Since the last half of the twentieth century, people suffering from joint pain have used glucosamine to prevent cartilage degeneration.
However, it was not until this century that results from clinical trials have verified its usefulness.
Cats, dogs and thoroughbred horses actually benefited from the supplement before humans started to use it.
Presently, people concerned about their pets worry if glucosamine for dogs side effects will be a problem.
Even though every supplement or medicine has risk associated with its use, veterinarians believe that any negative effects the supplement may have are far outweighed by the benefits.
Animal and human bodies alike produce glucosamine as a way to repair joint cartilage.
However, the cartilage can become less elastic and stiff from osteoarthritis and related conditions.
It has been found that the body will be aided in repairing damaged cartilage by adding a glucosamine supplement, which results in increased mobility and less pain.
This substance is made from shells of creatures of the sea such as crab, shrimp and lobster.
The supplement for pets and owners has the same components.
This means that glucosamine meant for humans is safe for dogs as well.
Glucosamine side effects are considered rare, and if they should occur, the effects can be treated without too much difficulty.
Shellfish allergies can carry more harmful side effects, but in most cases, even these are mild.
However, one risk of allergic reactions is anaphylactic shock, and if this should happen it requires prompt care by a veterinarian.
Glucosamine can also be made from corn and other plant products, but that kind of supplement is rare and very difficult to locate.
There is a form of digestive upset in dogs from glucosamine side effects at the milder end of the range of side effects.
A dog may vomit, indicating it is having a problem with the supplement.
Other side effect symptoms include drowsiness, loss of interest in eating, gas, constipation or diarrhea.
One way to treat these particular side effects is to reduce the supplement amount given to the dog.
The glucosamine can be given to the dog with food as another option, and this will prevent the substance from coming in contact with only the digestive acid in the stomach.
Small amounts of food should be given with the supplement and not a normal size meal.
Keep the amount in proportion to the size of the dog.
Another negative effect from giving a dog glucosamine is a potential stomach bleeding risk and the impact on blood sugar levels as well.
Bleeding is the more serious risk, but is usually not a problem unless the dog is already taking a blood-thinning medication.
Glucosamine may be the ideal solution to restore freedom of movement to a dog that limps, loses interest in physical activity, struggles with stairs, has a hard time lying down and getting up, or moves stiffly.
Concern over glucosamine for dogs side effects should not prevent the use of this supplement.
It may produce a life-changing solution for a dog suffering from joint pain.