Stem Cell Therapy for Arthritic Dogs

You have heard about stem cell research to treat diseases in humans. Now, doctors are using stem cells to treat dogs with arthritis. It's a relatively new treatment, called Vet Stem Regenerative Veterinary Medicine. A 14 year old yellow lab named Bear is proof that the treatment works.

Bear's owner says Bear was on his last leg last year because of debilitating arthritis. "He couldn't jump on the couch, he couldn't jump at all. As far as walking, he would fall and his back legs would just give out."

Since arthritis medications weren't working well, Bear's owner opted to try the treatment offered by Dr. Will Snow at Tillman's Corner Veterinary Hospital (Alabama). It uses an animal's own stem cells to stop the progression of arthritis. Dr. Snow says, "Within 90 days you should see some result as far as improvement in activity level, ability to run and jump and a reduction in the amount of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs you have to give."

Dr. Snow injected the stem cells into Bear's arthritic hips in November 2008, and the dog has shown improvement. He isn't as spry as a puppy, but his owner says her dog can once again go on daily walks, and is much more stable on his feet. She is glad she opted to try the stem cell treatment. "I am very happy with it. If i didn't do it, he wouldn't be here today."

The treatment costs anywhere from $1800-$2500. For more information, call Dr. Snow at (251) 661-5244.

Source: wkrg.com