Glucosamine For Dogs

I’ve always been wary about expensive, unnecessary health supplements for my family - human or pet, but sometimes even a sceptic has to change his mind. Glucosamine for dogs has been an absolute lifesaver for our family pet Zoe.

Meet Zoe, our delightful 11 year old red heeler cross. She’s always been an active dog and loves her walks and chasing balls. This is her story…

Two winters ago Zoe started with a bit of joint stiffness in the cold - then came the pain. OK age catches up with all of us but when you love dogs, it tears your heart out to hear your dog whimpering with pain just trying to climb a few steps. Our vet confirmed osteoarthritis, and we talked about pain meds and anti-inflammtory drugs but weren’t keen on the side effects. Then he suggested trying a glucosamine for dogs supplement. It took a bit of convincing for the sceptic in me to come around but what choice did I have?

We started with a popular glucosamine and chondroitin mix - first problem - Zoe wasn’t keen on these tablets! She could suss them out in her food and didn’t like them pushed down her throat. After a bit of research we quickly switched to liquid glucosamine which Zoe liked much better and that worked a treat - within weeks Zoe was racing around like a crazy puppy and incredibly… no pain.

I’ve always thought of glucosamine as a health supplement for people but I’ve rapidly discovered the benefits of liquid glucosamine for dogs!

We usually associate arthritis with middle to advanced age but unfortunately arthritis for dogs can be much earlier than we dog lovers care to think.

In dogs, arthritis can start early as an active dog’s joints get a lot of punishment especially the larger breeds. If you have a small to medium dog, early arthritis problems can begin by age seven or eight. Large or giant breed dogs can show symptoms as early as age four or five.

How do you know when your dog has problems with early arthritis? Signs and symptoms of early joint damage and arthritis for dogs vary a lot but commonly include:

• Occasional limping or favoring an affected limb
• Increasing stiffness and difficulty getting up - particularly after a long rest.
• Increasing reluctance to climb or jump

It’s important to get your vet to confirm any suspicion as early  as possible - no dog lover wants their pet to suffer and like with many health problems: early treatment of arthritis for dogs gives your pet and you a happier longer life.