If your senior dog displays symptoms like reluctance to get up, limping, reduced mobility, lagging on walks, reduced playfulness, or aggression when you touch a limb, it likely has osteoarthritis and is in pain. The quickest diagnosis is through X-rays taken by your vet.

When I came home after work, I knew Fletch was having a bad day. He’d limp to the front door, insistent on greeting me, with his tail wagging low and his ears flat against his head. It broke my heart to see my little man in so much discomfort.

In my search to find the best nutraceuticals, supplements, and treatments to keep Fletch comfortable, I stumbled across green-lipped mussel powder. That was three years ago, and they remain a staple part of his daily diet due to their anti-inflammatory benefits for his osteoarthritis.

Green-lipped mussels are a species common to New Zealand. Named for their green-lipped edge around the shells, New Zealand natives have been using them for centuries for medicinal purposes.

However, it is the high levels of nutrients that make them a vital inclusion for your dog’s joint health. These include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Vitamins C and E

• Zinc, copper, selenium, and manganese (among others)

• Amino acids

• Enzymes

• Antioxidants

• Glucosamine and chondroitin

Nature’s version of a joint protection wonder drug, adding green-lipped mussels to your dog’s diet offers:

• A natural anti-inflammatory (reduced need for NSAIDs)

• Rebuilds joints

• Reduces joint pain and protects cartilage

• Reduces symptoms of musculoskeletal conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia

• Boosts their immunity

• Strengthens bones

• Protects against the progression of osteoarthritis

Fighting the symptoms of osteoarthritis is challenging; however, we have learned that Fletch can live joyfully and comfortably despite his joint disease. Green-lipped mussel powder is at the top of our 'mobility' list (alongside phytoplankton, CBD, and hempseed oil, among other things), and Fletch does not miss a day of it!

When purchasing green-lipped mussel supplements for your dog, take care to read the ingredients and reviews. Many products on the market contain ‘fillers’. Essentially, these products contain minimal green-lipped mussel but are padded out by other ingredients, which are often unhealthy.

If you’re interested in the science and clinical trials on green-lipped mussel extract treatment of osteoarthritis, check out the inflammopharmacology study here at the National Library of Medicine and the results.

Note: Always consult your vet before adding supplements to your senior dog’s diet and ensure you stick to dosing guidelines.