Rimadyl is a drug commonly prescribed for controlling pain and inflammation.  I asked for a prescription for Twylah so that she could enjoy hunting in Nebraska last month (I could see that she was hurting.)  This turned out to be a BIG mistake.

The Rimadyl masked her pain and made her feel “young again” so completely that she raced around hunting, trying to keep up with Bree.  She was SO oblivious to her age and physical condition that she even jumped off a 6 foot embankment in pursuit of a rooster.

Returning from the trip, I discussed this with the veterinarian, who commented that “It does seem to make them feel bullet-proof! Maybe it would be better to give it at the end of the day.”

My conclusion:  Don’t give it at all.  Pain is nature’s way of limiting physical activity.  On our “Christmas Day Hunt”  I simply took it slow: Twylah’s excitement & adrenaline overrode the pain enough to let her have fun (find & retrieve 4 big roosters)  but she also let me know when she was tired.

We all want our old dogs to enjoy their lives and be able to continue hunting.  I put my wish for this above her well being when I asked for and gave her the Rimadyl.  I just wanted to pass my thoughts about this along for your consideration.