How good is glucosamine and chondroitin for hip dysplasia?
My dog was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. I read online that a supplement of glucosamine and chondroitin could make a difference. I talked to the vet and he said it was okay, but he tried to sell me Cosequin, which costs $40. I was wondering if there’s a cheaper option? There are many store brands of that supplement that cost a lot less, but they are intended for human use. Can I use them for my 11 pound baby dog? I want to start giving them to him asap, but I’m really broke and can’t afford the $40 Cosequin. Is there any difference between Cosequin and store brands? Please help me.
December 17th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Unfortunetly, with a dog that size the human supplements are not going to work. They can be used in the bigger (60 + lbs) dogs, but not little ones, because when you cut them that small you have no clue the actual drug concentration in each piece. There are, however, over the counter gluc/chon. supplements sold at places like petco and petsmart. They don’t work quite as well, but they are probably a little cheaper. I would also look into Synovi brand, this is what my 13 year old lab is on and it works great for her, we get it through my vet, but i’m pretty sure you can buy it at petco too. Good luck!
December 17th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
the human combo is just fine. you want the one with msm too. find the one that has no “mg’s” on it & use a third of a pill a day to start.
My vet recommended half for my 20#er. make sure to check the exp date.
I used it to cure my dogs ACL tear. did just fine
December 17th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
We use an all natural human grade supplement called Dr. Maggies Joint Supplement for dogs and cats. It’s expensive (120 tabs for $60) but it has made a HUGE difference in our 13+yr old Golden’s mobility. He gets 4 tabs a day with his meal.
The key to this product is the addition of Vitamin C to help the Glucosamine Hydrochloride become fully digested, thus providing the utmost benefit to the dog.
I have spoken to numerous vets who say that Glucosamine Sulfate(more commonly found and used) is virtually peed out by the dog and not as helpful as once thought. It must be the hydrochloride and the Vit C combination.
I hope this helps you.
December 17th, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Save your money. It doesn’t work for dogs or people. Dysplasia is a medical/physical. It’d be like trying to treat a broken leg with motrin. Cosequin isn’t any better. Aspirin works. Usually your best option is surgery.
December 17th, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Try Healthspan. (www.healthspan.co.uk) and they will give you any information. They are in Guernsey which is tax free and they do free postage
Hope this helps a bit