Dr. Dobias International

How are green-lipped mussels raised and harvested?

Produced exclusively in New Zealand, green-lipped mussel production involves several steps. Seeds are first collected and planted in a hatchery. Once they hatch into larvae, they attach themselves to rocks, long ropes, and other hard surfaces. Once attached, a transformation into juvenile and consecutively into adult mussels follows. Green-lipped mussels are ready to be harvested in 26 to 48 months.

How Can We Help Our Dogs Enjoy Activity Without Harm?

Fortunately, the answer to finding harmless and effective mobility enhancing foods and herbs exists in nature. These nutrients can deliver a synergy of benefits for healing and prevention, especially when combined in proper amounts and prepared for maximum absorption and efficacy. The most commonly used therapies for canine joint health only focus on rebuilding collagen by using glucosamine and chondroitin.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a substance naturally found in the body that helps in the formation and repair of damaged cartilage. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and is used to stimulate cartilage production to keep joints flexible. This helps in reducing pain in dogs with osteoarthritis and other joint-related issues.[1][3]

What is chondroitin?

Chondroitin is also found naturally in the body's cartilage, which provides the building blocks for the body to build new cartilage. It keeps cartilage healthy by absorbing fluid into the connective tissue, keeping it spongy, resilient, and healthy. Chondroitin also blocks the enzymes that break down cartilage, helping slow down the degeneration seen with osteoarthritis.[1][3][6]

Is one better than the other?

Glucosamine and chondroitin are often combined in joint supplements for dogs as they work best in synergy, complementing one another in maintaining and repairing cartilage. From improving stiffness to mobility to reducing pain, they are two important ingredients to include in your dog's diet to support their overall joint health and help offer pain relief.[3][5]