The inventors of Zooomy, a ground-breaking new joint supplement for dogs and cats, will be exhibiting at the London Pet Show Live this coming weekend.

Veterinary surgeons Humphrey and Joanna Grimmett, from Buckinghamshire, will be discussing how to provide essential support for older dogs in the winter months with an emphasis on how to prevent joint health issues.  

Humphrey said: “Dogs, like people, can struggle in colder conditions. But proactive owners can help their dogs be comfortable even as the mercury plummets.  Whilst the weather isn’t so inviting, it is important to maintain a regular routine of activity. Chilly weather often means less outdoor time, but daily walks (adjusted for conditions) are crucial to keep older joints moving and prevent weight gain. You should acclimatise your dog to the colder weather gradually if living in very cold areas and on days when the weather is bad, indoor activities such as tug, fetch, puzzle toys, and indoor agility exercises help maintain muscle tone when outdoor play is limited.

"It is also important to maintain good coat and skin care in the winter months. Brush the coat regularly and use moisturising dog-safe shampoos to avoid dry skin. Trim the fur around the paws and use paw balms to moisturise the pads. Consider jackets/booties: Short-haired, senior, or small dogs may need extra insulation. Booties protect paws from ice, salt, and frostbite.

“With regards to nutrition and hydration, some active outdoor dogs may need extra calories in winter, while less-active ones might need fewer.  Check their body condition by assessing how much pressure you need to exert to feel each rib. Always make sure that your dog has access to fresh drinking water particularly if they are indoors as central heating can make them feel dehydrated.

“Cold weather and low atmospheric pressure can aggravate joint stiffness, especially in older dogs or breeds prone to arthritis (e.g., Labs, Shepherds).  Low atmospheric pressures cause body tissues to swell and can exacerbate existing joint soreness. It’s a good idea to add in a joint supplement to your dog’s diet. Adding fish oil that contains Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce stiffness, but some dogs may need some extra help.”

Humphrey and Joanna have produced a new, unique joint supplement called Zooomy which contains long-chain hyaluronic acid and is a genuine alternative to the chondroitin and glucosamine clone products which dominate the market. They believe that the importance and value of Hyaluronic acid, whilst present in many supplements as a me-too ingredient, has been completely overlooked and the key is in the size and source of the hyaluronic acid molecule that’s used.

Humphrey says: “Most hyaluronic acid is sourced from processing mashed up chicken cartilage or chicken combs, which can result in a supplement that contains other proteins or is variable in chain length or quality.  These hyaluronic acid molecules are often very short and there is no evidence that they are relevant for joint support.

“Zooomy hyaluronic acid is manufactured by microbial fermentation which is a laboratory process giving a product with no protein, fat or sugars and chain lengths that are consistently approaching 1 million Daltons in length.  This is the type of hyaluronic acid that the clinical studies in humans and animals have been performed with.  Additionally, as a largely tasteless, odourless liquid, Zooomy is easily added to a pet’s food or squirted directly into their mouths; the amount you give can also be adjusted easily as regularly as you like,” says Humphrey

“Finally for senior dogs or dogs that are prone to stiffness maintain low-impact activity such as swimming or gentle walks, avoid slippery surfaces or rugs, and provide your dog with an orthopaedic dog bed in a draft free space. Gentle massage and stretching can help with circulation and always maintain regular check-ups with your vet,” Humphrey concludes. 

To find out more about Zooomy at: www.zooomy.com

London Pet Show Live: www.londonpetshowlive.com