Metabolic bone disease or MBD is a deficiency in calcium or D³ that takes calcium from other parts of the body,particularly bones.I've been researching this disease in reptiles for quite some time and I've learned how it manifests and how to reverse the effects.The most common indications of MBD are rubber jaw and seemingly paralyzed legs. However this can be reversed with UVB (Sunlight) and or supplements of calcium.

Now, very recently my 9 year old dog, Max has received the common gift that most aged mammals receive: Arthritis. He has learned a new "trick" as to dodge this adversity. Every morning he is very stiff and nearly inflexible. When I dismiss him from the house, he instinctively lies down in his spot against the side of the house, the warmest region in the area. He will usually lie there for 10 to 15 minutes. When he returns he seems more agile and able-bodied as if the sun lifted this common curse.

This seems quite extraordinary,however I'm quite sure these are related, since in research, MBD is said to be equivalent to Osteoporosis for reptiles.But how could this be, an ectotherm with highly receptive skin just for the sun could possibly have the same remedy as an endotherm that doesn't necessarily require any sunlight. Quite strange, isn't it.Well despite if this relevance is true or not I'm quite happy this is working for him.Science is a fascinating thing and the only way to truly know it is to experience it for yourself.