As responsible pet owners, we often seek ways to safeguard the health and well-being of our canine companions throughout their lives. We vaccinate them as puppies and put them on high quality diets and supplements to keep them as healthy as possible. We invest in pet insurance to ensure they receive the best care possible. But what if there was another way to help insure your dog’s future?

The VetStem StemInsure is a cutting-edge service that harnesses the power of stem cells for potential future use. StemInsure allows pet owners to store a sample of their pet’s own stem cells while they are still healthy. This proactive approach holds the key to unlocking a myriad of health benefits and addressing potential challenges that may arise later in their lives.

Stem cells are the body’s natural healing cells. They can reduce inflammation, pain, and even lead to tissue regeneration. Storing these cells when your dog is young serves as a strategic investment in their future health. Young dogs typically possess a higher concentration of robust and healthy stem cells, making the preservation process more effective. This bank of youthful stem cells can be a valuable resource for addressing a wide range of health issues that may emerge as your dog ages, from joint problems to degenerative conditions.

Furthermore, the act of storing stem cells early in your dog’s life provides a unique opportunity to customize and personalize their healthcare journey. As each dog is an individual with its own genetic makeup and predispositions, having a bank of their own stem cells allows veterinarians to tailor treatment plans specifically to your furry friend. This targeted approach can lead to more effective outcomes, whether the need arises for regenerative therapy due to injury, surgery, or the management of chronic conditions.

Storing stem cells for your dog may help to ensure a healthier and happier life for your beloved pet. By securing this “stem cell insurance” while they are young, you are taking a proactive and personalized approach towards giving your dog the best possible chance at a vibrant and active life throughout the years.

Learn more about StemInsure on the VetStem website or watch a brief video here.

February is National Cat Health Month, a time to bring awareness to the well-being of our feline companions. This month, emphasis is placed on regular veterinary check-ups to help ensure that our cats lead happy, healthy lives. Unfortunately, several studies in the last decade have demonstrated that as many as 50% or more of cat owners do not take their cat to the vet regularly.

While there are several potential reasons that cats tend to visit the vet less, one reason commonly cited by owners is the belief that their cat is in excellent health and is never sick or injured. As you may know, cats can be masters at hiding their pain. So, while you may think they are perfectly healthy, there can be subtle signs of sickness or pain that are easy to miss if you’re not looking closely. One example is pain from osteoarthritis (OA).

For years, osteoarthritis in cats has been underdiagnosed when compared to dogs. One reason for this is that cats with OA present with different symptoms than what we see in dogs. Because of their smaller size and natural agility, cats tend to tolerate bone and joint problems better than dogs. But there are specific symptoms to watch out for.

According to the FDA, “Clinical signs of osteoarthritis in cats include weight loss, loss of appetite, depression, change in general attitude, poor grooming habits, urination or defecation outside the litter pan, and inability to jump on and off objects.” Unlike dogs, cats do not commonly present with lameness or limping. Instead, they will be less willing to jump and/or have shorter jumps.

Unfortunately, there are fewer treatment options for cats with OA compared to dogs. Unlike dogs, cats do not tolerate nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain medications very well. In the U.S., there are only two NSAIDs approved for short-term post-operative use in cats, and there are currently no veterinary NSAIDs approved for safe, long-term use to control osteoarthritis pain in cats. There are some non-drug options including weight loss for overweight cats, increased exercise, as well as environmental accommodations such as elevated food bowls and more easily accessible litter boxes.

That’s where VetStem Cell Therapy comes in. Stem cells are a non-drug treatment option for osteoarthritis, which can be particularly beneficial for cats given that effective treatment options to control OA pain are extremely limited. Stem cells have shown the ability to directly modulate pain and down-regulate inflammation. Additionally, stem cells can induce repair and stimulate regeneration of cartilage and other joint tissues. VetStem Cell Therapy harnesses your cat’s own healing abilities, so it can be considered a natural and holistic approach to managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

If you think your cat may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers in your area.

Dr. Arnold Caplan, a friend, a colleague, and a mentor, recently passed away. The loss to the human AND veterinary medical fields is enormous. Arnold “Arnie” Caplan, a pioneering researcher in the field of regenerative medicine, is renowned for his groundbreaking work with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Arnie earned his Ph.D. from John Hopkins University School of Medicine. He has since dedicated his career to advancing our understanding of stem cell biology. In the late 1980s, Caplan identified and isolated mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, a discovery that created the field of regenerative medicine. His work laid the foundation for exploring the therapeutic potential of MSCs in hundreds of medical applications.

