Flash – Osteoarthritis, Anxiety and Prostate Enlargement

Flash is a faithful 8 year old entire male heading dog who's presenting concerns were chronic arthritis and prostate enlargement. 

Flash was purchased as a farm dog at the age of eight years. He was emaciated on arrival, his joints were inflamed, he was aggressive and anxious. Radiographs confirmed osteoarthritis of the elbow joints and spondylosis of the spine. His digits were swollen due to osteoarthritis. His coat was dry and brittle. He also had mild urinary incontinence, dribbling after rising and urinating. His prostate was enlarged, due to his age the owners were reluctant to surgically castrate him and looked at alternate options for management. 

Treatment Goals: The aim was to create a state of active and robust health by reducing joint inflammation, prostate enlargement and anxiety. Due to his age surgical castration was declined. 

Integrative Treatment Plan: A combination of chemical castration, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, pentosan polysuphate, herbal tincture, fish oils, deer velvet, essential oils and glucosamine/chondroitin was prescribed. 

Outcome: December 2017 Flash’s general demeanour improved significantly on the above treatment regime. He exhibited less sensitivity over the back and is much more comfortable. The swelling of the digits has decreased significantly. His coat is now shiny and glossy. He is a happier less reactive dog with an improved zest for life and vitality. This case demonstrates how conventional and complementary medicine can be integrated to create a superior outcome. The use of conventional prostate treatment was maintained in conjunction with herbal and dietary support. Resulting in an exceptional outcome, with Flash now 15 years old and happily going on 10km walks daily. 

This was my dog - he lived till 15 1/2 years of age with a great quality of life.

Jacqui Snell