A Handy Guide to Supplements for your Dog Pal
Seeing as how good nutrition is the basis for good health and wellness, dog guardians have ramped up their efforts to ensure that their furry family members receive the attention and care that they deserve.
More and more, people are, in their quest for health and longevity for their dogs, turning from low quality foods and seeking diets that are made from human grade, natural and wholesome ingredients that are free of harmful additives, preservatives, colors and flavors.
Regardless of whether the choice is to prepare food from scratch, feed raw, frozen or even a top shelf kibble, savvy animal lovers are using everything available to them that enhances the quality of their pooch pal’s life, offers health and wellness and may even address specific health issues that the dog has faced as a result of poor diet.
Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutraceuticals are basically safe but the inappropriate dosage or a combination of supplements that has NOT been researched, can lead to potential trouble. When you are starting out, it is prudent to consult with your veterinary nutritionist so that you can have a place to being, be certain that you are dosing correctly and that your dog really will benefit from what you are planning.
Here is a short list of some of the more commonly used supplements and a brief description of their function.
1. Antioxidants: They neutralize cell-damaging free radicals in the body and help to fight cancer, infection and diseases. Vitamins A, C and E as well as carotenoids are all antioxidants. Blueberries, sweet potatoes, cranberries and carrots pack a big punch here.
2. Chondroitin: Usually offered in tandem with glucosamine, this supplies nutrients to damaged cartilage and inhibits the inflammatory enzymes that destroy cartilage, bone and other components of the joints. It reduces pain and encourages joint function normally.
3. Enzymes: Nutrients that are generally present in raw food, but usually degenerate in dry foods. They consist of amino acids that work to promote good digestion and food absorption. Three you should look for are protease, lipase and amylase.
4. Essential Fatty Acids: Fish, flaxseed and hemp seed oils offer Omega 3, 6, and 9 oils. They have strong anti-inflammatory properties, protect the lungs, liver, kidneys, eyes and nerve tissue. They also assist in keeping hair and skin healthy.
You can learn more when you visit To Give or Not to Give: Daily Supplements.
