Dog Dietary Supplements

Disease in animals can be controlled with the use of dog dietary supplements. Many nutrients that are produced by the body itself are available in the form of supplements. When added to a high-quality diet, these nutrients have the power to minimize the effects of such ailments as heart disease and arthritis. As a group, these substances are known as nutraceuticals.

Dog Dietary Supplements Give The Body A Boost

Nutraceuticals are defined as nutrients that have the properties of drugs. They are used to treat disease and relieve symptoms, and are typically harvested from natural sources. Examples are glucosamine, chondroitin and OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes). OPCs are powerful natural antioxidants found in pine bark and the skins and seeds of grapes. When combined, these nutraceuticals act as a boost to the body's own healing processes.

An arthritic dog, for example, can benefit from the chondroprotective properties in dog dietary supplements. There are many formulations that specifically target joint care. Glucosamine and chondroitin rebuild and strengthen cartilage, the tissue that cushions bones at the joints. Micronutrients, antioxidants and agents that build collagen are key ingredients in supplements for joint care.

An advantage to the use of dog dietary supplements as an alternative to drugs is that they can provide long-term benefits without side effects. A dog who is on a regimen of supplements will be strengthened against disease early on, and will be better able to fight ailments later in life. Arthritis symptoms can be controlled naturally, and in conjunction with the dog's own defenses.