Thanks to contemporary science and medicine, dogs are living longer lives than ever before.
Thank you for providing Poochie with the best veterinary care and nourishment available. (It's not like you can delegate meal preparation to your shih tzu. He's never turned down a bowl of food (or a full litter box).
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When should you consider using a hip and joint supplement?
You may be seeking for ways to support your dog's health that go beyond gourmet food, just as you do for your own. If you're considering a hip and joint supplement, you're not alone.
According to a study conducted by the Rockville, MD-based market research firm Package Facts, one-third of all U.S. homes with dogs utilize pet supplements, particularly joint health pills.
According to the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), they are a safe and natural method to potentially improve your pet's quality of life.
Is there a safe and natural approach to improve your dog's life? It appears to be a no-brainer...
Because larger breeds of dogs may develop symptoms of arthritis and dysplasia sooner than smaller breeds, the NASC believes it is advisable to begin supplements sooner rather than later.
If your dog isn't predisposed to these issues, bring them up with your veterinarian before he enters his golden years.
"Whenever possible, I like to be proactive and begin [supplements] to preserve health rather than seek to restore it," explains Laguna Woods Veterinarian Bernadine Cruz, DVM. "The vast majority of vets will gladly discuss your problems."
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The hip bone is linked to the...
There's a reason why vitamins for joint health are the most popular among dog owners.
According to studies, over 20% of all dogs over the age of one year and 80% of dogs over the age of seven years suffer from the stiff, achy joints of arthritis. As dogs age, the cartilage and fluids that protect their bones deteriorate, causing irritation, inflammation, and pain.
Even if your dog has the bounce of a spring-loaded puppy, he may develop joint issues. The signals may be minor, but they are significant, such as shorter walks, avoidance of the dog park, or refusal to walk upstairs.
The following are some of the most prevalent signs of joint and hip disorders in dogs of all ages:
Some of the aforementioned are normal aspects of growing and aging, but they should not be overlooked. And, if you have any worries about your dog's health, we urge that you consult a veterinarian.
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"Any age, any breed, can be impacted by this inevitably devastating disease," explains Dr. Cruz. "If you have a hunch that anything is amiss, don't deny what you're seeing." Make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible."
The most prevalent type of arthritis in dogs is osteoarthritis, also known as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD). The illness is most common in large breed dogs, although it can affect even the tiniest purse pups.
Hip dysplasia, a genetic characteristic (confirmed by x-ray) that affects the depth of the hip socket, is another main cause of hip and joint pain in specific breeds of all ages. Hip dysplasia occurs when a dog is born with an ill-fitting femur bone that rubs against the shallow hip socket, eventually leading to arthritis.
The gravity of the situation
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While a plump Buddha belly may appear to be ideal for massaging, it places undue strain on doggy's torso and limbs. In reality, both of the aforementioned disorders, as well as other joint ailments, are frequently exacerbated by being overweight.
"Too many people link providing food with giving love," Cruz observes. "We've grown accustomed to overindulging in our meals and our pets." Excess weight places undue tension on joints, making it mechanically harder to move."
Dr. Cruz also notes current research indicating that abdominal fat produces pro-inflammatory molecules. This inflammation has an impact on many physiological systems, particularly the joints.
A degenerative joint illness, by the way, can affect even the thinnest whippet. Some of it is due to genetics and breeding, while other times it is simply bad luck.
How to Pick His Chews
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Not just any pet supplement will do for your furry friend, but with so many brands to select from, it can be difficult to find the finest hip and joint supplement for your dog.
Look for a health supplement, such as our multifunctional SmartyPaws chews (for puppy, adult, and senior dogs), which contain stellar nutrients for hip and joint health, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, and omega-3 EPA & DHA from fish oil.
Our Veterinary Advisory Board (VAB) carefully chose these substances to enhance joint health, reduce joint stiffness caused by normal everyday exercise and activity, and support the structural integrity of joints and connective tissue.
Here's an example of what they can do:
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Glucosamine - Glucosamine aids in the maintenance of synovial fluid, which lubricates joints. It may also increase the formation of proteoglycans, which aid in the maintenance of joint and connective tissue health and resiliency.
Chondroitin - According to a study conducted by the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, chondroitin sulfate coupled with glucosamine aids in cartilage growth.
"Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are building components of normal articular cartilage," adds Dr. Cruz. These two components will neither cure or prevent arthritis, but they will help keep other joints healthy."
Mussels with green lips - These time-tested mollusks, native to New Zealand, have been used to treat joint pain in humans for more than a century. Dr. Cruz praises its anti-inflammatory effects for dogs, adding that they "also include chondroitin for cartilage health."
Fish oil omega-3 EPA and DHA fatty acids - Omega-3 EPA and DHA fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects. The body cannot manufacture enough of these beneficial fats on its own, but they are necessary for your dog's overall health, strong muscles, and healthy joints. As a result, we offer omega-3 EPA and DHA to promote healthy joints while also addressing other canine health concerns.
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If you're considering using a supplement, the American College of Veterinary Nutrition recommends consulting with your veterinarian first.
More zeal for your dog
There is no secret elixir for a dog with hip and joint problems. However, the correct combination of quality multifunctional components for hip and joint support could give them an extra spring in their step.
Poochie may eventually have to rely on his royal chariot (a.k.a. you) for a lift up and down the stairs, but fingers crossed, he'll continue to entertain his Instagram admirers for years to come.
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