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My female poodle Chihuahua is 11 yrs old and about 11 pounds. She was diagnosed with luxating patellas when she was 3. Our bedroom is upstairs and the staircase is steeper than average and she sleeps with us. She frequently yelps or limps after using the stairs. How can I make it easier for her to get up and down the stairs? I don't want to leave her alone downstairs all night. She's too old.

My female poodle Chihuahua is 11 yrs old and about 11 pounds. She was diagnosed with luxating patellas when she was 3. Our bedroom is upstairs and the staircase is steeper than average and she sleeps with us. She frequently yelps or limps after using the stairs. How can I make it easier for her to get up and down the stairs? I don't want to leave her alone downstairs all night. She's too old.

Updated On March 7th, 2020

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 11 years old | 11 lbs

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

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Hello. I would definitely start Lonnie on a good glucosamine supplement like Dasuquin made by Nutramax. Adding a fish oil to her diet can reduce inflammation ( I like Nordic Naturals ), too. Do talk to your vet about adding an anti-inflammatory medication to make her comfortable, & possibly even Adequan injections to help maintain healthy, lubricated joints. There is much you can do to ease her pain & discomfort. I hope she is doing better soon & thanks for using PetCoach.

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