Caplan’s research highlighted the regenerative properties of MSCs, marking them as promising candidates for tissue repair and regeneration. Over the years, his contributions have not only advanced our understanding of stem cell biology but have also opened doors to new possibilities in regenerative medicine, with MSCs being explored as potential treatments for conditions such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and immune disorders.

Most significantly, Arnie never stopped exploring the boundaries of what stem cells could do. He adamantly admitted he was wrong about stem cell mechanisms and re-named them Medicinal Signaling Cells to show they were the body’s drug store. Every 3-5 years he would renovate our understanding of these healing cells, showing they could block inflammation, treat pain, modulate the immune system, and stimulate healing. 

Dr. Caplan’s work has left an indelible mark on the field, shaping the trajectory of regenerative medicine and offering hope for innovative therapeutic interventions. He founded numerous companies and filed many foundational patents. 

For our founder and CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, Dr. Caplan was a guide through the complicated research literature, inviting us to enter his world of human medicine. He knew that veterinarians would be the pioneers and that the data we created would be transformative. He was correct. And with his urging and blessing, our veterinary regenerative medicine company, VetStem, gathered its complete veterinary data and sought FDA approval to extend our expertise to human treatments. The FDA granted approval, making us the pioneering company to demonstrate the reality of “One Medicine” and showcase how veterinary data can accelerate advancements in human medicine.

Arnie, you will be missed by everyone in the field, but your wisdom will impact the field for decades to come. Long live MSC’s.

Tomorrow is National French Bulldog Day! These snuggly, squished-face cuties have gained popularity in recent years but, as is the case with many purebred dogs, it’s important to note that they are susceptible to certain health conditions including spinal disorders. One of the most common neurological conditions affecting Frenchies is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).

IVDD is a degenerative condition that affects the spinal discs in dogs. In French Bulldogs, IVDD can be particularly problematic due to their unique body structure. With their short legs and long bodies, extra strain is placed on their intervertebral discs. When the discs become weakened or herniated, this causes compression on the surrounding nerves and/or spinal cord, which can lead to pain and mobility issues, including temporary or permanent paralysis.

One example is Lady Josephine Beatrix Von Snugglebottom (aka Jojo). At just 6 months old, she was suffering from severe IVDD and spinal cord compression. At the time, she was unable to use her back legs for about one month. Jojo underwent surgery to relieve the pressure on her spine and aid in preventing further damage. She also received daily laser therapy and weekly acupuncture treatments. There was noticeable improvement in the strength in her legs, and she was able to hold herself up unassisted approximately two months after surgery. She still required a wheelchair however.

Shortly thereafter, Jojo was treated with VetStem Cell Therapy to aid the further healing of her spine. She received two intravenous injections of her own stem cells approximately one month apart. Her owner noted that following the treatment with stem cells, she was finally able to get around without her wheelchair. She began to run and, according to her owner, she hasn’t stopped since! Check out this adorable video of Jojo.

While many veterinarians have treated similar conditions with VetStem Cell Therapy and have seen remarkable results, it’s important to note that the research is ongoing for this condition and each dog will respond differently to treatment. A case such as Jojo’s falls under our Clinical Research Program for canine back pain. If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.  

January is Walk Your Pet Month, an opportune time to celebrate the numerous benefits that daily walks bring to our furry friends, particularly our canine companions. Regular walks play a crucial role in maintaining the overall well-being of our pets and can actually improve their joint health. You may be surprised to learn that walking can help manage the symptoms of and even delay the onset of osteoarthritis in dogs.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common ailment in dogs. According to the stats, 1 in 5 dogs in the U.S. are affected by OA, and it has been identified as a leading cause of euthanasia. Symptoms of OA include pain, reduced mobility, and a diminished quality of life.

Fortunately, walking can be a game-changer in mitigating these symptoms. Regular exercise helps our pets maintain a healthy weight, which alleviates stress on joints. Additionally, walking can help to strengthen the muscles and supporting soft tissue structures around the joints, promoting increased joint stability. It can also increase joint fluid circulation, which is beneficial to maintaining healthy joint cartilage.

