asp)

As for "*Eukanuba Senior Plus* formula food...
It has glucosamine, essential fatty acids, chondroitin and it also regulates weight.
It is only available from a vet and can be used as a diet food as well. It is for dogs with early arthritis..."

There are a LOT of mixed feelings about *Eukanuba* "VET" supplied dawg food...
You need to do some research on possible alternative "good" foods...
And be sure the New Vet's *ATTITUDE* won't change IF you choose to not buy the more expensive food through her!

Glad Angus seems to be feeling so much better!! :)

[MaxandSpike'sMom]

Glad to hear you had a good visit.
Just wanted to let you know that Max has been on Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplements for almost 8 years now.
I used to work for an orthopaedic surgeon(human) and he was recommending it for his arthritic patients almost 10 years ago. Then one day I decided to ask my vet about it for Max because he was having a hard time getting up my 2 steps to the house. He told me to try it and it took about 4 weeks to build up in his system (just like in the humans) and he is much better. He is still a little slow but he can get up and down easier, the weather bothers him but I think it has helped.

Just a note: I tried to switch Max's food to a "senior food" that the Vet recommended he wouldn't eat it. Ask for a sample to see if Angus will eat it. :)

[Laurie]

In my other post I have mentioned Innova senior dog food before, so this is a repeat for many to read.... however,

Try to find Innova Senior dog food, I can only find it at feed stores.

The food has worked so well for my girls, I could be Innova's spokes person!

Does anyone remember the good ole days when all the dogs got was cheap grocery store food and table scraps and they lived to be 14? Where did those days go.....

Could be something with the way they make dog food now.....

Anyone else familiar with Innova? I can give you the list of ingredients if you like. :)

Good to hear your visit went well!

[anna_66]

Originally posted by MaxandSpike'sMom
Ask for a sample to see if Angus will eat it. :)
No samples, but I did get a small 6lb bag to see if he liked it, and he ate it this morning. Could be because it is so similar to his senior food now.


Laurie~Innova Senior hu? I've heard of it, but I've never seen it around here anywhere. Do the dogs like it?

Phred~between last night and today I've been trying to spend all my free time researching these new drugs, and food. It's hard to believe how many different sites there are:eek:
And what do you mean by:

You need to do some research on possible alternative "good" foods...

What kinds of "good" foods are you talking about? And you know, I don't think she'll have a problem if we decide to go a different route with the food, at least I hope not:)

I've been trying to watch him everytime he gets up, and of course it's different every time. Sometimes he's not so quick, just depends what he's getting up for;) I'm not sure about the VOM, but we'll give it a try, and thanks for letting me know the pills take a while to work!

[Laurie]

OH yes, they really like it!

I have tried every dog food out on the market. I like the results of the Innova. I don't have to feed them as much as I did before and they have kept a good weight.

I give them both 1 cup 2x a day (sometimes splurging alittle here and there). The vet is happy with the results from the food and with their weight. I am happy because like I said, the vet trips are reduced!

You can see Em as DOTH back on April 3, 2003 :D
I wasn't a happy Mom at all that day!!! I only walked on cloud nine all day!!!:p

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Cinder & Smoke
There are a LOT of mixed feelings about *Eukanuba* "VET" supplied dawg food...

You need to do some research on possible
alternative "good" foods...


Do exactly what you're doing...
*Research* the MANY food discussions you can find on the Net...
Many *different* opinions can be found on more brands of Pet Food than you can imagine!

Many folks feel that the Vet Rx: foods are NOT the only *good* food that is available... some would question the Vet's ability to make a cash *profit* from selling the Prescription Only foods... does that *profit* BIAS their opinion on how *good* that food really is?

There are a LOT of *good* foods out there that are available withOUT a Vet's Rx: ~ possibly one of those "other" foods will be fine for Angus.

[tatsxxx11]

Wow, what a BIG day for the kids, Anna!!! Your new white coat sounds terrific and I'm so glad to hear that Angus is already doing better! My Cody is on Glyco-Flex II It is expensive!! $60.00 for .....but well worth it. And it does take a while for them to get a high enough blood level to start to see the results of both the Glyco Flex and the Adequan. We have several dog massage therapists here and those vets certified in VOM and I have heard great things about it. I would go with it if your vet recommends it as safe. A lot of friends I know swear by accupunture, as well.

