Man’s best friend has naturally become a member of the family over the years. Billions of dollars are spent annually on veterinary care services within the pet community. Pet owners want nothing more than their beloved pets to get the best care possible, however as pets age, their healthcare costs rise.
Veterinary visits become inevitable whether your pet is young or old. While senior dogs develop diseases with age, young and active dogs can have the prospect of inheriting them based on genetics. Being proactive with your pet’s health can undoubtedly save you money in the long run.
Here are three of the latest trends in the supplement industry (by category) that aim to support your pet’s strength and well-being.
CBD OILS FOR STRESS AND ANXIETY
CBD is a chemical compound that is derived from the cannabinoid family. Known for its therapeutic effects in pets, CBD is a leading ingredient when it comes to helping pets cope with stress and anxiety. As our pets reach the senior age, changes in situations or environments can become emotional trigger points. CBD oil attaches to receptors in your pet’s nervous system and as a result aids in balancing their emotions.
Below are top of the line CBD brands who pride themselves in their transparency when it comes to natural ingredients, lab testing, honest packaging and organically grown hemp:
Verma Farms Salmon -Flavored CBD Oil
– Contains Vitamin D3, Vitamin E & Probiotics
- Can be used on pets diagnosed with cancer
Penguin Natural Flavor CBD Oil
-GMO-free using sustainable farming practices
-Natural remedy for inflammation, pain, and anxiety
EVN CBHD Natural CBD Oil
-Can be used for pet and human consumption
-Manages and eases painful cancer symptoms in pets
CBD products for pets will range in price depending on the ingredients. Younger pets and puppies that are prone to separation anxiety, severe depression, and even joint pain, can also benefit from CBD oils.
PROBIOTICS FOR OVERALL HEALTH
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be given to pets as a supplement to help boost health. Probiotics help with gut support, allergy relief, combating pathogens, and providing overall immune support.
The guidelines below will help you narrow down the right probiotic supplement for your pet:
- Hard treats should be avoided. Senior dogs tend to have weaker gum lines which make them more susceptible to breaking or losing a canine tooth. Choose a soft chew or preferably a probiotic in powder form.
- Seek the cGMP label. CGmp means Certified Good Manufacturing Practices. This ensures your probiotic is a high-quality product manufactured in a certified facility.
- Different strains and CFU dosages should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Two billion colony-forming units or CFU’s is the standard dose for dogs. Units can be adjusted based on the weight of your dog. The strain of your probiotic should align with your pet’s specific health needs.
Feeding your pet a balanced diet is just one component in maintaining their health. A healthy gut will ensure your pets digestive tract has the necessary beneficial bacteria to aid in the breakdown of food.
Here are the top recommendations in pet probiotics for 2021:
Nusentia Probiotic Miracle Dog Probiotic
-Promotes good gut function
-Restricts room for bad bacteria and yeast to grow
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Dog Probiotic
- Powder form
- Contains high levels of antioxidants, Vitamin A, E and C
PetVitalityPRO Probiotics for Dogs
-Promotes absorption of vital nutrients
-Supports digestive health
Probiotic supplements are a terrific way to prevent disease in pets. Its ability to cure digestive problems, boost immunity and enhance overall skin and coat health make it a top seller on the market. Both senior dogs and puppies going through the crucial stages of development will benefit from probiotics.
Vitamins for Joint Support
As our canine friends age, it is critical that we provide the joint support they need to prevent rapid deterioration and pain. Arthritis is one of the most common joint issues found in senior dogs. Younger dogs can also experience joint issues as part of their genetic inheritance.
Below are possible habits that can help you identify if your pet is experiencing joint complications:
- Joint Stiffness
- Trouble going up or down the stairs
- Struggling to stand
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Swelling in joints
There are many natural joint supplements available on the market. Joint vitamins will both prevent joint issues and provide relief for any existing symptoms.
Here are high quality products that provide effective joint support for your pet:
Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Dog Joint Supplement
- Contains Glucosamine, MSM, and Chondroitin Sulfate
- Rich in anti-inflammatory
Doggie Dailies Glucosamine/Dog Joint Supplement
-Highly palatable, chicken or peanut butter flavor
-Contains Salmon oil, Hyaluronic acid and CoQ10
VetriScience Laboratories- FlycoFlex 3 Dog Joint Supplement
-High in Glucosamine, Perna and MSM
-Rich in antioxidants, Magnesium, and vitamin C
Improved function and behavior are some of the first benefits pet owners will see. Remaining consistent in supplementing your pet’s diet with these vitamins will ensure they get the maximum benefit.
