Doggie Botox
We have “puppy uppers” and “doggie downers”, but is your pet ready for Botox? It might be closer to reality than you think.
Veterinary researchers from the
From the first study results, it appears that although Botox does nothing to prevent or repair joint damage, it seems to inhibit the neurotransmitters involved in pain perception. And that will be a huge breakthrough for those of us with elderly, arthritic pets.
Personally, I own an elderly male boxer with severe arthritis. In fact, Tigger was very close to being put down few months ago due to me being unable to find a drug that relieved his pain. The drugs currently available either were ineffective, or caused such terrible side effects (nausea, diarrhea, ulcers, liver failure, ect…) that Tigger had just decided not to move at all. Fortunately I found Novox and that has helped him regain an interest in living. But it too, has side effects which poor Tigger has to cope with daily. With Botox, the promise is effective pain relief, without those other life altering consequences.
Of course in a perfect world, the perfect drug would not only prevent the pain, but repair the damaged joint. And maybe someday a therapy will accomplish that goal. (Stem cells seem to be a very promising step in that line of treatment) Until then I would be happy to have my old Tigger completely back. Although he is happy to see me and ready to protect the yard from every bird, rabbit, or intruder who happens to wander in, he still limps. But he is not ready to leave yet, and frankly, I am not ready to let him go.