Mountain Wags Newsletter #4: Supplemental Glucosamine for your Pet

Autumn has arrived and with it comes that bite in the air. The change in weather can cause our people joints to ache even more than usual and your dog's joints are no different.

Fortunately, glucosamine supplements can make a world of a difference in that department for your beloved pooch. Whether they're senior dogs, injured dogs, or sensitive dogs (hip issues, large breed, etc.) the results we see from glucosamine supplementation are very positive, allowing your dog to be his best, healthiest self!

But there are a TON of different options out there and it can often be challenging to distinguish which option is the best for your pet.

That's where we come in. We want to give you a quick break down to help you decide which option could work best for your furry friend:

1) Liquid

PROS: It's easy to measure out, pour on your dog's food, and is a quick delivery method to get glucosamine into his system. It's also one of the more cost effective routes.

CONS: However, the downside is that for the pickier dog, he may not like the taste of it and, therefore, not eat his food/get the supplemental glucosamine he needs. Also, typically need to store in the fridge

2) Chewable Tablets

PROS: Again, a more cost effective route (typically) with a wide variety of potency levels - equals great flexibility. Good for a younger, large breed dog that needs a small dosage of glucosamine for preventative measures, all the way up to your very elderly dog that doesn't do well without his high dosage of glucosamine daily. Don't need to store in the fridge. Faster - don't have to measure out like liquid or powder, just grab the pill(s) your dog needs and put in food or give as a "treat."

CONS: While more picky dogs tend to like the chewable tablets, still not every dog will eat them. Also, if dog has dental issues, can be difficult to chew.

3) Powder

PROS: Good for pickier dogs - easy to subtly sprinkle over food and especially easy to mix into wet food if you add wet food to your dog's diet. A lot of options don't need to be refrigerated. Still a more cost effective route.

CONS: Again, for those especially picky dogs, they still may not eat their food, even if it's mixed in with wet food - depends on how particular the dog is. Some have to be refrigerated. Have to measure out each time administer - not as time efficient.

4) Glucosamine Treats

PROS: For those especially picky dogs, this is often the only way you can get glucosamine in their system. Comes in a variety of different flavors and options, so can even mix up flavors for the extra selective dog.

CONS: Not as cost effective as the three above options.

That's a small synopsis of a number of glucosamine options out there - all of which we have in the store. If you still have questions, just pop in for a visit.

We're happy to help further evaluate and suggest a more tailored option for your dog. We know that each dog is unique with different needs, likes, and requirements and would love to help you find the best fit.

**Please keep in mind that the information we provide in our newsletters is a guide only - we are not a veterinary clinic. Any advice/suggestions do not substitute for personal professional veterinary advice/visits.**