Stem cell treatment used on dogs

Stem cells are breathing new life into dogs that have arthritis.

A Westlake veterinarian is using a new procedure that harvests a dog or cat's adult stem cells.

It has made a big difference for 15-month-old Theo, a white German shepherd mix. Just six months ago, the dog could not run.

"Theo wasn't desired," said Randy Gram, Theo's owner. "He had a really bad limp, and his prognosis didn't look good, which meant the people were going to take him to the pound."

However, Gram saw a good life in this white shepherd, so he took him to Dr. Ian Voelzel at Westlake Animal Hospital . Voelzel is one of only a few in the country doing what is called Regenerative Therapy for dogs and cats with arthritis.

"We're using it to treat mainly dogs with chronic arthritis and generally severe arthritic or debilitating diseases where owners are contemplating euthanasia," said Voelzel.

Fat is taken from the animal, and the stem cells are processed in a lab in San Diego before being sent back to the vet.

"We inject the cells directly into the affected joint," said Voelzel.

The stem cells stop the source of pain and inflammation, and results can take up to a week.

"When he came home, he was really sore, but the following day you won't believe this guy," said Gram. "He's a monster. He's chasing the ball."

This stem cell treatment is being used as a last resort since the cost is between $2,500 and $3,500. In addition, there is no telling how long the treatment will last.

"We don't know how long it will last- will it last for one year, five years, twenty years?" said Voelzel. "No one knows."

Gram said he knows it was worth every penny.

"Theo has confidence now, so it's a big difference," said Gram.