A US firm "Vet-Stem" is providing a new treatment designed to help alleviate the pain suffered by dogs with arthritis.

The therapy involves injecting stem cells into arthritic joints in order to facilitate flexibility and generally improve pet health.

A total of 700 dogs from across the US have so far undergone the treatment. Dr Jacek de Haan from Affiliated Veterinary Specialists in Maitland comments: "Usually, activity level improves, theyr'e able to run more and be more active. If they weren't able to jump on furniture before, they are about to do it afterwards."

As in humans, any advance in the treatment of arthritis that can stem (forgive the pun) the pain of this debilitating condition is very welcome indeed, and by all accounts this method is bringing positive results: an 11 year old Australian shepherd called Maggie Mae, was taken to Florida for treatment and her owner Terry Hays was clearly happy to have made the journey : "I'm just thrilled to think Maggie Mae has been a part of it. If this is something that works, it could help many people and many animals someday. "

Fingers and paws crossed...we will keep an ear to the ground for any further progress reports!