At VetStem, we often talk about the incredible healing power of stem cells, but today let’s take a closer look at how stem cells actually help heal the body, especially when it comes to orthopedic conditions like osteoarthritis in dogs and cats.

Beyond the Band-Aid: True Healing Starts at the Source

Traditional treatments for osteoarthritis, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can help manage pain and inflammation, but they’re essentially a band-aid. While these medications may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of the problem: the degeneration of joint tissues like cartilage.

That’s where regenerative medicine, and specifically stem cell therapy, offers something truly different.

So How Do Stem Cells Work?

Stem cells are nature’s repair system. When your pet’s own stem cells are concentrated and reintroduced into the body through VetStem Cell Therapy, they go to work in several key ways:

• Tissue Regeneration: Stem cells can transform into various cell types, helping to replace damaged cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.
• Anti-Inflammatory Action: They help calm the immune system and reduce inflammation in the joints, leading to less pain and stiffness.
• Growth Factor Release: Stem cells secrete healing molecules that stimulate tissue repair and attract other healing cells to the injured area.

In other words, stem cells don’t just cover up the pain—they help rebuild what’s broken.

Think of Stem Cells Like Paramedics

Imagine stem cells as highly skilled paramedics arriving at the scene of an injury. Once injected into an arthritic joint, these cells go straight to work: reducing inflammation, cleaning up cellular debris, and helping rebuild healthy tissue. The more concentrated the “team,” the stronger the healing response.

And once the job is done, the stem cells naturally taper off their activity. There’s no ongoing medication or artificial interference, just your pet’s own body healing itself, the way it was designed to do.

A Powerful Option for Pets in Pain

If your dog is slowing down on walks or your cat is struggling to jump like they used to, osteoarthritis might be the cause. VetStem Cell Therapy offers a powerful, drug-free way to treat the source of the pain, not just the symptoms, giving your pet a better quality of life and more mobility.

Contact us for a list of VetStem providers near you.

While arthritis is often associated with aging dogs, many cat owners are surprised to learn that arthritis is also very common in cats. In fact, studies suggest that up to 90% of cats over the age of 10 have some degree of arthritis in at least one joint. Despite its prevalence, feline arthritis is significantly underdiagnosed, largely because cats are masters at hiding pain and discomfort. Without obvious limping or vocal signs of distress, arthritis in cats can easily go unnoticed.

Signs to Watch For

Recognizing arthritis in cats requires close observation. Rather than limping, arthritic cats may exhibit more subtle behavioral changes. These can include weight loss, loss of appetite, decreased activity, hesitation to jump or climb stairs, changes in grooming habits, irritability, and even litter box avoidance if climbing into the box becomes painful. Many pet parents mistake these signs for normal aging, but they may be indicators of joint pain that can be addressed with veterinary care. Fortunately, several organizations have created various resources and checklists to help determine if your cat may be in pain.

Limited Conventional Treatment Options

When it comes to treating feline arthritis, options are unfortunately limited. Unlike in dogs, there are no non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are approved for long-term use in cats due to their sensitivity to these medications. Other treatments like joint supplements and weight management can offer some relief, but they may not be enough for cats with moderate to severe arthritis. This gap in effective long-term treatment options has left many cat owners searching for alternative therapies.

VetStem Cell Therapy for Feline Arthritis

VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy offers a promising alternative for cats suffering from arthritis. This innovative treatment uses the cat’s own fat-derived stem cells to help reduce inflammation and promote healing within the affected joints. After a simple fat collection procedure performed by a veterinarian, the stem cells are processed and injected into the painful joints. Many veterinarians and cat owners have reported improved mobility, reduced pain, and a better quality of life following treatment with stem cells. For arthritic cats with limited treatment options, VetStem Cell Therapy may provide new hope.

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 near you.

At VetStem, we’re joining the conversation this May for Arthritis Awareness Month—but with a twist: we’re putting pets in the spotlight. Just like humans, our beloved animals can suffer from the aches and stiffness of arthritis. In fact, it’s one of the most common chronic conditions diagnosed in dogs with approximately one in five dogs being affected. As for cats, it is estimated that 90% of cats over the age of 10 years experience arthritis in at least one joint.

Unfortunately, our furry companions can’t tell us when they’re hurting. And cats are especially good at hiding their pain. Instead, they may show subtle signs: limping, difficulty climbing stairs, decreased activity, or even changes in mood. That’s why awareness is so important! Check out our previous blog in which we discuss signs of pain and provide several resources to help pet owners determine if their pet may be in pain.

