Supplements for Dogs With Spondylosis

According to Fiona's Fast Dogs website, spondylosis is degenerative arthritis, most commonly paralyzing the lower part of the spine, causing loss of proper spinal function. Spondylosis, which is usually an "old-dog" disease, is progressive and over time may affect the entire spinal column. The disease is painful, so consider choosing a supplement to make your dog comfortable as it ages.

  1. Homeopathic Supplements

    • Aceta rac, Hypericum and Ruta are all homeopathic remedies that can help provide relief for your dog's spondylosis. Aceta rac specifically targets arthritis in the hip and lower back (where spondylosis is most common), Hypericum treats the injured nerves associated with spondylosis and Ruta helps reduce inflammation in the early stages of spondylosis, says Fiona's Fast Dog website. Purchase any of these remedies at your local health food store.

    Glucosamine and MSM

    • Glucosamine is the most common over-the-counter supplement used to provide pain relief from all forms of arthritis, including spondylosis. According to Fiona's Fast Dog website, Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino sugar that comes from shellfish. As your dog ages, the cartilage in its joints deteriorates. Adding glucosamine to its diet can help slow that deterioration and lubricate its joints for improved mobility. You can also combine glucosamine with methylsulphonylmethane (MSM), a natural product that contains kelp-produced sulfur. MSM is an anti-inflammatory that reduces pain by blocking the perception of it in the brain, according to the Pet Education website.

    Combination Supplements

    • The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association has been using a fatty acid called Cetal myristoleate (CMO), a combination supplement of Glucosamine, MSM and CMO to treat arthritic dogs since 1996, according to the EHP Products Inc. website. Fiona's Fast Dogs site says that this product is highly effective in treating dogs with spondylosis. "I saw signs of improvement in Jack's movement and pain level within two weeks. After four weeks [the dog] was more active and mobile than he had been when I adopted him as a five-year-old!" says the website. CMO comes as beef, bacon or liver-flavored chewable tablets.