Blog Proper Supplementation For Your Dog

Many of us take vitamins and other supplements to boost our nutritional intake; but did you know that dogs can take supplements too? In fact, many veterinarians recommend a daily regimen of dietary supplementation for your dog and if some of them seem familiar, it’s because we humans take them too, albeit in different doses.

Here are some of the most popular Supplementation For Your Dog:

Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine (used in combination with chondroitin) has fast become one of the world’s most popular supplements for arthritis sufferers, and the pet industry is now developing glucosamine-based pet supplements, as well as dog foods with glucosamine/chondroitin additives. Many vets prescribe it for treating osteoarthritis, joint pain and hip dysplasia.

Milk Thistle
This herb is often given to dogs to help prevent liver disease and inflammation.

SAM-e
SAM-e can help protect from liver disease and inflammation, and research is being done to determine whether it may help in treating cognitive dysfunction in older dogs. SAM-e can also combat the debilitating effects of arthritis. Added to this, you can treat your canine companion to healthful exercise sessions either in daycare or at the Aqua Park at Very, where he’ll get plenty of beneficial playtimes at our state-of-the-art doggie daycare facilities.

Vitamin C
No, it’s not used for doggie sniffles. Instead, vitamin C is used to help dogs recover from broken bones, and it’s also beneficial in preventing urinary tract infections. Vitamin C can also help older dogs suffering from hip dysplasia and distemper.

Fish Oil
Humans take fish oil supplements to help combat atherosclerosis. Dogs, however, are often prescribed fish oil for a different reason: to help clear up skin conditions, including itching and allergies. In addition, you can help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy, smooth and shiny through a regular regimen of grooming at Very Important Paws, which can include full massaging baths with specially-treated shampoos and oils.

Multivitamins
Commercial dog food is nutritionally balanced to include all of dog’s typical daily vitamin requirements, but if you’re pet is on a raw meat diet, your vet may recommend adding multivitamins to the mix.

Probiotics
Probiotic tablets utilize “healthy bacteria” to balance out our digestive systems. Likewise, many vets feel that they’re effective in relieving stomach irritation and diarrhea in dogs.
If your dog is on supplements, it’s important not to miss those daily dosages, so if you’re going on vacation and your canine companion is staying at Very Important Paws, make sure and leave the necessary supplements along with dosing instructions with us.

Before starting your dog on a regimen of dietary supplements, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian first. By working together, you’ll be able to find the most effective supplements to ensure that your dog has a long, happy, healthy life.