When most people hear about stem cell therapy for pets, they immediately think of arthritis. And for good reason! VetStem Cell Therapy has helped thousands of animals find relief from painful, degenerative joint disease. But did you know stem cell therapy can also help with a range of other medical conditions?

Stem cells are commonly used to treat soft tissue injuries, including tears in ligaments, tendons, and muscles. One of the most frequently addressed conditions with VetStem Cell Therapy is a cruciate ligament tear. Stem cells can aid in the healing process and help minimize scar tissue formation, whether used alone or in conjunction with surgery. In addition to promoting tissue repair, stem cells have the ability to reduce pain and inflammation, offering pets a better quality of life during recovery. This regenerative approach may be especially helpful for animals that have shown limited improvement with conventional treatments, offering a more effective option for long-term recovery and potentially decreasing the risk of future arthritis development.

In addition to orthopedic applications, VetStem Cell Therapy has demonstrated potential in treating various internal medicine conditions. For instance, stem cell therapy has shown encouraging results in managing chronic kidney disease as well as gingivostomatitis in cats. It has also been used with some success in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a challenging condition affecting both cats and dogs. Furthermore, promising outcomes have been observed in cases involving allergic skin conditions and immune-mediated diseases.

If your pet is facing a health challenge beyond arthritis, stem cell therapy may still be an option. Talk to your veterinarian to learn whether VetStem Cell Therapy could play a role in your pet’s care plan. You can also contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

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.

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.

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.

Valentine’s Day is all about showing love and appreciation, and one of the best ways to do that for your pet is by ensuring they live a happy, healthy life. If your pet suffers from arthritis, joint pain, or other chronic conditions, VetStem Cell Therapy may be the perfect gift to improve their quality of life. Stem cell therapy works by harnessing the body’s natural healing power to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote healing.

For pets, especially those in their senior years, chronic pain can become a daily struggle. Whether it’s difficulty jumping onto the couch, climbing stairs, or going for walks, you can see the toll it takes on their overall happiness. VetStem Cell Therapy offers a non-invasive option that targets the source of the problem rather than masking symptoms with medication. By stimulating healing at the cellular level, stem cells can help your pet live more comfortably with less pain and increased mobility. According to surveys answered by owners and veterinarians, greater than 80% of dogs who were treated with VetStem Cell Therapy for orthopedic conditions experienced an improved quality of life!

This Valentine’s Day, consider the long-term benefits of stem cell therapy as a way to show your pet just how much they mean to you. Whether your pet is battling arthritis, recovering from an orthopedic injury, or suffering from a chronic condition, this innovative treatment has the potential to transform their life. After all, nothing says “I love you” more than ensuring your pet can enjoy their golden years pain-free, with plenty of tail wags and snuggles along the way.

Stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are two invaluable regenerative medicine tools that utilize natural cells to expedite and improve healing. Both therapies have their place in veterinary medicine however when stem cell therapy and PRP are used together, the two therapies complement each other to create a synergistic effect that enhances the overall healing process.

Stem cells and PRP share similar mechanisms of action such as the ability to reduce pain and inflammation and stimulate wound healing. Stem cells, however, are unique in their ability to differentiate into various types of cells including cartilage, bone, muscle, and more, allowing them to respond to specific tissue and injury needs. This regenerative approach is especially beneficial for conditions like osteoarthritis and tendon and ligament injuries where healing through traditional methods can be slow or incomplete.

PRP therapy, on the other hand, uses concentrated platelets to enhance healing. Platelets are rich in growth factors and cytokines that play a key role in tissue repair. When injected into an injury site, platelets release their growth factors and cytokines to reduce inflammation and attract stem cells and other healing cells to assist in the tissue repair process.

When used together, stem cell therapy and PRP work synergistically to amplify the healing properties of each. In multiple studies across several disease processes and injuries, the combination of stem cells and PRP proved to be more effective than the individual therapies alone. Stem cells provide the building blocks for new tissue formation, while PRP delivers the necessary growth factors and cytokines to optimize the regenerative environment. This combined approach not only accelerates healing but can also improve the long-term outcomes for pets suffering from chronic or acute injuries. By leveraging the strengths of both therapies, veterinarians can offer a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan, helping pets return to their normal activities faster and with less pain.

While VetStem Cell Therapy has been around for over 20 years and used in over 16,000 animals, many pet owners are new to the idea of stem cell therapy. As pet owners explore this innovative therapeutic modality, it’s natural to have questions about its effectiveness, safety, and applications. Here, we address some common FAQs to provide clarity and insight into what stem cell therapy entails for your beloved companions.

