June is recognized as National Zoo and Aquarium Month, a time to celebrate the important role accredited zoos and aquariums play in wildlife conservation, scientific research, and environmental education. Across the country, these organizations work tirelessly to protect endangered species, advance animal health, and inspire people of all ages to care about wildlife and the environment.

At VetStem, we are proud to support the health and well-being of animals in human care through regenerative veterinary medicine. Over the years, VetStem Cell Therapy has been used by multiple zoos and aquariums across the United States to help improve quality of life in a wide variety of exotic species. From large mammals and marine animals to birds and reptiles, veterinarians have utilized stem cell therapy to help manage orthopedic injuries, degenerative joint disease, and other painful conditions that can impact mobility and comfort.

Caring for exotic animals often comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to age-related conditions and injuries. Maintaining mobility and reducing discomfort can make a significant difference in an animal’s daily activity and overall welfare. By partnering with zoological and aquarium veterinary teams, VetStem is honored to contribute to innovative treatment options that help support animal health and enhance quality of life.

This National Zoo and Aquarium Month, we celebrate the veterinarians, caretakers, researchers, and conservationists dedicated to protecting wildlife and providing exceptional care to the animals they serve. VetStem is grateful to play a small role in supporting these incredible efforts through regenerative medicine.

Brody, a young Florida Black Bear, received VetStem Cell Therapy for a condition similar to hip dysplasia in dogs.

Mr. Pickles, a boxer, was just four years old when he tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee, a painful injury that significantly affected both his mobility and quality of life. His veterinarian, Amie Csiszer of Oregon Veterinary Referral Associates, recommended surgery along with VetStem Cell Therapy to help support his recovery.

VetStem Cell Therapy has been used in thousands of animals to treat orthopedic injuries by helping reduce pain and inflammation while supporting the body’s natural healing process. When combined with surgery, stem cells can accelerate healing, minimize scar tissue formation, and potentially slow the progression of arthritis. This can lead to a reduction in symptoms and an overall improvement in quality of life.

According to his owner, Mr. Pickles healed quickly after surgery and stem cell treatment. Unfortunately, only a few months later, he tore the cruciate ligament in his other knee, something that’s actually very common in dogs with this injury. But this time, his family already had his stem cells banked and ready to use, allowing his veterinarian to move forward with treatment quickly. His owner shared, “This helped expedite Mr. Pickles’ healing and now down the road we have the cells stored. Very thankful for this service to support his wellbeing.”

Cruciate ligament tears are one of the leading causes of hind limb pain and lameness in dogs and often lead to arthritis over time, even after surgery. When used alongside surgical repair, VetStem Cell Therapy may help support healing, improve comfort, and potentially reduce the progression of arthritis. For Mr. Pickles and his family, having access to stem cell therapy provided added peace of mind during a challenging recovery journey.

If you think your dog may benefit from VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Mr. Pickles

Osteoarthritis (OA) in cats is far more common than many people realize, particularly as cats are living longer thanks to advances in veterinary medicine. OA is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that cushions the joint gradually breaks down, causing inflammation, pain, decreased mobility, and permanent joint changes over time. While osteoarthritis is commonly recognized in dogs, it has historically been underdiagnosed in cats because felines are incredibly skilled at hiding discomfort. Unlike dogs, cats are naturally agile and lightweight, allowing them to compensate for joint pain more easily.

Recognizing OA in cats can be challenging because the signs are often subtle and very different from what owners expect. While limping is a hallmark sign of arthritis in dogs, many arthritic cats do not limp at all. Instead, they may become less active, hesitate to jump, groom themselves less, lose weight, act grumpier or quieter than usual, or begin urinating or defecating outside the litter box because climbing into the box becomes uncomfortable. In one study of cats with osteoarthritis, less than half of affected cats limped, while the majority showed reluctance to jump. Because these changes are often mistaken for “normal aging,” many cats suffer silently for years before receiving treatment.

