Press Releases

VetStem Biopharma is Pleased to Share the Success Story of Sheldon who was Treated with Stem Cell Therapy by Dr. Rob Landry of Colorado Center for Animal Pain Management

Sheldon, a Bernese mountain dog, was successfully treated for moderate osteoarthritis in both elbows with VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy by Dr. Robert Landry.

2018-01-23 --

Since he was a puppy, Sheldon had a front leg limp off and on. At just 1 and ½ years old, Sheldon was diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA). Though moderate in severity, his pain kept him from enjoying his walks and playing with his buddy, Sabine. Sheldon became depressed so at 3 years old, his owners took him to Dr. Robert Landry of Colorado Center for Animal Pain Management. After a thorough examination, X-Rays revealed that Sheldon had OA in both elbows related to Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP). FCP is a developmental abnormality that is common in large breed dogs and causes joint instability and pain. Dr. Landry recommended Sheldon undergo arthroscopic surgery to remove damaged tissue/bone from Sheldon’s elbows followed by treatment with VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy.

In December 2016, approximately 6 months after he had arthroscopy to clean out his elbows, Sheldon underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove some fat from his abdomen. The fat was shipped over night to the VetStem laboratory in San Diego, California where it was processed and quality checked before shipment back to Dr. Landry. Two days after the fat collection, Sheldon received injections of his own stem cells into each elbow and also intravenously.

Shortly after his recovery from surgery, Sheldon returned to a more active and improved quality of life. His owner reported, “Almost immediately after recovery, he was like a new dog, able to embrace his favorite activities once again. His energy level increased and he wanted to play all the time.” She also stated, “Living on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, Sheldon embraces the ‘mountain dog’ part of his heritage. He lives for fishing in the stream with his dad, chasing butterflies in the meadows and finding free range bones in the woods.” The stem cell therapy reduced Sheldon’s pain and his owners reported they were able to cut back on his pain medication.

Six months after treatment with stem cells, Sheldon remained an active and happy dog. His owner reported that he was able to go on walks “without any limping or residual pain.” He was also instigating play with his dog friend, Sabine. His owners were very pleased with the results of Sheldon’s treatment and stated the therapy exceeded their expectations. Now, just over 1 year after Sheldon received stem cell therapy, his owners state, they “are so happy with how well the stem cells worked for him.” Dr. Landry also reported that Sheldon continues to do well.

Stem cells are regenerative cells that can differentiate into many tissue types; they have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, help to restore range of motion, and stimulate regeneration of tendon, ligament and joint tissues. In a study using VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy (adipose-derived stem cells) in dogs with osteoarthritis of the elbow joint, it was found that regenerative cell therapy decreased lameness and increased range of motion.

About Dr. Robert Landry DVM, DAIPM, CVA, CCRP
Dr. Robert Landry received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. He went on to complete an internship in medicine and surgery. In 2007, he received his certification in veterinary acupuncture and also became a diplomat with the American Academy of Pain Management. He went on to found two veterinary practices in Colorado including Colorado Center for Animal Pain Management. Dr. Landry has been treating patients with VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy since 2008 and has treated well over 30 patients.