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	Arthritic Lab Q: Hi, We have an eleven year old chocolate Labrador which suffers from arthritic front shoulder joints. She is insured and is receiving injections regularly from the vet. She is also on Fitergol and Millophyline (one of each per day). We are increasingly concerned about the number of drugs she is being prescribed. We have been advised to give her other treatments for the arthritis, but feel that the costs is already becoming a burden. Could you please advise whether these collars for arthritis are of use, or are there any other alternative, less expensive treatments we can give her. She is a happy contented and dearly loved dog, but we could almost run another car for the costs of vet's fees and we have another dog. Any suggestions? many thanks

A: Firstly, I would assume that your dog's condition is the result of an inherited condition called Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD), which can lead to severe arthritis developing later in life. This can be treated using non-steroidal anti-inflammatories daily, with perhaps food supplements to protect against deterioration of the cartilage within the joint. Cortico-steroids are less popular these days because of side-effects and tend to be kept for last resort. Increasingly people are using alternative treatments for their pets, though these will only be covered by an insurance company if prescribed via a vet, (some don't cover them at all so read the fine print). The magnetic and copper collars do work, but not on every individual, and where they work they are quite impressive. Some are available as 'money back if not satisfied' offers and it is best to look for bigger companies. Homoeopathy doesn't work so well when the patient is taking steroids, but if she can be off them for a while, this is worth considering. Herbal anti-inflammatories are available, but stick to those licensed for animals or available through vets, in order to get the dosages correct. Food supplements are available for animals, glucosamine sulphate, chondroitin, green lipped mussel, Vitamin C, Evening Primrose Oil, Proanthocyanadin complex and Glycosaminoglycans. For ageing in general, extra vitamins and minerals are important, Coenzyme Q10, cod liver oil, Gingko biloba, Ginseng and Garlic may all be of use. Acupuncture may be worth considering if you have a practitioner nearby. Contact The British Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association The Croft, Tockwith Road, Long Marston, North Yorkshire YO26 7PQ or The British Association of Homoeopathic Veterinary Surgeons 01367 710475 June Third-Carter B.V.M.S., M.R.C.V.S., Vet.M.F.Hom. for PetPlanet.co.uk

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