Laser therapy
Laser therapy is available at Brookmead and is used very effectively to treat arthritis. It is non-invasive and non-painful, in fact most pets enjoy the experience. Laser is most often used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory pain relief but in some cases can be used on its own to treat the condition long term.
Nutritional Supplements
Giving a daily joint supplement can also be very helpful. Supplements containing high levels of Omega 3 have been proven to be very effective. We typically recommend Flexadin Advanced, Dasuquin or Synoquin.
Flexadin Advanced contains Omega 3’s, Boswelia and undenatured type II collagen, which have anti-oxidant properties and provide support to joint function and restorative processes. Flexadin Advanced contains a very different ingredient compared to the more conventional glucosamine and chondroitin combination, called UC-II, which is a patented type of un-denatured type II collagen, that works by a process called oral tolerisation in order to support the joint structure and help the body’s own natural anti-inflammatory systems.
Dasuquin provides a more modern approach to traditional glucosamine-based supplements, as it contains Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Boswelia extract, and additional ingredients Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASUs). These ingredients provide a synergistic approach to supporting and maintaining joint function, and the unique ASU helps to nourish and support cartilage within the joints.
Synoquin provides the similar modern approach to traditional glucoasmines much like Dasuquin, containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin, plus additional beneficial ingredients such as Dexahan, Ascorbic Acid and Zinc Sulphate. These ingredients promote healthy cartilage, sooth stiff joints, promote mobility, and support joint health. Synoquin contains a purer form of Glucosamine than other supplements, and VetPlus (Synoquin’s manufacturer) is one of the very few nutraceutical companies which use medically graded quality control testing on their products and ingredients.
Weight Loss
It is important to keep your pet’s weight down to a healthy level, especially in the management of osteoarthritis. The more weight a dog or cat is carrying, the more strain there is on the joints. We offer free weight clinics with our nurses where we can provide specially tailored diet plans and give you the support and encouragement needed for your pet to shed those pounds. There are also clinical diets available that aid in weight loss, and provide additional nutritional support for joints.
Hydrotherapy and Physiotherapy
Other complementary therapies that may be beneficial are hydrotherapy and physiotherapy. Hydrotherapy allows free movement of the joints in a weight free environment. This keeps joints mobile and allows your pet to build up surrounding muscles to help support weak joints. Please ask the vet if you are interested in referral for this.
