Like you and me, your pet’s joints undergo wear-and-tear as they age, particularly if they had surgery involving, or near, their joint. To help keep your pet’s joints operating in top form, here are a few simple tips: 

  

1. Weight management – Keep your pet lean.  

   • Research has shown that increases in body weight EXPONENTIALLY increases the load through a joint. What this means is that every ounce matters, and that even small improvements towards your pet’s “ideal” body weight will improve their joint health and function 

2. Exercise – A moving joint is a healthier joint. 

   • The health of your pet’s cartilage is dependent on circulating the fluid within their joint through movement and weight bearing, but remember that everything can be overdone. Try to aim for shorter, more frequent, episodes of low impact activity to support your pet’s joint health 

3. Supplements – Tipping the favor for life-long joint health.  

   • Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These essential fatty acids help to improve joint lubrication and decrease the production of enzymes that lead to joint inflammation. 

     • Ask your veterinarian for their advised dosing and preferred brands. Generally, when referring to lean bodyweight, approximately 1000mg per 25pound is appropriate. There are many brands and research may go back and forth regarding EPA vs DHA and which is more effective, therefore, it is generally safest to find a brand balanced between EPA/DHA.  

       • Dosages can be high – Finding a brand with a liquid pump-dispenser can be helpful and cost saving  

   • Glucosamine/chondroitin – These neutraceuticals may help to maintain and repair articular cartilage. 

     • There are many brands – Ask your veterinarian about their preferred brands.