Although some would say they are poisonous to dogs, avocados are now being used as an effective natural treatment for dog arthritis.
Avocados are considered dangerous to dogs because they contain a toxin called persin. And even more unfortunately, the variety of avocado most toxic to dogs — the Guatemalan — is the most common variety found in US supermarkets. Hence the continued veterinary cautiousness about administering anything containing traces of avocado to dogs. Avocados can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation in canines, including vomiting and diarrhea.
However in limited amounts, avocado products can help fight dog arthritis. Just like human medicines that may use small amounts of toxic substances for a medicinal effect, there is a canine joint supplement called Dasuquin which contains avocado (and soybean) extract as what are called Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU).
Dog arthritis
Dog arthritis affects about 20% of adult dogs and about 90% of old dogs, and is particularly prevalent in large dogs. It mostly affects older dogs, and being overweight and not exercising enough can contribute to the condition. Younger dogs can also be affected by arthritis, especially breeds that are genetically predisposed to arthritic conditions such as hip dysplasia.
Arthritis limits your dog’s mobility, and also impacts his ability to enjoy life. Because of his reduced mobility, it’s more difficult for him to exercise, which puts him at higher risk of developing illnesses related to sedentary living.
Dasuquin
A leading supplement being used to fight dog arthritis is Dasuquin, which contains avocado extracts. Dasuquin works to promote cartilage production and slow down the deterioration of joints.
Dasuquin contains avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) – the avocado present in the supplement is in small amounts that are proving to be quite safe. Researchers believe that avocados have anti-inflammatory properties that will greatly reduce stiffness and pain associated with dog arthritis.
Combined with the supplement’s other ingredients, including glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM, Dasuquin is very effective in treating arthritis in canines, when used in conjunction with physical therapy and other treatments recommended by a veterinarian.
With correct diagnosis and care, dog arthritis doesn’t have to limit your pet’s quality or length of life. Ask your veterinarian about the best options for your dog.
Watch: Pick your poison: Avocados found effective for dog arthritis treatment
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Tags: canine dietary supplement; canine joint supplement, Dasuquin, dog arthritis, dog arthritis treatment, dog joint health, dog joint supplement, Dog Joint Supplements
[...] Avocados are seasonal, but in small amounts have been proven to ease arthritis symptoms in dogs. And for humans, it’s an anti-inflammatory [...]
What do you think of Dasuquin?
I think it is great Jennifer. It has all the great ingredients of the other high end nutraceuticals but on top of this has the avocado soybean extracts. No other supplement has these (except for the human versions of Dasuquin by the same company). It can be expensive BUT the maintenance dose is half the starting dose and in some dogs you can even get away with giving it every second day. This makes it not so bad
Having said that I would not rely on it exclusively – it is only a part of the dog arthritis puzzle. Thanks for your question and let me know how you go if you try it.
[...] on September 13, 2010 by dogarthritisdoc Although some would say they are poisonous to dogs, avocados are now being used as an effective natural treatment for dog arthritis. This entry was posted in pets and tagged canine dietary supplement; canine [...]