Giving dietary supplements to pets is becoming a regular practice. Most commonly they are used to support arthritic joints. Fatty acid supplements also are given to improve the shine of pet’s coat and reduce shedding. Probiotics are given to relieve gastrointestinal problems. Even antioxidants are given to pets to overcome effects of aging like cognitive decline. Dog and cat probiotics and supplements are of various types and their variety is increasing still with the increasing population of overweight and aging pets.
Do Dogs Need Supplements?
Dogs are mostly given a complete, balanced diet in form of commercially produced dog food which includes vitamins and minerals, as per the FDA. Those dogs which receive a homemade food may require supplements. However, vets say that giving supplements to these dogs is extremely critical and it should complement the diet. You just can’t prepare a meal and give a vitamin to your dog. Consult your vet or nutritionist to decide which supplement is required.
Should I Discuss with My Vet about Supplementing?
Of course. Just because your dog has a weak back or poor coat, you cannot start supplementing him. The weak back can actually be a neurological problem, whereas a poor coat may be because of a metabolic, dermatological or hormonal problem. Vets advise that you should remember to stick to the traditional healthcare and use supplements only as supplements.
Some ingredients in the supplements can react with some medicines which can harm your pet. By talking to your vet, you can understand which supplements to give to your pet.
Vets look for something which is safe for long term and in that case, they recommend probiotics.
Do Dog Supplements Benefit?
A study published in 2007 in The Veterinary Journal showed that dogs given glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate for 70 days experienced less pain and improved mobility.
Fatty acids are helpful in the improvement of coat. As per a research published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research, fish oil supplements too can decrease inflammation.
Antioxidants like vitamins C and E too decrease inflammation and show improvement in aging dogs experiencing memory problems.
Are there Supplements in Dog Food?
You need to check the label of ingredients and see how much of them are present in the food. Certain adult dog foods consist of glucosamine/chondroitin; however due to state regulations about limiting the amount, it’s mostly not the therapeutic dose.
On the other hand, a prescription dog food may consist of supplements in therapeutic amounts.
Some other dog foods may contain DHA to promote cognitive development in pups or herbal supplements like cranberry to fight urinary tract infections.
At PetVi.com you get cat and dog probiotics and supplements with the finest natural ingredients. The company is owned by Mark Lucio, a broker in the hay industry and owner of many pets, and Carl Old, PhD in animal nutrition. With their experience and expertise in the animal health and foods, they bring the highest quality pre and proiotics and supplements for your pets.
