Examining the Benefits of Joint Supplements for Pets
If you’ve noticed your dog is walking a little slower, or moving differently as they age, they could be suffering from joint pain. Similar to their owners, canine joints will become stiff and undergo wear and tear as they age. If your pet seems like they are struggling to walk, play or get around, joint supplements for pets provide a host of benefits that can keep them comfortable and active.
Signs of Hip and Joint Problems in Your Dog
There are many signs that can indicate your pet is suffering from hip and joint stiffness or pain. Specific signs for pet owners to be aware of include:
- Slowing down when they walk
- Getting up later in the morning
- Stiffness as they walk or move
- Limping or hopping
- Avoiding the use of one leg
- More sleeping and less activity
- Avoiding the stairs
- Unable to jump up on the couch or chairs
- Constant licking of their joints
- Visibly swollen joints
- Reaction when you touch their joints
- Moodiness
If you notice your dog displays any of these signs, speak to your vet. These signs are common to not just hip and joint pain, but can be indicators of other possible conditions.
Active Ingredients
Veterinarian formulated joint supplements for dogs use active ingredients to support joint function. Ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin may support connective tissue health and maintain cartilage. As your pet ages, they can avoid joint stiffness, so they remain active for life. Joint supplements help support hip and joint function with ingredients to make it more comfortable for your pet to enjoy a regular level of exercise and activity to keep healthy.
Simple actions such as going for a walk, jumping up onto their favorite chair, or getting to their food or water bowl can be quite painful with joint issues. They can continue to enjoy improved mobility and flexibility as they age with supplements containing the right active ingredients.
Prevent Cartilage Breakdown with Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a vital part of cartilage helping to prevent breakdown. In fact, even if the cartilage is already damaged, it can also help repair it. Chondroitin helps stop the production of enzymes that damage cartilage and destroy joint fluid. It also helps your pet’s joints absorb shock because the tissue is healthy and hydrated, and healthier cartilage prevents premature breakdown.
Repair Damaged Tissue with Glucosamine
Glucosamine actually improves the efficiency of chondroitin. It contains glucose (sugar) and a vital amino acid called glutamine. Dogs produce glucosamine naturally to help develop molecules needed to produce cartilage in the joints. As your pet ages, production decreases.
However, supplements containing glucosamine help to continuously repair damaged cartilage and other tissues as well as replace lost joint fluid. As a result, your dog’s joints function without pain. It is traditionally recommended by vets when dogs have issues with their hips and joints. Because it is also sourced naturally, it avoids the possible side effects of synthetic ingredients.
Relieve Pain with MSM and Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright gold spice you might have in your pantry. It is a known antioxidant but also has pain-fighting abilities as an anti-inflammatory. This is thanks to the curcumin found in turmeric. Supplements containing turmeric help decrease pain as well as stiffness in the joints. In hand with MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), there are even more pain-fighting benefits, as this anti-inflammatory both reduces inflammation of the joints and muscles, while also adding even more protection for cartilage.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Manage Inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids offer health benefits for your pet throughout its life. In puppies, it helps with brain development as well as vision. As your dog ages, the acids can help reduce issues with the skin and manage inflammation of the joints. They can also reduce the risk for cancer and help improve heart health. It directly impacts your pet’s entire physiologic functions, keeping them healthy and active, while also assisting with mental health issues including depression and anxiety. Last but not least omega-3 fatty acids also boost the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin.
Dogs Eat Supplements Like Treats
It can be difficult to get pets to take supplements. However, many pet joint supplements for pain come in flavors dogs love. You can offer the supplement to them as a treat, ensuring they get their daily dose without too much fuss. In fact, flavored supplements are something your pet will look forward to each day.
It’s never too early to provide joint supplements for your dog. Speak to your vet about the benefits of supplements and if it makes sense for your pet.
