Choosing The Right Joint Supplement For Your Pet

Selecting the right joint supplement for your pet, is typically based on the stage of your pet's joint health condition and/or the level of the signs of arthritis your pet is experiencing. For the different severities of arthritis, you will find different ingredients in the joint supplements. Remember, always give a joint supplement adequate time to work - it generally takes at least 6 to 8 weeks before your pet will show improvement. This also varies on your pet's breed and personality.

Many older pets or middle-aged pets with hip dysplasia or other degenerative joint problems have severe cases of arthritis. Some signs you may see in your pet with severe joint problems include:

For pets with signs of severe joint health concerns, we recommend these products:

Joint Max Triple Strength

Glyco-Flex III

Synovi G3

Synovi-MSM

MODERATE JOINT PROBLEMS

Signs of moderate joint problems in pets may show up after a few months or years of having only mild signs. Moderate joint problems signs include:

For pets with signs of moderate joint health concerns, we recommend these products:

Joint MAX Double Strength	Cosequin DS	Glyco-Flex I
Restor-A-Flex	SynoviCre for Med/Large	ProMotion for Med/Large

MILD JOINT PROBLEMS

You may not notice any signs if your pet has only mild joint problem. Chances are that your pet will not vocalize if he is experiencing the dull pain that is the hallmark of the beginnings of arthritis. This means that you have to be on the lookout for subtle signals your pet may give you, such as mild stiffness after hard exercising.

If your pet is experiencing signs of mild joint problem, or if you know your pet may be at risk of experiencing arthritis later in his life (for instance, he has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia or has had knee or other joint surgery), we recommend a daily course of one of the following products:

Because arthritis and most other joint problems are chronic conditions, daily supplementation for the remainder of your pet's life is usually necessary.

Joint MAX Regular Strength	Cosequin RS	Glyco-Flex 300
SynoviCre for Small/Med	Joint MAX Liquid	Joint MAX CAT

Arthritis refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint. The cause can be abnormal bone or joint development, instability of the surrounding ligaments and tendons, damage or injury to the joint, an infection, or injury caused by the immune system. While anti-inflammatory medicines are popular treatments for arthritis, another approach involves protecting the cartilage in the joint and "nourishing" the joint. Here are 10 tips that may help your arthritic pet.

1. Slip-free Flooring:

Hardwood and tile floors are slippery and can be very difficult for pets with arthritis to navigate. Placing carpet or area rugs will help secure your pet's footing. This can help prevent him from slipping and injuring himself.

2. A Soft Bed:

Soft bedding can help support the bones and joints, making your pet more comfortable. This can be especially important to thin pets in which bony prominences are likely to rub on hard surfaces.

Stairs and furniture can become difficult obstacles for your aging companion. Ramps or specially designed cubes can help pets safely climb stairs, get into or out of bed or get in and out of your vehicle.

4. Medication:

Various medications are available that can help your pet feel better. Medications include drugs such as Deramaxx®, Rimadyl® or Etogesic®. These drugs are classified as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and work to suppress inflammation and pain by inhibiting synthesis of the class of compounds called prostaglandins. Joint supplements such as Cosequin®, Joint MAX can also be beneficial. They may work by providing the body with necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function.

5. Peace & Quiet:

As your pet ages, he may not be as tolerant or patient as he used to be. Sore joints make it difficult for your pet to enjoy rambunctious playful children. Supervise playtime and consider keeping your pet away from very young children. Even parties and holiday time can be distressing for an arthritic pet. He may want to join in the festivities regardless of the discomfort.

6. Massage:

Massage can increase flexibility, circulation, calmness and a general sense of wellness. Professional animal massage therapists are available to provide your pet a more thorough treatment.

Arthritis is more of a problem in obese pets. Weight loss can be beneficial by helping to reduce the workload on the bones and joints. In addition to basic weight loss, diets formulated for pets with arthritis may be beneficial in some pets. Diets, such as Hills® Science Diet® j/d™ and Purina® JM Joint Mobility™, supplemented with Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate have been shown to help pets with arthritis maintain weight, reduce pain and improve mobility.

8. Exercise:

Modest daily exercise can help some pets. Special care is needed, so it is important to first see your Veterinarian, who can recommend an appropriate exercise program. Exercise can strengthen the muscles and ligaments thus reducing the potential and risk of injury. Read Importance of Play and Exercise for your Pets Health and Longevity to help explain why this is so important for your arthritic friend.

9. Extra Time:

Don't rush a pet with arthritis. It often takes them extra time to walk, climb stairs or get in and out of the car. Support and help them if needed or just give them extra time to get around.

10. Grooming:

Grooming should not be neglected, especially in the older pet. Arthritic pets have a difficult time keeping themselves clean, especially in those hard to reach areas. Help your pet stay clean by trimming the hair around the rear end. Brushing will help remove mats and tangles, which can injure delicate older skin.