How common are joint issues in dogs?

Sadly arthritis is a common health condition especially in older dogs, effecting up to 1 in 5 during their lifetime, technically not a single disease, but a group of debilitating joint diseases.

My dog isn't showing any signs of joint issues, should I still be concerned?
Dog’s tend to hide the signs of pain, so it can be at a more advanced stage before we see the tell-tale signs, arthritis can affect joints anywhere in the body, however, the most common joints affected in dogs are the hips, elbows, knees and shoulders. It’s not easy to witness a pain inflected animal, so the earlier we can intervene the greater the chance we have of alleviating and avoiding the condition from progressing, but even in more advanced cases there are veterinary interventions and treatments available.

What causes Arthritis in Dogs?
Some arthritic diseases are hereditary, but there is mounting evidence that a dog’s diet containing foods that lead to oxidation and inflammation are the real cause of arthritis in the joint system. Just like rust on metal, wearing the weakening the metal down, oxidation in the body leads to an increased level of free radicals stressing out the vital organs, and leading to increased levels of inflammation.

What are the signs of Arthritis in Dogs?

• Recurrent lameness or limping
• Reluctance to rise or move from a resting position
• Reluctance to walk, climb stairs, lack of interest in play or physical activity
• An unusual or irregular stance when walking, lagging behind in walks
• Licking of the affected area
• Reluctance to jump onto familiar sofas, beds, car seats
• Swollen joints, which can be warm to the touch and tender
• Increased inactivity or sleep
• Irritability or a change in personality
• Yelping when touched

How can I help with joint care for dogs?
Diet plays a vital role in health, fresh and whole foods coupled with digestible proteins, prebiotics, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods can turn a dogs health around, greatly increasing their immune system, so healing from the inside out. Early intervention can assist dogs suffering from osteoarthritis through dietary changes and supplementation of glucosamine supplements.

What supplements are important in nutritional health against joint issues?
Glycosaminoglycans are vital for the maintenance and functioning of the body, most importantly that of the joint systems. GSGs are made up of complex molecules of proteins and sugars, and found within the gastrointestinal tract, blood plasma, body tissues, some of the vital organ linings, and in the joint system, where glucosamine and chondroitin are the most important GAGs. Dogs can gain these important proteins when fed a high quality protein diet that includes ligament and cartilage from animal sources, or when supplemented with glucosamine chondroitin supplements, which are the most prescribed veterinary medicine supplements.

How can TonicTreat aid joint care for dogs?
JointAid+ is formulated for joint maintenance, containing glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a naturally occurring sulphur compound, (used to decrease joint and muscle pain and reduce inflammation), green lipped mussel and turmeric, together with other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herbs.

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