Canine Arthritis Supplements & Solutions

Green Lipped Mussels (Fresh)

Canine Arthritis Supplements & Solutions

Let's talk about canine arthritis.

Arthritis is caused by multiple difference things, obesity, too much activity when young (jumping high jumps), injuries, such as a torn Cranial Cruciate Ligament, various joint surgeries or genetic problems such as hip dysplasia.  

Here are some commonly used supplements and fun treats for arthritis:

Arthritis is caused by multiple difference things, obesity, too much activity when young (jumping high jumps), various joint surgeries or genetic problems such as hip dysplasia.

Here are some commonly used supplements for arthritis:

Bone broth - This is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin. Homemade with chicken feet, cows feet, turkey necks and other poultry bones (recipe)

Green Lipped Mussels - Fresh or dried and powdered. GLM are a rich source of omega fatty acids and minerals. They are also natural anti-inflammatory due to them being an excellent source of glucosamine and chondroitin. 

Cow/Poultry/Pigs Feet - Another natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin.  They are also fun chews for your dogs. 

Tracheas dried/fresh - Another natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin.  They are also fun chews for your dogs. Try stuffing these with some ground meat and freeze.  They are natures kong.

Lamb/Cow/Pig ears - Another natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin.  They are also fun chews for your dogs. 

Glucosamine and chondroitin pills - There are multiple different brands on the market.  Do your research before purchasing one.  Higher quality brands such as Dasuquin & Cosequin have studies behind them.  Always do your research.

Conventional interventions:

NSAIDs - Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, these drugs are over the counter for humans, but are only prescription based for dogs.  The most commonly used NSAID is Rimadyl.  These kinds of drugs are hard on the stomach and should only be used in moderate-severe situations. Always give with food or goats milk (coats the stomach and helps prevent ulcers). You can also give a NSAID with a raw or cooked egg. DO NOT GIVE YOUR DOGS HUMAN GRADE NSAIDS!! ONE ALEVE CAN KILL A DOG!!! 

Surgery - This is based on the situation.  At times, surgery helps lessen the bone on bone friction that happens when the cartilage and synovial membrane are gone.  This is also considered a last resort for arthritis.