A common problem that most aging dogs have is joint pain. After a lifetime of physical activity and jumping on and off beds and couches, all that running and jumping catches up to them. In their last years, it can be painful for them to use stairs, get into bed, or even move around.
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You can talk to your vet about having them put on pain medication, but stronger prescriptions can be harsh on pets in terms of side effects. One thing you can try when your dog’s joint pain is not so severe is a variety of supplements that have been shown to help reduce pain and inflammation in joints. Let’s start with three of the best joint supplements for dogs.
#1) Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural compound that is a very popular supplement used to treat arthritis and joint pain in humans and several animal species, including dogs. It works by specifically repairing damage to the cartilage that acts as a cushion between joints. As dogs, and humans in fact, age our cartilage can deteriorate, and that makes movement in affected joints more painful.
You can get glucosamine in treats or food supplements to be mixed into the dinner you normally feed your dog. It can be used both as a preventative measure to hold off joint pain, and to reduce pain even if they develop arthritis.
#2) CBD Oil
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a relatively new supplement for treating pain in humans and animals like dogs. Since it is relatively new, there isn’t as much research or studies on it to fully understand how it works or helps with pain.
However, what research has been done shows that it is a strong anti-inflammatory compound and also reduces the sensation of pain. A 2018 study given to dogs with osteoarthritis resulted in 80 percent of the test dogs showing improved mobility and reduced pain response.
Like with glucosamine, you can get CBD for dogs in treats, such as Joy Organics CBD dog chews. You can also use regular CBD oil droppers with the right dose level for pets, and add it directly to their food.
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Ask a Vet Live Now#3) Turmeric
Turmeric is another relatively new supplement that can help your dogs with their joint health. Like CBD, it is a natural compound that is extracted from a plant. It has tons of properties that are useful as a health supplement, especially for joint pain.
It has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and can also be used for antiviral and antibacterial purposes. It is used to fight arthritis and relieve pain. Like CBD, there isn’t a lot of in-depth research into exactly how it works, but you can get supplements for dogs that use turmeric to help their joint pain, including some that combine it with glucosamine and other pain supplements.
It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet before trying any of these supplements. They may be able to recommend the right supplement to try first, including the best brands that have had better results in their experience. You may also be able to use a combination of the three together for the best overall effect.
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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