Evaluation of the effect of nutritional supplement on naturally occurring osteoarthritis-associated pain in dogs

The orthopedic medicine and mobility service is conducting a clinical trial to evaluate the effect of a nutritional supplement on naturally occurring osteoarthritis-associated pain in dogs.

A wide variety of supplements are marketed to dog owners for the treatment of osteoarthritis; unfortunately, however, few of these are supported by objective evidence. The goal of this study is to objectively evaluate the efficacy of a new, proprietary nutritional supplement (provided by study sponsor Purina) intended to improve osteoarthritis-associated pain in dogs.

Benefits of participation

• All costs related to the study will be fully covered including:
  • Five recheck exams (the first exam to determine eligibility is not covered)
  • X-rays at the second visit (unless taken within the previous six months and provided)
  • Complete blood counts at days 0, 55, 85 and 130
  • Gait analysis
• Reimbursement of $1,500 if your pet is successfully enrolled and you fulfill all study requirements.

Owners must agree to

• Bring their pet to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital for five visits over the course of 130 days (on days 10, 55, 85 and 130 of the study). Each visit will include an exam, blood draw, and gait analysis (the dog must walk over a pressure-sensitive mat), and the second visit might include X-rays (requiring sedation).
• Complete multiple questionnaires throughout the study.
• Give their pet a daily nutritional supplement or placebo (provided as a chew treat) and maintain a daily feeding log.
• Place an activity monitor onto the dog’s collar, which he or she must wear continuously throughout the study.