Supporting Older Dogs with Milk Thistle, SAMe, and Vitamin E
As our furry companions age, it’s important to provide them with the best care to ensure their comfort and health. Older dogs can face a variety of challenges, including joint stiffness, digestive issues, and liver health concerns. That’s where natural supplements like milk thistle, SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine), and vitamin E come into play.
These three powerful ingredients are known to support different aspects of an older dog’s health and help keep them feeling their best as they enter their golden years.
Why It’s Important to Support the Liver in Older Dogs
The liver plays a key role in detoxification and regulating hormones and neurotransmitters in the body.
As dogs age, their liver function can decline, leading to various health issues.
Supporting the liver helps improve cognitive function and prevent conditions like doggy dementia.
Proper liver function ensures a stronger immune system and supports overall health.
1.Milk Thistle: A Liver Protector
Supports liver health by detoxifying and reducing inflammation.
Regenerates liver cells and helps to repair liver damage.
Crucial for dogs on long-term medications or those with liver disease.
Improves overall liver function, which is essential for maintaining health, especially in senior dogs.
Natural Sources of Milk Thistle:
While it’s difficult to get the specific compounds from food alone, artichokes are natural foods that can support liver function.
2. SAMe: A Multi-Talented Supplement
Regenerates liver cells and protects against oxidative stress.
Supports brain/cognitive health by boosting neurotransmitter levels, helping to prevent cognitive decline and dementia.
Aids in joint health by reducing inflammation and supporting cartilage production.
Improves mood and mental clarity, which is vital for preventing doggy dementia and keeping your dog mentally sharp.
Natural Sources of SAMe:
SAMe is a compound that is typically provided through supplements, as it’s not found in significant quantities in regular food. However, foods rich in B vitamins (like salmon, eggs, and leafy greens) can help promote the body’s natural production of SAMe.
3. Vitamin E: The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Protects cells from oxidative damage and supports immune function.
Boosts skin health and helps wounds heal faster.
Supports eye health, protecting against cataracts and age-related vision decline.
Works with SAMe and milk thistle to support liver function and cognition.
Natural Sources of Vitamin E:
These foods provide healthy fats that are rich in antioxidants. Vitamin E is found in a variety of foods, including:
Spinach
Sweet potatoes
Carrots
Salmon
The Benefits of Combining Milk Thistle, SAMe, and Vitamin E
Supports liver health, which is crucial for detoxification and maintaining overall health in older dogs.
Prevents cognitive dysfunction and supports brain health, slowing the progression of doggy dementia.
Protects eye health, helping to prevent age-related vision issues like cataracts.
Promotes joint health by reducing inflammation and supporting cartilage production, ideal for aging dogs.
Works synergistically (together) to protect against oxidative damage and improve overall well-being.
Mila’s Journey with Milk Thistle, SAMe, and Vitamin E
Mila, my assistance dog, takes milk thistle, SAMe, and vitamin E as part of her daily routine. These supplements have been incredibly beneficial for her, especially with supporting her body with her medication, environmental contaminant exposure and toxic ingestions (e.g. puffer fish, or eating things she shouldnt). They support her liver, help her body recover from medication, and assist in staying as healthy as possible for the long run. These supplements help to mitigate the potential side effects of her medications and enhance her overall well-being.
Common Conditions These Supplements Can Help With
Milk thistle, SAMe, and vitamin E can support your dog in managing various common age-related conditions, including:
Liver & Gallbladder Disease (including liver failure, infections, hepatitis, and liver damage)
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (doggy dementia)
Arthritis and Joint Issues (inflammation and cartilage degeneration)
Cataracts and Age-Related Vision Decline
Toxin Exposure or Toxic Ingestions (e.g. eating compost, mould exposure, heavy metals, toxic medication doses)
Skin and Coat Health (dry, flaky skin and poor healing)
Immune System Support (especially in senior dogs with a weakened immune system)
Neurological Health (for dogs experiencing confusion or memory loss)
These supplements can also be beneficial for dogs that need extra support with medication-related side effects or those suffering from long-term chronic conditions.
Consultations and Advice
We understand how important it is to provide the best care for your pets, especially as they age. If you’re unsure whether milk thistle, SAMe, or vitamin E could benefit your senior dog, I offer teleconsultations and home visits to provide personalized advice and recommendations. Whether you’re looking for support with your dog’s medications, health supplements, or just need guidance on caring for your senior pet, I’m here to help.
Conclusion
Supporting our senior dogs with milk thistle, SAMe, and vitamin E can make a world of difference in their health and quality of life. These supplements support liver health, cognitive function, joint mobility, and eye health, all of which are vital for senior dogs. With the right care and supplementation, we can help our furry companions feel their best, enjoy their golden years, and live a happy, comfortable life.
Book an appointment or phone consult: here
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