Treatment options for feline osteoarthritis are also somewhat limited. Management often involves a multimodal approach that may include weight management, environmental modifications such as ramps or low-sided litter boxes, and rehabilitation therapies. However, unlike dogs, there are currently no FDA-approved veterinary NSAIDs for safe long-term control of osteoarthritis pain in cats, as cats are particularly sensitive to potential side effects from these medications.

For some feline patients, regenerative medicine may offer another option for osteoarthritis management. VetStem Cell Therapy utilizes a cat’s own stem cells to help reduce inflammation and pain and support joint health and mobility. The process involves collecting and processing a small sample of fat tissue, from which stem cells are extracted and prepared for treatment. Veterinarians may incorporate VetStem Cell Therapy into a multimodal OA management plan tailored to the individual cat. While every patient responds differently, many owners report improvements in mobility, activity level, and overall quality of life following treatment.

If you think our cat (or dog!) may benefit from VetStem Cell Therapy for arthritis, speak with your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Suspensory ligament injuries can be a serious setback for performance horses, often leading to prolonged discomfort and time away from work. For An Intimidating Zippo, a Quarter Horse gelding, that was exactly the challenge he faced after being diagnosed with a severe tear in his left hind suspensory ligament, spanning Zones 1 through 3. Injuries of this magnitude can significantly impact mobility and long-term soundness, making effective treatment essential for both recovery and quality of life.

To help support healing, his veterinarian recommended VetStem Cell Therapy. Following treatment and a structured rehabilitation program, An Intimidating Zippo’s owner reported an excellent outcome, noting that the ligament healed completely. His case highlights the potential of stem cell therapy to aid in the repair of soft tissue injuries that are traditionally difficult to manage. Even when he was later diagnosed with mild Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD) in both hind limbs, his veterinary team had a proactive plan in place to utilize his banked stem cells to support ongoing ligament health and comfort through annual treatments.

Stem cells are powerful regenerative cells known for their ability to reduce inflammation, decrease pain, minimize scar tissue formation, and promote the repair of damaged tissues such as ligaments and tendons. These properties make VetStem Cell Therapy a valuable option for equine orthopedic conditions. As a pioneer in veterinary regenerative medicine, VetStem has treated thousands of horses since 2004, with survey data showing that many are able to return to their previous level of work following treatment. Cases like An Intimidating Zippo demonstrate how regenerative therapies can play an important role in helping horses recover, maintain performance, and enjoy a better quality of life.

If you think your horse may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us for a list of VetStem providers near you.

An Intimidating Zippo

Endangered Species Day on May 15th is a time to recognize the global effort to protect vulnerable wildlife. That effort increasingly includes innovative veterinary care. Around the world, zoos, aquariums, and wildlife conservation organizations are not only working to preserve species but also to ensure the animals in their care live healthy, comfortable lives. As animals live longer thanks to improved conservation and husbandry practices, age-related conditions like arthritis, soft tissue injuries, and degenerative diseases may begin to affect their quality of life.

That’s where VetStem Cell Therapy is making a meaningful impact. Regenerative medicine has been used to improve quality of life across a wide range of animals, including many species that are endangered or vulnerable. From multiple species of rhinos to the iconic California condor, giraffes, takins, a sun bear, cheetahs, and both African and Asian elephants, wildlife organizations across the country have turned to VetStem to help keep the animals in their care comfortable and active. These treatments have been utilized to support healing, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility in animals that may otherwise have limited options.

On Endangered Species Day, it’s worth highlighting how advancements in veterinary medicine are playing a supporting role in conservation. By helping individual animals feel and function better, stem cell therapy contributes to broader efforts to sustain healthy populations, whether in managed care or as part of reintroduction programs. At VetStem, we’re proud to collaborate with veterinary and conservation teams around the country, helping provide innovative treatment options that support both animal welfare and species preservation.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a condition that affects countless pets, especially as they age. Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that leads to inflammation, pain, and decreased mobility. While it’s commonly associated with senior pets, younger animals can also be affected, particularly those with prior injuries or joint conditions like hip dysplasia. Pets may show subtle signs at first, like stiffness after rest, hesitation to jump or climb stairs, or a decreased interest in activity. Because these changes can come on gradually, arthritis often goes unnoticed until it begins to significantly impact quality of life.

