|
dy*nam*ic (adjective)
1. Full of energy, enthusiasm, and a
sense of purpose. 2. Characterized by
spirited activity and producing or
undergoing change and development. |
 |
|
|
|
|
Vitamin Supplements
Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.  Vitamins were discovered in 1910, however, the diseases caused by various vitamin deficiencies were known long before then. We now know rickets is caused by a Vitamin D deficiency and night blindness is due to a Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamins are essential to life, and with few exceptions can not be made by an animal's body, but must be supplemented in the diet.
Function of vitamins
Vitamins are necessary for literally tens of thousands of different chemical reactions in the body. They often work in conjunction with minerals and enzymes to assure normal digestion, reproduction, muscle and bone growth and function, healthy skin and hair, clotting of blood, and the use of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by the body.
Classes of vitamins
Vitamins are generally classified into two groups based on how or if they are stored in the body. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissue. Water-soluble vitamins, on the other hand, are stored in only very small amounts by the body. They need to be taken in daily, and any excesses are excreted by the body each day.
Fat-soluble vitamins include:
Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Water-soluble vitamins include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin B1 (thiamin)
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) and Folic Acid Biotin
Vitamin supplements
There is always some controversy regarding vitamin supplementation. Many people feel supplements are very necessary. They feel that even when feeding a high quality food, some of the vitamins may have been destroyed by the processing or storage. Pet owners feeding a homemade diet or a diet high in table scraps should give their pet a high quality vitamin/mineral supplement. Ill or recovering pets who may have a poor appetite should also be given a good vitamin/mineral supplement since they are not receiving their daily requirements through the food they eat.
The possibility of vitamin toxicity with the fat-soluble vitamins, especially Vitamin A and D, which are stored in the body, is of concern to some researchers and veterinarians. In reality, the amount of Vitamin A and D needed to develop a toxicity is many times higher than what is contained in a high-quality balanced vitamin/mineral supplement. Toxicities do not occur when you give your pet the recommended amount of high-quality, commercially prepared vitamin/mineral supplements. This is not to say over-supplementation can not occur. Supplements must be chosen with care and large numbers of different supplements should not be used together unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
Not every animal needs the same supplement. A puppy, a pregnant animal, an ill animal, or a 'senior' pet all have different nutritional needs and supplements should be chosen accordingly.
If you have any questions about choosing the right supplement(s) for your pet(s), talk to your veterinarian or a qualified pet nutritionist.
© 2007 Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
BACK TO TOP
 
Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Hip Dysplasia & Arthritis in Dogs
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc. The history of glucosamine and chondroitin
Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been used to treat osteoarthritis in Europe for over twenty years. Recently, physicians and veterinarians in the United States have begun to prescribe this product for their patients and have been extremely happy with the results. These products are proving to be one of the safest and best treatments for the crippling effects of osteoarthritis that affects millions of aging dogs throughout the United States.
Despite the fact that the benefits of these glucosamine and chondroitin products have been known for over twenty years, many people question why these products are just now being used in the United States. The answer lies in the fact that glucosamine and chondroitin are not products that can be patented, and therefore, offer little incentive to the large pharmaceutical companies to develop a product. Pharmaceutical companies spend millions in research and development and need a patented product to guarantee sales and to recoup their investment.
Another issue is that glucosamine and chondroitin are considered nutraceuticals and are not strictly controlled by the FDA. They are naturally occurring substances in many food products and fall in the same class as vitamins. Despite the overwhelmingly positive studies done in Europe, American researchers still refused to perform controlled studies. In fact, literature searches show that there are hardly any North American studies done on these products. But all this is quickly changing. Because of the huge number of humans and pets suffering from osteoarthritis and the tremendous success in the treatment of this disease when using glucosamine and chondroitin, many companies are now producing a product line and several broad research studies are underway.
Uses of glucosamine and chondroitin
Glucosamine products have been studied and used for the healing of skin wounds, stomach ailments, and joint problems. Their use in the relief and healing of the symptoms of joint disease is currently their biggest use. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been successfully used in humans, horses, dogs, and cats. This article deals only with glucosamine and chondroitin and their therapeutic use for osteoarthritis in the dog and cat.
