Stem Cell

Stem Cell Therapy uses a small sample of your pet's fat tissue to isolate a cell-rich population known as the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which is rich in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Once processed and activated, these cells are administered directly to the areas that need support and may also be given into the bloodstream based on your veterinarian's recommendation. This therapy uses your pet's own cells and may be discussed for a variety of mobility, orthopedic, and soft tissue concerns. After collection and treatment, any spare stem cells may be banked for future use. Read about Stem Cell Banking here.

Stem Cell Therapy may provide lasting support by helping pets maintain movement, activity levels, and quality of life, so families can enjoy more comfortable time with their beloved pets.

Who Can Benefit from Cell Therapy?

Cell Therapy may be beneficial for pets experiencing:

• Declining mobility
• Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
• Chronic joint discomfort
• Hip or elbow dysplasia
• Soft-tissue injuries
• Age-related mobility concerns
• Post-surgical support
• Joint-space deterioration or instability

If your pet's condition is not listed, Stem Cell Therapy may still be a good option to discuss. Please contact your veterinarian for guidance.

How the Process Works

Your veterinarian collects a small sample of fat and isolates a cell-rich preparation from your pet's own tissue. Those cells are then placed where your veterinarian determines support is needed. The goal is to support natural biological processes, comfort, and mobility over time rather than relying only on daily pain medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cell Therapy safe?

Cell therapy, specifically involving the stromal vascular fraction, has been studied in veterinary and human medical literature. Since the cells are completely autologous, meaning from one pet to the same pet, the chance of certain reactions is considered low. Your veterinarian will review your pet's medical history to determine whether this option is appropriate.

Will my pet need anesthesia?

Yes. Short anesthesia is required to collect the fat sample and can be completed during another procedure such as a spay, neuter, or dental. If tissue has already been collected to proactively store the cells for future use, then no additional anesthesia is required for tissue collection. The treatment injections are done in the clinic and usually only require mild sedation, depending on the target area. Some of the stem cells may be injected directly into the treatment site, while others may be injected IV into the bloodstream.

How soon will we see results?

Results may vary, but after surgery we recommend that your pet is kept quiet for the first 10 days. They may start to seem more comfortable during that time frame. However, you will need to make sure they slowly return to their normal activity so they do not injure themselves. Activities such as swimming and walking in water may be helpful therapies to support a gradual return to activity when recommended by your veterinarian.

Many pets show improvement after 3 weeks, with continued changes over the following weeks. It is so important to take before and after videos for comparison, so you can notice those positive changes.

How long does the treatment last? Will my pet need another dose?

Response duration varies from pet to pet and depends on the condition being addressed, severity, age, activity level, and overall care plan. Some pet owners choose to bank cells, so additional doses may be easier to access in the future. If symptoms return and your veterinarian recommends another dose, stored cells can be requested and administered without another tissue collection surgery.

Are there any conditions that cannot be treated with Stem Cells?

Yes. We do not treat cancer patients with stem cells because there is not yet enough information available to understand the benefits and risks.