The good news? There are treatment options that go beyond pain medications, which often come with negative side-effects. At VetStem, we specialize in regenerative veterinary medicine, including stem cell therapy, and have helped thousands of pets experience relief from joint pain and regain mobility. Many pets have even been able to reduce or discontinue their use of anti-inflammatory medications. If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with stem cells, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of providers near you.

So this month, take a moment to check in with your pet. If you notice signs of arthritis, talk to your vet about treatment options—because they deserve to feel their best, too. Let’s make Arthritis Awareness Month about all members of the family—two-legged and four.

At VetStem, we are proud to celebrate World Veterinary Day 2025 and this year’s theme, “Animal Health Takes a Team.” As leaders in veterinary regenerative medicine, we know firsthand that improving animal health is not a solo endeavor. It’s a collaborative effort that brings together veterinarians, technicians, assistants, researchers, and even policy-makers—all working together to ensure the best possible outcomes for the animals in our care.

At VetStem, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with veterinary teams across the country—combining their clinical expertise with our cutting-edge regenerative therapies to improve the quality of life for thousands of animals. Whether it’s treating osteoarthritis in a beloved pet or contributing to research that advances veterinary medicine, these collaborative efforts highlight the strength of teamwork, where science and compassionate care come together for the benefit of our animal companions.

It’s important to remember that animal health is directly connected to public health. Healthy animals contribute to healthier communities, and veterinary professionals are on the front lines in preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases to protect both animal and human health. This World Veterinary Day, we celebrate not only the veterinarians but the entire ecosystem of professionals who work together to advance animal care. Your dedication and collaboration make cutting-edge treatments like regenerative medicine possible.

Walter Beaux is a dedicated working service dog who works alongside Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS, and Military teams across the U.S. specializing in psychological debriefs, physical therapy, and training. Unfortunately, Walter began experiencing gastrointestinal issues that disrupted his career. After consulting with his veterinarian, Dr. Robert Landry of CCAPM Veterinary Care Center, Walter was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition that causes chronic inflammation of the intestines, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, inappetence, and weight loss.

Dr. Landry, an experienced regenerative medicine provider, recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy under our IBD clinical research program. Stem cells have demonstrated the ability to migrate to areas of inflammation, down-regulate inflammation, modulate the immune system, stimulate neoangiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and repair damaged tissue. Additionally, multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that intravenous administration of adipose derived stem cells could ameliorate the clinical signs of IBD.

Walter was initially treated with one intravenous (IV) dose of his own stem cells, followed by a second IV dose two weeks later. Since his initial treatment, Walter has been receiving additional IV injections every 3 to 4 months as part of an “aggressive” treatment protocol designed for patients with severe cases of IBD.

Walter’s owner reported that the stem cell treatments were successful, and since the first treatment, he has been able to return to his career. His mom stated, “His gastro issues are in full remission and no longer dominating his life. He fetches his work pack on days off and is eager to deploy. At home he is back to hiking. Life is wonderful again!”

Walter is not our only IBD success story! Check out the stories of Casey, Finn, and Gryffin, who all saw an improvement in their symptoms following treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy.

If your dog (or cat!) has IBD VetStem Cell Therapy may help! Speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Walter

Today is National Pet Day—a day to celebrate the joy, love, and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. At VetStem, we believe every pet deserves a long, healthy, and happy life. That’s why we are committed to providing innovative treatments, like stem cell therapy, to help pets achieve their best quality of life.

As advancements in veterinary medicine continue, one of the most promising and groundbreaking areas of treatment is regenerative medicine, specifically stem cell therapy. Regenerative medicine focuses on harnessing the body’s natural ability to heal itself, and stem cell therapy is leading the charge in this exciting field. In fact, it’s changing the way we approach common pet health issues like arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, and more.

Stem cells have shown the ability to reduce inflammation and pain, differentiate into many tissue types, promote healing of damaged tissues, and even modulate the immune system. This makes them a potential treatment option for a number of diseases and injuries our pets may face throughout their lifetime. Unlike traditional treatments like pain medications, NSAIDs, and steroids, stem cell therapy offers a more natural alternative, as it utilizes the animal’s own stem cells for healing in dogs, cats, and horses. In fact, many patients have been able to reduce or completely stop the use of medications after receiving stem cell therapy.

