A functional food, rather than the traditional oral pill form, that may function to inhibit cartilage degradation by helping to stimulate the body's ability to produce more GAG's (glycosaminoglycans). The cartilage make up of the Senior PLUS formula may help with the hydration of joints because of the polyanionic characteristics, thus the lubrication needed in joints for the proper function. It is not a substitute for professional treatment, but a supportive means to assist with canine discomfort.This formula really helped my dog, Missy. She had alot of problems with her back hips before I found out about Flint River Ranch, and she was overweight. I began feeding her this formula, and after a few months she had lost her excess weight (and she had quite a bit of it I'm embarassed to say) and very little joint problems.