It has been reported that dog owners in New Zealand will soon obtain revolutionary stem cell treatment, for their pets suffering from degenerative joint illness.

An agreement to treat dogs with stem cell technology has been announced by Pet Doctors, who are New Zealand's major companion animal veterinary group.

It has been said that New Zealand will be the only third nation in the planet to propose this sort of treatment for dogs, along with Australia and the US.

Pet Doctors group Chief Executive, Steve Merchant, stated, "Many pet-owners have experienced the heartache of seeing a previously active dog deteriorate in mobility - for simple things like getting into the car, going for walks, or having a play at the beach”.

Advance technology and the dog's own natural regeneration system is applied in the treatment, to heal painful arthritic joints. It is a one-day process, which entails planting stem cells into affected joints.

At present the treatment is being provided in Australia and costs about $6000. Over 200 dogs have been given treatment in Australia so far, with outstanding outcome.

It is said that till now, there have been three procedures conducted in New Zealand.