Dr Taylah's Top 5 Supplements for Her Dog, Mila
What is a supplement (nutraceutical)? A nutraceutical product added to your diet has a medical or health benefit. It can help prevent, manage, and treat disease.
Supplements can be given at any age. Pets in their older years benefit significantly from supplements, which can help them have a healthier and longer life with us.
1. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA):
PEA is a fatty acid molecule naturally produced in the body and its key mode of action involves subsequently “turning down or switching off” inflammatory processes. PEA has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
PEA helps release neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, the (happy endorphins) we feel after exercising or when we fall in love. This supplement is excellent for any inflammation within the body: joint, skin, gut health, and pain.
What can PEA be used for?
Any dog or cat after surgery
Stiff or arthritic joints
Pancreatitis
Urinary tract infections or inflammation
Irritable bowel disease (IBD) or diarrhoea in pets
Allergic or itchy skin (common in Staffys)
Bulging discs or spinal disease (common in French Bulldogs, Pugs, Corgies, and Sausage dogs)
Syringomyelia (common in Cavaliers)
Stomatitis gingivitis (gum disease)
PEA is also prescribed for people by leading pain specialists, such as the doctors at Pain Specialists Australia, Melbourne. Interestingly, PEA produces effects within the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) similar to plant cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) like CBD.
Dr Taylah’s patients get their PEA compounded locally so we can guarantee a high standard of product.
2. Evening primrose:
Anti-inflammatory effects benefit joint, skin, gut health, and pain. Mila has ONE oil capsule TWICE a day.
Pros: safe, accessible (pharmacy & online), easy to administer (on food or as a treat) & affordable supplementation
Cons: does not provide pain relief – is a supplement to support the body with inflammation
3. Turmeric aka curcumin:
Tumeric is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiplatelet, liver-protective (hepatoprotective), anticancer, cholesterol-lowering, and gall bladder-supporting properties.
Mila already has turmeric incorporated into her dry food. If you want to know the correct dose to add to your pet’s diet, please contact Dr. Taylah and the team.
4. Prebiotics & probiotics
Adding prebiotics and probiotics to your pet's diet can significantly improve their digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. If you need help choosing the right one for your dog, contact Dr. Taylah and the team today.
Improved Digestion:
Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. They can alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Reduction of Pathogenic Bacteria:
Prebiotics can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Enhanced Immune Function:
By maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, probiotics support the immune system. Did you know that a significant part of a dog’s immune system is located in the gut?
Reduction of Allergies and Skin Conditions:
Probiotics can help reduce the severity and frequency of allergic reactions and skin conditions by modulating the immune response.
Better Nutrient Absorption:
They aid the body in making vitamins, such as B vitamins and vitamin K, improving overall nutritional intake.
Improvement in Behavior:
There is a link between gut health and behaviour. Probiotics help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
5. Omega 3 fatty acids
There are three types of Omega-3 fatty acids: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). For dogs, EPA and DHA are particularly important for reducing arthritis-related inflammation.
Fish oil is the richest source of EPA and DHA. You can provide these essential fatty acids to your dog through fish oil supplements, whole fish such as anchovies and sardines, or prescription diets high in fish oil.
Mila obtains her omega 3s from her prescription diet and CBD medication.
Reference links here:
Palmitoylethanolamide and Related ALIAmides for Small Animal Health: State of the Art.
Mutual Links between the Endocannabinoidome and the Gut Microbiome, with Special Reference to Companion Animals: A Nutritional Viewpoint.
Chronic Pain in Dogs and Cats: Is There Place for Dietary Intervention with Micro-Palmitoylethanolamide?
Pain Specialists Australia, Don’t Manage Pain Alone, Types Of Pain.
Palmitoylethanolamide in the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trials.
How much Omega 3 fatty acids should I give my dog? What are Omega 3s?
Veterinary Partner - Omega Three Fatty Acids for our Pets, Wendy Brooks, DVM, DABVP.
Veterinary Partner - Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs and Cats, Wendy Brooks, DVM, DABVP.
Our Socials:
Follow Mila on Instagram: mila.blacklab
Follow Dr Taylah on Instragram: vet.taylah
Follow Dr Taylah on Facebook: vet.taylah