My vet too, sells the Rx Eukanuba with glucosamine and chondroitin. But, my girls used to be on Eukanuba Large Breed (not senior) available at all the big stores, which also contains glucosamine and chondroitin!!...Hmmm, I'll have to check out the bag and note the "difference" in the two, next time I go to the vets. The "Senior" version" is probably lower in fat and calories. Mine are on Solid Good Holistic blend now. And I agree, Innova Senior is a terrific product and also contains glucosamine and chondroitin. Though my vet said that with the Glyco-Flex, I really didn't need a food supplemented with it also! All the food choices CAN make your head spin!!

There are SO many great senior foods out there available without a "Vet Rx." I would definitely recommend Innova Senior if you can find it in your area. Petco and such don't sell it; it's usually available at grain/feed stores and specialty pet stores.

And Anna, I know my Cody loves me to give her a gentle massage at night when we're laying on the floor. I gently work my way down her spine, legs, her hips and even her paws...her eyes roll back and in minutes she's sound asleep!!:)

Give Angus a BIG hug for me. I have such a soft spot for your beautiful boy. And in case you didn't know it, you're a GREAT Mommy! Hugs to you Angus!

[Sudilar]

Glad that your white coat report was good!!

A lady I know from GSD rescue takes her dog to a Chiropractor and says that it is helping her GSD.

I am not familiar with the newer drugs, my last two dogs needed that type of meds, but my present two are ok in the bone and hip department so far. Those listed weren't used when my guys could have benefitted from them.
I do know that the glucosamine and condroitin are supposed to be very helpful in hip and bone problems. You can get them in pill form too.

As for dog food....
Check your ingredients and see what are the first 4-5 things listed.
I was using Wellness for Shiloh but have just now switched to something new for her and a bit for Killian (added to his homecooked). Wellness was great, but Shiloh is still to chunky for my liking. Killian needs a little something for his teeth because his homecooked is soft. This is what I switched to: Canidae Platinum Diet.

Compare the ingredients in Canidae Platinum Diet for Seniors/Reduced Calorie to the Eukanuba. That way you could see which of the foods might be better.
Canidae Platinum Diet is:

CANIDAE® PLATINUM DIET™ - BENEFITS
Formulated for Senior and Overweight Dogs


BENEFITS to Feeding CANIDAE® PLATINUM DIET™ Formulation
All Natural Ingredients plus
Super Fortified Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Naturally Preserved, Holistic and Herbal Formulation


Over 15 Reasons why you should feed your Canine . . . . CANIDAE®!


Excellent Palatability, Dogs love CANIDAE® PLATINUM DIET™!

4 Meat Meals, Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, Fish

10 Skin and Coat Conditioners

Balanced Omega 6 & 3 Fatty Acids

Wholesome Nutritional Brown Rice

Natural Psyllium Fiber

Glucosamine

Chondroitin

Cranberries

Guaranteed Probiotics

Guaranteed Digestive Enzymes

Super Fortified Antioxidant Vitamins

Amino Acid Chelated Minerals

Made The CANIDAE® Way, with Superior Quality and No Corn Wheat, Soy, Grain Fractions or Fillers and Naturally Preserved.