According to Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, “Regular physical activity is paramount in the treatment of osteoarthritis both in humans and animals. A lifestyle of regular activity that is moderated away from intermittent extremes of exercise (such as long hikes on the weekends) and activities to which the pet is not conditioned is essential. Ideally, multiple shorter walks are better than one long one. The same activity every day (or slightly increasing if tolerated) is ideal.”

That being said, all pets are different and what works for one dog may not work for another. Your veterinarian can help you craft an exercise regimen that is specifically tailored to your pet. And if your dog already suffers from OA, VetStem Cell Therapy may help get them back to their daily walks! Speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of providers near you.

We can hardly believe 2023 is coming to an end! This was an exciting year for VetStem. We launched a new product and spent much of the year promoting that product at numerous trade shows across the United States. As our final blog of the year, we wanted to share some highlights from the last 12 months at VetStem. So, without further ado, here is VetStem’s 2023 year in review!

• In late 2022, we began developing our newest product: PrecisePRP, a donor-derived off-the-shelf platelet-rich plasma for dogs and horses. We spent much of early 2023 finalizing the details of manufacturing, marketing, and all of the many pieces that come with developing a novel product such as this.

• In February, we attended our first of many veterinary conferences in Las Vegas, NV. Western Vet Conference is one of the largest shows in the industry and it was the first time we began previewing the upcoming PrecisePRP.

• In March, we announced a major expansion of our manufacturing and R&D facilities. We spent much of the year developing these facilities which are comprised of 13,765 square feet of class A biotech space. These facilities have been/will be used for internal VetStem projects, manufacturing for our sister company, Personalized Stem Cells, and for contract manufacturing of new veterinary biologics.

• In April, VetStem sponsored a dry lab at the annual IVAPM Pain Management Forum for the second year in a row. Veterinarians at this forum have a particular interest in multi-modal pain management and were excited to learn about the upcoming PrecisePRP.

• In July, VetStem CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, was featured on the Fuzzybutts and Friends podcast to discuss all things stem cell therapy for pets.

• In August, we announced the soft launch of PrecisePRP, which is currently still undergoing the FDA review process but is available at a discounted price in exchange for outcome data.

• August also saw the VetStem Sales and Marketing team in Kansas City, MO for the annual Fetch DVM360 conference. We sponsored three of the Fetch shows this year and spoke about platelet-rich plasma options at each show.

• In September, VetStem sponsored a first of its kind stem cell workshop supporting wildlife conservation. The Stem Cell Technology for Genetic Rescue Workshop was held on September 17-20 in La Jolla, CA. Dr. Harman was among 45 global leaders in stem cell science, brought together to share their experience and expertise and to discuss how stem cell technology can further wildlife conservation efforts.

• Shortly after the workshop, Dr. Harman attended the annual North American Veterinary Regenerative Medicine Association (NAVRMA) conference in Kona, HI. This conference brings together some of the greatest minds in regenerative veterinary medicine.

• In early October, the Sales and Marketing team was back on the road. We did two shows back-to-back: Fetch Coastal in Atlantic City, NJ where we spoke about PRP and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) conference in Memphis, TN where we sponsored two talks on feline medicine.

• In late November/early December, the Sales and Marketing team wrapped up a busy year of conferences at the annual American Associate of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) conference in San Diego, CA and the final Fetch DVM360 conference in Long Beach, CA. At both shows, Dr. Harman spoke about PRP and stem cell therapy.

So, there you have it. Another year in the books. It was an exciting year for us and, as always, we couldn’t do what we do without the support of our veterinary and pet owner clients. We hope that you and your loved ones have a wonderful holiday season, and we look forward to seeing what 2024 has in store for VetStem!

International Day of Veterinary Medicine is celebrated each year on December 9^th. This day was established to bring recognition to the tremendous efforts and impact of veterinary professionals around the world. Most pet owners appreciate the invaluable services veterinarians provide in keeping their pets happy and healthy, but there are additional reasons to recognize this group of dedicated, hard workers.

If you’ve been following along with our blog, then you’ve definitely heard the term “One Health.” In fact, we recently shared a blog recognizing One Health Day. One Health is the idea that veterinary and human health are inextricably linked. For instance, advances made in veterinary medicine have also helped in human healthcare. Examples include vaccines, organ transplants, numerous medications, and even stem cell therapy!

