Dr Vincent: Can you share your arthritis supplements with your dog?

As more older Australians turn to natural supplements to manage arthritis and joint inflammation, many are now wondering whether they can share these supplements with their dog. 

According to Dr Vincent, a highly respected health and wellness expert, this is one of the most common questions he's receiving right now.

"I've noticed a real surge in enquiries, particularly from older Australians, who are experiencing the benefits of activated phenolics in their own lives and want to know if they can give the same supplement to their ageing dog," Dr Vincent said.

"For many, myself included, our dog is not just a companion but a vital part of our everyday wellbeing.  Like humans, dogs also suffer from arthritis and certain breeds of dog are more predisposed to arthritis than others. I have a labrador so this is something that I have always been very mindful about."

Dr Vincent is a revered clinical nutritionist, food scientist, antioxidant researcher and founder of Renovatio Bioscience, a well-known Australian company that makes skin care, supplements and pantry products from 100 percent Australian apples. The products contain activated phenolics, the world's most potent form of antioxidants capable of being rapidly absorbed by the body. He also translates cutting-edge research into actionable advice for individuals looking to achieve better health through nutrition.

"I receive a lot of questions from people about their pet's arthritis and whether they can share their own supplements with their dog.  The answers can be somewhat complicated," Dr Vincent added. 

Traditional but arguably outdated supplements that may help relieve arthritis symptoms usually rely on turmeric (curcumin) to reduce inflammation. While these compounds are quite safe for humans, their use in dogs is not without risk.

Turmeric and curcumin can cause gastrointestinal upset, liver enzyme elevation and even iron deficiency in dogs when used long-term or in high doses. The problem is compounded by the lack of dosage standardisation and variable absorption in canine metabolism.

"Look for active ingredients that are naturally derived with a very low toxicity profile, making them safe for daily use in both young and older dogs," Dr Vincent said. 

"Unlike many joint supplements that rely on high doses of turmeric or curcumin, which can cause side effects like vomiting or interfere with blood clotting in dogs, activated phenolics are water-soluble and highly bioavailable, so they work effectively at low doses without burdening the liver or kidneys."

Another area of focus is to not only look for relieving symptoms, but also the root cause which are oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation. By neutralising free radicals and protecting cartilage, they help reduce inflammation at the cellular level without disrupting digestion or immune function.

Omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA (found in fish oil) are well-researched and can reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. However, not all fish oils are created equal. Low-quality or oxidised oils can do more harm than good. That doesn't mean fish oil should be avoided but it should be high quality, stored properly and used in the right amounts.

Collagen, particularly types I and II, is a major structural protein in joints. It can support cartilage repair, but it's not anti-inflammatory, and the body may not absorb it efficiently unless it's hydrolysed. Collagen works best as part of a broader joint care strategy, rather than a standalone solution.

Natural antioxidants offer multi-system support, including gut health, cognitive function, skin and immunity. For older dogs especially, this means more vitality and mobility, not just less pain.

Dr Vincent answers the questions Australians are asking

Q:  Do dogs experience arthritis like humans do?

A:  Arthritis in dogs, like in humans, is usually caused by ageing, joint wear and tear or conditions like hip dysplasia. Cartilage breaks down over time, leading to pain, stiffness and inflammation. Obesity, past injuries and genetics can also contribute. In both dogs and humans, oxidative stress and inflammation play a major role in joint degeneration and discomfort.

Q: Can dogs benefit from antioxidants like humans do?

A: Yes, oxidative stress affects dogs just as it does humans. It's one of the main causes of inflammation, which leads to stiffness, pain and reduced mobility in ageing dogs. True antioxidants like activated phenolics work to neutralise free radicals and reduce this inflammation. 

Q: Is it safe to give my dog my human supplements?

A: Traditional but arguably outdated supplements that may help relieve arthritis symptoms usually rely on turmeric (curcumin) to reduce inflammation. While these compounds are quite safe for human, their use in dogs is not without risk. In contrast, activated phenolics powder, a natural antioxidant derived from apples using a patented water-based process, offers a safer, more effective solution with broader health benefits.

As always, you should check with your vet before giving any human supplement to your dog. Dosage, weight and pre-existing conditions all need to be considered to ensure your dog's safety.

Q: Why are people considering sharing their supplements with their pet?

A: Many older Australians, as well as younger people, experience arthritis themselves and have pets who are also slowing down with age. They want to support their own health naturally and do the same for their loyal companions. It's a shared health journey and an emotional one too.

"Many people contact me to let me know that they share their activated phenolics powder with their pet and it helps enormously.  When people experience improvements in their own physical health they want to share these improvements with their fury loved ones as well," Dr Vincent added.

About Renovatio

Renovatio Bioscience was founded by Dr Vincent in 2016 following his breakthrough discovery while undertaking antioxidant research at the University of Newcastle.   He developed a laboratory technique to extract the world's most potent antioxidants 'activated phenolics' from Australian apples and other produce using only water.   His innovative work solved an issue, which had been perplexing scientists all over the world for nearly 80 years.    

Dr Vincent patented and translated his innovative work into a range of 'turbo charged' health and wellness products including supplements, skincare and pantry products to help people access the world's most potent antioxidants in an 'easy to consume' form. 

In 2025, Dr Vincent launched a sister brand 'Vincent' in the United States. Vincentplus.com

The entire Renovatio range can be purchased online at renovatio.com.au