CANIDAE® Pet Foods goes beyond just feeding your pet™




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ingredients

Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Chicken Fat, (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid), Sunflower Oil, (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid), Lamb Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Flax Seed, Psyllium Husk, Sun Cured Alfalfa Meal, Lecithin, Kelp, Cranberry Meal, Yeast Culture, Monosodium Phosphate, Choline, Linoleic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Ferrous Sulfate, Mixed Tocopherols (source of vitamin E) Sodium Selenite, Manganous, Riboflavin (source of B2), Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation product, Dried Streptococcus Faecium Fermentation product, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin, Vitamin B12 supplement , Vitamin A supplement, Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate , D- Biotin, Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) , Glucosamine HCL, Chondroitin Sulfate , Calcium Iodate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Papain, Bromilain, Bacillus Subtilis, Yucca Schidigera Extract.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein (min.) 18.50 % Vitamin E (min.) 500.00 IU/kg
Crude Fat (min.) 8.50 % Glucosamine HCL(*) (min.) 525.00 mg/kg
Crude Fiber (max.) 4.00 % Chondroitin Sulfate* (min.) 425.00 mg/kg
Moisture (min.) 10.00 % Amylase* (min.) 4.00 BAU/ lb (1.81 BAU/kg)
Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) (min.) 2.60 % Cellulase** (min.) 0.25CMC units/lb (0.11CMC units/kg)
Linolenic Acids (Omega-3)(*) (min.) .60 % Protease*** (min.) 24 HUT/lb (10.8 HUT/kg)
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae~ (min.) 100,000 CFU/lb (45,360 CFU/kg)
Lactobacillus Acidophilus~ (min.) 100,000,000 CFU/lb (45,360,000 CFU/kg)
Enterococcus Faecium~ (min.) 70,000,000 CFU/lb (31,752,000 CFU/kg)

Hope this helps you decide which food to use. There are also others out there, but when it comes to a specific Senior Diet, they seem to add more grain and cut out the meat. After checking into Innova Senior, that looks really good, too.

You will get a headache trying to decide which one is best!!

:confused:

[ChrisH]

Anna, glad to hear the vets visit went well all round and you also have found some ways to help Angus with his mobility problem. Sorry that I have no advice or knowledge to add (except to mention I recently started taking glucosamine myself and it seems to be helping :)) just want to wish you good luck with all that you are doing to help sweetie pie Angus.

Please give all three of your beautiful furkids a hug and kiss from me.

Chris

[captain]

So glad you found a "new" vet you liked.

My Ruby is on Eukanuba because she has really bad "wind" . Ssshhhhh, don't tell her!
So far so good!

I have tried some of the other brands we have in Aussie, but only Eukanuba helps her - the rest stink the house out (so to speak).

There is another brand here, like Eukanuba, that only the vet sells, but I have not tried that. Never really looked at the ingredients ...... will do when I get home now

Hugs and Kisses for Angus (OH and the girls :rolleyes: )

[shais_mom]

glad that everyone checked out fine
sounds like she really put you on track to help Angus!

[DoggiesAreTheBest]

Glad to hear that the vet visit went well and that Angus is feeling better.

[anna_66]

Of course he isn't always jumping up like a little puppy, but he is getting up without any real effort! It's so nice to see that.
We go back again Wednesday for another visit for the VOM, I'm sure he's gonna be happy:)
Oh, & I've decided with all your advice, plus alot of research, I'm just going to keep him on his dogfood. It has the same ingredients as the Eukanuba Vet Diet food except one (Chromium Tripicolinate), the only real plus is in the vet food is it has antioxidants, but he seems to be doing fine on his food, so we're just going to stick with it!

[tatsxxx11]

Oh, that's SO great to hear, Anna and Angus!! Please let us know how it goes on Wed.!!:) HUGE HUGS to you Angus!!:D

[Sudilar]

That is such good news!!!! :D

[allanimalswelcome]

Good to here your dog is doing better!


~Rachel

[anna_66]

Well, we had a good visit yesterday:)

She did another VOM treatment on him & instead of giving him a injection of Adequan, she gave him a small dose of steroids. We're just going to try through trial & error what works for him. Needless to say, she wouldn't be giving him more injections of steroids, but she said this may help get the inflamation down so the Glucosamine & Chondrotin can work better. Does that sound right?
Anyways, as always he was a very good boy:D
He's back to jumping up again, even after sleeping all night in the same place:cool:
Just wanted to update you!

[lovemyshiba]

Glad to hear you had another successful visit with the white coat--and that Angus is doing so well:D :D
Give him an extra treat and a big hug and a kiss from me!!!!

[Sudilar]

That is good news. I hope they find the best treatment for him quickly!! Good boy, Angus!:D

[MaxandSpike'sMom]

Glad to hear he is doing much better!

I can only give you what I know when I worked with the orthopaedic Surgeon. He used to do the same thing with his human patients! He would give them a steroid injection and tell them to keep on the Glucosamine/Chondrotin. So, I would say, yep, that sounds right to me.
:) :)

[captain]

Oh Angus - gorgeous boy!!!

Glad to hear you are getting "jumpier" by the day!!:D