There are many different joints that can be affected by osteoarthritis in the dog, but by far, the most common is the hip joints. Hip Dysplasia is very common in many of the larger breeds of dogs. This condition greatly exacerbates the normal wear on the smooth cartilage protecting the bony surface of the joint. When this cartilage wears away there is a bone to bone contact, which creates the pain seen with arthritis. Even dogs that do not have hip dysplasia may have a decrease in this cartilage as they age, and will show signs of arthritis. In addition, aging dogs may also have arthritis in their knees, elbows, and shoulders and cartilage loss or damage that respond to glucosamine and chondroitin.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are also often used as an aid in the treatment of spinal disc injuries or post operatively in dogs that have undergone joint surgery.
The typical patient that is placed on and responds to glucosamine and chondroitin therapy is a middle aged to older medium to large breed dog. Dogs may show symptoms of limping or stiffness especially in the morning and during cold weather. They usually loosen up as they move around and exercise. Some dogs have difficulty climbing stairs or getting into or out of a vehicle. Many dogs respond to treatment with buffered aspirin (Do NOT give your cat aspirin unless prescribed by your veterinarian) or carprofen (Rimadyl), but when the product is discontinued the pain and symptoms return. Osteoarthritis also affects small dogs and cats and glucosamine and chondroitin have been used very effectively in relieving their symptoms.
In my experience I would say that most older dogs suffer from some level of osteoarthritis. Many owners attribute the loss of activity to old age and may not even identify it as a problem. And they never appreciate how much their dog’s activity level was being reduced by the arthritis until they place their dog on glucosamine and chondroitin therapy and see the return of normal function.
Where are glucosamine and chondroitin found?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are normal substances found in the body of living animals. They are at their highest concentration in cartilage. Unfortunately, through degradation during digestion and processing, almost all of the glucosamine in an animal's diet is unavailable for use. The body, therefore, synthesizes most of its own glucosamine through a biochemical reaction utilizing glucose. In normal healthy animals the body is able to synthesize enough glucosamine to keep the existing cartilage healthy, but when the animal ages or there is damage to joint cartilage it cannot produce enough to keep up with the body's needs. This is where a supplemental form of glucosamine is needed.
Supplemental glucosamine:Glucosamine is a 2-amino derivative of glucose which is obtained through the hydrolysis of chitin, a polysaccharide found in the shell of crustaceans. Crustaceans have a very high concentration of chitin and because the shells are often discarded, provide a reliable and cost effective source of glucosamine.
Chondroitin: Chondroitin is a naturally occurring product found in animal cartilage. Supplemental chondroitin is derived primarily from bovine (cow) cartilage, particularly the cartilage rings of the trachea. It is also derived from shark and whale cartilage. The source does not appear to have any impact on its effect. Though for ecological reasons, many consumers prefer bovine sources.
How do glucosamine and chondroitin work?
Glucosamine provides the building blocks to synthesize new cartilage. The way that glucosamine works is a very complicated process. In a nutshell, cartilage consists of several different cells, one of which is chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are responsible for synthesizing new cartilage. Through normal wear, cartilage is constantly being broken down and replaced. When a dog has hip dysplasia or ages, the chondrocytes do not have the building blocks available to them to build enough new cartilage to keep up with the breakdown of the old cartilage. Glucosamine is the building block necessary for the production of the substances called glycosaminoglycans. The glycosaminoglycans are combined with hyaluronic acid to make the substance proteoglycans. The proteoglycans and collagen are the main structures of cartilage.
Chondroitin also is one of the products necessary for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans. But it probably plays a more important role by combating and neutralizing destructive enzymes in the joint. There is always a low level of destructive enzymes found in the joint, but when injury or abnormal wear occurs, the destructive enzymes and agents increase accelerating cartilage destruction. When chondroitin is added to the diet it helps to reduce the level of these destructive enzymes.
What are the side effects?
There are very few side effects. Drs. Foster and Smith have sold tens of thousands of doses of glucosamine and chondroitin products and have never seen a single, severe side effect. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been used for over 20 years in Europe without any complication or listing of side effects. Occasionally, a dog will vomit or get diarrhea with this product. If the dose is reduced or given with food, the symptoms are usually alleviated. Once a dog begins using the product, they must stay on it for the rest of their lives or the degeneration of the joint cartilage will return. Once the product has promoted healing for 8 weeks, the dose is often reduced. The safety of this product is well suited for long term use. It can also be used with most other drugs and vitamins without any complication. The owner of any animal that is taking a medication should always seek veterinary advice before adding any new product or drug.
Where can I get glucosamine and chondroitin?
