Osteoarthritis occurs in older dogs, just as it does in humans. Cartilage in the joints wears away, causing the joint to become swollen and painful. Dog Pro.com states that arthritis affects 1 in 5 adult dogs. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, injury, nutritional deficiencies, and a genetic predisposition to osteoarthritis. In addition to avoiding foods that contribute to inflammation, giving supplements, controlling your dog's weight, and providing anti-inflammatory medications, there are several ways you can help your canine friend move more easily, and with less pain.
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Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
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Veterinarians use MSM for joint problems in animals. Joints afflicted with arthritis usually have low sulfur levels. The canine body uses the sulfur contained in MSM to create the compounds glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Sulfur is also needed to produce the amino acids cysteine and methionine. Holisticpet.com states that animal studies have found MSM helps maintain normal cartilage in the joints.
Glucosamine Sulfate
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According to Holistic Pet Info, glucosamine sulfate is one of the most widely used, and safest remedies for arthritis in dogs. Glucosamine has anti-inflammatory properties, and stimulates the production of glycosaminaglycans and chondroitin sulfate, both vital chemicals in the production of cartilage. The body uses these chemicals to repair damaged cartilage.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
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Omega 3 fatty acids are the polyunsaturated fats found in fish oil, flax seed, pumpkin seeds and walnut. According to Elson Haas, MD, in his book, Staying Healthy with Nutrition, omega 3 fatty acids have a role in reducing inflammation throughout the body, including arthritic joints.
Chondroitin Sulfate
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Chondroitin sulfate is made by the body and prevents enzymes from destroying cartilage. Even though the body makes chondroitin sulfate, giving the dog a chondroitin supplement may help relieve arthritis.
Bromelain
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Bromelain is a compound found in pineapple that contains enzymes that help digest protein, reduce platelet clumping and reduce inflammation. Bromelain was isolated in 1891 and has been used as a medicinal supplement in humans ever since for digestive difficulties. Today, bromelain is used to ease inflammation and pain of arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome in both humans and animals.
Boswellia
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Boswellia is also known as Indian frankincense. According to Arthritis Today, Boswellia comes from the bark of the Indian Boswellia tree and has been shown be an effective anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving agent.
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