Valerian
Valerian is not intended for long-term use but may have benefit as a treatment for helping pets sleep through the night and exposure to periodic stressors, such as travel, thunderstorm phobias, and acute anxiety. Several weeks may be needed to achieve success. Valerian helps to support the natural relaxant pathways within the nervous system, without affecting […]
Tryptophan
L-tryptophan is an amino acid that is “essential” for both humans and other animals. The term “essential” implies that our bodies (and the bodies of our pets) cannot produce this amino acid, so it must be obtained through what we eat and what we feed our pets. L-tryptophan is absorbed by our bodies and converted […]
Taurine
Taurine is a nutritional amino acid supplement used to treat taurine-deficiency diseases such as dilated cardiomyopathy, a type of heart disease. It is also useful in preventing retinal degeneration, an eye disease. Taurine deficiency is most common in cats, but it can also affect Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Dalmatians, Portuguese Water Dogs, […]
Spirulina
Spirulina is a nutritional powerhouse that contains more than 50% protein and is high in life-giving chlorophyll. It’s high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, enzymes, and trace minerals. It can be used to treat a variety of issues in both humans and animals, including inflammation, cancer, nutritional deficiencies, immune support, bacterial and […]
S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)
SAMe, or S-adenosyl-methionine, is the bioactive form of methionine, an essential amino acid nutrient found in high concentrations in meat and sunflower seeds. SAMe is used in the body for a variety of functions including the brain, heart, hormones, antioxidants, detoxification, and other metabolic functions. It is a common supplement used to treat liver disease […]
Probiotics
Probiotics are dietary supplements that contain beneficial live microorganisms (such as bacteria). Normally, these microorganisms live in and on humans and animals, causing no harm and, in some cases, providing protection against disease-causing organisms. Probiotics are used to support and replenish normal microorganism populations that have been disrupted by medications, dietary changes, disease processes, or […]
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are compounds that encourage the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms. Consequently, they make bacteria stronger to enable a healthy large intestine and a happy gut microbiome. Prebiotics are indigestible to the body; they travel unscathed through the dog’s stomach and intestines until they reach the colon. Here they convert into short-chain fatty acids […]
Phosphatidylserine
A phospholipid, or substance that facilitates simple absorption in the body, is phosphatidylserine. PS is also known to improve melatonin’s effectiveness and absorption, which also aids in reducing the overactive adrenal glands in dogs. By interfering with the “ingredients” that the body of the dog utilises to manufacture corticosteroids, lowering the generation of ACTH reduces […]
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally occurring supplement that is primarily used as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant for conditions such as arthritis and certain cancers. MSM is most commonly used in dogs and horses, but cats may benefit as well. There have been limited studies in companion animals, with mixed results, but there is some anecdotal […]
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone supplement that is used to treat a wide range of conditions in various breeds. It has been used in dogs to treat sleep and behavioural disorders, as well as non-allergic hair loss (alopecia). It has been used to treat sleep and behaviour disorders in cats, as well as to suppress the […]