Unfortunately, 1 out of every 4 of our beloved pets suffers from arthritis, which leads to joint pain. Some of this pain is from degenerative osteoarthritis, which comes with age in both dogs and humans. However, joint pain isn’t always the result of aging! Up to 70% of joint disease is the result of developmental diseases, and 22% of arthritis cases are in dogs under one year of age. Developmental causes include Hip or Elbow Displaysia, HOD (hypertrophic osteodystrophy), and OCD (osteochondritis dissecans). The good news is that, just like joint pain in older humans is treated to increase mobility and quality of life, joint pain can be prevented or managed for our pets, too!
Joint pain is caused by inflammation, which is part of the body’s attempt to heal. However, if the inflammation goes unchecked for significant periods of time, the antibodies from chronic inflammation begin to attack the joint lining and worsen the disease they are attempting to help the body recover from. NSAIDS such as Rimadyl are often used as the first line of defense against pain caused by inflammation, however, there are some risks and downsides to using NSAIDs. Patton Avenue Pet Company has some products with no known side-effects that may help your pet move more freely and reduce pain!
Chondroitin and Glucosamine are often used together to provide more protection and pain relief. Your vet may have recommended certain products, including Cosequin, for your dog with arthritis or joint pain. Patton Avenue Pet Company carries several supplements containing the same ingredients and with the same effectiveness, at a lower price! Products containing these include Pet Naturals Hip and Joint chews (for dogs or cats), Herbsmith Viscosity Chews, several Liquid Health products for dogs and cats, and Pet Kelp Joint and Bone formula.
Chondroitin – is the major glycosaminoglycan in cartilage. Oral chondroitin supplementation has been shown to reduce pain from arthritis. It may help the body repair damaged cartilage, help with shock absorption, and protect cartilage from premature breakdown.
Glucosamine – a combination of glutamine (an amino acid) and glucose (a sugar). Studies show that glucosamine supplements also reduce joint pain. The body naturally produces glucosamine, but produces less and less as the dog ages. It helps create molecules that form the cartilage in joints. A glucosamine supplement can help repair damaged cartilage and boost joint fluid, helping joints move without pain.
Green Lipped Mussel Powder – contains Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which assist in the repair of joint tissue. Populations of humans that regularly eat green lipped mussels have only rare cases of osteoarthritis in older adults. The GAGs in green lipped mussels support flexibility, elasticity and tensile strength. They can also act as an anti-inflammatory on connective tissue. We carry Diggin’ Your Dog Green Lipped Mussel Powder.
Turmeric – there is evidence that turmeric decreases inflammation and relieves pain and stiffness. We carry several products containing Turmeric, including Honest Kitchen Golden Milk and Primal Goat’s Milk.