Product Info
Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM is a health supplement for dogs that promotes healthy bones and joints. In addition to the ingredients found in regular Dasuquin Soft Chews, this product also contains MSM, which helps with pain and inflammation. It is available in two strengths; dogs less than 60 pounds (84 count bottle) and dogs more than 60 pounds (84 or 150 count bottle).
What the product cures
Dasuquin helps improve symptoms associated with conditions affecting the joints, such as those caused by degenerative joint disease (inflammation, discomfort, reduced flexibility, etc.).
Pet Symptoms
Elbow dysplasia is a painful condition that causes gradual deterioration of the joints in the elbow due to growth abnormalities. It is hereditary, meaning that it is passed on from parents to puppies and that affected dogs are born with the disease. However, most canines don't start showing symptoms until they've reached about six months of age. Onset of the condition almost always occurs after cartilage or even bone begins to break down, which reduces the joint's ability to function and causes pain, inflammation, and mobility problems.
Early signs of elbow dysplasia are generally related to changes in gait, such as a decrease in activity levels, limping, not placing any pressure on the affected extremity, pain (particularly upon touch), unusual tiredness after normal activity, and hesitation to jump, go upstairs, get in a car, etc. If both elbows are affected, the dog may have even more difficulty getting up and moving around, as it requires them to shift their weight from one leg to the other because of the pain.
After a dog has started to show the first signs of elbow dysplasia, the veterinarian will likely order radiographs to confirm the diagnosis and assess the damage in order to come up with an appropriate treatment plan. Diagnosing the condition early on can help prevent further growth abnormalities from developing, as well as managing the pain, discomfort, and additional symptoms caused by the disease.
Experts know that elbow dysplasia is genetic, but they are yet to find the exact cause and cure for it. Fortunately, there are different forms of treatment that can decelerate advancement of the condition as well as reduce symptoms so that affected canines have a better quality of life. Treatment can vary from one dog to another, as it all depends on the type of dysplasia that the dog has and its severity. In most cases, non-surgical options are the first type of treatments recommended. Perhaps the most important thing in managing joint conditions, is maintaining affected dogs at a healthy weight. This prevents extra pressure from being put on the joints, thus leading to better mobility and less pain/inflammation. If necessary, the dog may be placed on a special weight loss diet. Light exercise, or even physiotherapy conducted by a veterinary professional is also recommended to keep the supporting structures such as the bones and muscles strong. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), corticosteroids, and joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are also commonly prescribed to help with inflammation and discomfort. Surgery may be an option for dogs that are considered good candidates. The procedure involves elimination of the bone and cartilage that is damaged, and in cases where there are structural abnormalities, reattachment or proper placement of the bones in the elbow joint may also be necessary.
Pet Ailments
Some of the ailments commonly seen in dogs using Dasuquin include; bicipital tenosynovitis, panosteitis, meniscus tear, intervertebral disc disease, arthritis, and elbow dysplasia.
Pets with Ailments
NutraMax 84 Count Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews for Medium Dogs
NutraMax 84 Count Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews for Medium Dogs
Relative info on breed most associated with this ailment
Elbow dysplasia is usually genetic, mostly affecting dog breeds that have a predisposition to the condition. Some of the breeds that are susceptible to elbow dysplasia include; Labrador, Chow Chow, Rottweiler, English Setter, Golden Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, English Springer Spaniel, Germen Shepherd, and Shar-Pei.
Questions for the vet & product
1. What are the side effects of Dasuquin?
Dasuquin has not been associated with any side effects.
2. I think I might have overdosed my dog: What should I do?
Get your dog to the closest veterinary hospital as soon as possible.
How it Works
Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM stimulates cartilage growth and helps stop enzymes from damaging the cartilage and surrounding joint area.
Directions for use
Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM can be mixed with a meal or administered alone by mouth, as they are liver flavored.
Dosage and administration: The suggested initial dose for Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM (Small/Medium Dogs) for dogs 10 to 29 pounds is 1 soft chew once a day, and 2 soft chews once daily for dogs 30 to 59 pounds. The maintenance dose for dogs 10 to 29 pounds is 1 soft chew every third day, and 1 soft chew every day for dogs 30 to 59 pounds.
The initial dose for Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM (Large Dogs) for dogs 60 to 120 pounds is 2 tablets daily, and the maintenance dose is 1 tablet once a day.
*The initial dose is recommended for a duration of 4 to 6 weeks.
Ingredients
Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM for dogs under 60 pounds contain; 600mg of glucosamine hydrochloride, 400mg of methylsulfonomethane, 250mg of sodium chondroitin sulfate, and 45mg of avocado/soybean unsaponifiables powder.
Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM for dogs over 60 pounds contain; 900mg of glucosamine hydrochloride, 800mg of methylsulfonomethane, 350mg of sodium chondroitin sulfate, and 90mg of avocado/soybean unsaponifiables powder.
Additional ingredients found in the product include; BHA and BHT (preservatives), tocopherols, titanium dioxide, tea, soybean protein isolate, gum resin, sucralose, silicon dioxide, polyethylene glycol, vegetable oil, natural flavoring, glycerin, and starch.
Product Cautions
Blood glucose levels should be closely monitored in dogs with diabetes that are taking Dasuquin.
PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL HAZARDS:
N/A – a MSDS is not required for Dasuquin.
FIRST AID:
Talk to a poison control health professional or seek medical attention if first aid is necessary.
Storage & Disposal
Storage: Place at room temperature in a dry area. Seal pouch after use in order to keep fresh.
Disposal: Check with your local waste agency regarding proper disposal of medication/containers.
Brand vs. generic comparison: A generic version of Dasuquin Soft Chews with MSM does not exist.