As we celebrate National Walk Your Dog Week, it’s the perfect time to grab that leash and hit the trails with your furry friend! This week isn’t just about getting outside; it’s a fantastic opportunity to focus on your dog’s health. One of the best forms of exercise for our canine companions is walking, which is especially beneficial for their joint health. Regular walks help keep those joints flexible and can help to prevent or alleviate issues like arthritis.

Walking is a low-impact exercise, making it ideal for dogs of all sizes and ages. Unlike high-energy activities like running or jumping, a leisurely stroll allows your dog to stretch their legs without putting too much stress on their joints. A few short walks a day can help keep your dog’s muscles toned and their joints lubricated, leading to happier, healthier movements.

October is also National Pet Obesity Awareness Month and walking is a great way to keep your dog’s weight in check, which is crucial for maintaining joint health. So, let’s celebrate National Walk Your Dog Week (and National Pet Obesity Awareness Month) by prioritizing those daily walks. Grab your shoes, leash up your furry buddy, and enjoy the great outdoors together! Your dog’s joints will thank you.

In last week’s blog, we talked about how VetStem Cell Therapy can help reduce pain. While pain can come from many different sources, one area where stem cells may really make a difference is in managing post-surgical pain. When combined with procedures like joint replacements or cruciate ligament repairs, VetStem Cell Therapy not only supports long-term recovery but also helps ease the immediate pain after surgery.

One example is Lucy, an energetic Golden Retriever who loves to run and play. Unfortunately, she injured her knee and was diagnosed with a torn cruciate ligament. Her veterinarian, Dr. Kim Carlson at Lenity Vet Specialists and Emergency Care, recommended surgery to stabilize her knee, but she also suggested adding VetStem Cell Therapy to speed up healing and manage post-surgery pain.

Cruciate ligament injuries in dogs can lead to long-term issues like arthritis, even after surgery. The surgery fixes the problem mechanically, but it doesn’t completely restore the joint to its former state. That’s where stem cells come in. Stem cells help reduce pain and inflammation, inhibit the formation of scar tissue, and encourage the regeneration of damaged tissues. Although stem cell therapy won’t cure arthritis, it can slow its progression and improve the dog’s quality of life.

After stem cell therapy, Lucy’s owner was thrilled with the results, noting that Lucy healed quickly and was back to running and hiking in no time. Almost a year later, Lucy is her happy, healthy self, free from pain and with no sign of a limp. According to Dr. Carlson, the combination of surgery and stem cell therapy worked wonders for her recovery.

For dogs like Lucy, stem cell therapy offers a way to manage pain and support healing post-surgery, ensuring they can return to their playful, active lives. If you think your pet may benefit from VetStem Cell Therapy, contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Lucy

When our pets suffer from chronic or acute pain due to conditions like arthritis or injuries, it can be heartbreaking to see them struggle. The good news is that, with the help of the IVAPM, a focus on pain management in veterinary medicine has gained significant traction over the last decade. Newer and more natural techniques to manage pain that don’t involve long term use of medications have become more mainstream such as rehabilitation, acupuncture, and even stem cell therapy!

As we know, stem cells utilize numerous mechanisms of action to improve a painful pet’s quality of life. One of their most important mechanisms of action is their ability to reduce inflammation. Through cellular communication, stem cells are able to limit inflammatory responses and actually shift from a pro-inflammatory environment to an anti-inflammatory environment.

Reducing inflammation can of course lead to greater comfort, but current literature indicates that stem cells can also target both acute and chronic pain directly. Initially, stem cell therapy was mainly associated with healing, regeneration, and inflammation reduction. However, more recent studies have explored how stem cells can directly influence pain perception. These studies reveal that stem cells release cytokines—small proteins that can act similarly to opioids in blocking pain. Interestingly, these pain-relieving effects can be reversed by Naloxone, an opioid antagonist.

This insight clarifies why pet owners and veterinarians frequently report that pets undergoing VetStem Cell Therapy for conditions like osteoarthritis or injured cruciate ligaments experience notable improvements in comfort just days after treatment. By directly alleviating pain, the therapy enhances the pet’s overall comfort while the stem cells continue their healing work.

Veterinarians encounter and address pain in their patients daily and utilize a range of treatment options that include medications, devices, various integrative therapies, and surgery. Stem cell therapy offers an additional approach for addressing pain in pets. VetStem Cell Therapy provides a natural, readily available source of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving cells, which can be particularly advantageous for cats and certain dogs that may not respond well to conventional anti-inflammatory medications.

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

As Animal Pain Awareness Month continues, it’s important to provide insight into signs and symptoms of pain in pets, which can often be subtle. Recognizing signs of pain in pets can be challenging for many pet owners, as animals often hide discomfort due to their instinctual nature. However, there are several key indicators that can help you determine if your pet is in pain.