1. What is stem cell therapy and how does it work for pets? Stem cell therapy involves using the regenerative properties of stem cells to promote healing and repair damaged tissues in pets. VetStem Cell Therapy utilizes a pet’s own stem cells from a sample of fat tissue that your veterinarian collects during a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. After processing in our GMP compliant stem cell laboratory, the stem cells are prepared and shipped to your veterinarian for injection into the area(s) of injury/disease. (Learn more about the laboratory process here.) This process aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve overall mobility and quality of life in pets suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis, tendon or ligament injuries, and even certain internal medicine and immune-mediated conditions.

2. Is stem cell therapy safe for pets? Stem cell therapy is considered safe for pets when performed by trained veterinary and laboratory professionals. VetStem Cell Therapy involves minimal risk because the stem cells are sourced from the pet’s own body, reducing the likelihood of rejection or adverse reactions. Additionally, stem cells processed at VetStem are minimally manipulated and undergo strict quality assessments. VetStem employs stringent processing protocols and quality control methods to help ensure the safety and well-being of the animal. However, as with any medical treatment, potential risks and benefits should be discussed with your veterinarian before proceeding.

3. What conditions can stem cell therapy treat in pets? Stem cell therapy has shown promise in treating a variety of conditions in pets, primarily those involving musculoskeletal and joint issues. Common applications include osteoarthritis, joint dysplasia, ligament and tendon injuries, and muscle injuries. Research is ongoing to explore its potential for treating other ailments such as kidney disease, gingivostomatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and more! While results can vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual pet responses, many owners report improvements in their pet’s quality of life following stem cell treatment.

4. How much does stem cell therapy cost and is it covered by pet insurance? The cost of stem cell therapy for pets can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of condition treated, the clinic’s location, and the specific treatment protocol used. On average, pet owners can expect to invest several hundred to several thousand dollars per treatment session. It’s important to check with your veterinarian and inquire about potential financing options or payment plans that may be available. Regarding pet insurance coverage, policies can differ significantly, so it’s advisable to review your insurance policy or consult with your provider to determine if stem cell therapy is covered under your plan.

VetStem Cell Therapy has improved the lives of thousands of pets suffering from various medical conditions. By understanding the basics of this treatment option and discussing it with your veterinarian, you can make informed decisions about whether stem cell therapy is suitable for your pet’s specific needs. Click here to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

VetStem patient, Bella, receives her own stem cells via intravenous infusion

Happy National Dachshund Day! In this week’s VetStem blog, we’re sharing the stem cell success story about a Doxie named Floppy who was suffering from severe arthritis in his hips and knees. In a video his owner shared with us, Floppy showed extreme difficulty getting up from a down position and moved very slowly. His owner also stated that he limped and was very stiff.

Floppy was 8 years old when his veterinarian recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy. To begin the process, his vet extracted fat from his abdomen during a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. The fat was shipped to the VetStem laboratory where lab technicians extracted and concentrated Floppy’s stem and regenerative cells. Five stem cell injections were prepared and shipped to Floppy’s veterinarian for treatment. He received one injection into each hip, each knee, and an intravenous injection.

Floppy’s results were really remarkable. His owner stated, “We are extremely pleased with the results. The level of pain/stiffness decreased dramatically. It’s almost like he’s a puppy again! There is a night and day difference in his ability to move and perform everyday tasks.” His owner also sent a video of Floppy after the treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy and well…you just have to see it to believe it. Check out a short video detailing Floppy’s story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJRUBYyDtqw

If you have a dog who suffers from arthritis, VetStem Cell Therapy may help. Speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Today is German Shepherd day so we thought we’d share a special VetStem success story about a bomb sniffing German Shepherd named Jax. Like many large dog breeds, German Shepherds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and arthritis. And unfortunately, Jax was diagnosed with the condition at a young age.

Hip dysplasia is a deformity in the ball and socket joint of the hip that eventually leads to osteoarthritis. It is a painful condition that can greatly reduce a dog’s quality of life. And of course, it affected Jax’s ability to perform on the job.

Jax’s veterinarian, Dr. Jeff Christiansen of Superior Veterinary Surgical Solutions, recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy. Dr. Christiansen has been utilizing VetStem Cell Therapy for over a decade and has previously provided stem cells for working police dogs. To begin the process, fat was collected from Jax’s abdomen in a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. The fat was processed at the VetStem processing laboratory to extract and concentrate the cells contained therein. Three injectable doses of Jax’s own stem cells were shipped to Dr. Christiansen for treatment. Jax received one injection into each hip and one intravenous dose.

According to his owner and handler, Jax responded well to the treatment. He stated, “Jax is a year and a half and, well, to say he’s a fantastic pup is an understatement. His limping is gone and he’s a typical GSD.” Jax has been maintained on a yearly intravenous injection of his stored stem cells for the past couple of years. Last we heard, Jax is rocking the bomb work! Way to go, Jax!

Jax