Working in the supplement industry for 20 years I have taken vitamins for more than half of my life. I believe they are beneficial for many different problems, can be a good preventative for some things and can be a good reassurance that you are getting all your nutrients. I feel the same for my dogs and I have always given them vitamins throughout their life.
I start with a basic multiple vitamin. I give them a multiple for the same reason I take one and I use it as a reassurance that I am getting all my nutrients. Sure I would like to believe I am getting all my vitamins from food but it is unlikely I am getting everything I need. I do the same for my dogs and although I feed them a good dog food that is balanced I still provide them with the extra protection.
I give them fish oil, which I squirt on their food once a day. This is great for their coat and especially good for joints. It has the same benefits for humans because it is great for our skin, helps to lubricate joints and reduces inflammation. I give my older larger dogs Glucosamine for their joints. I have always ran with my dogs and Glucosamine is great for joints.
I have a dog named Daisy who has always been healthy and very fit. She has had blood taken on a few occasions and had slightly elevated liver enzymes. Luckily I have a vet who is open to alternative medicine. The number was not so high to warrant concern but it was something to keep an eye on. She suggested I give her Milk Thistle and Glutathione both of which are good for the liver. Since giving her that her numbers are in the normal range.
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| Tigger is still active at 10! |
It is very important to always talk to your vet before giving your dog any supplement. Not all supplements that humans can take would be appropriate for your dog. It is important to remember if you feed your dog anything other than dog food to discuss it with your vet. Human food is not balanced properly to provide all the nutrients a dog may need. Your dog could end up with brittle bones from not getting enough calcium or a variety of other aliments. You may think your doing a good thing by cooking healthy food for your pup but if they are lacking in one nutrient it could be dangerous. Always discuss changes in your dogs diet and supplementation with your vet. Make sure you buy a quality name brand product to ensure the potency is accurate. It is the same for supplements that humans take. There is no regulation in the supplement industry so buying a reputable brand name product is important.
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| Daisy still runs with me at 8! |