One of the most noticeable signs is a change in behavior. If your typically active dog or cat becomes lethargic, hides more often, or shows a sudden aversion to being touched, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Pets may also display changes in their eating or drinking habits, such as a loss of appetite or excessive thirst, which can indicate underlying pain.

Physical symptoms are also important to watch for when assessing your pet’s well-being. Limping, difficulty standing or walking, or a change in their posture can signal that your pet is experiencing discomfort. Additionally, behavioral cues like excessive grooming of a particular area, whining, growling, or unusual aggression can also be signs of pain.

The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) works to educate both pet owners and veterinary professionals on how to recognize signs of pain in pets and has included numerous resources on their website. Some valuable tools for pet parents include checklists and videos for both dogs and cats to help determine if your pet is in pain.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing your pet’s pain and improving their quality of life. Regular check-ups and being attentive to changes in your pet’s behavior can help ensure that any pain is identified and addressed promptly, allowing for the best possible care and comfort for your furry friend.

September marks Animal Pain Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked suffering of animals. While we are increasingly aware of pain management in humans, our furry companions also experience discomfort that can be just as debilitating. This month serves as a reminder to recognize the signs of pain in animals, which can be subtle and easily missed. From changes in behavior to shifts in eating habits, these signals are their way of communicating distress, urging us to pay closer attention to their well-being.

Veterinary professionals emphasize that pain management is not just about alleviating discomfort but also about enhancing the quality of life for animals. Advances in veterinary medicine have introduced more effective pain relief options, from medications to alternative therapies like acupuncture, physical therapy, and even stem cell therapy! By understanding and recognizing the signs of pain, we can advocate for better care and prompt treatment, ensuring that animals receive the relief they need.

Animal Pain Awareness Month is also an opportunity to educate ourselves so we can be proactive about our pets’ health and well-being. The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) works to educate veterinary professionals and pet owners to better understand how to recognize and manage pain in pets and, in doing so, has helped the field of veterinary pain management grow tremendously in recent years. Pain management is an invaluable tool in maintaining happy and healthy pets.

Stay tuned for more pain awareness blogs all month long!

Similar to humans, aging is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. While OA can occur in dogs of any age, one study conducted in the UK indicated that dogs over eight years old were most frequently diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Treating OA in the early stages can help to slow the progression of the disease. That being said, numerous senior pets with advanced OA have benefitted from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy.

One example is Jake, a senior Labrador retriever who was diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in his left elbow when he was just a puppy. OCD is a developmental disease in which the cartilage in the affected joint(s) separates from the bone. Though the exact cause of OCD is unknown, it typically occurs in rapidly growing large breed dogs and can cause limping, lameness, and pain.

Jake underwent a successful surgery to correct the problem however, as with most orthopedic surgeries, it was almost guaranteed that his elbow would eventually develop arthritis. At about eight years old, Jake began limping after physical activity. His symptoms were mild at first but grew in severity over the years and when he was thirteen, it became really hard for him to walk due to pain in his left elbow. On top of this, he developed spondylosis (osteoarthritis of the spine). These challenges severely affected his quality of life.

His veterinarian, Dr. Brad Steele of Torrey Pines Animal Hospital recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy. Stem cells have demonstrated the ability to reduce pain and inflammation, help to restore range of motion, and stimulate regeneration of tendon, ligament, and joint tissues.

To begin the process, Dr. Steele collected fat from Jake’s abdomen during a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. The fat was processed at the VetStem laboratory, and three injectable doses of Jake’s stem cells were sent to Dr. Steele for treatment. Jake received one dose of his own stem cells into each elbow and one intravenous dose. Approximately one month later, he received an identical treatment using stem cells that were cryobanked from his initial fat tissue process.

According to Jake’s owner, it took about 5 to 6 months until they noticed a significant improvement in his mobility and reduction in his limping. His owner stated, “Before the treatment, he could barely walk more than 10-20 feet before giving up and wanting to be carried back in. After the treatment, he got back to 20+ minute walks around the neighborhood and seems close to back to normal for a dog of his age. We are grateful that the stem cell treatment brought our sweet old dog out of a life of pain and back to being a happy old man.”

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

Jake

This week, we are sponsoring, speaking, and exhibiting at the annual Fetch DVM360 Veterinary Conference in Kansas City, MO. This is our second time sponsoring this show in recent years. Veterinary conferences are a great way for us to get in front of our colleagues in the field to educate and further develop those relationships.

