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.

VetStem had the privilege of exhibiting at the 2025 Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) this week, one of the largest and most anticipated events in veterinary medicine. As leaders in regenerative medicine, VetStem showcased its innovative stem cell therapy and off-the-shelf PRP products, which are revolutionizing how veterinarians treat a number of diseases and injuries.

This year, we were excited to announce the news that we entered into an Exclusive License and Supply Agreement with Petvivo Animal Health, Inc. to commercialize our innovative allogeneic orthobiologic products, PrecisePRP™ Canine and PrecisePRP™ Equine. PrecisePRP™ is a groundbreaking, off-the-shelf platelet-rich plasma (PRP) product designed for ease of use by veterinarians. Unlike traditional PRP mechanical kits that require a blood draw and centrifugation, PrecisePRP™ is ready-to-use, offering veterinarians a truly off-the-shelf product that is easy and convenient. More importantly, PrecisePRP™ ensures uniformity and consistency with its unique patent-pending manufacturing process and quality testing.

Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to learn about VetStem’s groundbreaking advancements in stem cell technology, which are helping thousands of pets recover from injuries, arthritis, and other challenging conditions like renal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, gingivostomatitis, back pain/IVDD, and dry eye.

We were thrilled to connect with veterinarians and industry professionals at the event. It was a great opportunity to share how VetStem’s regenerative solutions are improving the health and quality of life for animals everywhere. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and made our time at WVC 2025 such a success. We look forward to continuing to drive advancements in veterinary care and supporting the veterinary community in the years to come!

As we celebrate Veterinary Assistant Appreciation Week, it’s important to reflect on the critical role veterinary assistants play in the care and well-being of our beloved pets. These dedicated professionals provide invaluable support to veterinarians and veterinary teams by assisting with patient care, managing medical records, and ensuring that the practice runs smoothly. Their passion for animals and commitment to their work make a lasting impact on the veterinary field, and at VetStem, we are proud to honor their hard work and dedication.

Many of our team members at VetStem know firsthand the demands and rewards of being a veterinary assistant. In fact, several of our employees started their careers in veterinary medicine as assistants before transitioning into their current roles. These individuals bring a unique perspective and wealth of hands-on experience to their work, allowing them to better serve our veterinary clients. Their backgrounds as veterinary assistants have shaped the compassionate and patient-focused approach that defines the culture at VetStem.

We are grateful to the veterinary assistants who continue to inspire and contribute to the success of our industry. Their skills, empathy, and unwavering commitment to animals are essential to every veterinary practice, and we are proud to have many of these exceptional individuals as part of the VetStem family. This week, we take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for all that veterinary assistants do to support veterinary teams and improve the lives of animals everywhere.

If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’ve heard the term “hip dysplasia.” According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, “Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is a condition that begins in dogs as they grow and results in instability or a loose fit (laxity) of the hip joint.” Essentially, the ball of the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket, causing abnormal movement, which results in cartilage degeneration, scar tissue formation, and bone spurs around the joint. As you can imagine, this is a painful condition that ultimately leads to osteoarthritis.

In many cases, surgery is the recommended treatment for hip dysplasia, but this option comes with its own challenges. Surgery can be invasive, expensive, and unfortunately, many dogs still develop scar tissue and arthritis over time. Another potential treatment option is stem cell therapy. While stem cell therapy won’t cure hip dysplasia, stem cells can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Stem cells also have the unique ability to differentiate into numerous tissue types, potentially aiding in the regeneration of damaged cartilage. These combined effects can lead to increased mobility and an improved quality of life for dogs with hip dysplasia and arthritis.

Given the prevalence of hip dysplasia and arthritis in dogs, numerous veterinarians have successfully treated thousands of dogs with these conditions using VetStem Cell Therapy. And many have seen great results! One example is Artemis, a Bernese Mountain Dog, with bilateral hip dysplasia. Fortunately for Artemis, her owner sought treatment early and her veterinarian recommended VetStem Cell Therapy.

