Does Your Dog Have Arthritis? Make a Healthy Choice: Glucosamine

What causes Dog Arthritis?

As dogs begin to age, their joints begin wearing down, along with ligaments, tendons, and the fluid between their joints. This can lead to pain in the joints that may become swollen or stiff, and often affects the mobility of the dog. One common cause of arthritic development in dogs may be found in their diet. A diet containing lots of red meat, while a good protein source, may lead to increased amounts of uric acid, which contributes to osteoarthritis. Up to 30% of dogs develop osteoarthritis, so giving them glucosamine by the time they are middle aged may help reduce the risk of arthritis.

Glucosamine: What is it?

Glucosamine was traditionally used in humans for osteoarthritis. It is a natural substance that now makes a big difference in dogs with arthritis. Glucosamine is taken from tissues of shellfish such as crabs and lobsters, and is an amino sugar. You can also find glucosamine sulfates that are synthetically manufactured, but the natural form is generally preferred.

How it works:

Glucosamine can assist the body in production of collagen and proteoglycan. With increased production of these substances, joints are able to regenerate themselves from worn cartilage and other damage. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory, with similar results to medications designed to be anti-inflammatory and non-steroidal. Glucosamine also has few known side effects in dogs.

Daily use of Glucosamine can help canines with spinal inflammation that may lead to sciatic nerve pain. Arthritis is usually easy to detect in your pet as he may begin refusing to take the stairs, become lethargic, limping, refusing to play or come to you, and having difficulty standing from a laying position.

Pain and your dog:

Remember, dogs have a much higher pain threshold than we do. People in pain usually cry out or let someone know where something hurts and how bad it hurts. Dogs, on the other hand, can't tell you how bad or where the pain is. Pain is not generally apparent unless you see outward signs such as limping or mobility issues.

Research on dogs is generally easier to do than in human subjects since there is no placebo effect. If a dog has more mobility or shows other signs of improvement after taking a medication, it is apparent that the drug had a positive effect. Since dogs can't talk to you, you need to watch your dog closely and be aware of any problems he may be having.

Proven Effectiveness of Glucosamine in Dogs:

Both humans and canines have glucosamine naturally occurring in our synovial fluid and cartilage. As we age, glucosamine levels drop. If you add to those levels, it helps to cushion and replenish joints, which in turn reduces pain and inflammation. As stated earlier, most canines tolerate glucosamine very well and show no side effects. Glucosamine is a safe alternative to other medications that can lead to stomach, liver, or kidney problems.

Be sure to select a glucosamine supplement that comes from a reputable company, because the conditions that glucosamine is manufactured in is also important. Be sure to read the labels for other ingredients that may have been added, such as chondroitin and MSM.

Keep Your Dog Acting Young And Playful

When it comes to joints and aging, people and dogs react in similar ways. Just as we turn to natural substances for relief, we now have the same choice for our pets. They even produce glucosamine specifically for dogs now. Glucosamine can help your dog age with grace, keep him healthy, energetic, and it is a safe, effective natural remedy.