Just like people, pets everywhere endure the irritating signs of aging. Less energy, less mobility, cartilage deterioration, joint stiffness, hip dysplasia, and so on. And, just like with people, these symptoms can either be tolerated or treated.
Although pets cannot speak and communicate their discomfort directly to us, their actions, or lack of action, can sometimes speak volumes. Does your dog need help getting up the stairs? Does your cat have difficulty jumping up onto your lap? Are your pets stiff and lacking energy in the morning? Unless you have acquired loving pets equipped with super powers, then you’re well aware that pets, just like us, are susceptible to getting arthritis and joint stiffness problems as they age.
Can the dreadful signs of joint deterioration and arthritic symptoms be treated naturally? Maybe! Stephanie Evans of Bottled Fitness thinks so. She’s written to tell us all about Joint “Rescue” Chewables, a homeopathic pet remedy for dogs or cats suffering arthritis or other joint problems.
Joint “Rescue” Chewables contains glucosamine and other natural anti-inflammatory ingredients. Stephanie believes that with the proper supplementation of Glucosamine and Chondroitin, your dog may be flying over couches and up the stairs in no time. Miracle treatment? Maybe. But the science behind it should be accounted for, too.
What causes joint deterioration in dogs and cats?
The most obvious answer is aging. Mechanical wear and tear over a lifetime of constant physical activity can certainly cause the protective cartilage lining the joints to become damaged which causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. Genetics and heredity can also be contributing factors. Certain breeds of dog are more susceptible to, or have a genetic predisposition to, hip displaysia, for example. Immune deficiencies, infections, and even trauma can also contribute to arthritis and joint pain.
How does Glucosamine and Chondroitin help?
Glucosamine and Chondroitin, naturally occurring substances in the body, may help to synthesize new cartilage and block negative, cartilage-killing enzymes in the joints. Not only can an increase of these substances in the body help to aid and relieve already existing pain and joint destruction, it may also be given as a preventative measure in younger dogs.
So why haven’t these types of supplements been flooding veterinary clinics and pet aisles all over the country if they work so well? Some European studies have revealed how beneficial these substances can be. Glucosamine is approved as a medical drug in most areas of Europe and their guidelines have recommended its use as an effective and safe therapy for osteoarthritis in humans. However, a major U.S. study found that the dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, together or alone, appeared to fare no better than placebo in slowing loss of cartilage in osteoarthritis of the knee. In the U.S., substances like glucosamine and chondroitin are considered to be nutraceuticals and, as such, they are not strictly controlled or regulated by the FDA.
According to the Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Hip Dysplasia & Arthritis in Dogs article on PetEducation.com, many U.S. companies are now producing product lines consisting of Glucosamine and Chondroitin and conducting several research studies to help bring additional statistics and research to help support the benefits of these substances in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain.
Joint “Rescue” and Ark Naturals
Ark Naturals has created a natural line of nutritional supplements to help your pet live a long and pain-free life. They’ve created Joint “Rescue” to provide relief from joint swelling and inflammation using an effective combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, antioxidants, minerals and herbs. Joint “Rescue” Chewables for dogs and cats uses 500 mg of glucosamine sulfate for the formation and repair of healthy cartilage and connective joint tissues. The minerals and antioxidants packed into liver-flavored wafers help increase glucosamine absorption.
Not only does this all-natural formula have healing powers, it can also be given to younger dogs and cats for preventative and strenghtening supplementation since the botanical formula doesn’t cause gastric bleeding or liver damage like other anti-inflammatory agents. The wafers are also easy to break in half, so small dogs and cats can effortlessly chomp their way to good health, too.
About America’s Nutrition
America’s Nutrition is a U.S. company located in the heart of the Midwest, 50 miles southeast of Chicago. They believe true strength and beauty comes from deep down beneath the surface with a healthy lifestyle, a nutritious diet, vitamins, and supplements. They offer Joint “Rescue” Chewables for pets as well as other pet supplements specifically formulated for animal needs.
Should any of our pets begin to display signs of arthritis or joint pain and discomfort, it’s definitely something we would try. We’re big fans of natural remedies both for ourselves and for our pets. However, we’d also discuss it with our vet. It’s always important to keep in mind that while vitamins and minerals and other herbal supplements may help, they in NO way suffice as a substitute for vet care.
2 Comments
This is probably only a minor point, but this remedy is hardly “homeopathic”. It has decent concentrations of glucosamine and other joint supplements. If if was homeopathic there would be barely any active ingredients due to dilution. This kind of supplement is probably better described as “naturopathic”.
This isn’t a bad thing. I believe that homeopathy is a waste of time anyway.
.-= Simon from the Flea Control Blog´s last blog ..Can you stop flea control in winter =-.
Another good option is Ark Natural’s Sea Mobility Hip and Joint Jerky Treats which come in 4 flavors. These are great for those pets who may have trouble swallowing a pill or just want a really good tasting treat.