The Science Behind our Supplements

The Science Behind our Supplements

As pet owners ourselves, we understand the importance of needing to give your dog the best

When we first set out to develop JOINTSURE, lots of traditional veterinary supplements on the market were using a selection of our ingredients, or promoting the use of multiple supplements to be used alongside each other. Not great when you’re trying to hide multiple oral tablets in your dog's dinner… 

Lots of these doggy supplements on the market were good, but not great. We knew there was a better way. 

So, we scoured the latest science, delved into the most up to date research studies and with a little help from our vets, came up with a mix of 7 essential ingredients that would all work in tandem to support canine joint health. 

Our combination of ingredients all work together to soothe joint stiffness, support joint stability and maintain joint mobility, so your dog can stay active, mobile and healthy, even well into their old age.  

So, what are they? In this article we take a deep dive into each of our 7 ingredients and the science that backs them up.

Our ingredients 

Glucosamine

Present in all mammals, glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage, which is the tough tissue that cushions and supports joints. 

Glucosamine is used by the body (including your furry friends’) to build cartilage and support the healthy development of synovial fluid in between and surrounding joints. 

Studies have found that taking glucosamine supplements have been found to reduce joint pain and slow disease progression for osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis in dogs). 

Green lipped mussel extract

This wonder supplement really is what it says on the tin—extract taken from the green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), a shellfish from New Zealand that’s a popular local culinary delight.

The properties and nutrients of the green lipped mussel, including glycosaminoglycans, the omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins E and C and essential minerals zinc, copper and manganese, may help decrease swelling and inflammation. 

Several studies have shown the effectiveness of green lipped mussel extract for use in arthritic dogs, including this 2009 study which showed significant improvement in pain compared to the placebo group

Natural chondroitin

Another natural compound found in cartilage, chondroitin is commonly used alongside glucosamine to support the healthy functioning of joints. The longest and most comprehensive study on its effectiveness was the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) which reported improved pain and function with the use of both supplements. 

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in your dog's eyes, skin and importantly, the synovial fluid surrounding your dog’s joints. This fluid helps to lubricate and cushion the joints, acting as a shock absorber for all that playing, running and jumping. 

Oral hyaluronic acid supplements have been found to improve osteoarthritis in dogs and synovial fluid biomarkers. 

Vitamin C & E

Vitamins C and E are both essential vitamins for the healthy functioning of the (canine) body. They’re also antioxidants, which work to neutralise free radicals which can cause disease, illness and ageing. These vitamins will also boost your dog's immune system and general wellbeing.

Manganese

Manganese is a vital trace element for canine health that activates the enzymes dogs need to absorb and digest other nutrients and boost metabolic functions. It also assists in the building of cartilage and collagen formation and improves your dog's uptake of glucosamine. 

Low manganese levels can seriously impact long-term health and lots of dog food brands don’t contain enough—which is why we’ve added a manganese boost to keep your dog boosted. 

Made for pets, endorsed by vets 

When developing JOINTSURE, we worked alongside UK based veterinarians to ensure the highest quality, purity and correct dosage of our supplements. All of our products are manufactured right here in the UK, using human grade ingredients that all meet the GMP standards and internationally recognised ISO 9001 certification. 

With us, you can be certain that we have your dog’s wellbeing at heart. If you have any concerns, it’s best to always speak to your vet regarding your individual dogs’ health, before introducing a supplement to their diet. 

If you have any questions at all about any of our listed ingredients, you can reach out to us at any time at support@vetwellscientific.co.uk.