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Pet Supplements

Sales of arthritis relief pills for pets have nearly doubled in the last five years, but one lab found that 4 out of 6 brands did not deliver what they promised, or were flawed. Even in human medicine, over-the-counter supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so proving their effectiveness and the validity of claims made by their manufacturers is difficult. For pet medications, it is nearly impossible. Fido is not going to say "Thanks, Mom, that pill really helped ease my joint stiffness." Instead, you have to rely on more subtle clues to gauge whether or not medications are truly helping your pet.

Animal joint supplements usually contain the same two active ingredients as human supplements. Chondroitin is usually derived from pig and cow cartiledge, though it can also come from shark, or chicken cartiledge, or even algae. Glucosamine usually comes from the shells of crabs, though sometimes it is chemically manufactured.

The number one reason why the tested supplements did not pass quality standards was that they had too little Chondroitin and Glucosamine to be effective. However, pet owners should be cautious about over-dosing their animals as too much of these supplements can cause loose stools and gas pains.

Midway Veterinary Hospital Recommends:

 

Some Suggestions:

Check with your veterinarian to see which product she recommends

Look for a seal of approval by an independent lab or organization.

Keep a log of your pet's behavior. For instance, note your pet's ability to go up and down stairs before and after supplement use so you can tell whether it helps.

Don't exceed recommended doses. Too much can cause loose stools and gas pains.

Watch for shellfish allergies is using glucosamine derived from seafood.

Avoid versions in salt form (NaCL, or Sodium Chloride on the label) if the animal has high blood pressure.

Do not use glucosamine or chondroitin with blood thinners, such as heparin or aspirin, unless a vet advises it. Some breeds, such as Dobermen Pinschers, are predisposed to bleeding problems.