There are a number of different treatment options and therapies to help animals of all types recover from various injuries and conditions. Our Hoquiam vets share some information about stem cell therapy and whether or not it is suitable for dogs and other pets.
Stem Cells: What are they?
Stem cells are a type of cells that are created naturally within the body and have the ability to grow into any type of cell.
Pet stem cell therapy is a type of regenerative medicine used to help treat various conditions and injuries usually affecting the bones and ligaments of your pet.
Some of the ways that stem cells can benefit your pet's recovery or pain management include:
- Release elements that help decrease inflammation
- Bring healing cells to an injury or diseased area
- Regenerate tissue that has damage or is dead and bring it into a state close to how it was in a younger state
What happens during stem cell therapy for dogs?
Your vet will first place your dog under general anesthesia. They will then take a sample of their cells, usually from the shoulder region and send this sample away where specialists will extract the stem cells that will be used for treatment. For the final step, your vet will sedate your dog or place them under general anesthesia once again before finally injecting the affected area with the stem cells.
Are dogs a good candidate for stem cell therapy?
As with other forms of treatment, stem cell treatments are not recommended for all dogs. typically it is used in dogs experiencing various conditions affecting joints, bones and ligaments. This can be a great option for dogs who are unable to use traditional medicine and are having pain related to past surgeries or injuries.
The most common veterinary use of stem cell therapy in dogs is for the treatment of arthritis (osteoarthritis), and to treat injuries to bones and ligaments. There is also some research that shows promising results in stem cell treatment for inflammation in dogs. While we are still learning about the uses of stem cells in treating dogs it has been determined to be not ideal for dogs suffering from cancer or tumors as it can cause these to spread faster.
The Safety and Effectiveness of Stem Cell Therapy for Pets
Because the stem cells come straight from your dog themself we eliminate the risk of reaction or rejection. The facility when the stem cells are extracted from the sample will also adhere to strict guidelines to ensure a sterile environment to reduce the risk of contamination or infection.
Stem cell therapy for dogs is considered an effective treatment with the first signs of improvement appearing in the first 3 to 6 weeks. The effect of the stem cells can last as long as 3 years. Some of the noticeable changes are:
- Less obvious signs of pain
- Reduced reliance on medications
- Greater range of motion
- Less difficulty walking
- Happier and more energetic pets
It is worth noting that not all pets will experience improvement but the procedure can be repeated if desired.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.