Today is National Boxer Day, so we’re celebrating with a heartwarming VetStem success story about a Boxer named Tucker. Tucker was a lively 4-year-old who, according to his owner, had explosive energy levels. He would run and play outside for 4 to 6 hours each day. His life took a turn when he followed a cat off a 12-foot embankment at a dead run, landing with a thud that caused his right rear leg to buckle.

At first, Tucker limped but could still move around, so his owners took him to the vet. He was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his hips and knees and was put on anti-inflammatory medications. Over the next year, his condition only worsened, with his leg deteriorating to the point that he could no longer climb stairs or enjoy his beloved outdoor playtime.

As time passed, Tucker became less active, only wanting to go outside for short trips to relieve himself. His owners were worried that he wouldn’t be able to walk at all within the next 6 to 12 months. Thankfully, their veterinarian recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy. At just over 5 years old, Tucker underwent the procedure.

The VetStem process involves a relatively simple and minimally invasive fat collection procedure. Once the fat is collected and sterilely packaged, it is shipped to the VetStem laboratory for processing. There, VetStem lab techs process the fat to extract the stem cells contained therein. Stem cell doses are shipped for treatment while any extra remaining cells are placed into cryopreservation for potential future use. Tucker received injections of his own stem cells into both hips and both knees as well as an intravenous injection.

Six months after the procedure, Tucker was back to his energetic self, running, jumping, and playing outside for hours just like he used to. It was a true transformation, and two years later, Tucker was still living life as a young, active Boxer. His owners are forever grateful to VetStem for giving him back his mobility and zest for life stating, “Thank you, VetStem, for saving his life!”

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

Tucker

Welcome back and happy 2025! We’re ready to get back into the flow and are kicking off the VetStem blog by reminding our readers how low intensity exercise, such as walking, can help to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve overall joint health. January happens to be Walk Your Dog Month, the perfect time to highlight the importance of daily walks for both dogs and their owners.

One of the most significant benefits of walking is its ability to help prevent and alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 5 dogs in the U.S. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage between joints wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Gentle activities like walking promote joint lubrication, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles around the joints, which can help reduce the discomfort associated with arthritis.

The same is true for people! For dog owners suffering from osteoarthritis, daily walks with their pets can serve as a low-impact exercise that encourages movement without overloading the joints. This can be especially beneficial for managing symptoms and maintaining joint health. By walking together, pet owners can not only keep their dogs active and healthy, but they can also use the opportunity to manage their own arthritis symptoms.

So, this January, take a step toward better health by committing to daily walks with your dog—your dog (and your joints) will thank you! And if you or your dog need a little extra help, consider VetStem Cell Therapy or our sister company, Personalized Stem Cells, for all of your stem cell needs!

We’re just about to the end of 2024, and it’s been an exciting year at VetStem. This year we were pleased to announce the commercial launch of our FDA-reviewed off-the-shelf PRP product, PrecisePRP. As we do every year, we’re wrapping up the VetStem blog with some highlights from the last 12 months. So, without further ado, here is VetStem’s 2024 year in review!

• In early 2024, we announced that VetStem reached a significant industry leading milestone. As of February, we had processed over 16,000 patient samples resulting in over 38,000 stem cell treatments.
• At the same time, two of our most prolific small animal users reached a milestone in stem cell cases. Drs. Jeff Christiansen and Kim Carlson both surpassed 300 cases. To date, Dr. Christiansen has performed 342 stem cell collections and Dr. Carlson has performed 326 – wow!
• In mid April, VetStem sponsored a lab at the annual IVAPM Pain Management Forum for the third year in a row. Veterinarians at this forum have a particular interest in multi-modal pain management and were excited to learn about PrecisePRP.
• Later in April, we were thrilled to announce that our latest platelet-rich plasma product, PrecisePRP Canine, had completed FDA review and officially became the first FDA-reviewed allogeneic off-the-shelf cell medicine product in the U.S.
• Shortly afterward, we announced the launch of PrecisePRP Equine, the second allogeneic cell medicine product to complete FDA-review.
• In May, the VetStem Sales and Marketing team was in Nashville where we sponsored and exhibited at the Fetch DVM360 Nashville veterinary conference. VetStem proponent and pain specialist Dr. Jamie Gaynor delivered two lectures about stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma.
• In July, we shared a fun update about a Sichuan Takin that received VetStem Cell Therapy for arthritis.
• August saw the VetStem Sales and Marketing team in Kansas City, MO for the annual Fetch DVM360 conference. We sponsored and exhibited at this show where our CEO, Dr. Bob  Harman, delivered two lectures about regenerative medicine.
• In October, we released updated efficacy data for PrecisePRP Canine. Out of 59 dogs who received PrecisePRP for orthopedic conditions, 47 of them showed significant improvement!
• Also in October, the Sales and Marketing team was back on the road at the Fetch Coastal veterinary conference in Atlantic City, NJ. VetStem proponent Dr. Alistair Chapnick delivered two lectures on stem cell therapy and PRP.
• In early December, the Sales and Marketing team wrapped up a busy year of conferences at the final Fetch DVM360 conference in Long Beach, CA. At this show, Drs. Bob Harman and Jamie Gaynor teamed up to deliver two lectures about comprehensive management of osteoarthritis and regenerative medicine.

