Dogs are no exception to arthritis as they age. Just like humans, when the cartilage wears away, a dog’s bones end up rubbing against each other causing a painful condition. Wear and tear throughout the years, diseases or trauma are the leading causes of arthritis. Luckily, you can help your long-time pet. Continue reading this article as I give you an insight into glucosamine for dogs.
What Is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a natural compound consisting of glucose and glutamine. It creates your dog’s cartilage molecules found in the joints. As a famous over the counter treatment for arthritis in animals and humans, it will assist your dog in the following:
• Reduce pain and joint problems.
• Enhance quick recovery from surgery.
• Maintain the performance peak of your dog.
• Help in spinal disc injury treatment.
Glucosamine for dogs come in three supplement forms:
I. Glucosamine sulfate.
It is usually extracted from the shellfish’s shell, and known to be the most researched form of glucosamine. Also synthetically produced in the laboratory, it contains sulfur that helps in building and repairing the cartilage.
II. Glucosamine hydrochloride.
Though also found from the shellfish’s shell, it does not contain sulfate. It is also called glucosamine HCL and studies have established it to be less effective in treating joints.
III. N-Acetyl-Glucosamine (NAG).
As part of synovial fluid, it helps in lubricating the joints. It is instrumental in solving gastrointestinal and joint issues.
Glucosamine for dogs usually get combined with other ingredients such as chondroitin or methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) that assist your cute four-legged pal’s joints.
How Does Glucosamine For Dogs Work?
Just like in people, its natural anti-inflammatory capability makes it a favorite supplement for dogs with joint stiffness and pains. Despite improving your dog’s mobility, it also reduces the aging process in the joints. Naturally produced, the glucosamine in your dog’s joint combine with collagen to produce and amend cartilage.
A spongy and naturally flexible cartilage indicates good health and acts as the joint’s shock absorber. Glucosamine assists the synovial fluid in maintaining its viscous consistency. Aging reduces the production of glucosamine which affects the cartilage and reduces lubrication from the synovial fluid.
Is Glucosamine Effective?
According to Science-Based Medicine, glucosamine and chondroitin, whether used together or differently, rank high as major popular diet supplements. Though primarily used for treating osteoarthritis, questions have gotten raised if they work. The American Family Physician article rated the two supplements as “B.” The rating indicates inconsistency and limited quality. Glucosamine sulfate is recommended more for reducing symptoms and progression of osteoarthritis.
In 2004, a study on patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis and taking glucosamine got conducted. Half the patients were placed on placebo while the rest on glucosamine. The outcome was similar. NEJM study undertaken in 2006 indicated that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) worked better and faster, but placebo worked best.
The existing evidence indicates that glucosamine and chondroitin do not work better than placebo. The hypothesis suggesting otherwise are for various reasons flawed.
Why Should You Not Administer Glucosamine For Dogs?
In addition to Glucosamine for dogs being expensive, many are produced synthetically from unnatural sources. With synthetic supplements, your dog’s body cells, unlike the natural nutrients, may fail to recognize them. Veterinarian Dr. Jodie Gruenstern, remarks that receptor sites found on your dog’s body cells are responsible for switching on and off of its cellular functions. Look-alike nutrients can quickly clog the receptors.
Because your dog’s receptor sites are thirsty for nutrients, on initial application of synthetic supplement you are likely to see a vast improvement. After a while, your dog’s symptoms will shockingly reappear. The synthetic supplements cause the receptors to clog, reverting your dog to its initial condition.
Other Known Benefits Of Glucosamine For Dogs.
Apart from helping your dog’s joints, Glucosamine will assist with its gut health. N-Acetyl-Glucosamine (NAG) creates connective tissue and helps in repairing the mucous membranes. It reduces inflammation and critical digestive system problems. 80% immune system found in the gut is also substantially supported.
Other Recommended Sources Of Glucosamine For Dogs.
The recommended intake of a 50 lb dog is approximate 1000 mg supplement of glucosamine daily. Take note that some kibbles may not meet this requirement even after feeding over 20 cups of food daily. The perfect way to give your dog glucosamine from natural sources is by feeding it with whole foods rich in glucosamine such as:
• Beef, goat, lamb, or ostrich trachea.
• Chicken feet.
• Oxtails and pigtails.
• Beef knuckle bones.
• Shellfish shells.
• Bone Broth.
• Green-lipped mussels.
Methods Used In Administering Glucosamine For Dogs.
Always consult with your vet regarding administering the right dose through the correct method. Many glucosamine for dogs get administered orally as:
• Pills.
• Powders.
• Tablets.
• Liquids.
It will take time before you get to see improvements on your dog. Veterinarians advise that you evaluate your dog’s treatment every three months.