Pet supplements have been around for years but just recently more pet owners are becoming aware of the benefits it provides for their pet. One of the main reasons pet owners seek out supplements for their pets is to help improve mobility and relieve pain in pets that suffer from hip and joint pain.
What are pet supplements?
Chances are you take vitamins and supplements to help improve and maintain your own health. Supplements for pets provide the same health benefits but are specially formulated to improve and maintain specific canine health conditions. According to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the most common pet supplements treat arthritic joints, improves the look of the coat, reduces shedding and alleviates cognitive dysfunction and gastrointestinal problems.
Why Supplements Are Good For Your Pet
Many dogs aren’t receiving a balanced diet that provides them with the nutrients and vitamins needed to maintain overall good health. Your pet might seem healthy but chances are they lack a specific vitamin or they can use a little more help nutritionally to help improve their mobility. Supplements are good for your pet because it enhances your dog’s health and provides the nutrients they don’t receive from their regular diet.
Does your pet need a supplement?
The answer to this question is a bit complex because it depends on your pet’s current health status. However, pets can suddenly require a supplement to improve and maintain their health during any life stage.
Raw diets and home-cooked meals for pets are on the rise. Many pet owners believe it’s the healthiest way to feed their dog or cat but often need something supplemental to maintain overall good health.
Generally, pets that lack nutrition and vitamins or in need of supplements. Also, pets that are working dogs, under stress, experience anxiety or have a medical problem require supplement support.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials says a complete and balanced diet that meets the daily nutritional requirements for pets should provide a healthy diet. However, some pets need more nutrition than what’s offered in commercial dog foods.
As a pet owner, you need to observe your dog daily and take action immediately if you notice the following signs:
- Low energy
- Difficulty standing up or sitting down
- Joint swelling
- Limps
- Favors one leg
- Excessive panting
- Whimpering in pain
How do pet supplements work?
Pet supplements have a variety of functions but it depends on what each one is specifically formulated to treat. The ingredients of each supplement are carefully designed to improve your dog’s health and quality of life. Here are some of the key ingredients you should consider:
- Glucosamine: helps keep joints healthy and aids in the reconstruction of damaged tissue.
- Chondroitin: helps build connective tissue, adds lubrication and flexibility to tissue and joints.
- MSM: facilitates the healing process to keep your pet healthy and pain-free.
- Turmeric: reduces inflammation and pain along with promoting overall other health benefits.
- Omegas 6 – 9: fatty acids that help improve your pet’s skin and coat, allergies as well as joint pain relief.
- Pre and Probiotics: helps promote a healthy gut; prevent disease, improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
When To Use Supplements On Your Pet
Supplements are used regularly to maintain overall good health. Always consult with a veterinarian and schedule follow-up visits to keep track of your dog’s health and nutritional needs. A veterinarian will conduct exams and run tests plus recommend specific supplements for your pet.
How to Give Your Pet a Supplement
Most pet supplements are chewable and have a taste dog’s love. It’s easy to convince your dog it’s a treat or you can hide the supplement in their food. Many dogs enjoy the flavor they often seek out the supplement first before consuming their regular kibble.
It’s also important that you do the following:
- Be aware of the dosage
- Avoid giving your dog more than the recommended dosage
- Make giving your pet a supplement a regular part of your regimen
- Keep track of the supplements you give your dog
Discussing Supplements for Your Pet with the Veterinarian
Don’t be shy about discussing supplements for your pet with the veterinarian.
Veterinarians, like myself, will be the first to recommend the best options for your pet. It’s also essential that you keep a health journal in between office visits so you can talk about any unusual symptoms your pet experiences. This valuable information will help the veterinarian pinpoint any health issues and allow them to make the right recommendations for your dog. As your pet grows and enters into different life stages their nutrition requirements change and so will their supplements.
The Bottom Line
Nutrition is key to your pet’s overall health. Supplements are beneficial, safe and help your pet live a good quality life. Pet supplements are formulated and designed to provide support and help maintain overall good health.