This year, Dr. Bob Harman will deliver two lectures at the conference. The first is about the many uses of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in veterinary medicine. PRP is a cell-based therapy that has been used in veterinary medicine for healing in orthopedics, wounds, corneal ulcers, and more. Dr. Harman will examine the literature and present a few case studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PRP. He will also do a deep dive into our latest product, an off-the-shelf freeze-dried PRP, PrecisePRP™.

His second talk will delve into the world of stem cell therapy. Most of us know that stem cells are primarily used in orthopedics for things such as osteoarthritis and injured tendons/ligaments. But in recent years, stem cells have shown great promise in treating some complicated diseases such as kidney failure, inflammatory bowel disease, and gingivostomatitis. Numerous patients have benefited from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy for these conditions.

If you happen to be at the show, come visit the VetStem team at booth #1200!

We frequently hear about osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. And for good reason! OA affects approximately 1 in 5 dogs and can greatly reduce a dog’s quality of life. What we don’t hear about as much is osteoarthritis in cats. But, perhaps surprisingly, a high percentage of cats are affected by OA. In fact, according to one study, 91% of cats between 6 months and 20 years old have OA in at least one joint, as proven by X-rays.

Recognizing Arthritis in Cats

Unlike dogs, cats with pain from arthritis do not typically present with symptoms like limping and lameness. Instead, they will be less willing to jump and/or have shorter jumps. You may also notice a loss of appetite and weight loss, depression or a change in general attitude, poor grooming habits, and urination or defecation outside the litter box.

Case Report: Clyde’s Treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy

One example is Clyde, a cat who suffered from arthritis in multiple joints. According to his owner he could not go up and down stairs, his coat was unkempt, and he no longer climbed in the cat tree. His veterinarian recommended treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy. At the time of treatment, Clyde was approximately 15 years old.

To begin the process, Clyde’s veterinarian collected fat during a minimally invasive anesthetic procedure. The fat was shipped to VetStem where it was processed in our laboratory to extract and concentrate Clyde’s stem cells. One dose of Clyde’s own stem cells was shipped back to his veterinarian for intravenous treatment.

Clyde responded wonderfully to VetStem Cell Therapy. According to his owner, he was able to run up and down the stairs and enjoyed playing with his cat siblings. He also began climbing the cat tree again to watch the birds. Additionally, both his appetite and grooming improved, his coat became shiny and smooth once again.

The Important of Regular Vet Visits for Cats

In this instance, Clyde had symptoms that led his owner to pursue veterinary care. But many cats are masters at hiding their pain. As we approach National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day next week, this is a good reminder that cats need routine veterinary care just as much as dogs. And if you think your cat may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Clyde

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

August is Itchy Pet Awareness Month. Many of us have probably experienced an itchy or allergic dog. And if you haven’t, consider yourself lucky! Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD), also known as allergic dermatitis or atopy, is a condition that affects approximately 10-15% of the dog population. While there is still much to learn about this disease, we have learned that atopic dermatitis occurs due to a skin barrier defect, which allows allergens to absorb deeper into the skin where the immune system can access them. Thus, when an atopic dog comes into contact with the offending allergen(s), their body creates a skewed immune response leading to an allergic reaction.

The primary symptom of atopic dermatitis is itchiness, usually in the feet, face, ears, armpits, front legs, and/or abdomen. Scratching and licking can lead to hair loss, hotspots or other irritations, skin thickening and more. Secondary skin infections and/or ear infections can develop and make symptoms worse.

Traditional treatments for CAD are generally aimed at controlling symptoms, and do not cure the disease. Frequent bathing can help remove allergens, and allergy desensitization injections are tailored for individual pets after extensive testing. However, these treatments are time-consuming and may not be feasible for everyone. Unfortunately, CAD requires lifelong management.

VetStem Cell Therapy has shown success for various diseases beyond orthopedic conditions, but results can vary. At VetStem, we evaluate each case individually to see if stem cell therapy is a viable option, especially for challenging conditions like CAD where traditional treatments may not effectively control the disease. One tool that stem cells utilize is immunomodulation, or the ability to modify the immune response. Since there is an immune component to atopic dermatitis, it is theorized that stem cells can down-regulate a dog’s immune response thereby making his/her body less reactive to specific allergens.

Multiple veterinarians have utilized VetStem Cell Therapy to treat atopy in both dogs and cats. While the research is limited in this disease, there is some promising anecdotal evidence. Some veterinarians have reported an improvement in symptoms after treatment with stem cells. In some cases, patients have required less allergy medication than before stem cell therapy.

While we can’t say that stem cells will help every dog with atopic dermatitis, we do believe that some may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy based on the responses reported from the veterinarians and owners who have implemented it. As with most medical treatment options, each patient will respond differently so results cannot be guaranteed.

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