Aloe Vera for Hip Joint Problems in Animals

Some breeds, like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd, Labrador and Newfoundlanders are prone to a condition called hip dysplasia, whereby the hip socket is either not developed properly or malformed, resulting in arthritis and further damage of the hip joint. 

Although there are various causes, the biggest risk factor is hereditary (genetic). It most commonly occurs in large breed dogs. Gaining weight rapidly and growth due to excessive nutritional intake can lead to further complications. 

Another common condition in older dogs is osteoarthritis, which can affect shoulder, elbow, knee and hip joints as well as the back. It is a degenerative condition, which means it gets worse over time. 

The classical symptoms for both conditions are: 

• Limping or holding a leg frequently off the ground

• Swelling of the joints

• Stiffness and slow movements when the animal first gets up, and 

• trouble getting up and down

              

Malformed joint, socket is too small for the joint

Arthritic Joint

To diagnose hip dysplasia, Vets need to x-ray the animals hip. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available. Depending on the severity of the condition the animal might need surgery, which could include a femoral head ostectomy (removal of the head and neck from the femur to alleviate pain), a triple pelvic osteotomy, which is mainly performed on puppies less than 10 months old and involves realigning the angles of the pelvis and hip joints to stabilize the femur in the socket or a complete hip replacement. 

     

Treatment for dogs with arthritis are steroidal or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, although these can have several side effects. Other options include therapy laser treatment, chiropractic treatments and acupuncture and pain killers. Supplements, such as Omega-3 Fatty Acids are often prescribed for their anti-inflammatory effects, whilst glucosamine and chondroitin help in nourishing and repairing the joints' cartilage. Aloe Vera is also very beneficial as a supplement due to its anti-inflammatory properties and it also helps to maintain, repair and heal.  

For both conditions it is important to control the animal's weight as being overweight will only worsen the condition. For dogs that cannot undergo surgery the only relief in addition to controlling weight is pain medication and supplements. One of these supplements is glucosamine with chondroitin but some amazing results have also been registered with Aloe Vera. 

Aloe Vera acts as an anti-inflammatory and also promotes healing. In addition, it is anti-bacterial and anti-viral and helps to fight secondary infections. The result is that the animal suffers less pain and has improved mobility. In addition, Aloe Vera absorbs the toxins produced when the joints are inflamed and reduces swelling. 

Aloe Vera is a natural product with no side effects and can be given to animals in juice, gel, sachets or capsule form. The capsules are the easiest way to administer as it has no flavor and can be mixed under the food. Vegi capsules or sachets are available through Aloeride. The suggested dosage for dogs is half a tablet twice daily.