HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAAY) -- We hate to see our elderly loved ones start having trouble getting around. The same goes for our pets. They're part of the family too. Now there's a procedure that could help pets across the valley, in just one day. <\/p>\n
For Tasha, Wednesday was a big day. The 12 year old black lab has a tough time getting around. She has hip dysplasia and arthritis. But this visit to Whitesburg Animal Hospital, should change that. <\/p>\n
\"In a week, they're better. Even in the first day or two, you'll see noticeable improvement,\" says Whitesburg veterinarian Dr. Mark Russell. <\/p>\n
The hospital teamed up with MediVet America to offer a one-day stem cell procedure, the first in North Alabama. It can now activate sleeping stem cells in an animal's fat, then inject them right back into the damaged areas. <\/p>\n
\"The stem cells will repair and regenerate cartilage, tendons, whatever is lacking in that area,\" says Trey Smith, the Director of Lab Services for MediVet America. <\/p>\n
In the past, the cells had to be sent to California to be activated. This quicker procedure has another benefit. <\/p>\n
\"We've relied on medications to try to control this, and that's pretty much all we had. And you get to a certain point, when the medication doesn't work anymore, and their quality of life is bad. That's not hardly worth it for them. This gives them a whole new option,\" Dr. Russell says. <\/p>\n
\"Probably 20 to 25 percent of dogs are arthritic and they're not very good at telling their owner they're hurting,\" adds Smith. <\/p>\n
So, what should you look for? <\/p>\n
Russell says, \"When your pet starts slowing down, it may not be because they're getting older, it may be because they're hurt.\" <\/p>\n
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See the rest here: <\/p>\n
Stem cell therapy for pets available in Huntsville<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAAY) -- We hate to see our elderly loved ones start having trouble getting around. The same goes for our pets Continue reading