Certain factors can increase a pet’s risk of developing arthritis. Large and giant breed dogs are more prone to joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis over time. Excess weight, repetitive high-impact activity, and previous orthopedic injuries, like cruciate ligament tears, also contribute to joint degeneration. Early recognition and proactive management are key. Routine veterinary exams, maintaining a healthy weight, and appropriate exercise can all play an important role in protecting long-term joint health.

And let’s not forget, cats get arthritis too, though it’s often underdiagnosed because they tend to hide signs of discomfort better than dogs. Instead of obvious limping, cats with arthritis may simply jump less, hesitate before climbing, groom less, or become less interactive. These changes are sometimes mistaken for “normal aging,” but they can be signs of chronic joint pain. Because cats are so good at masking discomfort, it’s especially important for owners to pay attention to small behavioral shifts and discuss any concerns with their veterinarian.

For pets already experiencing arthritis, there are several treatment options available to help manage pain and improve mobility. In addition to traditional approaches like anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy, regenerative medicine has become an increasingly popular option. VetStem Cell Therapy utilizes a pet’s own stem cells to help reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural healing processes. Many pets treated with stem cells have experienced improved comfort and activity levels, leading to a better quality of life. If you notice signs of arthritis in your pet, talk to your veterinarian about the best plan to keep them active, comfortable, and thriving. Or if you’re interested in having your pet treated with VetStem Cell Therapy, use our Locate a Vet tool for a list of VetStem providers near you.

National Purebred Dog Day on May 1^st is a great time to celebrate everything that makes purebred dogs so special. From working and sporting breeds to loyal companions, each one has been developed with a specific purpose in mind. Along with those unique traits, some purebred dogs may also be prone to certain inherited orthopedic issues.

Conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and ligament injuries are seen more often in certain breeds, especially larger dogs. Over time, these issues can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. That being said, it’s important to keep this in perspective. Responsible breeders put a lot of effort into health screening and improving their lines, and many purebred dogs live long, active lives. Still, being aware of potential risks can help veterinarians and pet owners to monitor joint health more closely and take proactive steps when needed.

Of course, arthritis is not limited to purebred dogs. Age, injury, weight, and activity level all play a role, so any dog can develop joint issues over time. Staying informed, keeping dogs at a healthy weight, and exploring treatment options when needed can go a long way in supporting comfort and mobility throughout their lives.

For dogs dealing with orthopedic issues like arthritis or soft tissue injuries, VetStem Cell Therapy may be another option to consider. This treatment uses a dog’s own stem cells with the goal of reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural healing response. Not every dog is a candidate and results can vary, but many dogs have experienced improved comfort and mobility after treatment. Pet owners should always talk with their veterinarian to see what makes the most sense for their dog. Or click here to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

This Sunday is International Search and Rescue Dog Day, a time to celebrate the incredible dogs who dedicate their lives to finding the lost, aiding in disaster response, and serving their communities with unwavering determination. These highly trained K9s are more than working dogs, they are true heroes.

One such hero is Yana, a driven and dedicated German Shepherd whose story is a powerful example of resilience, advanced veterinary care, and the impact of regenerative medicine.

From an early age, Yana showed exceptional potential. By just three years old, she had already earned two AKC tracking titles and was actively training for Search and Rescue work in California. But her journey took a sudden turn when she suffered a grade 2, or partial, iliopsoas tear. Her veterinarian recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy.

Yana received stem cell injections into the injured area, using her own regenerative cells.  Her owner recalls the recovery process as difficult but ultimately worth it. For a high-drive Search and Rescue dog, nearly a year of strict leash-only activity was a significant challenge. Fortunately, Yana responded well to stem cell therapy and follow-up imaging revealed complete healing of the tendon, an outcome that is not always achieved with this type of injury.

Approximately 11 months after her injury, Yana returned to her Search and Rescue duties, fully restored to her agile, hardworking self. She went on to earn certification and has since spent over five years serving the people of California, helping to locate missing individuals and support critical missions.