So, there you have it. Another year in the books. It was an exciting year for us and, as always, we couldn’t do what we do without the support of our veterinary and pet owner clients. We hope that you and your loved ones have a wonderful holiday season, and we look forward to seeing what 2024 has in store for VetStem!

Last weekend, the VetStem Sales and Marketing team had the privilege of sponsoring, speaking, and exhibiting at the DVM360 Fetch Veterinary Conference in Long Beach, CA. Attending these veterinary conferences is always a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with both current and potential clients in person. At nearly every conference, we run into someone who has had their own pet treated with VetStem Cell Therapy. It’s always inspiring to hear their success stories firsthand!

At this year’s Fetch Long Beach event, our CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, co-presented with pain specialist and VetStem enthusiast, Dr. Jamie Gaynor. Their first lecture focused on a comprehensive approach to managing osteoarthritis. While stem cell therapy is a valuable option for pets with arthritis, many animals benefit from a multimodal treatment plan. The session explored the combination of traditional treatments like NSAIDs and physical rehabilitation with cutting-edge therapies, including CBD and regenerative medicine techniques like stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). A holistic approach to canine osteoarthritis could lead to more effective outcomes.

In their second lecture, Drs. Harman and Gaynor discussed the broad range of conditions for which pets have received both VetStem Cell Therapy and PRP. While orthopedic conditions such as osteoarthritis and soft tissue injuries continue to be the primary use for stem cells, many pets have also received stem cell therapy for internal medicine conditions such as kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and more! Likewise, PRP has been used for a number of years to manage conditions such as wound healing and corneal ulcers.

As we conclude the 2024 conference season, we want to express our gratitude to everyone who visited our booth and attended our presentations. We are excited to collaborate with many of you in the year ahead!

At VetStem, we are proud to support the veterinary community and celebrate the incredible contributions veterinarians make to animal health. International Day of Veterinary Medicine, observed on December 9^th, offers an important opportunity to recognize the dedication and expertise of veterinarians worldwide, who work tirelessly to improve the lives of animals and their owners. Whether it’s through routine care or advanced treatments, veterinary professionals are the unsung heroes who help keep our furry friends healthy and happy.

As pioneers in regenerative veterinary medicine, VetStem is committed to advancing the field with innovative stem cell therapies and cutting-edge technologies. We work alongside veterinarians to provide them with the tools and support they need to offer the best possible care for their patients. Our goal is to help veterinarians enhance their practice by providing options like stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for orthopedic conditions, in an effort to give animals a better quality of life.

As we approach International Day of Veterinary Medicine, we want to thank veterinarians and their staff for their unwavering passion and commitment to animal well-being. Their expertise not only saves lives but also creates lasting bonds between pets and their families. At VetStem, we look forward to continuing to partner with veterinary professionals to bring the best advancements in animal care to the forefront and ensure animals everywhere have access to these potentially life-saving treatments.

National Border Collie Day is November 24^th so we thought it fitting to share a VetStem success story about a Border Collie named Hannah. Hannah had arthritis in her hips as a result of hip dysplasia. Her veterinarian described it as some of the worst she’d ever seen. As a certified therapy dog who visited patients that were in the hospital, it was important for Hannah to be able to stand on her hind legs so she could be pet by those patients who were unable to get out of bed. Unfortunately, her arthritic hips made it so she was unable to do this seemingly simple task.

In an effort to avoid hip replacement surgery, her veterinarian recommended trying VetStem Cell Therapy. To begin the process, Hannah’s veterinarian collected fat from her abdomen during a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. The fat was sent to the VetStem laboratory where lab technicians processed and extracted Hannah’s stem and regenerative cells. Three stem cell injections were prepared and shipped for treatment. Approximately 48 hours after the initial fat collection, Hannah received injections of her own stem cells into each hip as well as an intravenous injection.

According to her owner, Hannah had a remarkable response to stem cell therapy. She was finally able to stand on her back legs so she could reach bed-ridden hospital patients. And at the one year mark, her X-rays showed great improvement in her hip joints. Her owners believed her to be pain free for the first time in her life, stating, “My husband and I (and Hannah) cannot tell you how much Hannah’s life has changed since her surgery. The results were better than we ever hoped for and are nothing short of amazing.”

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

Hannah

November 17^th is National Take a Hike Day, and we love any opportunity to talk about the benefits of low-impact exercise on joint health! Hiking is a great way to get some low-impact exercise and can be one of the best activities for dogs with joint issues. Whether your dog is young or a little older, hitting the trails together can help keep them active and comfortable, especially if they’re dealing with joint issues like arthritis.

