Getting old sucks

[Dobified]

Jenna is 5, and Rudy is 6, Dobermans average lifespan is 10-12 yrs.

My dogs are starting to show their middle age-ness.

Jenna has a limp right now from probably running like a maniac and Rudy has ahd the occasional limp on and off as well. They act like puppies but are far from it

I am going to put Jenna on some Glucosamine and chondriotton and probably Rudy as well and see how they do.

Anyone have any other things they think would help these geezers ?

[show-girl]

I give my suzy girl a baby asprin once a day, It REALLY helps her.

[Dobified]

Originally Posted by show-girl

I give my suzy girl a baby asprin once a day, It REALLY helps her.

Aspirin is good but be careful not to give it all the time, it can cause ulcers in stomach. My vet recommeds only three times a week and only the coated aspirin.

Thanks for the advice, if Jenna gets really sore I will give her some to help her out

[dobermom]

This may sound weird, but I would keep them as active as possible.
Your only as old as you feel right??
I think the glucosmine is a good idea in any large breed "middle age" dog.
Give them both a big kiss!

[BabyElephant]

My vet recommends Glucosumaine from the age of about 4/5 years for larger dogs so what you are going to do with that is spot on. Apparently you'll need to wait at least 6 weeks before you see any results with the glucosamine. I don't think there's anything else I'd do because I know you already feed good quality raw food and the necessary supplements.

[Blackdoberman]

I know how you feel, my mutt is 8 years old now....It just makes you think you know. I plan on starting a Glucosomine regimine with her too soon. She is still fairly active, she lost the "active bone" at about 5 but she is still up for walks and the occasional play. But I've noticed she gets up slower now and has gotten crankier, esp. with the kids.

[Trace]

Jake was 10 this year - he is deffo showing his age - poor old beggar. He is starting to get a little bit of old timers I think.

I really do agree to keep them active and slim - that's the best way to go.

[Bellabianca]

Definitely slim-Max (10-year-old golden retriever) tends to gain a little in the winter when he (I) is not as active. He also enjoys a TTouch massage now and again, especially the ear thing.

[Dobified]

TTouch maybe a good idea ! Thanks

I do keep them active, poor Jenna had to stay home while Rudy and I went riding last night as Jenna was still sore and limping She gets to go another time.

[mara]

I know 2 people with Golden Retreivers who have had wonderful success with Glucosamine. I certainly think it's worth trying.