Pets experience body joint issues with some displaying symptoms such as reluctance to rise, lameness, reduced mobility, among other symptoms. Due to the side effects experienced from the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) drugs when treating osteoarthritis in pets, there has been mounting interest in nutraceuticals of which the green-lipped mussel (GLM) is one.
What are Green-Lipped Mussels?
Green-lipped mussels, whose scientific name is Perna Canaliculus, are mussel species that are common along New Zealand’s coast. The name comes from the fact that the mussels have a green edge (lip) around the shells. While New Zealand natives have known of the mollusks’ health benefits and have been using them for centuries, they have been introduced to the west only recently in the form of supplements.
What are the Benefits of Green-Lipped Mussels?
As the mussels are a natural sea-water filter, they retain a huge number of potent nutrients and minerals. According to a study conducted by the American Society for Nutritional Sciences, green-lipped mussel contains nutrients such as:
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamins and minerals such as zinc, copper, iodine, and manganese among others
- Amino acids
- Enzymes
- Antioxidants
- Glucosamine and chondroitin
Most pet owners have an idea of how vital omega-3 fatty acids are to their pet’s health and especially the joints, which is why they use fish oil. While fish oil has only two kinds of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), green-lipped mussels have a third one called ETA. This is a rare form of omega-3 fatty acids which lowers the production of cyclooxygenase, an enzyme which causes inflammation. This results in less pain, less inflammation, and improved mobility for your pet.
Green-lipped mussels are a rich source of glucosamine and chondroitin, vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and minerals such copper, zinc, and selenium, all of which are vital to your pet’s joint health.
A green-lipped mussel diet will benefit your pet in the following ways:
- It is a natural inflammatory
- It reduces joint pain and protects the cartilage
- It boosts your pet’s immunity
- It strengthens the bones
- It prevents the development of arthritis in your four-legged friend
How Much Green-Lipped Mussel Should I Give My Dog?
There’s no definite answer to this question as the amount of green-lipped mussel that will be helpful for your pet depends on the severity of its condition as well as its size. However, it is recommended that you administer 15mg of green-lipped powder extract for every pound of your pet’s body weight.
You may need to increase or decrease the quantities depending on the results and revert to the previous dosage once you see significant improvement. While there are no significant concerns about green-lipped mussels’ side effects, pet owners are advised to observe their pets when introducing them to new diets or supplements. Also, it is always advisable to consult your vet before adding any food or supplement to the pet’s diet.
Green-Lipped Mussels in Every Bowl of Steve’s Real Food
Steve’s Real Food is happy to announce that all of our diets now contain green-lipped mussels as one of the ingredients! Green-lipped mussel is suitable for both cats and dogs.
