According to the interwebs, 30% of pet supply buyers have reported paying more attention to their pets’ health since the pandemic, and 88% agree it’s important to take preventive measures to protect a pet’s health. As professional pet sitters, we often see pets benefit from supplementation. Because many of our pets are on commercial pet food, they can benefit from high quality supplements that address or prevent common pet-related ailments and conditions. Today, we’re sharing our list of 3 essential pet supplements to boost your pet’s bowl. We see these in our clients’ homes often, use them ourselves, and have seen and heard of great improvements for pets of all ages.
3 Essential Pet Supplements: Probiotics
Let’s start by getting one of the most confusing supplements out of the way first. Probiotics get confusing because of the mixed messages we get – both for humans and pets. Some experts say that probiotics, even the refrigerated ones, die in our stomach acids, therefore bringing zero health benefits. Others, however, say it’s a matter of the type of pre- and probiotics we choose.
Most agree, however, that fermented foods are a great way to get the benefits of pre and probiotics for gastric and overall health. One particular pet supplement brand, Gussy’s Gut, makes fermented whole superfood toppers and treats for dogs that have a high rate of absorption, fill in nutritional gaps left by most commercial dog food, and taste great. You can learn more about this unique and powerful product here.
For cats, Adored Beast has a few probiotic products that improve feline gut health, can help prevent hairballs, and more. The products include digestive enzymes, species-appropriate ingredients, and easy-to-feed formulas.
3 Essential Pet Supplements: fatty acids
Fatty acids are building blocks of fats. While we may be convinced that fat is bad for us, the quality and source determine whether or not our body will put fat to good use.
When we think of fatty acids, we think Omega 3s, like the fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon. Essential fatty acids are also found in coconut oil, sardines, mollusks, chia seeds, crustaceans, avocados and eggs, among other things. Because we are fans of “boosting the bowl,” we encourage you to add a bit of these fresh, whole foods to your dog and cat’s bowls. You can start with small amounts and work your way up. To learn more about easy ways to boost your pet’s bowl with items you likely use regularly, click here.
That said, if you prefer to use a commercially-available pet supplement to better manage your pet’s calories and dosage, consider Iceland Pure Unscented Salmon Oil, which is so simple in its ingredients that it’s ideal for cats and dogs. Similarly, these power-packed freeze-dried Green Lipped Mussels – freeze-dried and ideal for both cats and dogs – is a great way to either top your pet’s bowl or reward good bhavior.
3 Essential Pet Supplements: ADAPTOGENS
Adaptogens are relatively new to most pet parents because, while they are gaining popularity, people are still skeptical about their efficacy. Adaptogens are natural substances, typically herbs and mushrooms, that help the body cope with stress and maintain balance (homeostasis). They influence the body’s stress response system. And, they manage cortisol levels, increase energy, and reduce inflammation.
Popular adaptogens include hemp seed extract (aka CBD), herbs like Ashwaganda and Astralagus, and mushrooms like Chaga, Reishi, and Lion’s Mane. There are endless adaptogens out there, which is why many will fall prey to products that don’t live up to the hype.
Our recommendation for adaptogenic supplements for pets is to visit CBD Dog Health. Don’t let the name mislead you – CBD Dog Health makes adaptogenic supplements for dogs, cats, and horses. CBD Dog Health’s products use the finest ingredients. They are sourced from the cleanest growers and undergo regular third party testing. The same brand makes MycoDog products, all based on therapeutic and synergistic formulations that target specific needs.
Essential Pet Care: Shoreline Happy Paws
At Shoreline Happy Paws, we believe that there are many ways to keep our pets healthy and young – supplements included. That said, nothing boosts the immune system, lubricates the joints, fills the lungs, and pumps blood to the heart like a good ol’ dog walk or hike. For cats, few things are better for health and wellbeing than play and enrichment. If you need help meeting your pet’s physical and mental health needs, please let us know. We are happy to come over for a vigorous play session for your cat while you’re at work – or a sniffing excursion for your dog. That’s literally why we exist and the benefits of in-home pet care are long-trusted and verified, mostly by our happy clients and their joyful pets.
Let us help you help your pet! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your pet(s) up for success. Existing clients may book dog walking, dog hiking, or pet sitting services by logging in to your client profile.
Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
