What Are The Effects Of Oxidative Stress In Dogs?
As a dog’s body ages, it is going through metabolic changes. Normal cell activity produces by-products that build up in the body like toxins. Destructive enzymes attack healthy cells. An excess of fat due to poor diet weakens the immune system. Free radicals disrupt the cell’s functions, preventing them from building vital tissues such as cartilage. As this is happening, there are also external stresses to a dog’s system. Pollution, chemicals and cigarette smoke all hasten the oxidative process. The effects of oxidative stress in dogs bodies are significant. When the cells that build tissue are in a weakened state because of attack from free radicals, enzymes and other by-products of metabolism, they cannot perform their functions properly. They can no longer build the cartilage that cushions bones and keeps joints flexible. Arthritis sets in, and with it comes the pain and swelling that makes even ordinary activities difficult. When undergoing oxidative stress in dogs, a dog’s body st
