Stem Cell Therapy for Aging Related Diseases and Joint Diseases in Companion Animals

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Companion animals suffer from ailments that are not curable by conventional veterinary medicine. Stem cells offer a new treatment avenue for these ailments because of their regenerative potential resulting in local tissue regeneration and repair. This review will summarize the various uses of stem cells as treatment for age-related and joint diseases in companion animals. ABSTRACT: Stem cell therapy is an attractive treatment for diseases in companion animals that cannot be treated by conventional veterinary medicine practices. The unique properties of stem cells, particularly the ability to differentiate into specific cell types, makes them a focal point in regenerative medicine treatments. Stem cell transplantation, especially using mesenchymal stem cells, has been proposed as a means to treat a wide range of injuries and ailments, resulting in tissue regeneration or repair. This review aims to summarize the veterinary use of stem cells for treating age-related and joint diseases, which are common conditions in pets. While additional research is necessary and certain limitations exist, the potential of stem cell therapy for companion animals is immense.