At VetStem, we are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting field, helping pets of all shapes and sizes live better lives. With years of research and experience, our veterinary partners have successfully treated thousands of pets using VetStem Cell Therapy. So, this National Pet Day, consider giving your pet the gift of improved health and well-being. If your pet is suffering from arthritis, an injury, or other chronic conditions, stem cell therapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Contact us today to learn more about VetStem Cell Therapy and to find a VetStem provider near you.

As a pet owner, you always want what’s best for your furry friend, especially when they face health challenges. One promising treatment is VetStem Cell Therapy, which has shown great success in treating a variety of conditions in pets, including arthritis, soft tissue injuries, and a number of other diseases. But is stem cell therapy the right option for your pet? There are several important factors to consider before deciding to move forward with stem cell therapy.

The first thing to discuss with your veterinarian is your pet’s specific condition. Stem cell therapy can be highly effective in treating injuries, inflammation, and degenerative diseases, such as partial tears of the cruciate ligament and osteoarthritis. If your pet suffers from chronic pain or mobility issues, stem cells may help regenerate damaged tissues and reduce inflammation and pain, leading to improved movement and a better quality of life. Speak with your veterinarian to determine if your pet’s condition may benefit from stem cell therapy.

Another key factor to consider is your pet’s age and overall health. While pets of all ages have benefited from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, it’s important to note that your dog or cat will have to undergo anesthesia to collect their fat tissue in a minimally invasive procedure. If they have other serious medical conditions, the vet may need to weigh potential benefits of treatment vs. the potential risks of anesthesia. Additionally, cancer is one condition that is contraindicated with VetStem Cell Therapy. We generally recommend that pets with active or recent cancer do not receive stem cell therapy.

Lastly, it’s essential to understand that every patient reacts differently to stem cell therapy and not all outcomes look the same. The success of stem cell therapy varies depending on the condition, severity, and individual pet, but the results can and have been life-changing for thousands of animals. By consulting with your veterinarian and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that’s right for both your pet and your family.

At VetStem, our ongoing commitment to advancing stem cell research has led to the development of “Clinical Research Programs” for specific conditions where we believe stem cell therapy could offer significant benefits, yet where clinical data is still limited. These programs are designed to gather essential data to assess the effectiveness of stem cell treatments for these conditions. One of the most popular programs we offer focuses on canine back pain.

Understanding Canine Back Pain

“Canine back pain” is an umbrella term that refers to pain experienced anywhere along a dog’s back. Given the complexity of the spine, back pain in dogs can stem from a variety of causes, making diagnosis both challenging and costly. The pain could be linked to issues with spinal structures, nerves, or the surrounding soft tissues, and pinpointing the exact source of the discomfort can be difficult.

The Rise of Stem Cell Therapy for Back Pain

In recent years, cell therapy has gained attention as a treatment for lower back pain in humans. While much of the research has focused on intradiscal injections, newer, less invasive methods have emerged, including injections into the muscles surrounding the spine. Stem cells have shown promise in reducing inflammation and modulating pain, leading to improved comfort and mobility for those suffering from spinal issues.

Success Stories from VetStem’s Canine Back Pain Program

Numerous dogs have benefited from VetStem Cell Therapy for back pain, with many veterinarians and pet owners reporting significant improvements. For example:

• Sam, a German Shepherd with spinal arthritis, experienced increased mobility and improved activity levels following treatment.
• Bella and Bailee, both diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), showed positive outcomes after receiving VetStem Cell Therapy.
• Jojo, a dog with limited mobility in her back legs due to IVDD, was able to stop using her wheelchair after receiving VetStem Cell Therapy!

These success stories highlight the potential for stem cells to improve the lives of dogs suffering from back pain and related conditions.

Stem Cell Therapy for Dogs: Still Evolving

While there is a growing body of positive data supporting stem cell treatments for back and spinal conditions in humans, the use of stem cells for back pain in dogs is still in its early stages. It’s important to remember that the canine spine is a highly intricate structure, and while stem cells may help in many cases, they may not be the solution for every condition.

If your dog is experiencing back pain, we encourage you to consult with your veterinarian to determine if VetStem Cell Therapy might be a viable treatment option. With continued research and positive outcomes, we are hopeful that stem cell therapy will become an increasingly effective tool in improving the quality of life for dogs suffering from back pain.

Need to find a VetStem provider? Contact us today!

A few weeks ago, we discussed canine hip dysplasia and how VetStem Cell Therapy can help alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. Another common issue, especially in large breed dogs, is elbow dysplasia. Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia occurs when the three bones of the elbow joint do not fit together perfectly, causing abnormal rubbing which results in pain, lameness, and eventually, arthritic changes.

