The immune system works diligently to protect your dog's body from outside contaminants such as viruses, parasites, fungus and bacteria. Vitamins, minerals and enzymes are essential to the of this system. It is important that your dog have the proper amount of vitamins and minerals for his overall health and well being. Many commercial dog foods do not contain the correct amount or proper type of vitamins and minerals; therefore, supplements are often suggested by veterinarians.
Role of Vitamins
A dog's body requires vitamins for a multitude of functions. They work together with minerals and enzymes to control bone growth, blood clotting, digestion and the growth and function of muscle. Vitamins are important for a healthy skin and coat, and assist the body in the proper use of fats proteins and carbohydrates. Vitamins are important to a health body. Deficiencies can lead to diseases such as rickets, caused by a lack of Vitamin C; and blindness, caused by a lack of Vitamin A. Most of the vitamins required by your dog's body cannot be manufactured by the body and must be obtained through food or supplements.
Types of Vitamins
There are two groups of vitamins required by your dog's body: fat soluble and water soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A,D, E and K. These vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissues and are used as needed by the body. Water-soluble vitamins include vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 and biotin. These vitamins are stored in small amounts and are required on a daily basis. Most of the excess of these vitamins are excreted daily by the body.
Vitamin Supplements
Your veterinarian may suggest you supplement your dog's normal diet with vitamin supplements. It is important for you to understand the role that these supplements play in the health of your dog, as not all dogs will require the same type or amount of supplements.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps the body's immune system fight free radicals that cause disease. Vitamin C is necessary for the proper formation of bones and tissue and has been shown to fight cancer cells. Vitamin C supplements given to sick dogs can help them recover faster by boosting their immune system and have shown promise in treating hip dysplasia and arthritis.
B complex vitamins are necessary for the proper function of the nervous system. Stress can cause the levels to become depleted rapidly; a suppressed immune systems causes a great deal of stress on your dog's body. Specific B vitamins that help boost the immune system are: B2 (riboflavin), which aids the in producing antibodies; B5 (pantothenic acid) is important for the immune system and adrenal function, and it helps fight allergies, inflammation and infections; B-6 (pyridoxine) is required in the utilization of some minerals for a healthy immune system.; B9 (folic acid) is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and protein metabolism, which is needed for proper function of the immune system; B12 (cobalamin) is the "feel good" vitamin and is often given to rundown pets to increase their energy.
Vitamin E is considered a wonder vitamin and is helpful in healing diseases, boosting the immune system, dissolving tumors and improving the function of all internal organs. Vitamin E has numerous other benefits as well and is the No. 1 supplement suggested by veterinarians.
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