Learning About Cat Care And Training Learning About Cat Care And Training

If you have ever watched your dog stand up stiffly or noticed that your pet's fur isn't as soft and shiny as it once was, you may be able to help from the comfort of your own home. Although these supplements can't replace prescription treatments for various ailments, they can help your dog remain active and comfortable while discouraging or slowing the spread of common health problems. These are four supplements available at any pet pharmacy and how they could help your dog feel like a puppy again. 

Antioxidants for Aging Dogs 

Antioxidants are recommended for humans to counter oxidative damage, which harms the cells of your body by producing highly reactive free radicals, or elements that readily alter the chemical structure of the cells around them. Antioxidants are molecules found in healthy foods like blueberries, and they act as a natural balance to these oxidation reactions. Studies have shown that aging dogs given antioxidant supplements suffered significantly less cognitive decline related to their aging, meaning it may actually be possible to teach your old dog new tricks with just a little help from these beneficial molecules. 

Probiotics for Digestive Issues

When you are experiencing digestive issues, your doctor may recommend some healthy yogurt for the probiotics it contains. Probiotics are living organisms that grow in certain foods as well as within your own body. They are beneficial and necessary for proper digestion, and they can also bring relief to dogs with the same digestive issues. Rather than letting your dog lick up yogurt by the spoonful, however, it may be better to purchase specially formulated supplements instead. 

Glucosamine for Joint Problems

Glucosamine is a chemical compound necessary to create important fats and proteins within your joint cartilage, but your body's supply tends to decrease with age. This is partially responsible for the joint deterioration that leads to osteoarthritis, and supplementing glucosamine sulfate has long been known to reduce arthritis pain. Thankfully, your dog's joints work in much the same way, and glucosamine has also been shown to benefit arthritic joints in dogs when paired with chondroitin. 

Omega-3 for Overall Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly popular within both the human and canine supplement communities, and it isn't hard to see why. This substance can be found primarily in fish such as salmon, and it is credited with reducing inflammation, decreasing your risk for heart disease, battling depression, slowing down dementia and even improving the appearance of your hair and skin. Many of these same principles will carry over to your dog, and researchers have even found that dogs with low omega-3 levels were more likely to display aggressive behavior. If you want to start improving your dog's everyday life without subjecting it to a battery of tests at the veterinarian, start by visiting your pet pharmacy (like Spring Hill Veterinary Clinic) to see which products could prove to be most beneficial for your beloved pet today.