Arthritis Introduction
Arguably, the most common crippling ailment for our canine companions, regardless of breed or age, is arthritis. While treatments such as medication and surgery exist to treat the disease, an ever-growing quest toward holistic medicine now exists with a view toward offering new, hopefully more acceptable treatment options in both the reduction and management of this crippling and often painful arthritis of man’s best friend-the dog. Holistic treatment relative to dog arthritis will include supplementation with additional deer velvet and green-lipped mussel.
Holistic treatments for dogs with arthritis
Before starting holistic treatments for dogs with arthritis we first need to make sure the owners understand what their dog is actually experiencing how a natural approach can help. Arthritis is basically an inflammation of the joints, accompanied by pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. Arthritis can be a consequence of several factors: old age, genes, instability, and injuries from an early age. Conventional medical treatment commonly consists of analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications, and even surgery in grave cases.
Natural Methods of Controlling Arthritis in Dogs
Holistic dog arthritis treatments consider the causative agent, general health, and self-healing capability of a dog’s body through consideration of the inter-relationships of the body, mind, and environment. Most of holistic dog arthritis treatments consist of a combination of life adjustments, diet, and vitamin supplementation.
Deer Velvet: A Natural Marvel
Deer velvet is the soft, cartilaginous antler tissue taken from deer and used in traditional medicine, especially among Eastern cultures, for thousands of years. Rich in several of the more key active ingredients, including glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, and other various vitamins and minerals, these play an important part in the realm of joint health and further fostering the natural inclination of the human body toward repairing damaged tissue.
Indeed, the most talked about glucosamine and chondroitin are indeed very effective in the management of arthritis in dogs. Glucosamine enhances the creation of glycosaminoglycans, which are very substances making up cartilage. Chondroitin stops its breakdown by impairing the enzymes that would dismantle cartilage from doing so; hence, maintaining elasticity.
Including Deer Velvet into a Dog’s Diet
Deer velvet can be introduced into the diet through supplementation or as a part of a complete and balanced raw or home-cooked diet. Most holistic veterinarians are recommending to begin with small dosage and gradually go up, if necessary, taking into consideration both the size of the animal and the dog response. Of essence is consultation from a veterinarian upon adding a supplement to your canine friend, let alone any that might be taking medication.
Green-Lipped Mussel: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory
Green-lipped mussel, grown in the waters of New Zealand, is another natural ingredient that is fast finding its place in holistic arthritis management for dogs. These mussels are a highly concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids, which in themselves have strong anti-inflammatory action. Since inflammation is such a strong driver of the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, green-lipped mussel contributes value to any holistic arthritis management plan.
The active principles of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, inhibit the synthesis of pro-inflammatory molecules, hence reducing inflammation. It also maintains joint health by promoting synovial fluid production and preventing cartilage degradation.
Adding Green-Lipped Mussel to a Dog’s Diet
Green-lipped mussel supplements come in a variety of forms, including powders, capsules, and even dog treats. Most importantly, though, is a very important step that should be taken regarding giving the dosage amount to a dog: consulting one’s veterinarian to specify the dog’s size, breed, and overall health. Adding green-lipped mussel to a dog’s diet can provide him with a savoury enhancement to maintaining his joints.
Combining Holistic Approaches
While deer velvet and green-lipped mussel are offering some unique benefits, the more holistic approach toward arthritis management does range from a nutritionally balanced diet, inclusive of all nutrients that could be considered essential to deal with the challenge at hand, to the regular use of low-impact exercises aimed at maintaining flexibility within the joints, to the provision of a comfortable, supportive environment to the dog.
Conclusion
The holistic approach in the management of canine arthritis offers a comprehensive, natural way to handle the disease process, as it deals with the whole being of an animal. Nutritional supplements containing deer velvet and green-lipped mussel exhibit different nutritional profiles, each supported by promising preclinical studies related to joint health, reduction of inflammation, and enhancement of mobility.