Pro-Stride® APS: A Natural Solution for Canine Joint Pain

Arthritis and joint disease are among the most common causes of pain and reduced mobility in dogs. Watching a pet struggle with stiffness, lameness, or loss of activity is heartbreaking for owners — and challenging for veterinarians seeking long-term solutions.

Pro-Stride® APS (Autologous Protein Solution) offers an advanced, regenerative option that is both science-driven and dog-friendly: a one-day treatment that uses the dog’s own blood to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support joint health.

What Is Pro-Stride® APS?

Pro-Stride® APS is a form of orthobiologic therapy — meaning it harnesses the body’s own cells and proteins to heal.

• A small sample of blood is drawn from the dog.

• In about 20–30 minutes, the blood is processed in-clinic to concentrate anti-inflammatory proteins, growth factors, platelets, and white blood cells.

• This concentrated solution is injected back into the affected joint the same day.

Because the treatment is autologous (made from the dog’s own blood), it’s natural, safe, and avoids the risks of foreign proteins or drug side effects.

How It Works (for the science-minded)

APS combines the benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and IRAP therapies:

• Blocks inflammation: Key proteins like IL-1 receptor antagonist and TNF receptor antagonists reduce the damaging effects of IL-1β and TNF-α in the joint.

• Supports repair: Platelets release growth factors that encourage cartilage protection, angiogenesis, and tissue healing.

• Balanced response: White blood cells contribute additional anti-inflammatory and regulatory proteins.

The result is a joint environment that shifts away from breakdown and toward healing.

Benefits for Dogs

• Natural & drug-free – No steroids, no synthetic chemicals.

• One-visit procedure – Collection, processing, and injection done in a single appointment.

• Long-lasting relief – Many dogs improve for 6–12 months after just one injection.

• Better mobility & comfort – Dogs often walk, climb, and play more easily.

• Safe for seniors & athletes alike – Useful for both older arthritic dogs and active working or sporting dogs.

Clinical Indications

Veterinarians commonly recommend APS for:

• Osteoarthritis – especially mild to moderate cases.

• Post-surgical support – cruciate repairs, elbow dysplasia, and other orthopedic procedures.

• Working and sporting dogs – agility, hunting, and service dogs that need long-term joint health.

• Dogs that cannot tolerate NSAIDs or steroids – renal/GI risks, metabolic disease, or prior side effects.

What Owners Can Expect

• The procedure: Mild sedation will be used.

• Recovery: Light activity for a few days; gradual return to normal routines.

• Results: Many owners report noticeable improvement within weeks, with benefits lasting months to a year.

• Follow-up: APS works best as part of a multimodal plan — weight management, physical rehab, and controlled exercise maximize results.

The Bottom Line

For pet owners, Pro-Stride® APS offers hope: a natural, one-day treatment that can give dogs back their mobility and joy.
For veterinarians, APS is a proven orthobiologic tool — grounded in solid science, supported by clinical experience, and tailored to modern multimodal pain management.

Pro-Stride® APS brings together the best of both worlds: cutting-edge veterinary medicine and compassionate care for our canine companions.

If you are interested in seeing if Pro-Stride can help your pet, call Advanced Care Veterinary Services @ 972-394-6422.  Since September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, print out this article and bring it with you for $75 off the initial examination fee.  Good through September 30, 2025.