Alternatives to metacam?

[SconeInSixtySeconds]

Poor old SconeDog is a 10.5 years old black Labrador. He pulled the genetic short straw despite the odds and has had elbow dysplasia (one side operated) and patella problems (again operated on) since he was a pup and I have had managed to keep him mobile using the normal glucosamine, cod liver oil, chondroitin combination.

Roughly once a week I would give him metacam which seemed to help a bit.

Last week he was very very stiff so after checking with the vets I upped the metacam to everyday. I have never seen a dog look so sad. He lay on the sofa. Didn't want to go outside. Didn't even really want to get up for tea. :( so I have stopped it again and he is back to normal. Back to stomping around and being cheerful. it is as if someone flicked a switch.

He is still stiff. He can manage a fifteen minute stroll but no more really. Anyone have any other ideas of something I could use - drugs or alternatives?

Why not go back to the vet? We have 13 yr old black lab with hip dysplasia. He only started Metacam 4 months ago but the vet said at the time 'it may or may not agree with him but don't worry there are alternatives'.

The other piece of advice was to shorten walks to 15/20 mins max so not to aggravate the joints.

There are other painkillers if it doesn't agree with him - I'd go back to the vet.

Mine was sick on Metacam. I upped the Yumove and she's remained limp-free. But my boy is on other painkillers (Tramadol, Gabapentin and Onsior) having been sick with Previcox. So yes I'd agree that it's back to the vet for different pain meds. Hydro may help if you have a pool closeby.

Thanks for the advice. Stupid expensive metacam! I'll give the vets a call.

Btw we do have a pool nearby but it is £25 per half hour session and his insurance hasn't covered anything to do with his legs since he was 12months old :(