Another example of the link between human health and the health of animals is zoonotic diseases, or diseases that can be passed between animals and humans. There are numerous zoonotic diseases including rabies, intestinal parasites, and multiple viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. By controlling these diseases in animals, veterinary professionals are also helping to ensure a healthy human population.

So while we may appreciate our veterinarians for their tireless work to keep our pets feeling their best, International Day of Veterinary Medicine is a day to recognize the field as a whole. All veterinary professionals from vets to techs to scientists have a hand in keeping animals, and thereby people, healthy.

Today officially kicks off National Cat Lovers’ Month and we want to introduce you to the newest members of the VetStem Clowder! But first, if you’re curious about how VetStem Cell Therapy can be used in cats, check out our recent blog.

This sweet orange boy is Rusty. His favorite activities include causing trouble and stealing the dog’s bed. Additionally, he has a hankering for food that rivals a teenage boy. It’s been reported that he has already figured out how to open the pantry door. He’s also been known to jump on the dining room table and climb legs to access the food that should surely be shared with him. His mom is excited (or not…) to see how he reacts to the Christmas tree. Who wants to take bets on how that goes?

Our newest addition doesn’t have an official name yet, though he has earned a few nicknames including “Mako” (as in the shark…) or just simply, “Crazy.” He’s a rescue Siamese who was found in a box at just a week old. He was nursed back to health and is now lovingly described as “AWFUL but cute.” As you can see from his picture below, he loves to play with (read: torment) his dog sister, Darby. We know it’s not a great picture, but we feel it captures his personality perfectly. Darby wants to know if anyone would like a free Siamese kitten?

Happy National Take a Hike Day! As you have probably heard us say before, hiking can be a great exercise for both people and dogs to help control symptoms of osteoarthritis.

We frequently discuss the benefits of regular, low-impact exercise for dogs. Walking can be very beneficial when it comes to joint health. Low-impact exercise can lubricate joints and strengthen muscles, two benefits that may delay the onset or reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Hiking can be a good way to mix up your regular walks around the neighborhood.

While hiking can be fun and beneficial for both dog and owner, it is best to check with your veterinarian before embarking on any major hikes. Experts agree that regular, short-interval exercise is key, as opposed to doing one big activity on the weekends, such as a long or strenuous hike. That being said, there are many hiking trails that are shorter and less strenuous. It’s a good idea to do your research to find a hike suited to your dog’s athletic ability.

Our very own founder and CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, spends his spare time hiking with his border collie, Mick. As an avid hiker, Dr. Harman sometimes spends several days hiking and camping in the mountains in and around California. With his experience and passion for the sport, Dr. Harman offers advice for hikers of all levels: Choose your trail and map out your hike before you leave the house. This will ensure you know what to expect on your hike so you can prepare yourself and your dog accordingly. Always make sure to pack enough water and a snack or two for both yourself and your canine companion. Keep an eye out for signs of fatigue, dehydration, or discomfort in your dog. If you notice any concerning signs, it may be best to turn back before finishing the hike. You can always try again another day!

Happy trails, my friends!

As you may know, VetStem has worked with multiple exotic animal organizations to provide stem cell therapy to several exotic species including elephants, bears, numerous aquatic animals, and big cats, just to name a few. These animals have been treated for everything from orthopedic conditions to viral diseases to organ failure to traumatic injuries and more. Given our great deal of experience, it’s no wonder that VetStem CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, was recently invited to participate in the first of its kind stem cell workshop supporting wildlife conservation.

The Stem Cell Technology for Genetic Rescue Workshop was held on September 17-20, 2023, in La Jolla, California. The workshop brought together 45 global leaders in stem cell science to share their experience and expertise and to discuss how stem cell technology can further wildlife conservation efforts. Not only did Dr. Harman bring real life experiences to the discussion, VetStem was also a sponsor of the workshop.

At VetStem, we take our job very seriously when it comes to the research and development of innovative regenerative medicine treatments for animals and diseases that have minimal treatment options. Maintaining the health and well-being of endangered exotic animals is particularly crucial and has become a community effort.

While our primary goal is to bring relief to the animals that need it, there is potential that stored stem cells may aid in wildlife conservation efforts down the line. VetStem has the ability to cryopreserve stem cells and currently has a bank of stem cells from over 40 different exotic animal species. We are happy to contribute to the mission and will continue our own research to develop potentially life-saving stem cell treatments for these animals.