How Effective Are Joint Supplements For Dogs With Arthritis?

Just like humans, many dogs suffer from arthritis pain and inflammation over time. Joints and bones naturally degenerate over time. So, Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate supplements are fast becoming the most widely used supplements in dogs' diets. Reason is Glucosamine and chondroitin are two ingredients of supplements that have become widely used in treating both animals and humans for osteoarthritis. Because of the overwhelming success in treating patients with osteoarthritis, these products came to the forefront of therapy and are becoming the most popular products for managing arthritis today. Natural and alternative therapies are generally safe, effective and is usually used in conjunction with western medicine. If your dog is suffering from arthritis, these are some natural remedies that are helpful:
+Supplements Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Glucosamine & Chondroitin are naturally sourced and rarely show any side effects. Occasionally a dog will vomit or diarrhea if started on high doses, however, this might be alleviated if the dose is reduced or given with food. Glucosamine is studied for over 20 years in humans, and is proven effective to relieve arthritic joint pain in animals and humans. The safety of joint supplements makes them well suited for long term use. Please note that it may take four to six weeks before your dog show significant results from these supplements.
+Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Acids Omega 3 essential fatty acid supplement from fish oil or flaxseed oil also works as an anti-inflammatory. These help to lube the joints and help with inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA are often used for the management of the signs of atropy in dogs. Also, Omega 3 oils will also improve the health and appearance of your dog's coat. Omega 3 oils is proven to help reduce excess weight in dogs, a very useful effect as a heavy dog puts more stress on arthritic joints.
+Antioxidants: Nutritional supplements containing enzymes and antioxidants have been shown to reduce inflammation, promote healthy joints, improve circulation and support immune function. Besides Vitamin C, other beneficial antioxidants include Vitamin E, Zinc or Manganese, and Citrus Bioflavonoids.
+Vitamin C & Manganese: Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and is an important nutrient in the synthesis of collagen and cartilage. Supplementing with Vitamin C at a reasonable level will not result in a toxicity and may prove to have a beneficial effect. While,  Manganese ascorbate, in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin, are already found helpful in treating osteoarthritis pain.
+Acupuncture & Physical Therapy: Study after study has shown that acupuncture and Chinese herbs are effective to relieve the pain and inflammation of arthritis in both humans and dogs. Most dogs feel relaxed and pain free after an acupuncture session. Over time, the treatments build on one another, giving much better results with each successive treatment.
In generally, natural approaches to treatment for canine arthritis are generally safe and effective.
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