Treating an arthritic dog

My seven-year-old Labrador-Springer cross went very lame last week. X-rays were carried out and the vet diagnosed severe arthritis in both his elbows, and said she was very surprised to see a dog of his age with such a degree of arthritis. I was very surprised, too, as he has been on glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for the past five years; I changed these to Canine Cortaflex Joint Care a few months ago, as they also contain hyaluronic acid. I discussed management of my dog's condition with his vet and what the next steps should be. The vet is aware of my concern regarding side effects caused by NSAIDs and has suggested trying Cartrophen Vet - I’ve never heard of this product and have searched the internet for information on it. All the information I was able to find seems to be positive, are any of your advisors and readers able to provide any further information?

My other dog is a nine-year-old GSD, he also suffers from arthritis and is currently on Glyco-flex Stage III which appears to be helping him. At the time he was put on Glyco-flex I’d never heard of Cartrophen and wonder if he would also benefit from a switch.
Virginia Pope, by email

Richard Allport, alternative vet, advises:
Cartrophen is a drug given by injection (usually a course of four injections at weekly intervals). This course can be repeated up to three times in a year and the beneficial effects commonly last for three months or so. Many – but not all – dogs do seem to be less stiff and more mobile after treatment. Like most drugs there are some contra indications to its use – it’s not safe for use on dogs that have blood clotting problems, or if any infection is present, or at the same time as steroids or non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, or if any significant liver or kidney disease is present. This last contra indication means that it often isn’t safe to use in old dogs with arthritis, as they frequently have some degree of liver or kidney disease. I also find that the more often it’s administered, the less well it works, however it can be a very effective drug and seems to have far fewer adverse effects than many other anti arthritic drugs.

Personally I would advise keeping your nine-year-old GSD on Glyco-flex if it appears to be helping, and keep a drug like Cartrophen in reserve. There are also other natural anti inflammatory therapies, medicines and supplements such as acupuncture, magnetic collars, herbs (especially Yarrow complex) and homoeopathic medicines that are likely to help both your dogs, these are well worth investigating.