After receiving stem cell therapy, Artemis’ owner shared, “I can see improvement as she stands from lying down, as well as after extended play or walks. My hope is with continued stem cell treatments she will stay comfortable longer.” You can read Artemis’ VetStem success story here.

VetStem’s ability to cryopreserve and store stem cells from each patient is particularly valuable for patients like Artemis who will never have perfect hips. With additional cells in her cryobank, Artemis can receive a lifetime of future treatments using her own stem cells without the need for additional fat collection procedures.

If your dog is struggling with hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy may offer a promising path toward relief. In fact, surveys from both dog owners and veterinarians show that over 80% of dogs experienced an improved quality of life following treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy for osteoarthritis. Additionally, a peer-reviewed study of dogs with chronic osteoarthritis of the hip found that treatment with stem cells reduced pain and lameness.

Contact us today to find a VetStem provider near you.

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.

As we celebrate National Cat Health Month, it’s important to recognize the silent struggles many cats face. Cats are notorious for hiding pain, a trait that evolved to protect them in the wild. Unfortunately, this means many conditions go unnoticed until they reach an advanced stage. One such condition is osteoarthritis, which affects a significant number of older cats but is often undiagnosed because the signs are subtle. Limping, reduced activity, and difficulty jumping may seem like just signs of aging, but these are often indications of joint pain. With VetStem Cell Therapy, cats suffering from osteoarthritis may find relief, as stem cells can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue repair, thereby improving their mobility and comfort.

While stem cell therapy is widely known for treating joints and soft tissue injuries, its benefits extend beyond osteoarthritis. VetStem Cell Therapy has shown promise in treating alternative conditions like kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gingivostomatitis. Stem cells have unique regenerative properties that can help reduce inflammation and support tissue repair in the kidneys, intestines, and gums. For cats with chronic kidney disease, stem cell therapy may help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. In cases of IBD, stem cells can help reduce gut inflammation and modulate the immune system, thereby reducing symptoms associated with the disease. The same is true for cats suffering from gingivostomatitis, a painful inflammatory condition affecting the mouth. Stem cell therapy can promote healing of the tissues, reduce pain, and control the immune response.

As cat owners, we want the best for our feline companions, and stem cell therapy is emerging as a promising solution for a variety of conditions. By leveraging the body’s regenerative abilities, stem cell therapy can not only improve the quality of life for cats but also help manage chronic conditions that have limited treatment options. This National Cat Health Month, consider discussing stem cell therapy with your veterinarian to learn how it might benefit your cat.

Contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Biscuit, an Australian Cattle Dog mix, was struggling due to pain in both of her back legs. Diagnosed with a cruciate ligament tear in her right knee and arthritis in both hips, Biscuit’s owner was looking for a solution to help her dog live a better quality of life. After consulting with Dr. Kim Carlson, a board-certified surgeon and owner of Lenity Vet Specialists, it was decided that surgery would help to stabilize Biscuit’s knee, and VetStem Cell Therapy would be incorporated into her treatment plan to support her overall healing and pain management.

Dr. Carlson, who has been utilizing VetStem Cell Therapy for over 15 years, began the process by collecting a sample of Biscuit’s fat tissue during knee surgery. The fat was sent to the VetStem laboratory where stem cells were extracted and concentrated. Within 48 hours, Biscuit received multiple stem cell injections into her knee, both hips, and intravenously. Her extra stem cells were cryopreserved for potential future use.

Since her initial treatment, Biscuit has received annual follow-up injections from her stem cell bank to help manage her arthritis. The results have been nothing short of remarkable. Biscuit’s owner reported that within just a week of her last injection, “she was running up stairs and acting years younger.”

Osteoarthritis is a common condition that impacts dogs’ quality of life, but VetStem Cell Therapy can be an effective option for improving mobility and reducing pain. VetStem Cell Therapy leverages the body’s natural healing ability, helping to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and regenerate damaged tissue, offering significant benefits for dogs with conditions like osteoarthritis. In fact, more than 80% of dogs treated with VetStem for osteoarthritis showed a better quality of life, making it a promising solution for pets like Biscuit.

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

Biscuit

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.