To Supplement? Or not to Supplement?
That is the question...
There are a plethora of supplements on the market for our pets. Making heads or tails of them, and deciding which ones to use with your own pet, can be daunting. I can't begin to cover every supplement for every issue in this newsletter, but I can name a few that I feel are beneficial for most pets, regardless of age, breed, size, etc.*
For Dogs and Cats: The Honest Kitchen's Invigor is a wonderful immune support supplement that contains antioxidants to help fight free radicals. We have gotten some great feedback recently from customers using Invigor to support their dogs' recovery from allergic reactions and food sensitivities. I have heard from from a few folks that within a week they were noticing improvements in coat, itchiness, eye irritation, etc. Invigor contains a simple list of ingredients including:
Certified organic kelp
Hawthorn berry
(great source of antioxidants. Also, some studies have shown that hawthorn supports and improves circulation and heart health/function)
Olive leaf
(antioxidant, as well as possible anti-inflammatory effects, antibacterial properties, and a host of other health
improving benefits. Click here to read more)
Astragalus root
Watercress
(high in vitamin C which has anti-inflammatory properties)
Spirulina
Combining these ingredients creates a super easy way to get a huge dose of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory rich items into your dog or cat. Many of the ingredients have also been thought to support and help control diabetes, have anti-cancer effects, combat senility, and lower blood pressure. Further studies need to be done to prove those last few things though. This is an especially great supplement right now, as pollen related issues start popping up.
For Small Animals: Oxbow Digestive Support Treats. In my experience (both personal and fro m numerous discussions with people), one of the main ailments in small animals (rabbits especially) are problems with the digestive tract. Even something as seemingly minor as gas can be life threatening in small animals. Oxbow has come out with an entire line of supplemental treats, including urinary support, immune support, joint support, and others. Due to the frequency of issues with the digestive tract, I'm focusing on that one here.
The active ingredients in this treat are:
Chamomile
(antispasmodic properties to help relax muscles spasms like those caused by gas. May help to alleviate some of the cramping associated with gas)
Fenugreek seed
(high in fiber)
Chicory root
(high in inulin, a great source of fiber)
Ginger root
(can increase activity of digestive enzymes, stimulates muscle contractions that move food through digestive tract)
Slippery elm
(can coat digestive tract to relieve irritation)
The combo of the fiber to help the digestive system move as well as the chamomile to potentially reduce pain and cramping make this a great treat to give your small critter. While this is not something that will clear up problems such as stasis, it can be a useful tool to keep the digestive tract functioning normally on a regular basis. Plus, the molasses in them makes them smell incredible, so many pets think it's just a tasty cookie because you love them.
*If your pet is on medication, or has a specific health condition, always check with your veterinarian before starting or stopping any supplements.