Expert: Herbs, NuVet Plus Supplements, Dog/Cat Food Recipes; ( Marie) - 1/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: My 13 1/2 yr old Border Collie has spinal stenosis (mri). He currently is on Steriods and pain med. I would like to find something that might not have the side effects of the steriods. This is beginning to affect his control. His past medical history includes surgery to repair a ruptured disc last year and an FCE just prior to surgery. His symptoms have deterioted in the last few months.

Other than the spinal problems he is a healthy dog. Any suggestions?

Thanks

ANSWER: Hi Grace : yes, steroid use is helpful in many areas and can also harm you pal, too.
If you do lower his Steroid usage, please do it slowly and with your VET's assistance.  It can be a Shock to lower this too quickly and even cause death.

OK, with that said: YES, I can help!  What food is you kid eating?
Any supplements, vitamins or oils?
What country are you in...USA or other?

Get back to me : I do want to help


Thanks
Marie Peppers LPN MA
Ask the pet nurse

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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sam has been on Canidae Senior for a year. We currently give him 900mg of Boswellia per day  and he also takes Ark Naturals Joint Rescue. I was giving him fish oil (with food) it upset his stomach. Since he can't move to fast that was a problem. I believe the stenosis is effecting his bladder and bowel function, or this might just be age related. It's been a long time since I had a senior dog. We are in the US.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Grace

Answer
Hi again!  Well, I see you are on the Boswellia and Arc Naturals for pain:
Here is what is in the Arc - all very good:

What special ingredients does Joint Rescue feature?

Glucosamine sulfate, HCl: Provides raw material for building healthy cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints.
Boswellia: Source of boswellic acids, powerful anti-inflammatories for chronic inflammation such as arthritis, tendonitis, dysplasia. Stimulates synthesis of healthy cartilage and other connective tissues.
Curcumin: Powerful anti-inflammatory for both chronic and acute inflammation; antioxidant, antimicrobial; detoxifying.
Bromelain: Natural enzyme from pineapple which reduces acute inflammation, bruising, and swelling. Helps the body break down and remove damaged tissues.
Yucca extract: Traditional veterinary herb. Yucca saponins help reduce arthritis stiffness, swelling, and pain.
Manganese: Important trace element for cartilage and bone growth and maintenance.


I am not sure if I can help:  seems that you are doing a good job and your doggie kid has a weak stomach?  Right?

Can you take your question over to Silver, she is the other Expert in Alternative for your pets;
She may be able to help better than I can.

Here is her link:
Tell her that I sent you : Marie Peppers asked for you to get her opinion.
Good Luck

http://www.allexperts.com/ep/3721-86050/Alternative-Medicine-Pets/Silva-Mirovics