Arthritis in Dogs

An Overview of Arthritis in Dogs- an educational video from HPI.

Natural Remedies for Arthritis in Dogs

The following nutrients can help restore mobility and ease joint pain in dogs with arthritis:

Glucosamine - Glucosamine stimulates the secretion of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), one of the building blocks of cartilage and the synovial fluid found in joints. GAGs increase the lubrication of the joints and provide flexibility and elasticity to the cartilage.

Chondroitin sulfate works to prevent enzymes from degrading the building blocks of joint cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is often used in combination with glucosamine, however, when used alone, glucosamine sulfate helps the body to manufacture its own chondroitin.

Green-Lipped Mussel, or Perna canaliculus, contains protein, minerals, glucosamine and Eicosatetraenoic acids (ETAs). ETAs are a type of Omega-3 fatty acids and provide an anti-inflammatory effect which helps reduce joint pain. Research in both humans and animals have shown that perna mussels have been effective in managing degenerative joint disease and arthritis. Human patients receiving perna mussels reported less pain, joint stiffness and improved mobility.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) - The sulfur in MSM can be utilized by the body in the formation of compounds such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, as well as the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Arthritic joints often have low levels of both sulfur and cysteine. Animal studies have found MSM helps to strengthen the tissues that make up the joints.

dl-alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamine E) - Vitamin E supplies oxygen to the blood and helps to maintain healthy membrane tissue. Vitamin E also inhibits the prostaglandins that play a role in pain, thereby reducing joint pain.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) - Vitamin C is important for the synthesis of collagen and the repair of connective tissue. Vitamine C, Vitamin E, selenium and manganese are often added to joint supplements for the enzymatic benefits and to assist in the transportation of chondroitin and glucosamine to joint tissue.

Bromelain - Inhibits inflammatory compounds and reduces pain.

Boswellia - An anti-inflammatory which allows for increased blood supply to he joints to help stimulate repair.

Zinc, selenium and manganese - Helps the body utilize antioxidants.

Other Videos on Arthritis in Dogs:

Conventional Treatments

Using An Integrative Approach to Treating Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Maintaining Healthy Joints in Dogs

Return to Arthritis in Dogs webpage

Glyco-Flex II for Small Dogs and Cats

Glyco-Flex III

ArthriSoothe Gold Liquid

ArthriSoothe Gold Tablets

Arthroplex

MSM-750

Hip Action Treats from Zukes

Newsletter Article:
Using Glucosamine to Fight Dog Arthritis