Can anyone suggest some ways to make an arthritic dog more comfortable?

First of all, I would get a 2nd opinion from another vet. I guess I would rather have a comfortable dog for less years, than a miserable dog for a long time. I have had dogs with arthritis and used heat on their hips. They LOVED it! A heated dog bed would be ideal. Other wise you could apply a heating pad at times, but you would have to be careful to keep the heat low and stay with the dog while applying it. The heated dog bed or dog bed/pad would be the best. Also there are beds that are off the ground and better for hips(no pressure) ex: Kuranda dog beds Good luck to you and your boy!