Happy National Take a Hike Day! As you have probably heard us say before, hiking can be a great exercise for both people and dogs to help control symptoms of osteoarthritis.

We frequently discuss the benefits of regular, low-impact exercise for dogs. Walking can be very beneficial when it comes to joint health. Low-impact exercise can lubricate joints and strengthen muscles, two benefits that may delay the onset or reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Hiking can be a good way to mix up your regular walks around the neighborhood.

While hiking can be fun and beneficial for both dog and owner, it is best to check with your veterinarian before embarking on any major hikes. Experts agree that regular, short-interval exercise is key, as opposed to doing one big activity on the weekends, such as a long or strenuous hike. That being said, there are many hiking trails that are shorter and less strenuous. It’s a good idea to do your research to find a hike suited to your dog’s athletic ability.

Our very own founder and CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, spends his spare time hiking with his border collie, Mick. As an avid hiker, Dr. Harman sometimes spends several days hiking and camping in the mountains in and around California. With his experience and passion for the sport, Dr. Harman offers advice for hikers of all levels: Choose your trail and map out your hike before you leave the house. This will ensure you know what to expect on your hike so you can prepare yourself and your dog accordingly. Always make sure to pack enough water and a snack or two for both yourself and your canine companion. Keep an eye out for signs of fatigue, dehydration, or discomfort in your dog. If you notice any concerning signs, it may be best to turn back before finishing the hike. You can always try again another day!

Happy trails, my friends!

As you may know, VetStem has worked with multiple exotic animal organizations to provide stem cell therapy to several exotic species including elephants, bears, numerous aquatic animals, and big cats, just to name a few. These animals have been treated for everything from orthopedic conditions to viral diseases to organ failure to traumatic injuries and more. Given our great deal of experience, it’s no wonder that VetStem CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, was recently invited to participate in the first of its kind stem cell workshop supporting wildlife conservation.

The Stem Cell Technology for Genetic Rescue Workshop was held on September 17-20, 2023, in La Jolla, California. The workshop brought together 45 global leaders in stem cell science to share their experience and expertise and to discuss how stem cell technology can further wildlife conservation efforts. Not only did Dr. Harman bring real life experiences to the discussion, VetStem was also a sponsor of the workshop.

At VetStem, we take our job very seriously when it comes to the research and development of innovative regenerative medicine treatments for animals and diseases that have minimal treatment options. Maintaining the health and well-being of endangered exotic animals is particularly crucial and has become a community effort.

While our primary goal is to bring relief to the animals that need it, there is potential that stored stem cells may aid in wildlife conservation efforts down the line. VetStem has the ability to cryopreserve stem cells and currently has a bank of stem cells from over 40 different exotic animal species. We are happy to contribute to the mission and will continue our own research to develop potentially life-saving stem cell treatments for these animals.

Today, November 3^rd, is One Health Day. According to the One Health Commission, “One Health Day answers the urgent need for a One Health trans-disciplinary approach towards solving today’s critical global health challenges.” At VetStem, we have seen this idea of “one health” in action with the creation of our human company, Personalized Stem Cells, Inc.

Personalized Stem Cells (PSC) was formed in 2018 to bring legitimate stem cell therapies to people. PSC used all of VetStem’s animal data to receive approval for two FDA approved stem cell clinical trials. The first clinical trial was for knee osteoarthritis in people, a condition that numerous dogs have received VetStem Cell Therapy for. The second clinical trial utilized VetStem’s intravenous injection data to receive approval to treat COVID-19 patients. Both clinical trials demonstrated solid safety and preliminary efficacy.

Moving forward, PSC plans to pursue an additional clinical trial for knee osteoarthritis, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) trial, and more! Additionally, PSC has the ability to bank stem cells for potential future use, much like VetStem’s StemInsure program. There are a few different programs through the FDA that may allow patients to access their stem cells.

But One Health has worked both ways for us. Interestingly enough, the success of the COVID-19 trial gave us the idea to use stem cells in the treatment of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV). EEHV is a lethal viral infection that can cause a highly fatal hemorrhagic disease in elephants. VetStem has provided stem cell doses to several zoos in the United States who had elephants with EEHV and has gathered some promising data.

All of that is to say that at VetStem, we know a thing or two about One Health and we’re happy to bring awareness to this cause.