Omega-3 for Dogs : What is it? Benefits, Sources and Dosage
If you love your dog, then you know how important it is to care for a pet’s health. Just like humans, dogs require a certain level of nutrients in order to function properly. Because their bodies are generally smaller than ours, it only makes sense that the same amount of food might not be enough for your canine companion. As a result, some owners provide supplements that can help keep pets healthy and strong. This article will discuss one such supplement: omega-3 fatty acids for dogs.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Dogs – Overview
In general, omega-3 fatty acids for dogs have been shown to have beneficial impacts on an animal’s heart and brain functioning. In fact, a study published in a 2010 edition of the journal Veterinary Therapeutics indicated that dogs who suffer from certain types of seizures appear to benefit from a diet supplemented with these substances.
Since scientists have found that omega-3 fatty acids make such a difference in the health and wellness of both humans and animals, it seems obvious that curious owners would want to know where they can find this helpful substance for their four-legged friends. The following section provides an overview of where pet parents can start when searching for supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 Dog Supplements : What Is Available?
If you’re looking into giving your dog an omega 3 supplement, you’re not alone; many people are interested in what these nutritional supplements may do to pets. Because the market is constantly changing, it’s important to explore the available options.
When you’re looking to purchase supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, you’ll find that there are several sources from which you can choose. For instance, some pet owners opt for oils that can be added directly into their pets’ meals. Other people prefer treats or chews which can give their dogs a special reward while also helping them get the nutritional benefits of these substances.
Omega-3 Dog Supplements : Which Is Right for My Pet?
Regardless of what your dog prefers when it comes to food and snacks, there are omega-3 products available for every type of pet parent. If you want to make sure that your best friend receives all of the benefits that this substance offers, there are some helpful tips you can follow when choosing the omega 3 supplement that’s best for him.
To begin with, it’s important to recognize that not all products are created equal; some contain higher levels of this substance than others. Consequently, if your goal is to provide your pet with a dosage that will make a difference in his or her health, be sure to select an option that contains enough omega-3 fatty acids. Another thing to consider is how often you’ll need to give this supplement on a regular basis; since the body doesn’t immediately absorb these substances (which is why they’re so effective), you may have to become accustomed to giving them daily, weekly or monthly. Those who want their dogs’ diets supplemented as quickly as possible should opt for products that are water-soluble.
This means that omega 3 will become part of your dog’s system almost immediately, allowing for an easier transition period.
Omega-3 Dog Supplements : What is the Ideal Dose?
Once you’ve begun adding a supplement containing omega 3 fatty acids to your pet’s diet, it’s important to recognize which dosage levels are appropriate. Now, there is a caveat: you’ll have to pay attention to the weight of your canine companion in order to determine how much product he or she will need. Fortunately, most companies create their supplements in accordance with this requirement; they provide an option for each type of pet that comes into their store.
Omega-3 Dog Supplements : What Side Effects Should I Watch Out For?
Although supplements containing these substances can be beneficial for pets, certain side effects may occur while some dogs’ bodies adjust to receiving the additional benefits which result from using these products. Fortunately, even though it can take a little while for your dog’s system to get used to processing these substances, owners will typically see results within the first month of giving them.
Here are some of the side effects that can occur:
- Itching and inflammation around the site where the product was applied; in some extreme cases, this may lead to loss of hair at that location.
- Diarrhea; if it occurs, owners should decrease the dosage until their pets’ systems have readjusted accordingly.
- Vomiting is also possible in sensitive animals, which is why you’ll want to be patient when introducing your four-legged friend to his or her new supplement. This way, you can determine what levels are appropriate for him or her without causing any unnecessary problems.
Conclusion
If you notice that your dog experiences any of these effects, be sure to consult with your veterinarian about them; they’ll help determine if the supplements are causing this type of reaction in his or her body and can advise you on how to make the transition easier. Of course, if you have any other questions about how to select an omega 3 supplement for your best friend, be sure to speak with the employees at any one of these pet supply stores. They’ll be able to help you determine which products are appropriate for your canine companion and can even share helpful tips on how to make certain he or she enjoys the benefits of adding supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids into his or her diet.
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