Metacam and the older dog - any opinions out there?

[Grey Ghost]

Me and Mrs Ghost have just come back from our annual week in Cornwall with the hound. He loves exploring the woods, beaches, rockpools etc and behaves like a 5 or 6 year old when there. However, he is now 13 and I have noticed that sometimes his rear legs take a little while to "free up" in the morning if he has enjoyed a good walk the day before.

Whilst in Cornwall a couple of people asked if he was on Metacam and also added that dogs they had owned benefitted from using it.

Therefore if anyone has any opinions on Metacam (good or bad) please post them here as I am considering putting Fred on the stuff if it will give him a lift in his older years.

Gratuitious shot of Fred for Goldie fans

[Grey Ghost]

Thanks for all the feedback folks, it is very much appreciated.

I'll have a chat with our Vet and if he feels Metacam would benefit Fred I'll arrange for a full MOT and necessary tests etc to be done before the treatment begins.

Our Vet is excellent and will advise on doseage levels and an exercise regime to test out tolerance/benefits etc and work with us to develop a treatment plan that suits Fred.

Anything to give the old grunter a bit of an edge at his age is a worthwhile investment IMHO

[Grey Ghost]

Update:

Fred booked in with our Vet on Thursday for MOT, blood test etc to check his viability to use Metacam and a chat about using it regularly or just around holiday time when he likes to walk on the beach etc.

Thanks for all the input received.