Controversy centered on dry dog food and dog food recalls

With so much controversy centered on dry dog food and dog food recalls in the news dog owners are increasingly concerned with proper nutrition for their dogs. While there are many excellent dry dog food choices on the market, there are a host of vitamins and minerals to supplement their diets. The dramatic increase in dog popularity has resulted in increased awareness regarding their nutritional needs. With so many supplements on the market it can be confusing to choose what is right for your pooch pal. Before making your choice it is best to familiarize yourself with each ingredient its benefits before making a choice. Here is a list of common supplements or additives for your consideration:

1. Ascorbic Acid: Ascorbic acid is a sugar acid with antioxidant properties that aids in the production of collagen which is important to bone and connective tissue production. Vitamin C is the most common form of ascorbic acid and is produced naturally within a dog’s liver. While Vitamin C is commonly supplemented among humans, it is typically not necessary for dogs. Only dogs with liver disease who are unable to produce their own ascorbic acid would need this particular substance.

2. Bonemeal: This supplement is a sterilized source of animal bones that provides needed calcium and phosphorus. This supplement is ideal for nursing mothers or growing puppies or dogs who eat meat, but not the bones they would typically eat in the wild.

3. Chondroitin: This is a molecule that occurs naturally in the body and is one of the main components in cartilage. Chondroitin keeps cartilage healthy by absorbing fluid into the connective tissue and blocking enzymes that can break cartilage down. Combined with Glucosamine, this supplement can help to stop damage to cartilage and treat osteoarthritis pain.

4. Flaxseed Oil: Derived from flax plants, this essential oil (also known as linseed oil) contains alpha-linolenic acid that helps prevent heart disease, arthritis and other health conditions such as chronic inflammatory disorders. While this supplement can be useful, most Veterinarians agree that fish oil with Omega-3 fatty acids work more efficiently in canines.

5. Glucosamine: This amino sugar is responsible for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid within the joints. Combined with Chondroitin, this supplement can help to rebuild joints and alleviate some pain associated with osteoarthritis.

6. Green Lipped Mussel: This shellfish has long been linked to low rates of arthritis in humans and has just recently been proven to help arthritic dogs. Studies show that when dogs are fed with this supplement their mobility returns in just six weeks.

7. Kelp: Kelp is a well kept secret super food for dogs. Kelp promotes better digestion, healthy skin and coat, higher resistance to infection and even helps healing from an accident or injury. Kelp is high in fiber and acts as a cleanser for the digestive tract.

8. Iron: This essential metal is necessary to carry oxygen to the cells of the body through the blood. Dogs need 36.4 milligrams of iron per pound of food eaten. Most commercial dog foods will provide enough iron for your dog; however, dogs with iron deficiencies will need it as a supplement. Be careful as too much iron in a dog’s system could lead to iron toxicity.

9. Omega-3: Dogs are not able to synthesize fatty acids so they must get them from their diet. If a dog’s diet is not high in these acids they can be supplemented through additives to his diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely helpful in promoting healthy skin and coat and helping with treatment of autoimmune disorders.

10. Yucca: This is an all-natural steroidal supplement and is a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever with relatively mild gastric side effects. Yucca can be used for a variety of reasons to relieve pain and inflammation.
 

This article was sent in by the authors from pet super store a site carrying hidden fence, dog training collars and pet doors.