Remedies for Arthritis in Dogs
by T.J. Dunn, Jr., DVM
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate supplements are fast becoming the most widely used supplements in dogs’ diets. The reason is this: Arthritis in dogs is one of the most common health problems seen by veterinarians. Dog owners and veterinarians rarely notice the early warning signs of arthritis in dogs because these animals hide their pain.
It is important to note that no amount of consumed nutrients will correct structural damage to a dog’s joints. (This is true in humans as well).
If there are calcium deposits, scar tissue, cartilage tears and dissolution, contour changes to the bones at the joint surfaces. These abnormalities will remain present and will continue to affect the animal regardless of nutritional intake. Supplements to the dog’s diet such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Omega Fatty Acids, Vitamin E, Selenium, and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) all assist in decreasing inflammation and improving the body’s ability to repair and strengthen tissues. Supplements, however, will not reverse structural changes in a joint such as torn cartilage, calcium deposits and advanced scar tissue.
Treatment of Arthritis
Since it is difficult to remodel the joint without surgical intervention, attempts are usually made to reduce the inflammation at the nerve endings. This will at least make the dog a bit more comfortable, even if range of motion is compromised. Such treatments include the following …
Steroids
Prednisone, Dexamethasone, and other corticosteroids will markedly reduce swelling and inflammation to affected joints. There is a downside to the use of steroids for long-term palliation of arthritis. They can can actually contribute to additional joint damage and breakdown.
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Rimadyl and Etogesic can have noticeable beneficial effects on the arthritis patient. These medications, too, have a down side in some patients and must be very carefully regulated to avoid bleeding disorders, gastric ulcers, and liver and kidney dysfunction.
Nutraceuticals
Nutraceuticals are substances that are consumed orally as an addition to a normal diet. These substances are much safer than traditional “drugs”. Toxicity levels are rarely attainable if they are used in reasonable amounts.
Today, the most commonly used nutraceuticals in pet health care are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Although with traditional drugs dogs would demonstrate improvement and apparent comfort almost immediately, many have undesirable side effects. Conversely, nutraceuticals have little to no side effects. It may take several weeks to months of administration before noticeable improvement in mobility and attitude are apparent.
1. Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound composed of a sugar and an amino acid. It is involved with the body’s production of joint lubricants and shock absorption. This is necessary to maintain healthy cartilage and joint function. It is one of the major components involved with the formation of the critical lubricants and shock absorbers. These are necessary to maintain and restore healthy joint performance. Glucosamine sulfate is also one of the building blocks of articular cartilage. It aids in the rebuilding of damaged cartilage.
Glucosamine sulfate is also beneficial to other other body structures besides joints, though. It is involved in the formation of nails, tendons, skin, eyes, synovial fluid, bone, ligaments, heart valves. Also in mucous secretions of the digestive, respiratory and urinary tracts. It is created in the production of proteins associated with cellular growth and structure.
Glucosamine is a nutritional supplement extracted from crustaceans . There are three forms of Glucosamine. Look for the sulfate form because it seems to be absorbed and utilized the best. Because dietary supplements are unregulated, the quality and contents may vary widely. Be sure to choose a product sold by a well established company. Consult your veterinarian as to which would be best for your dog.
2. Chondroitin Sulfate
Research on chondroitin sulfate suggests its may be beneficial in preventing stress injuries to joints and aid in the repair of damaged tissue. Unlike pain killers which only serve to dull the pain, chondroitin sulfate addresses the disease process itself. Chondroitin sulfate may actually help the body to repair damaged cartilage and help restore joint integrity. It may also protect existing cartilage from premature breakdown, keeps cartilage tissue hydrated and assists in cushioning impact stress.
Some studies suggest that supplementation with chondroitin sulfate can reduce joint pain significantly. Other studies have shown that combining chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine might improve each substance’s beneficial effects. This is not universally accepted.
Because chondroitin production by the body decreases with age, supplementation with this compound may be especially helpful for older dogs.
Other Joint Sparing Products
The green-lipped mussel called Perna canaliculus, is a source of chondroitin and other beneficial nutrients. Sea cucumbers are believed to help the elimination of pain. They provide essential nutrients required by cartilage. Another arthritis fighting supplement is called methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). It provides sulfur compounds that may inhibit pain.
