Is collagen a magic potion? That mythical elixir of youth made real? No. But does collagen have a real potential to help man’s best friend age with a wag in their tail? Absolutely! It’s time to embrace collagen for your pet’s health and happiness. Here’s why.
Understanding Collagen and Its Significance
As the most abundant protein in the bodies of mammals, including dogs and cats, collagen plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. In particular, collagen serves as a building block for the body’s connective tissues, contributing to the health of joints, skin, hair, and nails.
As pets (and people!) age, the production of this vital protein naturally declines. This can lead to issues such as joint stiffness, reduced skin elasticity, and a decline in overall vitality.
It makes sense then, that in the right formulations, the supplementation of collagen can offer significant support for your aging pet. “Right formulations” being the key phrase here because:
- While whole collagen is difficult for the body to digest or absorb,
- Collagen peptides – when the long protein chain is broken down into smaller peptide chains – are significantly more absorbable by the body.
Knowing this, ThorneVet’s CollagenVET supplement is packed with these peptides, making it a game-changer for your sweet senior in multiple areas.
Benefits of Collagen Supplementation for Pets
Relief for Aging Joints
One of the primary concerns for senior pets is the wear and tear on their joints, often resulting in discomfort and decreased mobility. Collagen peptides, like those found in CollagenVET, can support joint health by promoting the synthesis of new cartilage which, in turn, helps:
- maintain joint flexibility,
- reduce stiffness, and
- support overall joint function.
All of which allows your salt-and-pepper pooch to move with greater ease and comfort.
Healthy Skin and Lustrous Coats
Collagen is a key component of the skin’s structure, contributing to its elasticity and hydration. As pets age, they can experience dry, itchy skin and a dull coat. Collagen supplementation helps address these issues by
- promoting healthy skin barrier function,
- reducing dryness, and
- enhancing the sheen and vitality of their coat.
With this in mind, ThorneVet’s CollagenVET is formulated with bovine collagen peptides obtained by hydrolysis, ensuring optimal bioavailability for your furry friend. (Plus: the process that breaks down the long collagen chains into the smaller peptide chains utilized by ThorneVet – hydrolysis – is environmentally friendly.)
A Boost for Gut Health and Nutrient Absorption
Aging pets also often face challenges related to digestion and nutrient absorption. CollagenVET contains functional, easily digestible peptides that contribute to maintaining, reinforcing, or repairing the intestinal mucosa.
By doing so, CollagenVET:
- enhances gut health,
- improves nutrient absorption, and
- reduces inflammation in the digestive tract.
As you head into the golden years with your elderly dog or cat, it’s time to embrace collagen with the help of ThorneVet CollagenVET – and put the pep back in their step with peptides!
Dr. Keith Weingardt is a 1999 graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. He completed acupuncture certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 2004 and certification in herbal medicine at the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine in 2006. He has started successful integrative veterinary practices in San Diego, CA and Portland, OR. He is a dedicated herbalist and enjoys working with the plants of the Pacific Northwest. Currently, he works as a consultant for ThorneVet, specializing in product development and continuing education.
Source: Animal Wellness Magazine
