Beside a real food diet,and digestive enzymes, I started him on the Stem Pets tabs. It’s especially effective for older animals and addresses many of the issues related to aging. It releases stem cells from the dog’s own bone marrow and quickly goes to the area in the body where it’s most needed.

My dog began to stand up and walk more easily, hold his tail up again, stop pacing at night, take an interest in his surroundings, people, and dogs, as well as hear and see better.

It’s easy to give because he likes them and he’s always been rather particular about his treats, so for him to readily eat this is wonderful – no struggle.

Hope this is of help.
http://www.stempets.com or http://www.stemenhance.com (more info)

I’m sorry to hear about your dog’s condition!

On Food: Have you tried asking your vet to run a Creatinine test? This is a blood test of kidney function in the dog.

I do not recommend dogs eat cat food as it contains higher protein as compare to dog food. Furthermore, when dogs reach their senior years with lesser activities and/or exercises; it is highly recommended to reduce their protein intake. One, not to put their kidneys on overdrive. Two, to prevent being overweight.

Over the years, I have met a few dogs who have no problem eating spicy food—I’m using the word spicy very loosely. For me, Mexican chili beans and Japanese curry are no way near my spicy category; more like black pepper. Anyway, whatever spicy food your dog is eating, do make sure is given in moderation. Most importantly, check with your vet that the ingredients used in the spicy food are safe for moderate consumption.

On alternative treatment: Have you thought of seeking second opinion as in complementary medicine? For example acupuncture, shiatsu, herbal therapy. I do not know exactly the illness your dog is suffering, so I can’t “suggest” the best alternative treatment. You could try consulting homeopathic vets to see if there is any imbalance of specific salts—i.e. silica dioxide or potassium phosphate.

On Sleep: Before this incident, how many meals does your dog take a day? If it is two, I suggest feeding the bigger portion after his evening walk. Try this method for a few days and see if it works. You may have to push the time a little forward if you’re a late sleeper.

7pm: Go for a long walk about 30 to 45 minutes, if his arthritis doesn’t give him too much problem.

8pm: Dinner time. (the bigger portion)

8.30pm: Go for another walk about 20 to 30 minutes.

9.30pm: Therapeutic massage (TTouch) or canine aromatherapy.

Finally, one thing about aging dogs is that they tend to be grumpier and resent being touched—if they are not used to massages at young age.

Hope this helps! And thanks for commenting!