Low-impact activities like hiking can be especially beneficial for dogs with arthritis and tend to be easier on their joints compared to high-impact exercises like running or jumping. For dogs with arthritis or other joint concerns, regular hikes (at a pace that’s right for them) can reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and even help manage pain. Hiking can help to build muscle mass, thereby shifting weight from the joints to the muscles. Regular movement also encourages joint fluid circulation, which can lubricate stiff joints. And of course, keeping our pets at a healthy weight can reduce the stress on their joints.

While hiking is fun and beneficial for both dogs and owners, experts recommend regular, short sessions of exercise rather than one long, strenuous activity on weekends. Consistent, moderate exercise is key to maintaining your dog’s health and fitness. It is also important to note that different pets require different exercise regimens. One of your best resources is your veterinarian. He/She can help you build an exercise plan tailored specifically to your pet.

So, this National Take a Hike Day, take the opportunity to get outside and enjoy some fresh air with your dog while also doing something great for their joint health. Regular, low-impact exercise like hiking can make a big difference in keeping your dog mobile, comfortable, and happy.

Cooper is a lovable Labrador who faced some serious health hurdles. Diagnosed with bilateral elbow dysplasia as a puppy, his journey was marked by joint pain that eventually led to osteoarthritis. For years, his owner managed his condition with medications and supplements, but at 8 years old, Cooper started limping badly. His vet recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy in an effort to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.

The process started with a quick, minimally invasive procedure where Cooper’s vet collected some fat from his abdomen. That fat was sent off to our lab in Poway, California, where our team worked to extract and concentrate Cooper’s stem cells. Just 48 hours later, Cooper had both of his elbows injected with his own stem cells.

Just one week post-treatment, Cooper stopped limping, and after a month, he was off his anti-inflammatory meds. His owner couldn’t be happier, stating, “He seems happy and thriving. We slowly increased our walks again and happy to report he can walk 3-4 miles a day without any consequence. He also loves going back to hiking. Stem cell therapy brought my happy boy back. Thank you.”

But the story doesn’t end there. We also cryo-preserved some of Cooper’s stem cells for future use, ensuring that he’ll have access to treatment whenever he needs it. Cooper’s journey shows just how powerful stem cell therapy can be in giving our furry friends a second chance at life. Here’s to many more happy, pain-free adventures for Cooper

If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, contact us to find a VetStem provider near you.

Cooper

One Health Day, celebrated on November 3rd each year, emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. According to www.onehealthday.com, “One Health Day answers the urgent need for a One Health trans-disciplinary approach towards solving today’s critical global health challenges.” By fostering collaboration between veterinary and human medicine, we can develop innovative solutions that benefit all species.

Translational medicine plays a crucial role in this integration by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and research findings from animal studies to human applications. This approach has been particularly evident in the field of regenerative medicine, where advances in veterinary practices have paved the way for groundbreaking treatments in humans. VetStem has been at the forefront of stem cell therapy for veterinary patients for the last two decades. Our research and successful treatments in animals have informed human medical practices, showcasing how innovations in veterinary medicine can lead to significant breakthroughs in human health.

VetStem’s commitment to translational medicine culminated in the establishment of Personalized Stem Cells Inc., a company that focuses on developing stem cell therapies for human patients. By harnessing the advancements made in veterinary medicine, Personalized Stem Cells aims to create personalized treatment options for a variety of human ailments, including degenerative diseases and injuries, through their cell banking programs. This transition highlights the value of veterinary research as a vital resource for human healthcare advancements, underscoring the principle of One Health—where health solutions are derived from a comprehensive understanding of biological systems across species.

Meet Teddy, the adorable Chow Chow/Husky mix who loves to play but faced a tough battle with severe arthritis in his right hip. Getting up from a lying down had become a struggle, and his family was worried. Luckily, they turned to Dr. Mitch Luce at Live Oak Veterinary Hospital, who offered them a couple of treatment options: hip replacement surgery or VetStem Cell Therapy. Teddy’s owners opted for the stem cell therapy, hoping it would be a gentler route for their aging buddy.

To begin the process, Dr. Luce collected a small sample of fat from Teddy’s abdomen. The fat was then sent off to VetStem’s lab for processing. Just 48 hours later, Teddy received his first injection of his own stem cells directly into his hip, along with an IV dose.

Fast forward five months, and Teddy is thriving! His owner can’t believe the transformation: “Remarkable recovery!! He runs, jumps, and plays with our other dogs and can get up from a down position easily. He does every once in a while have a slight limp issue but only after playing or running way too hard. And that is progressively getting better as well. So glad we chose VetStem Cell Therapy for him!” The difference is so impressive that they even shared a before-and-after video to showcase Teddy’s amazing comeback. Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXpmwHD37XE

Arthritis is a common issue for many dogs, and it can really impact their quality of life. But innovative treatments like VetStem Cell Therapy provide hope for your furry friend. Stem cells can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and help to regenerate damaged tissues. According to surveys, over 80% of dogs treated with VetStem report a better quality of life, so it’s no wonder Teddy’s family is over the moon with their decision. Here’s to many more happy, pain-free adventures for Teddy!

Teddy