Enter a pharmacy, health store, convenience store, or your local supermarket and you will be swamped by the number of options for supplements all around you. Products such as multivitamins contain a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals, while there are also products formulated for a specific purpose.
It is only logical to assume that there are pet food suppliers that offer vitamins made specifically for dogs, cats, and other pets as well.
As with any new fur parent, you may be wondering if your four-legged companion needs one. Which one should you get? Are there any risks or factors you need to be aware of when it comes to supplements?
Before you start your search, let a reputable company offering vitamins and pet food delivery in Dubai share some insight on vitamins.
What Are Vitamins?
Vitamins contain substances that the body needs to survive, grow, and thrive. This is true for people and animals alike.
There are two types of nutrients: natural and synthetic. Natural types are derived from whole foods, while synthetic forms are made in laboratories, factories, or through an industrial process. You can find synthetic nutrients in pill, tablet, capsule or powder forms, or as a liquid.
Synthetic vitamins are designed to work in the same way natural types do. At times, our typical diet is not enough to provide the nutrients the body needs. Natural dog supplements make it possible to reach the daily recommended amount. Read also : blood in dog stool
Do Dogs Need Vitamins?
Good news for pet owners everywhere: Dry and wet commercial pet foods contain most of the right nutrients at the recommended amounts.
There are foods specially made for specific breeds, ages, or even health conditions. For example, different life stages require a specific amount of certain nutrients. This is why you may find commercial dog food labeled for puppies, adults, or seniors.
In some cases, dogs may still need supplements. However, you can’t give your dog his pet food and then add supplements that you just think he needs. The supplements have to provide only the nutrients that the dog’s current diet may not contain, as too much of one nutrient could be detrimental to your pet’s health.
Too much vitamin A, for example, causes dehydration and joint pain. It also damages blood vessels in the process. In larger breeds, too much calcium in the diet causes bone issues such as hip dysplasia. Some dog foods are manufactured mainly to prevent large breeds from growing too quickly and developing such health issues.
Before providing any supplements, it is important to check with a veterinarian. Your vet can best determine what vitamins and supplements your dog truly needs, in the correct dosage.
Vitamins Dogs Need
There are nutrients that both humans and pets need. Some of the nutrients your vet might recommend include the following:
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Vitamin A
Growing up, you are sure to have been taught that vitamin A is responsible for your eyesight. Dogs also receive the same benefit, and more. Other than good vision, in dogs, this vitamin is also crucial for fetal development, growth, cell function, and improving the function of the immune system.
In food, this can be found in eggs, fish oil, sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach, among others.
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Vitamin B
Unlike other nutrients, vitamin B refers to a group of compounds needed for good health. Thiamine, for instance, regulates energy levels and the metabolism of carbohydrates in the body. B6 is crucial for making glucose, regulating hormone levels, improving immune response, and keeping the nervous system working properly.
To assist enzyme function, there is vitamin B12. For energy metabolism, there is Pantothenic acid. Lastly, there is folic acid, which is responsible for the synthesis of mitochondrial protein and the metabolism of amino acids in the body.
Vitamin B can be found in an assortment of natural foods that includes beans, whole grains, and green vegetables.
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Vitamin C
As an antioxidant, vitamin C targets any free radicals that can cause damage to the body and cause cognitive aging. It is also responsible for reducing inflammation. Many fruits and vegetables, including zucchini, green beans, and potatoes contain vitamin C.
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Vitamin D
Often referred to as the sunshine vitamin, this nutrient keeps the bones and muscles strong and healthy by maintaining a healthy level of calcium and phosphorus. Cottage cheese, beef, egg yolks, and fish oil are some of the more nutritious foods that contain this nutrient.
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Vitamin E
Much like vitamin A, this nutrient is vital in keeping cell functions healthy and for the metabolism of fat. Without it, your canine may experience various health problems. You can find vitamin E in whole grains, chia seeds, and green leafy vegetables.
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Vitamin K
Much like calcium, vitamin K keeps bones strong and healthy while enhancing the blood clotting function in the dog’s body. Blood clotting is necessary when your canine gets injured as it speeds up the healing process. Fish and green leafy vegetables are rich in this nutrient.
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Choline
This specific nutrient is needed by the phospholipid cell membrane to keep the brain and liver functioning properly. As a result, vets may prescribe choline supplements as a way to treat dogs suffering from epilepsy.
Minerals Dogs Need
Minerals are just as essential as vitamins when it comes to keeping your dog healthy. As previously mentioned, they should only be given when prescribed by a vet as too much can lead to different health issues.
Calcium and phosphorus, for instance, are necessary for muscle growth, blood coagulation, and the healthy function of the nervous system in dogs. Phosphorus can be found in fish, meat, and eggs, while foods such as green beans and tofu are rich in calcium.
Too little of this mineral can result in irregular spurts of growth and development. On the other hand, too much of it can cause the bones to become weak and brittle. As a result, your canine may become more prone to developing fractures.
For Healthier Dogs
Dogs need vitamins and minerals to grow and stay healthy as they age. Feeding your dog quality dog food is the key to providing them the nutrients they need. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian to see if your pet needs any additional vitamins or minerals to supplement his nutritional requirements.
Read Also : Why a Dog Daycare is a Good Idea for Your Pet
