Dog Arthritis and Joint Pain
LET’S SLIDE INTO A CONVERSATION ABOUT DOG ARTHRITIS AND DOG JOINT PAIN Glucosamine
Dr. Georg Ledderhose was the first to identify glucosamine in 1876. It is a naturally occurring amino sugar, which appears to improve the synthesis of glycosaminoglyams (one of the building blocks of cartilage). It has been used to treat arthritis and joint pain in humans, dogs, and horses. Glucosamine supplements can aid dogs with hip dysplasia, spinal disc injury, and recovery from joint surgery.
Common Areas of Joint Pain in Dogs
Intervertebral Joints
Hips
Knees
Shoulders
Elbows
Carpus
What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is often used with chondroitin sulfate, which also aids in stimulating cartilage
repair. Chondroitin is derived from pig or cow cartilage, and can also be obtained from oyster shells, shrimp, and crab shells. It can also be sourced from plants in laboratories. These products are regulated by the FDA as dietary supplements, not drugs! They are monitored for safety, through reporting of adverse effects.
What are the benefits of Glucosamine?
The information researched shows that glucosamine has been used in Veterinary Practices for about 20 years in the USA and Europe. There have been several studies done on the effectiveness of glucosamines. The latest information reviewed was in a 2007
study. It showed that adding glucosamine provided a moderate level of improvement, with osteoarthritis pain. It was equivalent to those dogs receiving prescription drugs. It was recommended by Vets, as an alternative in pups, unable to tolerate the adverse effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories or as an adjunctive therapy.
Benefits of Natural Dog Company's Glucosamine Supplement Include:
Repair cartilage damage
Prevent future wear and tear
Reduce inflammation
Improve mobility
Alleviate stiffness and joint pain
Studies have been very limited with the use of glucosamine. The only risks found, have been with dogs, who have a history of asthma or bronchoconstriction. Also, some supplements contain potassium and should be used cautiously with dogs that require a low potassium diet. Pregnant or lactating dogs should be monitored carefully, because the safety has not been evaluated. Glucosamine Supplement (food topper) from Natural Dog Company includes MSM, Hyaluronic Acid, Manganese, and Chondroiton Sulfate. Always be super vigilant about switching brands! Not all products are made the same!
Glucosamine Drug Interactions:
Anti-Diabetics
Doxorubicin
Etoposide
Heparin
Warfarin
Vitamins and other supplements may have potential interactions
ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN BEFORE ADMINISTERING!
Glucosamine Side Effects:
Allergic Reactions. Especially dogs with shellfish allergies
Fatigue
Excessive thirst and urination in high doses
Mild gas (hard to tell with Boston Terriers lol)
Soft stools
How long does Glucosamine take to see improvement in my dog?
From what has been gathered it takes about 2-6 weeks to see some improvement. Some pet owners have confirmed improvement in a couple of days. In conclusion of the research, Glucosamine may just improve your pet’s quality of life! Worst case scenario is that it is ineffective. No harm, no foul!
"I am a firm believer in natural based remedies. If it helps alleviate some pain and improves mobility… I am 100 percent in! Otis Charles had Lyme Disease and it affected his joints. He was given glucosamine as a supplement and it did help him in his senior years. My Grand-Pup Bailey has a spinal condition and she takes a joint supplement daily to aid in her activities of daily living. She loves to play ball and run and I honestly think her supplements help her get through her day!" - Anita