Does Synovi G3 work for your dog with luxating patella?

March 14, 2019 10:30 AM

My small dog (terrier) was diagnosed with luxating patella stage 1. I happily discovered that there are braces, exercises, and massage options, and that surgery is a last resort. I was also recommended Synovi G3.

My understanding is human supplements can be useless or even dangerous. I can't imagine the standards for animal supplements are better. I've also read that the human version of this "joint relief" supplement has mixed reviews as to whether it actually does anything. Have you given this to your dog, and did it work? Also, any info on braces, or exercises, that worked for you is greatly appreciated. Feel free to me-mail me. I know you're not my vet, etc. (Sorry - I don't know how to add a photo of her!)

posted by racersix6 to Pets & Animals (4 answers total)

Glucosamine does have measurable positive effects on some dogs (and some people.) It appears to be one of those things that you either respond to or don't. However, there are a *lot* of glucosamine supplements for dogs, and you may want to try a cheaper, specific one and see if that works. I'm not sure at all if the other ingredients are as well-supported or if they'll do anything noticeable if your dog isn't one that responds to glucosamine.
posted by restless_nomad at 10:39 AM on March 14, 2019

My understanding is human supplements can be useless or even dangerous. I can't imagine the standards for animal supplements are better.

They are in fact often interchangeable. My dog and I have shared UTI meds.
posted by DarlingBri at 12:16 PM on March 14, 2019

Are these treatments better than doing nothing? My understanding of luxating patella stage 1 is that it is not painful. I do not treat my dog for this condition.
posted by crazycanuck at 1:06 PM on March 14, 2019

Response by poster: I was told it would get progressively worse if left untreated. She is holding that leg up fairly frequently.
posted by racersix6 at 1:21 PM on March 14, 2019