NSAIDs can be used in the short term and do have their place in maintaining quality of life when nothing else works. Inflammation creates a vicious cycle, breaking down cartilage and causing pain that restricts activity. Before they get to this stage, looking for natural alternatives that have a similar mode of action as medications but without the side effects is important. The anti-inflammatory properties of Turmeric are well studied with over 500 patents and 9000 publications. Turmeric contains more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds, including six different COX‑2 inhibitors. They key Turmeric is it inhibits COX-2 but not COX-1. This results in an anti-inflammatory effect without the side effects of the digestive tract or kidney damage. Another major component of joint health is collagen. The integrity of joints is dependent on collagen, as it makes up to 90% of a dog’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Over time, muscles and connective tissues loosen and become more brittle. Dogs can become susceptible to injuries like torn cruciate ligaments, patellar subluxations, elbow and hip dysplasia. Collagen in the diet can help prevent these injuries and improve joint health without the side effects of medications.