On this International Search and Rescue Dog Day, Yana’s story reminds us of the physical demands placed on these remarkable animals and the importance of innovative treatment options that help keep them in the field. Thanks to VetStem Cell Therapy, dogs like Yana don’t just recover, they get back to the life-saving work they’re trained to do.

Yana

When your pet is facing surgery or a significant diagnosis, the focus is usually on treating the immediate issue. But that same moment can also be an opportunity to plan ahead. Stem cell storage, or banking, allows pet owners to preserve their pet’s own regenerative cells for future use.

In many cases, a small sample of fat tissue can be collected during a planned procedure while the pet is already under anesthesia. The tissue is processed to isolate stem cells and stored for later use. This avoids the need for an additional procedure down the road and ensures that treatment options are readily available if new conditions arise.

One dog owner shared their experience after their dog, Hines, was diagnosed with fragmented coronoid process (FCP) and underwent surgery:

“After our working line GSD was diagnosed with Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP) in his elbows, we proceeded with surgical intervention to remove the fragmented bone and alleviate his discomfort. During the surgery, we opted to have adipose (fat) tissue harvested and sent to VetStem for stem cell processing and storage. This decision was based on our veterinary surgeon’s recommendation and our own research into regenerative medicine and its growing success in orthopedic conditions.

The primary reason we chose to harvest stem cells at the time of surgery was to take advantage of a single anesthesia event and to ensure we had access to regenerative treatment options both for his current condition and any future joint issues. Having his stem cells banked also gives us peace of mind, knowing we can access additional doses in the future if needed—whether for his joints or for other age-related conditions where stem cell therapy is applicable.

We are incredibly grateful for the regenerative option VetStem provided. It gives our dog a better chance at long-term comfort and mobility, and we highly recommend considering stem cell therapy as part of a comprehensive orthopedic treatment plan. We make sure to mention this therapy to all in the Schutzhund world to have as a resource and tool in the toolkit.”

Storing stem cells creates flexibility for the future. Cells collected when a pet is younger and healthier can be used later for conditions involving inflammation, degeneration, or injury. For active and working dogs in particular, this can be a valuable part of a long-term health plan.

Speak to your veterinarian about VetStem Cell Therapy options for your pet. Or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

During Hines’ elbow surgery, adipose (fat) tissue was collected for stem cell processing and storage for future use.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting pets, impacting an estimated 1 in 5 dogs in the United States. Despite how common it is, OA may be missed because pets naturally hide pain and discomfort. As a result, many signs of joint disease are mistaken for normal aging.

Pets are often very good at hiding discomfort, which can make it difficult to recognize when something isn’t quite right. Subtle changes in behavior or activity level are often the first indicators that your pet may be dealing with pain or reduced mobility.

Some common signs to watch for include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Lameness or a change in gait
• Decrease in activity or reluctance to walk, run or exercise
• Difficulty navigating stairs or jumping on couches
• Difficulty getting up from lying down
• Muscle wasting
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as irritability or aggression

These signs are often associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, which is one of the most common reasons pets are treated with VetStem Cell Therapy. Over time, inflammation and joint degeneration can lead to chronic discomfort and decreased quality of life. But stem cell therapy may help!

VetStem Cell Therapy works by helping to reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural repair processes. Rather than simply masking pain, stem cell therapy aims to address underlying issues within the joint or injured tissue. Many pet owners report improvements in mobility, activity level, and overall comfort following treatment.

In addition to reducing inflammation, stem cells have the ability to downregulate pain signals, promote tissue healing, and support the regeneration of damaged structures within the joint. VetStem Cell Therapy utilizes your pet’s fat tissue to extract and concentrate their own stem and regenerative cells. These cells are then delivered by your veterinarian directly into the joint or injured tissue, where they can begin working at the source of the problem.

Recognizing the early signs of discomfort is one of the most important steps in supporting your pet’s long-term health and quality of life. If you’ve noticed any of these changes, it may be time to talk with your veterinarian about available options. While not every pet is a candidate, VetStem Cell Therapy offers a regenerative approach that may help improve comfort, mobility, and overall well-being for many animals.