One of the conditions associated with elbow dysplasia is fragmented coronoid process, or FCP. FCP occurs when one of the bony protrusions in the elbow, known as the coronoid processes, develops a fissure or crack and detaches from the ulna. This results in pain, inflammation, decreased mobility, and swelling. Fortunately, as we know, stem cells have the ability to reduce pain and inflammation, heal damaged joint tissues, and thereby improve quality of life.

One pup, Lucky, was only six months old when he began showing signs of discomfort and lameness. He began limping and struggled to get up from lying down. After a visit to the vet, Lucky was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia and broken bone fragments in his elbows as a result of FCP.

The standard treatment for FCP is surgical removal of the bone fragments and abnormal cartilage. In Lucky’s case, his veterinarian recommended surgery in addition to VetStem Cell Therapy. Though surgery can provide some relief and joint stability to patients with FCP, most dogs will still develop some degree of arthritis. When used in conjunction with surgery, stem cells are intended to help slow the progression of arthritis and also help with post-surgical healing.

After treatment, his owner reported a dramatic improvement, noting a significant reduction in pain and a noticeable increase in Lucky’s activity level. Within six weeks, Lucky was jumping on the couch – something he had never done before, and three months later, he was happily playing at the dog park. His owner said, “Lucky was finally able to just be a puppy! Running around at the dog park with other dogs and his older brother Sunny, you can see the smile on his face and his excitement. Since this will be a lifelong condition to manage for Lucky, we are grateful to have stem cells banked for future treatments, to help him live a full life as long as possible, given his young age when this happened.”

To ensure ongoing care for his elbows and other joints, several doses of Lucky’s stem cells were stored in cryopreservation. This is especially important for dogs like Lucky, who will continue to face the challenges of arthritis as they age. In fact, about a year later, Lucky needed double knee surgery due to a partial tear in his cruciate ligament. Using his banked stem cells, Lucky received treatment for both his elbows and his knees. According to his owner, “His elbows are currently stronger than ever and were able to support him during his double knee recovery!”  With these stem cells available for future use, Lucky can continue to lead an active, pain-free life.

If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Lucky

Yesterday, March 13th, was K9 Veterans Day—a day dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifices of American military and working dogs throughout history. This date holds special significance, as it marks the anniversary of March 13, 1942, when dogs first began training for the War Dog program, officially becoming a part of the U.S. Armed Forces.

At VetStem, we’ve had the privilege of helping several working K9s, including Lex, a bomb-sniffing German Shepherd who served two tours in Iraq. Lex’s story is a powerful reminder of the loyalty and sacrifices made by working dogs in service to their human companions.

A Hero’s Legacy: The Story of Lex

In 2007, Lex was on duty in Iraq with his handler and best friend, 20-year-old Corporal Dustin Lee. On March 21, 2007, tragedy struck when a 73 mm rocket explosion hit their base, killing Cpl. Lee. Despite being injured himself, Lex remained by his handler’s side, attempting to protect him even as medics worked to save him. Heartbreakingly, Cpl. Lee passed away shortly after being taken to a nearby hospital, just six weeks before he was due to return home.

Lex suffered serious injuries in the attack, including burns and shrapnel lodged in his back and spine. After returning to the U.S. and attending Cpl. Lee’s funeral, Lex resumed duty at the Marine Corps base in Georgia. However, Cpl. Lee’s family tirelessly petitioned to adopt Lex, and in December 2007, he was officially discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps and went home to Mississippi with his fallen handler’s family.

A Second Chance with VetStem

Lex’s journey didn’t end there. Due to the shrapnel lodged in his body, he developed degenerative joint disease, leading to osteoarthritis, pain, and mobility challenges. Determined to improve his quality of life, Lex’s new family sought the help of Dr. Lee Morgan at Georgetown Veterinary Hospital, who recommended VetStem Cell Therapy.

In 2010, Lex received stem cell injections in his left hip and knee, as well as an intravenous injection. The results were remarkable—Lex regained his mobility and even the ability to climb stairs once again. You can watch a video about Lex here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGvsJWCc9dg

Remembering Our K9 Heroes

On this National K9 Veterans Day, we honor not only Lex but all military and working dogs who have served our country with unwavering loyalty and courage. Their sacrifices and contributions deserve to be remembered and celebrated.

Thank you to all K9 veterans—past and present—for your bravery and service.