What Is Green Lipped Mussel?
Green Lipped Mussel is a mollusk harvested from the beaches of New Zealand. It’s an amazing nutritional supplement for helping human and animal issues that include osteoarthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
In fact, Green Lipped Mussel seems to be chock full of good stuff that may be able to remedy several types of dis-ease.
How Can Green Lipped Mussel Help My Dog?
Dogs suffering from decaying bone and cartilage as well as joint pain due to aging, heredity, or illness may benefit from the nutritional properties of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel.
Shellfish supplements have been used for years as a remedy for arthritis.
A study by The American Society for Nutritional Sciences (1) shows that the green-lipped mussel may be particularly beneficial in this area and others.
Healthy dogs can also take advantage of the nutrient-filled mollusk.
Omega 3 fatty acids, amino acids, glucosamine and chondroitin, vitamins and minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, and carbohydrates have all been found in this amazing shellfish that some are calling a veritable superfood.
Omega 3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin are critical for building bone and cartilage.
They also act to reduce inflammation, maintain joint cell structure and function, facilitate cartilage repair and protect against oxidation.
Since inflammation is a source of pain, the Green Lipped Mussel may be just what dogs need to relieve joint pain caused by bone and cartilage breakdown.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They are vital for the body’s ability to repair and regenerate tissues and cells.
How Is Green-Lipped Mussel Administered?
Several forms of the green-lipped mussel supplement are available.
You can give this to your dog mixed in their food.
It is readily available in freeze-dried, capsule, and ground form. You may also find dog treats on the market that contain the green-lipped mussel supplement.
The American Society for Nutritional Sciences study participants received the supplement sprinkled over their food as well as in treat form. Both methods were effective.
Follow the directions on the supplement container.
Most will advise you to slowly introduce the mussel supplement into your dog’s daily diet.
While most pets tolerate green-lipped mussel without many issues, there are some reports of nausea and flatulence.
Observe your dog over the introductory period for any signs of discomfort and discontinue use if your dog shows any signs of such.
It is a good idea to consult your holistic veterinarian prior to and during the use of any supplement.
A further note of caution, pay close attention to the way the manufacturer processes the supplement.
For example, studies show heat processing destroys most of the potential benefits in the green-lipped mussel.
And, some processing plants use steam to open the shell.
Therefore, mussel supplements processed via steam not be as effective.
Only purchase supplements from reputable manufacturers who provide detailed information regarding product quality and processing methods.
When Can I See Results?
As with most supplements, results occur over weeks not days. Results may also vary depending on the severity of your dog’s condition.
A good rule of thumb is to administer supplements as directed and with regularity, then watch and observe.
Consult with your veterinarian on any changes in your dog’s behavior or demeanor.
Read The American Society for Nutritional Sciences study:
Articles Cited:
Green Lipped Mussels: Why Your Dog Needs Them, Dogs Naturally Magazine,
More Powerful Tools for Overcoming Dog Arthritis Challenges
There are many quick and easy changes you can make at home to help you give your dog an edge on easing dog arthritis pain.
- Learn more about dog arthritis.
- Try cooking for your dog or feeding high-quality dog food. Home-cooked diets and wet food help keep your pet from gaining too much weight. In turn, less weight means less stress on your dog’s bones and joints. PET | TAO’s Chill and Blaze are top choices for arthritic dogs.
- Ease your dog’s discomfort naturally. PET | TAO’s Comfort is a blend of Eastern herbs and Western supplements to soothe your dog’s arthritic challenges to make him/her more comfortable.
- Provide joint support. PET | TAO’s Harmonize Joint is a blend of Eastern herbs and Western supplements working together to lubricate and restore your dog’s joints.
- Try Freeze-Dried Kidney Treats. According to TCVM, the Kidney controls the bones and joints and supports arthritic challenges in a “like treats like” manner.
- Learn more about TCVM Herbal Remedies. Chinese medicine offers many amazing natural solutions for dog arthritis. Some good examples are:
