What can I give my dog for stiff joints?
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What can I give my dog for stiff joints?

To help strengthen the cartilage, reduce inflammation and provide joint pain relief, vets usually recommend nutritional supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane-MSM, perna mussels-GLM, bromelain, and curcumin.

  • Glucosamine sulfate is one of the most widely-used remedies for arthritis. It helps to re-build damaged cartilage by stimulating the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and chondroitin sulfate, the essential component for cartilage building. Glucosamine also has been known to have anti-inflammatory activity, which helps to relieve some of the joint pain the dog may be suffering.
  • Chondroitin sulfate is a natural chemical found in the body and it works to prevent enzymes from causing damage to the 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.
  • Methylsulfonylmethane – MSM is used by vets for animals with joint conditions. The sulfur in MSM is used by the body for the formation of compounds such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Arthritic joints often have low levels of both sulfur and cysteine. Animal studies have found MSM helps to maintain normal articular cartilage.
  • Green-Lipped Mussel or Perna canaliculus, contains protein, minerals, glucosamine and Eicosatetraenoic acids – ETAs. ETAs are a type of Omega-3 fatty acids which provide an anti-inflammatory effect that reduces joint pain.

There are some natural remedies that may help in joint pain and stiffness in dogs,

  • Curcumin is the yellow/orange pigment in turmeric and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Bromelain is an enzyme that works to reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Boswellia– An anti-inflammatory which increases blood supply to the joints to help in joint repair.
  • Vitamin C– helps in the production of collagen which is essential for soft-tissue support in joints.
  • Zinc, selenium and manganese – Helps the body utilize antioxidants.
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