So many reasons for limping in a 5 yr old, i.e. torn ligament, arthritis or hip/leg injury. Titan is 5 yrs old and he started limping on front left foot and had a lump on the elbow. I knew it hygroma but hygroma does not cause limping. Took him to the vet and he said it was torn ligament or arthritis and prescribed Novox. Titan improved after day 1 on Novox so vet said it was arthritis but I had to limit his exercise for 3 weeks in case it was a torn ligament.
I researched Novox and it has some very serious side effects with little warning before death.
After extensive research and what I felt was best for Titan, I started him on Arthramine (1000 mg), Glucosamine (1000 mg) and 5-6 baby aspirin per day. This combo worked the same for Titan as the Novox. The only side effect I could find in the combo is baby aspirin can cause internal bleeding on rare occasions but as long as you give the meds with a meal, it should be ok. Titan has been on this combo for a month because I stopped the Novox after 5 days, I had to order the Arthramine.
I would recommend a vet check just to be sure of the diagnosis but be aware they usually prescribe Rimadyl (Novox is the generic).
Keep us posted.
BTW, welcome aboard to you and your girl. What is her name?