As we get older, our bodies get weary and tires out easily. We move a bit slower. Our joints start to ache. The same happens to our furry friends. Only, they can’t tell us when it hurts. Oh, but the telltale signs are there.
Difficulty in moving. Scratching, biting or licking certain areas. Cracking joints. Limping. Irritability. These are possible signs that your dog is experiencing joint pain.
According to Better Vet, joint pain should be treated sooner rather than later. Your veterinarian will conduct an orthopedic consultation to assess your pup’s mobility and behavioral cues.
Unfortunately, some breeds are predisposed to the ailment, particularly Rottweilers and other large breeds. Degenerative joint conditions may require surgery. If caught early, little Fido should be as good as rain with a combination of special diet and rehabilitation.
There are natural joint supplements readily available to support your dog’s joint health. We’ll look at some of these below and their possible benefits.
Glucosamine
This natural substance is found in the human body and helps to build cartilage, the connective tissue that protects joints and bones. People suffering from arthritis or age-related joint problems usually take glucosamine supplements.
Very Well Health says glucosamine supplementation is believed to restore the body’s glucosamine supply, thereby repairing damaged cartilage. Studies are still inconclusive about its perceived benefits.
Glucosamine for dogs has received a mixed reaction from veterinarians. Firstly, it should be avoided, if your doggy has a shellfish allergy.
Secondly, there are two main schools of thought on dog glucosamine. Veterinarian Dr Jose Huwiler tells Forbes as your dog ages, their bodies produce less glucosamine, resulting in joint degeneration. The supplement is typically sourced from shellfish, hence the allergy warning.
Deemed safe for dogs, glucosamine supplements have been known to maintain joint health and support joint damage.
Not all experts hold the same opinion. It could simply be the placebo effect, says Jope. Although it has been used for decades, the results can vary. Other beneficial alternatives are omega-3 fatty acids or collagen.
However, many studies have also shown that chondroitin and glucosamine are ineffective.
If you’re looking for a joint health supplement, I recommend a chew containing Undenatured type II Collagen, which has shown to be significantly more effective than glucosamine and chondroitin in a recent study.
CBD Oil
The cannabis oil market for pets is a thriving business. According to Straits Research, the sector is expected to grow 21.4% over the next several years.
Many dog owners use CBD oil to treat arthritis and anxiety in their beloved pooches. However, because the industry is non-regulated, vets urge pet owners to be cautious with self-medicating.
Cottage Vet Clinic states that there are many claims regarding its medicinal properties, including anxiety and pain control. However, limited studies can’t back these claims.
Of the research that has been done, one showed that CBD oil can be contaminated with pesticides. Then there are also the side effects of overdosing on your pup, one of them being diarrhea.
Salmon Oil
Salmon oil is filled with all the nutritional goodness to promote a healthy coat, joint health and immune system.
Dog Time advises when purchasing salmon oil for your doggy, consider the following factors:
Purity and Potency
These are crucial, especially if your doggy has itchy skin. Quality products should have a Certificate of Analysis (CoA). The nisidine and peroxide values must be less than 5mEq/kg to guarantee freshness.
Additional Ingredients
This hinges on your preference. Most pet parents aren’t too keen on other ingredients added to the mix. But, flaxseed does enrich the benefits of salmon oil.
Easy Administration
Salmon oil supplements come in two forms: liquid and soft gels. Once again, depending on which is easier to feed them, the choice is up to you.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon oil are the heavy lifters. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are needed to maintain healthy joints and bones. They also reduce inflammation in the joints, acting as a pain reliever.
Dog Time adds that wild Alaskan salmon oil contains high levels of EPA and DHA that target joint health.
It’s a natural fact of life that our doggies will start to slow down as they get older. Our innate inclination is to want to help them if we see them in pain. Achy and swelling joints are sometimes part of the aging process.
Be advised, that if you plan on giving your pet nutritional supplements to ease the effects of joint pain, consult your veterinarian first. They may be able to prescribe another course of action before the worst-case scenario where they may need joint surgery.
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