Bull elk grow a new set of antlers each year in the Spring. When the antler starts to grow it is in a soft stage and covered by a soft, fuzzy outer layer. The feel and appearance are why it is called velvet antler. The antler, if left intact, will calcify to a very hard stage in a matter of months. We cut the antler (no animal is ever harmed in this process) when it is in the soft or velvet stage because that is when the nutrient content is the greatest. The cut antler is then freeze dried and sliced.
Why is Bonus velvet antler better for my dog than other glucosamine products?
Velvet antler contains many compounds that other products do not. It is the synergy of all these compounds that makes velvet antler such an effective product. Also, most other glucosamine and chondroitin products are derived from shellfish, shark cartilage, etc. Velvet antler is the only renewable source of glucosamine and chondroitin.
Can I give my dog velvet antler with medications?
There have been no adverse effects reported when taking velvet antler with medications, however, we recommend that you check with your veterinarian first.
How is velvet antler harvested?
Harvesting velvet antler does not threaten the animal's well being. It is harvested from the elk by a process that is humane and stress free. All elk that are used in this process are domestically raised in free ranging pastures and are given the best of care year round and many of them actually seem relieved when the antler is removed. If the antler were allowed to fully mature and harden the bulls would challenge one another and might be injured.
Can velvet antler be given to cats?
Yes, velvet antler is safe to give to cats and has proven to be just as effective in the treatment of arthritis and joint recovery.
How does velvet antler compare to prescription joint medications for dogs?
Velvet antler is 100% natural, nothing else is added, no preservatives, no dyes, no artificial ingredients of any kind, and it is not a drug. Velvet antler has been used in Eastern medicine for thousands of years with no adverse effects and has proven to be extremely effective. On the other hand, serious and sometimes fatal side effects have been reported with the use of prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).
Does velvet antler have any adverse side effects?
Velvet antler is completely safe to use with none of the harmful side effects that sometimes accompany drugs. To date no known side effects have been reported and velvet antler has been used extensively in Asian countries for thousands of years.