GlucosamineChondroitinModified chondroitinPernaCreatineMSM MethylsulfonylmethaneAntioxidants
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Nutraceuticals for Dog ArthritisNearly all veterinarians recommend using nutritional supplements for the prevention and treatment of arthritis in much the same way we use drugs or other pharmaceuticals. These “nutraceuticals" can make a huge difference in the comfort and mobility of both animals and people. GlucosamineGlucosamine is the primary component of nearly all multi-ingredient arthritis formulas and seems to be the most important. It is essential for the formation of joint cartilage and synovial fluid. Glucosamine should certainly be an ingredient in whatever formula you use. ChondroitinThe benefits of chondroitin are much less clear. It is a large molecule and poorly absorbed when taken by mouth. Most glucosamine and chondroitin formulas are probably useful only because of the glucosamine. Modified chondroitinIn their Cosequin (dog) and Cosamine (human) products, Nutramax uses what they call TRH122, a modified low molecular weight chondroitin which is more absorbable than regular chondroitin. The company voluntarily meets FDA standards and has controlled veterinary studies showing their formula's effectiveness. If you are going to use a glucosamine chondroitin formula, Cosequin or Cosamine may be your best choice. PernaPerna canaliculus (the New Zealand green lipped mussel) is a rich source of glycosaminoglycans, and these compounds are mostly what lubricates joints. Unfortunately, these GAGs are poorly absorbed when taken by mouth. Perna is highly beneficial for the treatment of arthritis, but the observed benefits may be more from its natural anti-inflammatory effect than from direct absorption of glycosaminoglycans. CreatineCreatine plays a role in the conversion of glucose into muscular energy and may have value in improving muscular strength and making older pets feel more energetic. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)Many of the amazing claims made for MSM in human medicine seem nonsensical, but it clearly has value as an anti-inflammatory drug. This anti-inflammatory effect slows the progression of arthritis and relieves pain. All dogs showing chronic joint pain should be receiving MSM regularly. It seems to work nearly as well as aspirin and is much less likely to cause problems. Omega-3 fatty acidsThere is a lot of ongoing work on the effects of antioxidants like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), the primary omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. In addition to serving an important role in reducing the joint inflammation associated with arthritis and degenerative joint disease, omega-3s are important in cardiac health, and in suppressing the inflammation associated with chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems and inflammatory skin problems, as well as promoting mental alertness in older individuals. There is an excellent controlled study showing that feeding a diet enriched with DHA, EPS and other nutritional supplements results in a substantial and measurable improvement in older dogs’ memory. Although difficult to make specific recommendations, it seems safe to say that we can help our pets by insuring an adequate intake of omega 3 fatty acids. fish oil supplements and Omega 3 fatty acids What product should I use?Nutritional supplements are not regulated by the FDA and what you read on the label is not necessarily what you'll find in the bottle. One study showed some brands containing only half as much active ingredient as claimed on the label, and some of the worst were the most expensive. All you can do is find a manufacturer with a good reputation and hope you can depend on them to protect their reputation by producing a good product. Companies I know and respect are Nordic Naturals, makers of high quality fish oil Omega 3 supplements, Nutramax, the manufacturer of Cosequin and Cosamine, and DVM Pharmaceuticals, which produces the Synovi line of joint supplements. Cosequin and Cosamine are excellent products, but we are increasingly recommending the Synovi line because it is less expensive and their Synovi G3 contains includes Omega 3s and antioxidants in addition to glucosamine and MSM. Both Nutramax and DVM Pharmaceuticals adhere to the cGMP (current good manufacturing practice) standard of the FDA.RecommendationsLarge dogs should receive a glucosamine supplement starting at three or four years of age, before showing symptoms. Any large breed dog is going to have stiff uncomfortable joints when he gets old and these products work much better at preventing joint damage than treating it. A large dog (60-70 lbs.) needs enough of whatever formula you are using to supply approximately:
Dogs half as large get half as much; dogs twice as large get twice as much. With these particular supplements, when in doubt give more rather than less. Use pet or human supplements, either is fine. Dog cod liver oil is the same as people cod liver oil, but you'll want a high quality brand like Nordic Natural. If whatever product you use doesn't list a total for Omega 3s, add DHA, EPA and ALA together and use that as your total. ALA is often included in "other Omega 3s". canine
arthritis handout
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