Shark Cartilage Supplement for Dogs
Dogs given supplements of shark cartilage show improvements in health conditions after an extended period of use. Retention and regrowth of cartilage eases swelling, inflammation and discomfort in dogs with degenerative diseases. Although shark cartilage tablets do not require a prescription, a veterinarian should examine a pet exhibiting symptoms of joint pain and swelling before using any type of over-the-counter medication.
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Features
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Shark cartilage contains amino acids, carbohydrates, protein, calcium, phosphorus and mucopolysaccharides. The connective tissue supplements also contain chondroitin and glucosamine, according to VetInfo. Chrondroitin in shark cartilage supplements aids in fluid absorption in the dog's own cartilage. The glucosamine promotes new cartilage growth while deterring the breakdown of old cartilage.
Uses
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Veterinarians often recommend shark cartilage supplements to strengthen a dog's immune system. Pets suffering from arthritis, healing after a surgery or recovering from a joint injury benefit from the supplement, according to Doctors Foster and Smith. Degenerative diseases, orthopedic injuries and dogs with hip dysplasia may also benefit from shark cartilage.
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Benefits
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Shark cartilage supplements reduce the formation of new blood vessels, which in turn reduces inflammation--a benefit to arthritic and healing pets. The supplement also limits blood flow to tumors, which benefits dogs diagnosed with cancer, according to veterinarian R.M. Clemmons, Associate Professor of Neurology & Neurosurgery in the University of Florida's Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. Shark cartilage supplements may reduce the spread of cancerous cells due to the supplement's ability to restrict blood flow.
Effectiveness
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As he ages, a dog's joints get worn and can use a boost. When given 750 mg of shark cartilage per 11 lbs. of weight, 80 percent of dogs showed relief from pain and inflammation as reported by the The Arthritis & Glucosamine Information Center. The supplements of shark cartilage also reduced swelling in the joints, healed worn cartilage and aided in the reproduction of joint fluid.
Warnings
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Supplementing a dog's diet with shark cartilage threatens the shark population and can put a dent in the wallet. Environmental concerns, cost, availability and effectiveness often lead veterinarians to recommend alternate supplements. Sea cucumber, bovine cartilage or the shellfish Perna canaliculus treat inflammatory conditions at a fraction of the cost of shark cartilage.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Dog on Beach with Stick image by Jennifer Barnes from Fotolia.com
