I would look into supplementing the dog with MSM first. It works wonders for older arthritic dogs. Also, neck stiffness can be a sign of Lyme's disease.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally occuring sulfur compound found in every cell of the body. It has a vitamin-like normalizing influence on body functions. MSM is considered a potentiator of most vitamins and other nutrients, such as vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, all B vitamins, Vitamin A, D & E, amino acids, selenium, calcium, magnesium and many others. MSM improves the cellular uptake of these nutrients, and prolongs their lives. The body can better utilize the nutrients, and taking dietary supplements is more efficient.
Supplementing the diet with additional sulfur ensures the body's ability to synthesize collagen for connective tissue health, maintain membrane flexibility and promote cell regeneration. MSM is a strong antioxidant, capable of binding and inactivating free radicals. Pets who suffer from arthritis often benefit greatly from dog MSM supplements. Several studies have shown, that supplementation of MSM, significantly reduced joint degeneration and inflammation.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) enters the body as a dietary sulfur associated with the amino acids. In clinical tests, use of MSM produced significant relief of pain in joints and stiffness along with reduced swelling and inflammation. MSM prevents pressure build up in cells, permitting nutrients in and pushing toxins out and heals connective tissues and at the same time insulates the bones from friction and cushions the joints in movement.
MSM is part of the Amino Acid Chain. Without the proper amount of MSM in our bodies, the amino acids will continue to build the glands, but fail to produce the correct enzymes, making us prone to unnecessary illness. MSM is the flexible bond between proteins. When a cell dies, a new cell takes its place. Without the needed amount of MSM, it attaches but becomes rigid. When tissues lose their flexibility, problems develop with the lungs and other parts of the body. MSM detoxifies the body and increases blood circulation. Because there are few nerves in the bones, our pain comes from the soft tissue. Aspirin shuts off the nerves, but the muscles are still damaged. MSM takes out the inflammation, permits the muscles to heal and prevents them from becoming sore.
Products like Free & Easy for Dogs containing dog MSM supplements is proving to be one of the safest and best treatments for the crippling affects of canine arthritis and joint problems that affects millions of aging dogs throughout the United States. |