My boxer has Spondylosis :(

[Bozzy]

My 5 yr old boxer had xrays this morning on his hind legs due to concerns of arthritis (his leg joints have been becoming more and more clicky)

Just had a call from the vet to say his leg joints are all fine but they have discovered spondylosis in the base of his spine. The vet didn't seem overly concerned at this stage so I'd assume it isn't too severe but having now had time to research online I'm becoming increasingly worried

He's shown no symptoms of having any pain or problems in his back other than possibly being slightly stiff in his back end after a manic day. At this stage, vet has suggested physio but nothing else and to not change his exercise routine/calm him down whilst out.

Does anyone have any experiences of this? What treatment did you use? It seems the main worry is if it effects the spinal cord.

 

[MurphysMinder]

My GSD Buffy had a severe attack of back pain in December. X rays showed a degeneration in the discs in her spine, which I think is not too dissimilar to spondylosis. Once she had got over the painful flare up (using tramadol) my vet suggested Cartrophen for long term treatment. This is as used in horses with tendon problems etc. She has had an injections once a week for 4 weeks and, touching wood, seems really good at the moment. According to my vet Cartrophen is the "new wonder drug" in cases like this. It might be worth having a word with your vet and seeking their opinion, maybe Cartophen could help with your boxer.
I have learned myself that researching things on the internet, whilst very useful, can also be very scary as you always see the worst case scenario

 

[TayloredEq]

I use a range of products on my horses called 'back on track'. They also have a canine range. In the testimonials someone has used their dogs rugs with success on their dog who suffered from spondylosis.

http://www.backontrack-uk.co.uk/dog-products3.htm

I cannot tell you how highly I rate the product. It has made a huge difference to the horses, our dog and also my mum using the human items.

If you would like any more info please don't hesitate to contact me.

 

[jvoyce]

My old lab was diagnosed with the same four years ago. She's now 14 and going strong. She has JD diet, daily metacam and vivitonin and is happy and mobile. Today she literally bounded towards me when I opened the door to let her in after her constitutional stroll round the garden.

Just follow your vet's advice and he'll be fine. I'd just suggest making sure he doesn't carry any surplus weight to avoid unnecessary strain.

You could also think about hydrotherapy to keep the muscle tone good without the strain on his skeleton if you're really worried.

 

[star]

my boxer has the worst spondylosis i've ever seen. it's incredibly common in boxers - almost impossible to xray one and not find it. most it doesn't cause problems. it shouldn't actually cause pain. it also shouldnt' affect the spinal cord as it's just bridges of bone forming from the bottom edges of the vertebrae. mine is on synoquin for elbow dysplasia and that will probably help her back as well. She's 5 and has stifle arthritis as well. tis a shame as she loves to run and jump about but pays for it later in the day.