Is it ever too early to start supporting your pet’s joint health? Certainly not! Being a pet owner, you have probably heard of the supplement glucosamine, however, you might have thought this was only needed in elderly animals. You couldn’t be more wrong. Glucosamine sulfate can be added to any pets diet at any age in order to support joint health. In fact, doing a quick search will show you that glucosamine is not limited to joint support, and can actually be helpful in any number of different conditions.
So What Exactly Is Glucosamine?
Taking apart the name you may notice “glucose” is at the forefront, meaning this molecule is a sugar. It is found both in and around the joints naturally, and as the cartilage begins to wear and lose it’s cushioning affect, the addition of glucosamine in the diet can help to bolster what’s left in the joint. It creates a soothing affect, often likened to the conventional medication ibuprofen, without the side effects. The main difference between glucosamine and the standard protocol for joint pain is the fact that it takes longer to show any positive effects within the body. Glucosamine is not a drug or a medication, rather a supplement that is naturally occurring within the body, so adding it into a dietary regimen will require time for the body to build up its stores.
Are There Side Effects?
Though in humans some side effects have been reported such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, in animals the products seem to be quite safe. I highly recommend using a glucosamine that also contains chondroitin and/or MSM. These supplements together are amazing for joint health.
What age should I start using glucosamine? This is entirely up to you! Personally, I have rescue animals of varying ages that are all on the supplement. It is inexpensive and when your pet is of a certain breed predisposed to various bony conditions and disorders, I figure every little bit of joint support is necessary. My pets play hard, and regardless of age I’d like them to have as much cushioning in their joints as possible.
Is There Anything Else I Should Be Pairing With The Glucosamine?
Once again, this is up to the owner’s discretion. For my own animals, they get a mixture of glucosamine with chondroitin and MSM. One of my favorite products is called Connectin, and I continually recommend this to any fur parents looking to help with joint health. This supplement has all three of the above listed items and has done wonders for my pets.
What Conditions Can Be Helped By Glucosamine?
Aside from everyday joint health, those animals suffering from luxating patella, intervertebral disc disease, wobblers disease, arthritis, cruciate ligament tears, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and spondylosis can experience a huge benefit thanks to the supplement. Animals receiving the supplement in addition to other natural modalities, such as acupuncture and chiropractic, can see an even greater benefit. Chiropractic will remove any structural misalignments that could in turn be altering the natural structure of an animal, thus putting increased pressure on the joints. When these are corrected and the joints supported, you will have one healthy and happy fur baby! 
When in doubt ask your veterinarian! If you have any questions or concerns about what product might be right for you, feel free to contact us at (248) 602-0807 and we would be happy to help.
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