Stem Cell Therapy for Canine Osteoarthritis: Investigating a New Way to Support Joint Health in Dogs

A pet parent’s guide to canine osteoarthritis and how stem cell therapy is being studied as a potential new way to support joint health and mobility.

Understanding Osteoarthritis in Dogs

If your dog seems slower on walks, struggles to get up, or hesitates to jump on the couch, osteoarthritis could be to blame. This chronic joint disease affects up to one in five adult dogs and is especially common in larger breeds and senior pets.

Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints gradually breaks down, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Over time, this can make everyday movements difficult and limit a dog’s quality of life.

Common signs of OA include:

• Limping or stiffness, especially after rest
• Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
• Difficulty rising or lying down
• Behavioral changes such as irritability or withdrawal

Because the condition is progressive, symptoms often worsen as dogs age.

Why Current Treatments May Not Be Enough

Traditional OA management focuses on pain control and symptom relief. Common therapies include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pain medications, joint supplements,  monoclonal antibody injections designed to block pain signals, and adjunctive therapies including acupuncture and laser therapy.

While these treatments can help, many only address the symptoms—not the progressive tissue degeneration within the joint. As a result, pet parents and veterinarians continue to look for therapies that may support long-term joint health and function.

Investigating Stem Cell Therapy for Osteoarthritis

Stem cell therapy is being studied as part of an emerging field called regenerative medicine—a science focused on repairing or replacing damaged tissues rather than just managing disease symptoms.

Gallant is investigating the use of uterine-derived mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (UMSCs) in canine osteoarthritis. These donor-derived cells are collected ethically during routine spay procedures and expanded under FDA-regulated conditions for investigational use.

Research suggests that mesenchymal stromal cells have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural repair processes. Stem cells have been most extensively explored for osteoarthritis in dogs.

Gallant is currently conducting pilot studies evaluating the safety and effectiveness of intravenous allogeneic (from a healthy donor) UMSCs for canine OA.

How Gallant’s Research Works

Gallant’s investigational therapies are developed in a Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)–compliant facility, ensuring each batch of cells is produced and tested under strict quality and safety standards.

All studies are conducted under FDA oversight with the goal of exploring whether MSC therapy could become a practical, accessible option for veterinarians treating chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.

Looking Ahead

Osteoarthritis can deeply affect a dog’s comfort and mobility—and the joy they bring to family life. Regenerative medicine is opening new avenues of study that focus on restoring balance and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

While stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis remains investigational, Gallant’s ongoing research aims to advance understanding of how stem cells might support healthier, more active lives for dogs in the future.

Learn More

Gallant is leading the next generation of veterinary regenerative medicine, developing ready-to-use stem cell therapies designed to help pets live longer, healthier, and more comfortable lives.

All participation is voluntary and conducted under veterinary supervision in accordance with FDA regulations.

Disclaimer

Gallant’s investigational stem cell therapies are not commercially available. These veterinary products may be available through participation in a study at a qualified clinic under FDA-authorized protocols. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.