As your pet gets older they often develop the typical signs of aging, just like you and I will.  Many of us typically rely on prescription medications that can actually do more harm than good.  Joint inflammation and arthritis can be addressed with a natural remedy turmeric, which contains Curcumin.  Curcumin studies show that it is a natural anti-inflammatory remedy and antioxidant.

Unlike Rimadyl (carprofen), the most commonly most widely prescribed NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), OTC products with effective curcumin do not require monthly or bimonthly blood tests and monitoring to prevent toxicity events.  There are known side effects with all NSAIDs and these should be discussed with your veterinarian.  If your dog has liver, kidney or heart problems then the risk associated with NSAIDS may not be in your pets best interest.

Clinical evidence supports that the Curcumin in Turmeric can provide health benefits without the associated risks of the prescription alternatives.

*Curcumin can reduce and prevent chronic inflammation.  The amount of inflammatory reduction was comparable to many of the anti-inflammatory drugs, but without the side effects. Dogs suffering from joint inflammation or arthritis may see great benefits from turmeric (Curcumin).

*Curcumin can reduce pain. The cause of pain is inflammation.  This inflammation damage leads to arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and injuries.  The anti-inflammatory properties of Curcumin helps to reduce this suffering.

*Curcumin promotes heart health.  Curcumin has blood thinning properties.  It may reduce the risk of blood clots and help reduce cholesterol.  It should not be given to pets currently on an aspirin regime.  These studies that show a reduction of fat in the blood stream also show an improvement in insulin resistance which can cause diabetes in your pet.  Studies with Cucurmin show improved insulin response and reduced blood glucose levels.

*Curcumin can aid in your pets digestion.  This occurs by the stimulation of bile acid production in the liver which helps to break down fats. Dogs that are underweight, extremely active and pregnant or nursing require more fat in their diets.  This makes Curcumin beneficial for them and may be preventative in the digestive system which includes the liver, gallbladder and intestinal issues.

*Cancer and Curcumin.  More and more research is being conducted with Curcumin and Cancer and it appears to be very promising. On a cellular level Curcumin has been shown to stop the changes that cause normal cells to become cancerous, stops the replication of cancerous cells (tumor formation), and stops the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.  To date Curcumin has been shown to inhibit the growth of blood vessels within tumors and stop their growth.

**As always, before starting any new medication or supplement you should consult your veterinarian. Turmeric is quite safe in healthy dogs, but may have restrictions for those with certain conditions like kidney stones or diabetes.

These products contain Curcumin

If your pet weighs 60 pounds or more you may wish to consider Curamin (TM). This product is manufactured for human consumption. Consult your veterinarian to discuss Curcumin and your pet. One capsule contains 727 mg of all natural Curcumin, curcuminoids, dl phenylananine, Boswellia and Nattokinase.  All of these ingredients have been safely used in dogs but it is still important to consult your veterinarian.