If your pet is having a positive effect from the tramadol, then I would continue it as prescribed. Carprofen also known as Rimadyl is a very effective pain med for canines, however, not all dogs tolerate it well if they are on it for a while, GI symptoms such as diarrhea have been known to occur. So, I would use it for pain (as prescribed by the treating vet), but would stop it and call the vet if side effects occur.
As far as supplements go, I have no use for most of them. A lot of scams out there.
Just read the ingredients:
Guaranteed Springtime Analysis
MSM, 99%
(methyl sulfonyl methane)
300 mg/tablet
Glucosamine HCL, 99%
(shellfish extract)
250 mg/tablet
Desiccated beef liver
200 mg/tablet
Chondroitin sulfate, min. 90% purity
(bovine cartilage extract)
175 mg/tablet
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
125 mg/tablet
Carrot powder
100 mg/tablet
Citrus bioflavonoid complex, 40%
100 mg/tablet
Hesperidin, 85%
50 mg/tablet
Rutin (vitamin P)
830 mcg/tablet
Ingredients: dextrose, microcrystalline cellulose, MSM (99%), glucosamine HCL (99%), desiccated beef liver, chondroitin sulfate (bovine cartilage extract – min. 90% purity), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), carrot powder, citrus bioflavonoid complex (40%), hesperidin (85%), stearic acid, and rutin (vitamin P).
I prefer science based veterinary medicine http://skeptvet.com/Blog/?s=arthritis
