Vitamin C for Arthritis - Dosage?

[Boleyn]

Hi everyone,

I bought some Ester-C to begin supplementing my three eldery Pugs with. They have various arthritis and/or hip/knee issues, and are already on Glucosamine and fish oil. I've heard great results from Vitamin C use, but can't seem to find the average dose.

I understand you have to start slowly and build up, twice a day, but I'd like to know the average, maintenance dose for dogs that weigh in the 17-23 lb. range. Thanks!!

[Crossfire Bulldogs]

Dosage can vary from dog to dog and although I realize its only a vitamin, its something that should be discussed with your vet for proper dosage. There always is an "average" by weight but when dealing with senior dogs that average may not be right for them.

It defeats the purpose if given too much as it just gets flushed out of the body and too little...well, you get the picture. Some things to consider before adding to their regime is other medications and health issues. Vitamins are almost always a great thing but there are those that counteract various drugs.

[Novel]

Agree completely with what Crossfire says above.

The regimen on the side of my bottle says, Start out with 1/4 tsp, and each day increase by 1/4 tsp. The day the dog gets loose stools, back off to the previous days dose and continue at that dosage.

[calgal]

In Dr. Pitcairn's book he saysepending on the size of the animal and it's age, give 250 to 2,000milligrams a day. For instance, a small puppy (like a Pekingese) would get 250 milligrams, a large puppy (like a German Shepherd) 500 milligrams. After the dog matures give 500 to 1,000 milligrams daily for most sizes and perhaps up to 2,000 milligrams for a giant breed like the Great Dane or Saint Bernard.
Prevention is very important in arthritic conditions, because once the joints are distorted, the damage has been done. He does go on as to what diet the dog should be put on and what herbs to use.

[Mom2Many]

I would start out at 250 mg of the ester. Ester is time released and coated for ease in digestion. Vitamin C is water soluble so although you could overdose with it it would take a rather large amount. When in doubt check with the vet first.