It is one of the most common diagnoses in the veterinary world: osteoarthritis. Statistics show that approximately 20% of all dogs suffer from this degenerative joint condition. For dogs aged 7 and older, this percentage is even significantly higher. Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, proper scientific support plays a crucial role in maintaining mobility and quality of life.
Recognize the signs of joint wear
Osteoarthritis is a process in which the cartilage in the joints slowly breaks down. In an aging dog, this often manifests not through loud yelping, but through subtle behavioral changes:
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Difficulty getting up after a rest period.
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A shorter stride or a less fluid gait during walks.
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Less willingness to jump into the car or go up the stairs.
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More frequent desire to rest during physical exertion.
Why many supplements do not reach the joints
Many pet owners resort to standard joint supplements at the first signs of stiffness. However, the scientific reality is that many of these products have little effect. This is often due to the bioavailability of the ingredients.
Standard collagen often has a molecular weight of approximately 300,000 Daltons. However, a dog's intestinal wall cannot absorb molecules larger than 5,000 Daltons. As a result, the collagen leaves the body via feces without ever reaching the joints.
The scientific approach of Florian & Co.
In developing our Fit & Flexible formula, we deliberately chose an advanced, synergistic approach that goes beyond offering individual substances.
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Collartix® (Hydrolyzed Collagen): We exclusively use collagen peptides with a low molecular weight (2,000 – 5,000 Daltons). Thanks to these small molecules, the collagen is actually absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to where it is needed: the cartilage.
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Powerful Synergy: Instead of only offering glucosamine, we combine it with MSM, hyaluronic acid, and green-lipped mussel. These ingredients are selected to enhance each other's effects, resulting in a more potent overall effect on joint function.
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Maintaining muscle mass: Because joint stability partly depends on strong muscles, our formula is enriched with Vitamin D3 to counteract muscle mass loss in dogs aged 7 and older.
Hypoallergenic support in a soft form
Because dogs in a later life stage often become more sensitive to certain proteins and may have difficulty with hard tablets, Fit & Flexible is built on a base of high-quality fish meal and fish oil. This makes the chews not only hypoallergenic and free of beef or chicken, but also soft enough for the teeth of the senior four-legged friend.
By starting early with a scientifically supported formula, you give your loyal companion the best chance for an active and comfortable lifestyle, even as the years add up.
Scientific References:
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Anderson, M. A. (2011). Oral chondroprotectives as a management plan for osteoarthritis in dogs. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. (Research on the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin combinations).
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Bland, S. D. (2011). Canine osteoarthritis and treatments: a review. Veterinary Medicine and Science. (Overview of degenerative joint diseases and the impact of nutrition and supplements).
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Schunck, M., et al. (2017). Dietary Supplementation with Specific Precursor Collagen Peptides has a Beneficial Effect on Fat-Free Mass and Muscle Strength. Journal of Clinical Medicine. (Research on the absorption and effectiveness of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides).