Natural Dog Arthritis

" Natural dog arthritis treatment involves the use of nutraceuticals such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Clinical studies have identified several new natural  dog treatment options for joint and other canine osteoarthritis related problems and pain including many homeopathic options, antioxidants and ingredients such as SAMe. All are described below."

Natural dog arthritis treatment has several options in addition to prescription products also known as NSAID's (anti-inflammatories). The problem with NSAID's or and even steroids is that while they are effective in reducing inflammation that can lead to pain they can have side effects such as stomach ulcers and kidney disease. Dogs that already have problems with the kidney or liver can't take these products. Common NSAID's are aspirin, carprofen, etodolac, meloxicam, tepoxalin, deracoxib, and firoxixib.

The other problem with NSAIDS is that they only treat the symptoms of the canine osteoarthritis, but they do not slow down the disease. For this reason many veterinarians supplement NSAID treatment with nutraceuticals which are known to actually slow the disease down.

Natural Dog Arthritis Products

The goal of new natural dog arthritis  treatments is to offer some relief without side effects. New options which are based on clinical studies in humans are showing promise for dogs. These options are known as antioxidants and nutraceuticals. Specific types of nutraceuticals:

SAMe (S-Adenosyl L-Methionine): According to the University of Illinois S-adenosyl Methionine (SAMe) is a new natural dog arthritis antioxidant that is showing early promise in studies with dogs. While the study is not complete, it would be worth trying in dogs that cannot tolerate NSAIDs. Consult your veterinarian.

Glucosamine: this is a natural substance that can be found in joints. It is part of chondroitin, which is part of the cartilage. Canine Osteoarthritis, which is the type of arthritis that commonly afflicts dogs causes inflammation in the joints. These inflamed cells produce enzymes that destroy cartilage, the substance that holds the bones to each other.

In studies, glucosamine can slow down the enzymes and thereby slow down any damage caused by the canine osteoarthritis. The glucosamine has also been shown to reduce inflammation and pain.

Some veterinarians believe your dog should take a glucosamine supplement early in life to prevent the impact of canine arthritis later in life.  

Nutramax Cosequin is the most popular veterinarian recommended glucosamine and chondroitin supplement.  It is bioavailable (easily absorbed into the body) and is supported by many studies.  

Osteo-Pet Total Joint Care is a new supplement that starts with glucosamine and chondroitin, and then adds other new nutraceuticals that are also showing promise in slowing down canine arthritis.  Additional ingredients include Hyaluronic Acid (found in joint fluid),  Green-lipped mussels (contain glycosaminoglycans which help heal damaged joint tissues), . Vitamin C (anti-oxidant), Vitamin E (anti-inflammatory benefits),  Collagen (protein of connective tissue in dogs), essential fatty acids (anti-inflammtory) and Boswellia for dogs (new anti-inflammatory).  is a newly discovered natural anti-inflammatory to help stop swollen joint inflammatory.

Muscle and Joint Support Supplement: There are natural dog arthritis homeopathic remedies that contain multiple ingredients designed to support the joints and muscles. Products like PetAlive Muscle & Joint Support Formula treat the symptoms, relieve pain and reduce the stiffness of arthritis, rheumatism and Degenerative Joint Disease in dogs. It contains ingredients associated with joint support such as:

• Harpagophytum procumbens(Devil's Claw): Scientific research has confirmed the benefits of Devil’s Claw in supporting muscle, cartilage and joint health. (Chantre P, Cappelaere A, Leblan D, et al. Efficacy and tolerance of Harpagophytum procumbens versus diacerhein in treatment of osteoarthritis. Phytomedicine 2000;7(3):177-183.)
  
  
• Arthrospira platenis (Spirulina): widely used as a source of chlorophyll. Widely used for its nutritive properties, Contains protein, vitamins (including B12 and folic acid) and carotenoids. (Romay, C., Armesto, J., Remirez, D., Gonzalez, R., Ledon, N., and Garcia, I. “Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of C-phycocyanin from blue- green algae”. Inflamm.Res 1998;47(1):36-41. ).
  
  
• Calcium fluoride (6cH) is a biochemic tissue salt which helps to support routine elasticity to all cells and body tissues and maintain easy movement in the body.
  
  
• Natrium sulphate (6cH) is a biochemic tissue salt also known as the 'cell cleanser'.
  
  
• Lecithin: is essential for many body functions, supporting strong and healthy cell membranes.
  
  
• Glucosamine sulphate: as mentioned above, is a crucial element in the support and maintenance of healthy cartilage, which provides cushioning at the end of the bones and between joints. Due to promising results in a number of clinical trials, this nutritional substance has been approved in more than 70 countries. It is also useful in easing normal age-related stiffness, and studies have demonstrated that this supplement is as effective in animals as it is in humans.

Be sure to consult your veterinarian.

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