Expert: Herbs, NuVet Plus Supplements, Dog/Cat Food Recipes; ( Marie) - 6/11/2008

Question
Is there an alternative for prednisone in the treatment for my dog's compressed discs?  If not, is there something I can give her to combat the side-effects such as liver damage, weight gain and excessive thirst?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Rhoda:  There are some natural choices to help .... You should keep him on the prednisone for a short period of time.  Ask your doctor to slowly ween him off in about 3 weeks...  Then, the baby asprin and alternative measures can be helpful... Here are my suggestions:

1.  A natural remedy is a quarter teaspoon of Turmeric on his food once a day. That spice is a natural anti-inflammatory.  Many humans take this turmeric too...  You can do this right now.
You can find this at any health food store or even the local super market may carry it.

2.  Next, get him onto some NuJoint Plus Supplement - Call Joan today and ask for NuJoint plus -  she can help you with the first order... NuJoint is only sold in Kennels, Vet offices and by the Manufacturer... NuVET plus is also a great supplement to have.
Ask Joan about the two products... Also, use this code and ASK for the 15% off Discount on Auto ship....
1-800-474-7044 EXT 265  ( Joan Harris)- M-F 8-4 California Time Zone:
This is Guaranteed to Help OR your money back.
Excellent Human Grade Product.
She can also direct you to the web site's E-Store if you want to view all our products.

3.  Salmon Oil, get some pure salmon oil.... Give one teaspoon per day... This will help a bunch... here is a link- You can find pure salmon oil in the pet stores.
http://www.yummiechummies.com
Remember - No Risk with NuVET


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this is from the following web site:
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=2373


Treatment and Prognosis

Mild cases may be managed medically. Confinement to a crate with minimal physical activity (no jumping, no running, no going up/down stairs, no playing, etc.) is necessary for several weeks. Pain medication, such as steroid-like drugs, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin) may be prescribed on a short-term basis. Paralyzed or chronically affected dogs usually require surgery, but the success of the surgery will vary, depending on the amount of damage that the spinal cord has incurred.  More than 90% of the dogs who have the ability to sense pain in their hindlimbs will walk again after surgery; only about 60% of the dogs who have lost deep pain sensation will walk again. This surgery may require the expertise of a veterinary surgical specialist or neurosurgeon. Pet owners need to provide intensive care for the pet, no matter which treatment is used. Full recovery usually takes weeks to months