We are back from another trip to Las Vegas for the annual Western Veterinary Conference (WVC). WVC is one of the largest veterinary conferences in the field and VetStem has exhibited at this show for nearly 20 years.

Trade shows like WVC provide us with a platform to engage with and inform veterinarians and veterinary technicians from all over the country about the benefits of VetStem Cell Therapy and how to integrate it into their clinical practice. These events offer an excellent opportunity to connect with both current and prospective clients to discuss all things regenerative medicine.

The attendance this year was record breaking at over 20,000 people. We thoroughly enjoyed engaging in conversations with our colleagues and fellow animal lovers. And of course we loved getting to meet all sorts of cute animals! Enjoy some pictures from the show below.

As Veterinary Assistant Appreciation Week comes to an end, we would like to recognize the invaluable contributions of these professionals in the world of animal care. Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of veterinary clinics and hospitals, providing essential support to veterinarians and technicians. From comforting anxious pets to assisting with surgical procedures, their dedication and compassion are apparent in every aspect of their work.

Beyond their technical skills, veterinary assistants often serve as a reassuring presence for both animals and their people, offering empathy and support during challenging times. This week is an opportunity for us all to express gratitude for their hard work and unwavering commitment to the well-being of animals.

At VetStem, numerous members of our team began their careers as veterinary assistants. This foundational experience facilitated a seamless transition into the field of regenerative veterinary medicine. The dedication and diligence inherent in their roles as veterinary assistants continues to translate into their work at VetStem.

Whether it’s cleaning kennels, administering medications, or assisting veterinarians and owners with stem cell questions, veterinary assistants demonstrate a level of devotion that deserves recognition and appreciation. Let’s celebrate their vital role in the veterinary field and express our heartfelt thanks for the compassion and care they bring to their work every single day.

As responsible pet owners, we often seek ways to safeguard the health and well-being of our canine companions throughout their lives. We vaccinate them as puppies and put them on high quality diets and supplements to keep them as healthy as possible. We invest in pet insurance to ensure they receive the best care possible. But what if there was another way to help insure your dog’s future?

The VetStem StemInsure is a cutting-edge service that harnesses the power of stem cells for potential future use. StemInsure allows pet owners to store a sample of their pet’s own stem cells while they are still healthy. This proactive approach holds the key to unlocking a myriad of health benefits and addressing potential challenges that may arise later in their lives.

Stem cells are the body’s natural healing cells. They can reduce inflammation, pain, and even lead to tissue regeneration. Storing these cells when your dog is young serves as a strategic investment in their future health. Young dogs typically possess a higher concentration of robust and healthy stem cells, making the preservation process more effective. This bank of youthful stem cells can be a valuable resource for addressing a wide range of health issues that may emerge as your dog ages, from joint problems to degenerative conditions.

Furthermore, the act of storing stem cells early in your dog’s life provides a unique opportunity to customize and personalize their healthcare journey. As each dog is an individual with its own genetic makeup and predispositions, having a bank of their own stem cells allows veterinarians to tailor treatment plans specifically to your furry friend. This targeted approach can lead to more effective outcomes, whether the need arises for regenerative therapy due to injury, surgery, or the management of chronic conditions.

Storing stem cells for your dog may help to ensure a healthier and happier life for your beloved pet. By securing this “stem cell insurance” while they are young, you are taking a proactive and personalized approach towards giving your dog the best possible chance at a vibrant and active life throughout the years.

Learn more about StemInsure on the VetStem website or watch a brief video here.

February is National Cat Health Month, a time to bring awareness to the well-being of our feline companions. This month, emphasis is placed on regular veterinary check-ups to help ensure that our cats lead happy, healthy lives. Unfortunately, several studies in the last decade have demonstrated that as many as 50% or more of cat owners do not take their cat to the vet regularly.

While there are several potential reasons that cats tend to visit the vet less, one reason commonly cited by owners is the belief that their cat is in excellent health and is never sick or injured. As you may know, cats can be masters at hiding their pain. So, while you may think they are perfectly healthy, there can be subtle signs of sickness or pain that are easy to miss if you’re not looking closely. One example is pain from osteoarthritis (OA).

For years, osteoarthritis in cats has been underdiagnosed when compared to dogs. One reason for this is that cats with OA present with different symptoms than what we see in dogs. Because of their smaller size and natural agility, cats tend to tolerate bone and joint problems better than dogs. But there are specific symptoms to watch out for.

According to the FDA, “Clinical signs of osteoarthritis in cats include weight loss, loss of appetite, depression, change in general attitude, poor grooming habits, urination or defecation outside the litter pan, and inability to jump on and off objects.” Unlike dogs, cats do not commonly present with lameness or limping. Instead, they will be less willing to jump and/or have shorter jumps.

Unfortunately, there are fewer treatment options for cats with OA compared to dogs. Unlike dogs, cats do not tolerate nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain medications very well. In the U.S., there are only two NSAIDs approved for short-term post-operative use in cats, and there are currently no veterinary NSAIDs approved for safe, long-term use to control osteoarthritis pain in cats. There are some non-drug options including weight loss for overweight cats, increased exercise, as well as environmental accommodations such as elevated food bowls and more easily accessible litter boxes.

That’s where VetStem Cell Therapy comes in. Stem cells are a non-drug treatment option for osteoarthritis, which can be particularly beneficial for cats given that effective treatment options to control OA pain are extremely limited. Stem cells have shown the ability to directly modulate pain and down-regulate inflammation. Additionally, stem cells can induce repair and stimulate regeneration of cartilage and other joint tissues. VetStem Cell Therapy harnesses your cat’s own healing abilities, so it can be considered a natural and holistic approach to managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

If you think your cat may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers in your area.