MSM as a Pet Supplement
Research indicates that 1 in 5 dogs has arthritis. And if your dog is more than seven years old, there’s a 65% chance he’s affected by arthritis. In other words, more than half of all older dogs have this condition. MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a form of sulfur that is often used in joint supplements for both humans and dogs. It is associated with supporting connective tissue and a healthy inflammatory response, and is also associated with skin hydration and elasticity. Not all supplements are the same, so it helps to understand what MSM is and how it works.
Where Does MSM Come From?
MSM is a form of sulfur that is organic. In the oceans, microscopic plankton dies and decomposes. As the plankton decays, it creates a gas called dimethylsulfide (DMS). Oxygen and sunlight react with DMS causing it to go through a series of oxidation steps that include the formation of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and other sulfates. In order for clouds to form in the atmosphere, they require particles of these sulfates in order to take shape. Water droplets in the air absorb the DMSO and MSM. And, eventually, when clouds release these water drops in the form of rain, trace amounts of these sulfate compounds drop to the earth to be used by plants or returned to the sea to repeat this process over and over again.
While MSM occurs naturally, it can also be manufactured in laboratories by reacting dimethyl sulfoxide with hydrogen peroxide. This is how commercially available MSM is produced. The purity of MSM is achieved by distillation or crystallization process. For more detailed information on MSM production refer to this FAQ.
MSM Benefits
MSM is a source of antioxidant support. Free radicals can cause damage to body cells and are associated with aging. Antioxidants, such as the ones found in MSM, bind to these free radicals and assist in removing them from the body. MSM is also associated with supporting the body’s normal movement of fluids through body tissue and with supporting a healthy inflammatory response.
Is MSM For Dogs?
This natural form of sulfur, MSM is stored in almost all mammal body cells. As part of the aging process, MSM levels naturally decrease. MSM plays a role in the formation of healthy skin, connective tissues like ligaments, amino acids, and blood formation. It also supports the movement of nutrients and water into cells to help hydrate the body, and supports normal joint elasticity and comfortable movement.
The reason why MSM is commonly paired with glucosamine in supplements is that MSM (a small chemically simple molecule) increases the absorption rate of larger compounds like glucosamine. This allows the body to better process these compounds.
Without this combination, your pet may not get the full benefit of the glucosamine. If you give your dog too much MSM, it may cause some loosened bowel issues. Therefore it is important to give your dog the recommended dosage.
Supporting Your Dog’s Joint Health with Flexpet
If you’re looking for a joint supplement that contains MSM, Flexpet may be a good fit. MSM is one of the key ingredients in our formula, which also contains:
Flexpet is available as a maximum strength soft chew, as well as a regular strength chewable tablet (our standard formula). Flexpet is a supplement, not a medication. We also have a fantastic and knowledgeable customer care team available to answer all of your questions at 1-800-505-0575.
If you’d like to support your dog’s joint health, comfort, and mobility, you can learn more on our products page.