Glucosamine and chondroitin can be found in many different forms. Glucosamine in a pure form, or combined with chondroitin, can be purchased in health food stores, at veterinary clinics, and in pet supply catalogs.
Not all glucosamine and chondroitin products are created equal, however. The difference in various products lies in the dosing, carriers, vitamins, minerals, and purity of the ingredients. Products that contain human grade glucosamine and chondroitin are much more likely to be of high quality and in a purer form. In addition to ingredients, the concentration of actual glucosamine and chondroitin vary from product to product. Products designed for dogs often have ascorbic acid or manganese to help aid in the uptake of glucosamine in the canine. Canine products may be flavored or fortified with other minerals. The most expensive product is not always the best. Compare the ingredients between products to ensure that you are getting what you pay for. Some of the most popular products for canines include Drs. Foster and Smith's Joint Care, Cosequin made by Nutramax, and Glycoflex.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GLUCOSAMINE AND CHONDROITIN
Why did my vet not recommend glucosamine/chondroitin for my pet?
Many veterinarians are just becoming aware of the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin. Most veterinarians gain their information about new products through major pharmaceutical companies. Because the large pharmaceutical companies are not promoting this product it has taken longer to be introduced to veterinarians. Veterinarians that specialize in orthopedics or who keep current on all new products are usually very aware of the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin and have used these products for years.
Do glucosamine/chondroitin really work?
There have been many studies done in Europe showing the benefits of these products. There is a complete absence of completed studies on these products in the United States, although, many are currently underway and initial reports confirm the results seen in Europe. Drs. Foster and Smith have carried this product for several years and the reports that we get back from our customers are very positive.
Can I use glucosamine/chondroitin with painkillers or other drugs?
Many animals are on aspirin or carprofen (Rimadyl) before they begin glucosamine/chondroitin therapy. I usually encourage owners to wean their pets off of painkillers over a period of six weeks while the glucosamine and chondroitin are taking effect. Some animals with severe arthritis may need to be on a low dose of buffered aspirin to maintain their comfort even with the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin. Other supplements such as multivitamins and fatty acids are often given to animals on glucosamine supplements without any problems. It is always best to check with your veterinarian before putting your pet on any medication or supplement. This information should be a part of your pet's medical record.
What is the difference between glucosamine (HCl) and glucosamine sulfate?
Glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl) and glucosamine sulfate both work equally well in dogs. The sulfate form was originally used in Europe. The HCl form has recently become more popular because it is purer and provides more available glucosamine per unit weight and contains much less residual ash.
How long can I keep my dog on it?
Most pets need to be on the replacement therapy for the rest of their lives. Studies have shown that cartilage degeneration will reoccur about four to six months after the product is discontinued. The exception to this would be young animals that were on it for 3 months or so following a joint surgery or injury.
Can I use it to prevent hip dysplasia?
There is no indication that this product slows the progression of hip dysplasia. It does not prevent the development of hip dysplasia. Many animals that have hip dysplasia benefit from being on glucosamine and chondroitin because it helps heal the cartilage and reduce the pain involved with this disease.
Can I give my dog the kind that I take?
Pharmaceutical grade glucosamine and chondroitin are used for humans and are found in some veterinary products. It is perfectly safe to use human glucosamine in your pet, however, products made for animals contain ascorbic acid to help in the uptake, in canines. In addition, animal products are dosed in the correct size for animals and are often flavored to make them more palatable to pets.
Can glucosamine and chondroitin be used in cats?
It is safe to use in cats and appears to work very well in reducing the signs of feline osteoarthritis. Drs. Foster and Smith produce a small capsule specifically for cats and small dogs.
