The best pet health supplements can help to improve medical conditions from which your pet is suffering or just improve general overall health. Make sure to consult your veterinarian if your dog is on medication because some supplements can cause side effects when used in conjunction with certain medications.
Number One: Glucosamine
Often paired with chondroitin, glucosamine is often very helpful to pets suffering from joint problems, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. It can also be used preventatively to breeds that may be prone to joint problems or any aging pet.
Glucosamine is already present in your pet's joints in the cartilage and connective tissue, and recent studies have shown that glucosamine supplements can be absorbed in joints to regenerate joints and reduce inflammation. Since glucosamine is present naturally, there are no side effects.
Number Two: Salmon Oil
Salmon oil provides Omega-3 fatty acids that are as important for your pet as they are for you. It's important to buy high-quality brands that are all natural and low in mercury, such as Wild Alaska salmon oil. Natural products promote a shiny, healthy coat, cardiovascular health, healthy brain development and a healthy immune system. Just a spoonful on top of a meal is all it takes.
Number Three: Ginger
If you've ever had a pet with motion sickness, you know the healing powers of ginger. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and especially aids in digestive problems. It relieves stomach aches, gas and diarrhea. Many proponents of ginger proclaim that it reduces the effects of cancer, and it definitely relieves nausea associated with cancer.
However, ginger shouldn't be used with dogs that have stomach ulcers, are preparing for surgery or are taking certain medications. Consult your veterinarian.
Number Four: Echinacea
Echinacea, commonly known as the purple coneflower, has been used for generations in Eastern medicine to improve the immune system, which it also does effectively in pets. Not a lot is known about how echinacea stimulates the immune system, but it is suspected that it prevent bacteria and virus from breaking down cell walls, which is necessary in the spread of infections. It also may slow the growth of some tumors.
Echinacea should not be used in pets with HIV or AIDS, which includes FIV, FeLV or FIP.
Number Five: Aloe
Effective in treating sunburns in humans, Aloe is also effective in healing skin irritations in pets, including sunburns, rashes and dry or itchy skin. It can also be applied to cuts or wounds to help heal and prevent infections. However, supervise to make sure your pet doesn't lick it off.
Number Six: Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has been used for a variety of uses in animals with positive results. As with salmon oil, just a spoonful on top of their food can help improve coat quality, itchy skin, allergies and even joint health. Coconut oil has no negative side effects and has even demonstrated to help pets have more energy and lose weight.
There are many supplements available to improve your pet's health. If your pet has a specific illness, the supplements you use will vary. However, many of these can be used to improve overall health and prevent future illness.