Chagrin Falls, Ohio-December 23, 2008 Stem cells harvested from a dog’s own body fat bring relief to suffering arthritic pets! For millions of dogs, the act of getting out of bed in the morning is a painful affair. Although many pet owners think their pets have slowed down simply because of old age, the truth is that many are suffering from degenerative joint disease, better known as arthritis. A new science is promising relief, but can it ease a dog’s discomfort and is it worth the cost?
More than 15 million dogs in North America suffer from arthritis. Some receive daily doses of pain medications and others are lucky enough to find their way to physical therapy. Unfortunately, many owners aren’t equipped emotionally or financially to help a pet who suffers from a severe case of this disease. Sadly, these owners believe that euthanasia is the only viable option.
Change is on the way! Vet-Stem Technologies (www.vet-stem.com) has developed a stem cell therapy that may actually save the lives of these dogs. Using the dog’s own fat, Vet-Stem is able to purify and extract adult stem cells which are then injected into the dog’s arthritic joint. Since these are not embryonic stem cells and the dog is his own donor, there is no ethical controversy surrounding this protocol.
However, there are other concerns. The technology is new and some veterinarians would like to see more research into the science behind the procedure. Also, veterinarians who are certified to perform this therapy are rare. Vet-Stem reports that about 750 veterinarians have take the necessary testing to become certified and more than 17,000 are on a waiting list. Despite a price tag that often runs more than $1500 for the first treatment, many dog owners are giving this new therapy glowing reviews.
Arthritis is a disease that cannot be cured, only managed. But now, some pets will have one more option for a little relief from life’s aches and pains!