© 2007 Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
BACK TO TOP
  |
|
|
|
|
Making a First Aid Kit for Your Dog
Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Since you never know when an accident will happen, keeping a pet emergency kit at your home is a good idea. A smaller kit could be used in the car. You can put a first aid kit together yourself and buy the items separately, or buy one ready-made. If you make one yourself, use a small plastic tub with a tight fitting lid to store the following items:
 Important Phone Numbers
• Veterinary clinic phone number and directions to the clinic
• Emergency clinic phone number and directions
• Poison control center phone numbers
Equipment and Supplies
• Muzzle, or roll of gauze for making a muzzle
• Magnifying glass
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Nail clippers and metal nail file
• Styptic powder or sticks, Kwik Stop, or cornstarch
• Penlight
• Nylon slip leash
• Eye dropper or oral syringe
• Cotton swabs
• Cotton balls
• Clean towels - cloth and paper
• Rectal thermometer
• Lubricant such as mineral oil or KY Jelly (without spermicide)
• Disposable gloves
• Syringes of various sizes
• Needle-nose pliers or hemostats
• Grease-cutting dish soap
• Bitter Apple or other product to discourage licking
• Pet carrier
• Towel or blanket to use as a stretcher, another to keep your dog warm during transport (some pharmacies and camping outlets carry a thermal blanket)
• Cold packs and heat packs (wrap in towel before using)
• Stethoscope
Bandaging Materials
• Square gauze of various sizes - some sterile
• Non-stick pads
• First aid tape - both paper (easily comes off of skin) and adhesive types
• Bandage rolls - gauze and Vetwrap
• Band-Aids (for humans) Nutritional Support
• Rehydrating solution such as Gatorade or Pedialyte
• Nutritional supplement such as Nutri-Cal, Vitacal, or Nutristat
• High sugar source: Karo syrup
Medicines*
• Wound disinfectant such as Betadine or Nolvasan
• Triple antibiotic ointment for skin
• Antibiotic ophthalmic ointment for eyes, e.g., Terramycin
• Eye wash solution
• Sterile saline
• Antidiarrheal medicine such as Pet Pectate
• Buffered or canine aspirin
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergic reactions
• Cortisone spray or cream, such as Itch Stop
• Ear cleaning solution
• Hydrogen peroxide (used to make a dog vomit)
• Activated charcoal to absorb ingested poisons (consult your veterinarian before using)
*Watch the expiration dates on any medication, and replace as needed.
© 2007 Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
BACK TO TOP
 
Fatty Acids for Allergies & Dry Skin in Dogs
Holly Nash, DVM, MS
Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc. For many years, pet owners have given fatty acids to their dogs and cats to change a dull, dry coat into a more glossy one. More recently veterinarians have found that fatty acids play important roles in other areas of skin and coat health such as allergies, the control of inflammation, and the function of other body organs in dogs and cats.
What are fatty acids?
Fatty acids are specific types of polyunsaturated fats.
The two main classes of fatty acids we will be discussing are the omega-3's and the omega-6's. These classifications are based on molecular characteristics. (For you biochemistry buffs out there, check out the text box at the end of this article.) You may also have heard about omega-9 fatty acids. Omega-9's actually decrease the concentrations of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the blood and skin.
Which fatty acids do pets need?
Animals can produce some of the fatty acids they need, but not all of them. Those fatty acids which they can not produce themselves, but must be obtained through their diet, are called 'essential' fatty acids. Interestingly, what is 'essential' for one species of animal is not necessarily essential for another. For example, the fatty acid, arachidonic acid is essential for cats but not for dogs.
In some disease conditions, certain enzymes which convert one fatty acid to another may be deficient, or the animal may not be able to adequately absorb fatty acids from the intestine. In animals with these conditions, some of the 'nonessential' fatty acids actually become 'essential,' that is, required in the diet, and in higher amounts. Deficiencies of fatty acids may also occur with the use of fat-restricted diets in overweight dogs.
Fatty acids in foods are subject to degradation. Overcooking can destroy fatty acids. Improper storage or a suboptimal amount of antioxidants in dry food may result in rancidity and a subsequent deficiency in fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids include:
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
ALA can be converted into EPA, however, this conversion does not occur in the skin. EPA is the workhorse of the omega-3 fatty acids and is incorporated into the cell membrane.
Omega-6 fatty acids
Omega-6 fatty acids include:
Linoleic acid (LA)
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA)
Arachidonic acid (AA)
LA can be converted into GLA, but not in the skin. However, DGLA can be made from GLA in the skin.
LA is important because it optimizes water permeability in the skin. AA, on the other hand, in increased amounts, is the troublemaker among the fatty acids.
Ratios of fatty acids
Research is being performed to determine the optimal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids that should be consumed. Previously, it was thought that the ratio should be approximately 15:1. Current recommendations are for ratios of 10:1 to 5:1.
Most pet foods contain far more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3's. Some pet food companies have added omega-3 fatty acids to their foods to lower the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to realize that although the ratios may be a guideline, the actual concentration of EPA in the omega-3's is what is most important. Sources of fatty acids
Fat may contain fatty acids, but in extremely varying quantities. For example, beef fat will have a very low percentage of fatty acids, whereas, sunflower oil and fish oil will have much larger percentages.
