Holistic Pet Info offers natural pet health care products and information for using nutritional supplements, vitamins and other natural medicines to help cats and dogs live healthy lives.
Natural Remedies for Dogs with Arthritis
Using An Integrative Approach to Treating Dogs with Arthritis, an educational video from HPI.
Glucosamine and other Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats with Arthritis.
An integrative approach to treating dogs with arthritis should incorporate good nutrition, lifestyle modifications and glucosamine supplements for dogs.
Nutrition and Dietary Recommendations
A high protein, moderate fat and low carbohydrate diet will help promote wellness in dogs and cats. Most commerical foods are too high in carbohydrates which can lead to weight gain and inflammation. Diets that contain too much fat will cause the animal to grow too fast and put excess strain on their joints, especially in large and giant breed puppies.
The following companies produce high quality pet foods which can be purchased at many local pet shops. Visit their websites to purchase online or locate retailers in your area:
To help promote healthy cartilage, provide dog joint pain relief, and reduce inflammation, many
holistic veterinarians recommend nutraceuticals containing glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussels, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
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.
Antioxidants
What are "free radicals" and how do antioxidants work to neutralize
these oxidizing chemicals. Read more.
Aging, arthritis, eye conditions, memory loss
Vitamins for Older Pets Is your best friend showing the telltale signs of
aging? Give your pet the extra support they may need during
their golden years. Read more.
Immune support
Immune Support
A weak immune system can lead to respiratory and skin problems. See what you can do to prevent many chronic conditions. Read more.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian before using any supplements.
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