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The Benefits of Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs

A good example of these compounds is eicosatetraenoic acid, or ETA. “The ETA is found only in green lipped mussels and binds cyclooxygenase, which is an enzyme that causes inflammation,” according to Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM, a certified and accredited veterinary acupuncturist and food therapist who combines holistic medicine with traditional Western techniques in her practice. “They also contain glucosamine, chondroitin, zinc, and magnesium, which are beneficial for joint metabolism.”

In addition, green lipped mussels have also been shown to contain glycosaminoglycans, substances with joint protective properties, according to Petty. “Many of the other substances in green lipped mussels such as vitamins and minerals could contribute to their pain-relieving properties, but more research needs to be done,” says Petty.

The Science Behind It

Although the full benefits of green lipped mussels for dogs are still relatively unknown, there have been several studies showing their usefulness in treating osteoarthritis in pets. One of those studies, published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journal, evaluated the response of dogs suffering from chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis. Dogs who took a green-lipped mussel preparation for eight weeks experienced less pain and locomotion difficulties than those who took a placebo. In addition, dogs taking the supplement also needed less carprofen—a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)—to fight chronic pain.

Part of the power of green lipped mussels lies in their unique compound content. “The ETA has been shown in studies to be much more powerful at fighting inflammation than just the EPA and DHA found in fish oils,” explains Morgan. “In addition, green lipped mussels also provide polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs), the building blocks for cartilage and joint fluid,” says Morgan.

This effect has been confirmed through a number of studies, including one where scientists discovered that green lipped mussels seem to block the pro-inflammatory reaction without causing, and maybe even helping to reduce, the gastrointestinal irritation connected with NSAID treatment in dogs.

The verdict? Basically any chronic inflammatory condition in dogs may benefit from the use of green lipped mussels, according to Petty. “It is well known that many chronic skin diseases and inflammatory diseases like asthma respond to Omega-3’s, and could respond to green lipped mussels,” adds Petty.