Don’t give your Pets Fish Oil UNLESS you are doing these 5 Things

Do Not Give Your Pets Fish Oil Unless You’re Doing These Five Things

Hello, everyone! Dr. Andrew Jones here. We’re hosting an exciting new webinar on Omega-3 supplements for dogs and cats, and I’d love for you to join. We’ll discuss whether you should be giving them to your pets and what you need to know about their safety. We’ll also have a special focus on allergies and my top natural remedies. To join us, simply click the link in the description below.

Understanding Omega-3s and Their Importance

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered one of the most important supplements in veterinary medicine, especially for conditions like allergic skin disease, arthritis, cancer, organ dysfunction, and brain health. However, before you rush to buy a fish oil supplement for your pet, there are some critical considerations.

1. Get an Accurate Diagnosis

Before using an omega-3 fatty acid supplement to treat a condition, ensure your pet actually has a condition that can respond to them. Does your dog truly have allergic skin disease, or could it be mites or food allergies? It’s crucial to conduct a proper food trial first. I’ve posted several videos on how to perform a basic exam at home to help you start with the right diagnosis.

2. Be Aware of Toxins in Fish Oil

A major concern with fish oil is contamination. Oceans, unfortunately, contain various toxins, which fish absorb. Fish higher up the food chain, like salmon, can have elevated levels of mercury and PCBs. Since 2004, the FDA has warned about these contaminants, especially in young children and pregnant women. For pets, ensure any fish oil supplement you choose is tested for these contaminants. Alternatives like krill oil are lower in the food chain and typically have negligible toxins.

3. Ensure Good Absorption

It’s not just about giving your pet a supplement; it’s crucial they can absorb it. To enhance absorption, give the supplement with a fat-containing meal. For example, adding healthy safflower oil to your pet’s food can significantly improve how well they absorb these essential fatty acids.

4. Know When Not to Give Fish Oil

Essential fatty acids can cause gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If your pet has a GI condition, avoid these supplements. Also, if your pet has a bleeding disorder or is scheduled for surgery, stop the supplement a week before surgery due to its effects on clotting times.

5. Give the Right Dose for an Adequate Period

To truly assess whether omega-3s are benefiting your pet, you must give the right dose for a sufficient time. For allergic conditions, for example, a dog needs enough EPA and DHA for at least three months to evaluate effectiveness. Dosage might vary, but a general guideline is about 500 milligrams of krill for every 20 pounds of body weight daily, depending on the product.