Essential fatty acids are found in different quantities in many plants and cold water fish. Marine oils are good sources of EPA and DPA. The other fatty acids are found in higher quantities in certain plants and grains. Sunflower oil and safflower oil are especially high in LA.
For animals allergic to fish, the seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant provide a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. The seeds of the plant contain their own antioxidants. A Salvia hispanica equine product called Tri-Omega has recently been approved by the FDA for use in horses.
As mentioned previously, most pet foods contain far more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. It has been found that cattle and poultry fed increased omega-3 fatty acids will produce meat and eggs higher in omega-3 fatty acids. In the future, the use of these products in pet food may help to optimize the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in the diet.
How fatty acids function in inflammation
Both AA and EPA can be incorporated into cell membranes. When a cell is damaged, AA is released from the cell membrane and is metabolized by enzymes into substances which increase inflammation and pruritus (itching). EPA is also released when a cell is damaged. It competes with AA for the same metabolic enzymes. EPA results in the production of less inflammatory substances. DHA also results in the production of less inflammatory substances. So DHA and EPA decrease the harmful effects of AA.
DGLA also competes with AA for enzymes. In addition, DGLA causes the release of prostaglandin E1 (PGE), a substance which inhibits the release of AA from the cell membrane.
Indications for the use of supplemental fatty acids
From that complicated description, we hope you can see that by supplementing with EPA, DHA, and GLA (which the body can easily convert to DGLA) we can lessen inflammation. Fatty acids affect a number of body systems and conditions, as described below.
Allergies and Autoimmune Conditions: Allergies and autoimmune conditions occur because the immune system over-reacts. Certain fatty acids can lessen the harmful effects these diseases can have on the body.
Arthritis: Research is showing that omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, may be helpful in reducing the inflammation associated with arthritis.
Other Inflammatory Diseases: Other diseases which are accompanied by inflammation such as ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis may respond to the anti-inflammatory effects of certain fatty acids.
Dull and Dry Hair Coats: Haircoats which are dull, brittle, and dry often respond to supplementation with essential fatty acids, especially LA. It has also been found that in some cases of seborrhea, there is a deficiency of LA in the skin. In these cases, supplements high in LA are useful. The addition of EPA and GLA is also beneficial in that it would help negate the release of AA from cells damaged because of this skin condition.
Yeast Infections: Fatty acids have been shown to slow down the growth of Malassezia pachydermatis, a common yeast infection in dogs and cats, in the laboratory. It is thought these fatty acids may play a beneficial role in the treatment of this yeast infection on the skin and ears in dogs and cats.
Preventing Atopy: Some researchers have suggested that fatty acid supplements may be useful to prevent atopy (allergies to inhaled substances such as pollens and molds) from developing in young animals. The theory is that pregnant atopic mothers have a decreased amount of PGE in their systems. PGE is necessary for the development of a healthy immune system in neonates. If the mothers are deficient in PGE, their offspring may be more likely to develop abnormal immune systems which would make them more prone to atopy themselves. Since GLA, when converted to DGLA, causes the release of PGE, giving GLA to a pregnant female in the last month of pregnancy and during lactation may increase PGE and decrease the incidence of the offspring developing atopy.
Eyes: In addition to their effects on the developing immune system, omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for the proper development of the retina and visual cortex.
Heart Problems: Evidence suggests omega-3 fatty acids may prevent certain cardiac problems as well. Ventricular arrhythmias in dogs have been prevented and high blood pressure has been reduced in dogs supplemented with fatty acids. Animals prone to thromboembolisms may be helped by the anti-clotting effect fatty acids have on platelets.
Cancers: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to slow the development and metastasis of certain cancers. Omega-6 fatty acids, on the other hand, have been shown to stimulate tumor development.
Plasma Triglycerides and Cholesterol: Fish oils have been shown to decrease levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Animals receiving retinoid therapy (synthetic vitamin A derivatives) for various skin problems may develop hyperlipidemia. Fish oils may benefit these patients.
It should be obvious that fatty acids are necessary for the normal function of many systems of the body. It is also obvious that not all fatty acids are equal. Because the different fatty acids have different effects, the choice of a fatty acid supplement needs to be based on the specific condition we are trying to treat.
