YOUR PET'S HEALTH AND THE POWER OF OMEGA-3S

While best known for improving coat quality, the benefits of supplementing your pet’s diet with Omega-3 fatty acids reach far beyond lustrous fur. Like humans, dogs are unable to synthesize their own Omega-3s and must obtain them through either diet or supplementation. Unfortunately, the majority of commercial kibbles do not contain the amount currently recommended for optimal health.

Providing your pet with a high quality Omega-3 supplement derived from fish oil is an easy way to boost these levels and improve your pet’s overall well-being. Easily absorbed and with a taste pet’s find palatable, fish oil is naturally rich in the health-promoting essential fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While the list continues to grow, some of the most important health benefits of EPA and DHA identified for dogs and cats include:

• Supporting healthy brain and eye development in young puppies and kittens
• Promoting healthy triglyceride levels in the blood
• Reducing inflammation throughout the body

OMEGA-3S AND HEALTHY SKIN

Allergic skin disease is one of the most common presenting complaints in veterinary general practice and can have a huge impact on a pet’s quality of life. From incessant paw licking to hot spots, many dogs and cats suffer from environmental allergies triggered by dust, pollen, grasses or weeds. Typical clinical signs include:

• Excessive licking, chewing or scratching
• Rashes
• Hairloss and poor coat quality

Supplementation with Omega-3s is an excellent first line of defense and has been shown to help reduce itching and hair loss in allergic pets, minimizing the need for steroids or other prescription medications. In pets with mild disease, Omega-3 supplementation alone may be sufficient. In pets with more severe disease, supplements may need to be combined with other strategies such as:

• Over-the-counter antihistamines
• Medicated shampoos
• Steroids or other prescription medications
• Hypoallergenic diets

WHAT OTHER STEPS CAN I TAKE AT HOME FOR MY ITCHY PET?

What other steps can I take at home for my itchy pet?

• Wipe the paws and coat with a moist washcloth after coming in from inside to remove potential allergens
• Bathe your pet regularly with a gentle, oatmeal-based shampoo. Avoid human shampoos and choose something made for pets!
• Add a teaspoon of honey to your pet’s regular diet. Make sure it is locally sourced for maximum benefit.

OMEGA-3S: HEALTH BENEFITS BEYOND SKIN

With their ability to fight inflammation, Omega-3s are increasingly used to manage many other common chronic diseases of dogs and cats. These include:

• Joint disease and arthritis
• Chronic kidney disease
• Heart disease

New research is even pointing to potential roles for Omega-3s in treating certain types of cancer, auto-immune diseases and cognitive decline in aging pets. Whether given daily to keep your pet looking soft and sleek or for a more specific health benefit, Omega-3s can have a positive impact on your pet’s health through all life stages.