A wide variety of vitamins, minerals and supplements are available in today’s marketplace. Typically they come in the form of flavored pills, treats, liquids, and powders. However, premium foods that are designed for puppy growth and canine maintenance may often supply all the needed vitamins and minerals to sustain normal growth, provided the puppy or dog eats it well. It is always best to consult a veterinarian before feeding any supplements to your pet.

When should puppies and dogs be given a vitamin supplement?

Conditions when supplementation are recommended:

• Pets that have been poor eaters or nutritionally deprived
• Pets who have been sick or weakened from a recent illness
• Pregnant or lactating (nursing) pets
• Pets with metabolic diseases
• Pets with special skin problems
• Pets that have been fed table scraps or a poor quality pet food
• Senior dogs and cats that have reduced kidney function lose B-vitamins in the urine. In addition, the absorption of vitamins through the intestinal tract diminishes as the pet ages. A premium food designed for a senior pet, and often accompanying supplementation, are the best choices for delaying the onset of intestinal tract disorders.
• Any time an added preventative measure toward disease or aging is desired or needed

Ingredients that may be found on product labels:

Acidophilus: Beneficial bacteria that normalizes digestive flora (aids in bringing the digestive system to its normal state). Can reduce problems with bloating, diarrhea, dry skin, dull coat, and bad breath.

Antioxidants: This is thought to be the missing link in pet nutrition. Antioxidants help inhibit the oxidation process that occurs in the body during normal cell metabolism. It is believed that oxidation causes cells to become damaged. (For more information on the excellent antioxidant properties of Poly-MVA for Pets, click here.)

Brewers yeast: Good source of proteins and B-vitamins.

B-vitamins: Useful in tissue repair or in stimulating a weak appetite. (Poly-MVA for Pets is an excellent source of B-vitamins - read more here.)

Calcium: Deficiencies are common in lactating pets. A nursing mother can lose a third of her calcium supply. A supplement containing calcium can be beneficial. Calcium deficiencies are also common in cats that are only fed meat. Calcium can also slow bone and joint degeneration in older pets.

Cod Liver Oil: Another fatty acid. It should not be given more than twice a week. Excesses of it will cause diarrhea, interfere with digestion, and cause an excess of vitamins A and D in the system.

Fatty Acids: Deficiency in fatty acids causes skin and coat problems. Linatone and Vitamin E are popular fatty acid supplements.

Garlic: This supplement has a long history of nutritional benefits. Garlic in an animal’s bloodstream has also been known to be helpful for repelling fleas.

Linatone: Fatty acid which can help the skin and give the pet a shiny coat. Helps with shedding, scratching, and dull coats.

Shark Cartilage: Rich in calcium.

Spirulina & Barley Grass: Provides organic phytonutrients not found in pet food. Alternative for pets that like to eat grass.

Taurine: Essential amino acid required by cats. This is found in cat foods, but must be supplemented if the cat is fed table scraps or is fed dog food. A deficiency of this can lead to reproductive problems and blindness.