The sources and uses of fatty acid supplements are shown below.
| Abbreviation | Essential for Cats | Essential for Dogs | Source | Indications for Use | | Omega-3 | Cancer, cardiac problems, inflammatory conditions, eye development | | Alpha-Linolenic | ALA | X (?) | X (?) | Flax seed, pumpkin seed, soybean oil | -- | | Eicosapentaenoic | EPA | | | Marine fish oil | Atopy, arthritis, autoimmune disease, retinoid therapy, seborrhea, decrease cholesterol | | Docosahexaenoic | DHA | | | Marine fish oil | Atopy, retinoid therapy | | Omega-6 | | Linoleic | LA | X | X | Sunflower oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, corn oil, evening primrose oil | Dry skin, dull hair coat, seborrhea | | Arachidonic | AA | X | | | None - Can make inflammation worse | | Gamma-Linolenic | GLA | | | Evening primrose oil, borage oil, black currant seed oil | Atopy, autoimmune disease, seborrhea, reduce development of atopy in neonates | | Dihomo-gamma-Linolenic | DGLA | | | | |
Choosing a fatty acid supplement
Animals being treated for atopy should have supplements with high amounts of EPA, DHA, GLA, and vitamin E.
Animals with seborrhea and other keratinization disorders will benefit from supplements high in LA. Zinc, folic acid, and other additives may also be helpful. Dry, dull hair coats are also an indication for supplementation with LA.
The polyunsaturated fats in fatty acid supplements increase the need for antioxidants. Fatty acid supplements should be fortified with vitamin E.
There are numerous brands of fatty acid supplements with different quantities of vitamins and minerals, as shown in the table below. You can see that the amount of various fatty acids and additives varies considerably. If one brand of fatty acid supplement is not beneficial, another one may be since the ratio of the various fatty acids differ from brand to brand.
| Product | ALA (mg) | EPA (mg) | DHA (mg) | DPA (mg) | GLA (mg) | LA (mg) | AA (mg) | Vit.A (IU) | Biotin (mcg) | Vit.C (mg) | Vit.D (IU) | Vit.E (IU) | Zinc (mg) | Manufac-turer's recom-mended dose for adults | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacaps | | 80 | 55 | 5 | 8 | 45 | | 3000 | | 15 | | 18 | 1 | 1 capsule per 10-25 lbs | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacaps Super Strength | | 125 | 90 | 10 | 15 | 75 | | 5000 | | 25 | | 30 | 2 | 1 capsule per 50-70 lbs | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacaps Liquid | 25 | 125 | 80 | 25 | | 150 | 5 | 2500 | | | | 10 | .025 | 7-8 drops per 30 lbs | | Derm Caps | | 25 | 17 | | 10 | 392 | | | | | | 75 | | 1 capsule per 20 lbs | | Derm Caps ES | | 75 | 50 | | 30 | 338 | | | | | | 75 | | 1 capsule per 50-70 lbs | | Derm Caps Liquid | | 39 | 26 | | 13 | 608 | | | | | | 46 | | 1 ml per 20 lbs | | Dermcaps ES Liquid | | 78 | 52 | | 26 | 349 | | | | | | 46 | | 1 ml per 60 lbs | | 3V Caps Small- Medium | | 103 | 68 | | | | | 1250 | | | 125 | 75 | | 1-2 caps for pets up to 30 lbs | | 3V Caps Medium- Large | | 180 | 120 | | | | | 2500 | | | 250 | 75 | | 1-2 caps for pets 30-60 lbs | | 3V Caps Large- X-Large | | 250 | 167 | | | | | 5000 | | | 500 | 75 | | 1-2 caps for pets 60-90 lbs | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacoat for Dogs | 50 | | | | | 552 | | 362 | 5 | | 62 | 2.5 | | 1 tsp (5 ml) per 20 lbs | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacoat Plus for Dogs | 50 | 15 | 15 | | | 552 | | 362 | 5 | | 62 | 2.5 | 0.6 | 1 tsp (5 ml) per 20 lbs | | Drs. Foster and Smith Vitacoat for Cats | 85 | | | | | 552 | 5 | 365 | 5 | | 65 | 2.4 | | ½ tsp (2.5 ml) per 10 lbs | | Linatone | 60 | | | | | 440 | | 300 | | | 24 | 0.3 | | Dogs: 1 tsp (5 ml) per 20 lbs
Cats: 1 tsp (5 ml) per 8 lbs | | Linatone Plus | 58 | | | | | 360 | | 300 | | | 24 | 1.6 | 0.5 | Dogs: 1 tsp (5 ml) per 20 lbs Cats: 1 tsp (5 ml) per 8 lbs |
Important for treatment of allergies.
