TOP 4 SIGNS VETS LOOK FOR THAT MAY SIGNAL COLLAGEN LOSS IN PETS

As pet owners, we all desire our furry companions to enjoy an active and healthy life. However, navigating the seemingly endless options at the pet store can leave even the most devoted dog or cat parent feeling bewildered. Is grain-free food a better choice for your four-legged friend? Should you opt for wet or dry food for your cat? And what about supplements like glucosamine and fish oil? Do our pets need them, and if so, which one is right for their age and needs? Then there’s the surge of collagen products, from treats and rawhides to powders and bone broths, all claiming to support your pet’s joints and coat. But do they genuinely deliver on these promises?

To address these pressing questions surrounding pet collagen, we sat down with Dr. John A. Giannone, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine based in Newport Beach, CA, with over four decades of experience in the field. Dr. Giannone is an Associate Alumnus of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and a member of esteemed organizations like the American Animal Hospital Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, California Veterinary Medical Association, and Modere Scientific Advisory Board.

Collagen has become a major wellness buzzword, not just for humans but for animals as well. What’s all the fuss about? Much like humans, animals possess collagen fibers throughout their bodies. Collagen resides in the connective tissue of their joints, ligaments, and tendons, playing a crucial role in maintaining these body parts’ flexibility and fluidity. It also serves as a safeguard against strain. However, as pets age, collagen levels naturally decline. This reduction leads to a decrease in the elasticity of your pet’s ligaments and tendons. Consequently, tendons become stiffer and lose their ability to respond effectively to stress.

Let’s illustrate it this way: Imagine jumping using a bungee cord – you have elasticity and a recoil effect. However, if you were to jump from a ledge using a rope, it would snap under the pressure. Tendons and ligaments share similarities; when there’s enough collagen present, the elasticity is preserved. The ligament can stretch, spring back, and prevent potential injuries.

So, when pet owners are looking for joint health solutions for their pets, is collagen the primary ingredient to focus on? Collagen is indeed crucial, but it’s not the sole component to consider. Hyaluronic acid, or HA, represents another vital part of your pet’s joints and connective tissue. HA is found in the joint fluid, known as synovial fluid, which functions as a cushion, similar to a water balloon.

In addition to collagen and hyaluronic acid, pet joints also rely on chondroitin sulfate, a natural element within joint cartilage that contributes to its shock-absorbing properties.

Is there a specific supplement that combines these three key components? Currently, most pet joint and skin health products on the market don’t contain all three of these essential ingredients. However, I’ve come across and wholeheartedly recommend Liquid BioCell® Pet. This exceptional supplement comprises collagen, HA, and chondroitin sulfate, sourced from sustainable chicken sternal cartilage. What makes it even more remarkable is that these ingredients undergo a patented Bio-Optimized™ process to achieve the optimal molecular weight for maximum absorption.

Does this enhanced bioavailability make it more effective? Absolutely. Multiple double-blind clinical trials involving humans have demonstrated that Liquid BioCell increases hyaluronic acid levels in the body, resulting in decreased joint discomfort. Remarkably, the composition of canine and feline joint cartilage closely resembles that of humans, underscoring its safety and effectiveness for our pets.

Liquid BioCell is formulated as a liquid. Does this liquid form offer any advantages over other pet supplement delivery methods, such as chews, pills, or powders? The liquid form of Liquid BioCell Pet holds significant benefits. It boasts high bioavailability and rapid absorption. This form is also incredibly convenient for pet owners. Unlike pills or powders, which can be challenging to administer, Liquid BioCell Pet’s delectable taste ensures that pets willingly take it directly or when mixed with their food.

How can pet owners determine whether their dog or cat requires a joint health supplement? An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and most adult pets can benefit from collagen, HA, and chondroitin sulfate supplementation. However, if your pet is already experiencing occasional joint discomfort, it may signal a potential collagen loss. Certain breeds are particularly prone to such discomfort. Dachshunds and French Bulldogs, for instance, may experience occasional joint discomfort in their vertebral columns. Smaller breeds like Yorkies and Toy Poodles may encounter knee discomfort. In larger breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, close attention should be paid to the hips and knee ligaments, as these dogs engage in rigorous activities, including running, playing fetch, and pivoting in circles.

Eye health is another aspect to consider. Collagen and hyaluronic acid are present in the vitreous humor, the fluid found in the back of the eye. Certain breeds, such as Poodles, Pekinese, and Boston Terriers, may benefit from collagen and HA supplementation to support their eye health.

The condition of your pet’s coat can also provide insights into their collagen levels. Collagen and HA are essential components of skin. When a pet’s coat is dry and their skin is dehydrated, they tend to shed more.

Lastly, dental health is another indicator. Your pet’s mouth features connective tissue in the gums that anchor their teeth in place, known as the periodontal