About 30% of dogs take supplements for both age-related problems and to achieve optimal health. Here are the most common supplements and their applications.
Vitamins – PetTabs & PetCal – daily vitamins are used when feeding home-cooked diets, during periods of stress or increased activity, or simply to provide optimal nutrition. PetCal contains extra calcium for pregnant or nursing animals.
Wellactin/AllerG3 – Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Also known as fish oil, this is the most common supplement in dogs and cats. An anti-inflammatory, it decreases joint inflammation and improves the skin and coat, particularly in animals with allergies. It is also used to treat kidney and heart disease.
Dasuquin – Cosequin – is used for joint pain and arthritis. The brand Dasuquin is by far the best and the most economical product available. Studies show that many brands of Cosequin are either present at very low levels or are not well absorbed. Because Dasuquin produces the highest blood levels it is effective at a lower dose. Dasuquin is useful in all types of joint pain from puppies with knee problems to geriatric patients with arthritis.
Senelife – As dogs and cats are living longer, dementia or senility has become more common. Senelife is a natural product that reduces brain aging and lessens the effects of senility including poor sleep habits, barking or meowing a night, alertness, and urinating and defecating in the house. If your pet is showing signs of senility, try Senelife for one to two months and continue if the improvement is noted.
EFAC – is a liquid contained in a capsule that is applied to the gums to reduce inflammation. As dogs and cats get older not only do they develop tartar but the gums become inflamed. EFAC is used after the teeth are cleaned where there is also gum inflammation, in animals with inflamed gums but little tartar, or in animals whose health does not allow the teeth to be cleaned. It is most effective when applied locally because it attracts white blood cells to promote healing. It is also absorbed through the skin and provides relief to any inflammation, including joints.
Denamarin – is usually used to improve liver function but has also been shown to help with senility.
Proviable – is a probiotic, lactobacillus bacteria used to treat diarrhea by replacing harmful bacteria in the gut with healthy bacteria. It can also be used to treat urinary tract infections in cats, certain skin infections, especially in puppies, and for boarding animals to maintain skin and intestinal health.