Arthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joints that can affect dogs and horses as well as people. A number of effective treatments are already on the market for this inflammatory disorder; however, not all animals respond in the same way to these medications. Recent advances in botanical medicine have created new options for pet owners that can provide added relief from aches and pains and can enhance mobility for dogs and horses. Here are some of the most promising new botanicals in the modern pet supplement marketplace.

Devil’s Claw

The scary name of this plant extract comes with some healthy benefits for your arthritic pet. Supplements containing devil’s claw can provide increased pain relief and can reduce swelling and inflammation associated with canine arthritis. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of this herb can help to reduce some of the most serious signs of aging in your horse or dog.

Cat’s Claw

This herbal supplement is usually available in freeze-dried form and is native to the Amazon rain forest. It is a pain reliever that has produced effective results in clinical testing of both dogs and humans.

Yucca

A rich source of polyphenolic compounds and steroidal saponins, yucca extracts offer exceptional antioxidant properties and can reduce inflammation by preventing platelets from clumping together in the blood to cause swelling. Yucca has an added benefit for dog owners; it has been shown to reduce the smell and incidence of flatulence in canine companions.

Avocado-Soy Unsaponifiables

Derived from avocado and soybean oils, Avocado-Soy Unsaponifiables (ASU) products can help regenerate cartilage and connective tissue in most canine and human patients. If ASU products are not readily available, mixing soybean oil and minced avocado into pet food can sometimes provide a less-effective version of the same general effect.

Flaxseed and Pumpkin Seeds

Both flaxseed and pumpkin seed contain high concentrations of Omega-3 fatty acids. As powerful antioxidants, these botanical extracts can provide added anti-inflammatory benefits and are often combined with fish oil supplements to provide a broad base of Omega-3 benefits for pets and people.

Phycocyanin

One of the most effective botanical treatments for canine and equine arthritis, phycocyanin is derived from the cyanobacteria family of blue-green algae and is a complex pigment that complements the activities of chlorophyll in these aquatic plants. Most commercially available phycocyanin is extracted from Spirulina, a type of algae known for its exceptionally rich protein content and its high concentration of essential fatty acids and minerals. Phycocyanin is a powerful anti-inflammatory and can reduce swelling and edema in horses and dogs, allowing them an increased measure of mobility. This botanical extract has also been shown to boost the function of the immune system and can provide added energy for aging pets.

Incorporating cutting-edge botanical supplements into your pet’s daily diet can provide your dog or horse with added energy and increased mobility. By reducing the pain and inflammation associated with canine and equine arthritic conditions, you can help your pet enjoy an active and healthy life for many years into the future.

Augmenting your pet’s regular diet with vitamins and minerals can provide real health benefits and may prove useful in treating a number of common conditions. The right supplements are formulated to precise standards to meet the specific needs of dogs, cats and other pets. Used properly, pet supplements can offer real benefits and can reduce certain side effects of aging in dogs and cats. Here are some tips on finding the right dietary supplements to suit your pet’s unique set of needs.

Shiny Coats

Supplements containing healthy amounts of fatty acids that include Omega 3, Omega 6 and Vitamin E can promote thicker and more lustrous fur for cats and dogs. Fish oil supplements are among the most commonly available treatments for healthier coats and may also help in reducing inflammation for pets with arthritis. Incorporating these supplements into the regular diets of cats and dogs can help them enjoy a wide range of health benefits throughout their lives.

Healthy Teeth and Bones

Calcium supplements can sometimes be helpful for dogs and cats with dental issues. However, you should consult a veterinarian before beginning a course of calcium treatments for your dog or cat; overdosing on these supplements can cause serious problems for developing bones and may lead to skeletal developmental issues in some cases. Be sure to inform your veterinarian regarding your pet’s current diet when considering calcium supplements to ensure the best possible results for your dog or cat.

Greater Mobility

Arthritis supplements typically include glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate and are designed to reduce joint pain and increase mobility for older dogs suffering from canine arthritis. Many of these supplements are available over the counter in pet supply stores; however, some stronger formulations must be obtained through your veterinarian. Before beginning a regimen of glucosamine-chondroitin supplements, your pet should receive a thorough checkup to ensure that no other physical conditions are responsible for the symptoms your dog is currently exhibiting.

Antioxidants

Supplements that contain antioxidants can boost the regeneration rate of cells and can restore energy to aging pets. Some of the most common ingredients in antioxidant supplements include the following:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Selenium
• Alpha lipoic acid
• S-Adenosyl
• Beta carotene

These antioxidant supplements offer significant benefits for older pets and can help younger dogs and cats lead healthier, more active lives.

Minerals

Mineral supplements can provide some health benefits for dogs and cats; however, these medications should only be administered with the knowledge and approval of your veterinarian. Excessive intake of some minerals can be dangerous for your pet; additionally, some mineral supplement formulations can potentially interact with medications or other items in your pet’s regular diet. A little caution can go a long way toward protecting the health of your dog or cat.

In most cases, pet supplements can provide an added boost of energy, increased mobility and improved health for dogs and cats. By choosing these nutritional products carefully, you can ensure a brighter future for you and your pets.