Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fatty acids that provide the basic building blocks of cells in the body.

Omega-3 fatty acids contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is processed by the body into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

EPA is very effective in combating inflammation and protecting against cancer, as well as preventing and managing cardiovascular disease.

DHA plays an important role in vision and brain function as well as keeping the heart healthy.

The best sources of EPA and DHA are cold water oily fish such as wild salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines.

Benefits

1. Allergies – Omega 3 can interfere with the development of pollen & mold allergies in young dogs
2. Arthritis – Omega 3 can help manage arthritis by suppressing the inflammatory reaction that occurs in arthritic joints.
3. Brain function – DHA is instrumental in the function of brain cell membranes, which are important for the transmission of brain signals.
4. Cancer – Omega 3 inhibits tumor growth and metastasis (the development of secondary malignant growths).
5. Circulatory and heart health – Omega 3 are known to decrease levels of triglycerides & cholesterol in the blood and improve general cardiovascular health.
6. Diabetes – fish oils can increase insulin sensitivity, while ALA may slow cataract development.
7. Glossy coat – Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for a shiny, glossy coat.
8. Healthy skin – Much veterinary research shows that Omega 3 fatty acids help manage skin allergies and itching by stimulating the production of natural anti-inflammatory substances in the body. It can help counteract negative effects of allergic dermatitis by producing specific hormones which are known to reduce and control skin inflammations. Yeast infections of the skin and ears can also be improved by Omega 3 supplementation.
9. Injuries – Omega 3 reduces inflammation in joints and muscles.
10. Kidney – Omega 3 can help dogs with kidney disease by increasing prostaglandins that reduce inflammation in the kidneys and improve blood flow to them.

Supplementing your dog’s diet with Omega 3

Giving your dog an Omega 3 supplement can benefit your dog whether he is healthy (glossy coat, protection against cancer, circulatory health, etc) or fighting disease (management of skin conditions, allergies, inflammation, etc).

NOTE: If your dog is on blood thinning medication, you should consult your veterinarian before commencing Omega 3 supplementation. Follow directions per bottle.

If buying at regular pharmacies, please follow directions and give dosage per weight. Regular supplements for humans are based on 150lb person. Give supplements as per the weight of dog. ie. dosage on human supplement container states 3 per day, for a 50lb dog, give one per day.

It will take 8-12 weeks to see the benefits of Omega 3 fatty acid supplementation.