Important for treatment of dry skin and seborrhea.
Fatty acids as part of a treatment plan
In some animals, fatty acids alone can decrease pruritus or inflammation to an acceptable level. More often, fatty acids are used in conjunction with other therapies. Fatty acids have a synergistic effect with both antihistamines and glucocorticoids. By using fatty acid supplements, we can often decrease the dose of glucocorticoids by 50% or even eliminate them in animals with allergic pruritus. Anecdotal reports have suggested, that supplementation with biotin will increase the effectiveness of fatty acids.
Since fatty acids need to be incorporated into cell membranes, they usually do not have an immediate effect. Often a pet must be on a fatty acid supplement for a month before any positive results can be seen. Many veterinary dermatologists recommend that fatty acids be used for 9-12 weeks before considering discontinuation because of lack of positive results. Most experts advise treating with fatty acid supplements twice daily. Some research has shown that 2-10 times the recommended dose may be necessary to control pruritus in dogs.
Dermatologic conditions in cats such as miliary dermatitis and eosinophilic granuloma respond well to fatty acid supplementation, having success rates of 40% and 66.7% respectively. The success rate in dogs with allergic pruritus appears to be less, most studies reporting around 20%.
Risks and side effects of fatty acid supplementation
There are few side effects of fatty acid supplementation. The most serious, but rare complication, is pancreatitis. This is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
Since fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats, they do add calories. If a pet is on large doses of fatty acids, a pet food lower in calories, and fewer treats, may need to be given to prevent weight gain. Some pets may develop diarrhea from fatty acid supplements. Often, starting supplementation at a low dose and gradually working up to the therapeutic dose can help alleviate this problem. It has also been suggested that diets low in fat may increase the effectiveness of fatty acid supplements.
Because fatty acid supplements contain large amounts of fish oils, some pets develop a 'fishy' breath. The long-term or high-dose effects of fatty acid supplements have not been determined.
Conclusion
Fatty acids have been shown to be important in the health of skin, coat, and other body systems. The various fatty acids have different actions and the choice of supplement needs to be based on the effect desired. For dry skin and dull hair coats, supplements high in LA are recommended. For allergies and inflammations, supplements high in EPA, DHA, and GLA are most effective. In the treatment of atopy and other allergies, fatty acid supplements have been shown to be synergistic with antihistamines and glucocorticoids, enabling the dose of glucocorticoids to be decreased. Therapeutic trials with fatty acid supplements should last 9-12 weeks.
To make the best use of fatty acid supplements, additional research needs to be performed to determine the optimal dosage, ratios, dietary modifications, concurrent therapies and long-term effects.
The Biochemistry of Fatty Acids
The two main classes of fatty acids are the omega-3's and the omega-6's.
These classifications are based on molecular characteristics - the location of the first double bond from the methyl group. Omega-3's have the double bond at the third carbon and omega-6's at the sixth.
ALA + 2 carbons and a double bond --> EPA
LA + one double bond --> GLA; GLA + 2 carbons --> DGLA
LA + 2 carbons and 2 double bonds --> AA |
References
Ackerman, L. Dermatologic uses of fatty acids in dogs and cats. Veterinary Medicine. 1995;93(12):1149-1155.
Ackerman, L. Selecting fatty acid supplements for use in small animal dermatology. Supplement to the Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practicing Veterinarian. 1997;19(3):93-96.
Campbell, KL. Therapeutic indications for dietary lipids. In Kirk, RW (ed): Current Veterinary Therapy XI. W. B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1992;36-39.
DeGroot, JE. Veterinary medical uses and sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Veterinary Forum. 1998; May:42-48.
Griffin, CE; Kwochka, KW; MacDonald. JM. Current Veterinary Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book, Inc. St. Louis, MO; 1993;114-115.
Mooney, MA; Vaughn DM; Reinhart, GA; et. al. Evaluation of the effects of omega-3 fatty acid-containing diets on the inflammatory stage of wound healing in dogs. American Journal of Veterinary Research. 1998;59:859-863.
Scott, DW; Miller, WH; Griffin, CE. Muller and Kirk. s Small Animal Dermatology. W. B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, PA; 1995;214-217.
© 2007 Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
BACK TO TOP |
|
|
 Copyright 2005 InSight Designs, LLC. All rights reserved.
|
|
