I’ve been comparing glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for Moose, seeing how he seems to be limping on his back legs lately. My parents’ dog Becca takes a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement for her arthritis, and it seems like a good thing for hip dysplasia as well.
From what I’ve seen so far in my search, glucosamine and chondroitin are the stars of just about every joint formula out there. But there’s more than just those two things in your average joint supplement. So what else should be in your pets’ joint supplement?
- MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) is a compound naturally found in foods like cow’s milk, meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. It contributes sulfur to the body; sulfur helps strengthen the collagen in joints. It may also work as an anti-inflammatory, relieving pain from arthritis and hip dysplasia.
- Omega-3 fatty acids — yes, the same omega-3 fatty acids you’ve heard about in the Health Blog, the Weight Loss Blog, and many others. These are the “good” fats that help keep your hearth healthy. They can also reduce joint inflammation.
- Some omega-6 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamin C is synthesized naturally in a healthy liver, but vitamin C in your pet’s joint supplement can help promote healing and fight off infection.
- Vitamin E is also good for promoting healing.
- Manganese is used in the formation of new cartilage. It can also help keep bones strong.
- Bromelain is a natural anti-inflammatory and can be found in pineapple and pumpkin.
- Boswellin (also seen as Boswellia Serrata) helps ease soreness and is effective as a long-term pain reliever without the side effects of NSAIDs.
- White willow bark is a natural pain reliever — this tree was the inspiration for modern aspirin.
- Yucca powder may inhibit the release of certain enzymes that wear away cartilage.
- Aloe vera can reduce swelling and soreness and promote healing.
Will you find a supplement with all these extras? You might, and you might not. There are plenty of other ways to introduce these helpful supplements into your pet’s diet.