The incidence of autoimmune diseases in dogs is on the rise; a natural foods diet and supplements can benefit the healing process and reduce the need for potent meds.
The incidence of autoimmune diseases in dogs is on the rise. Suspected triggers include vaccines and pet food contaminants. A natural whole food diet and supplements can benefit pets with autoimmune disorders. Two supplements with proven results include milk thistle and omega-3 fatty acids.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is recommended as a liver tonic for pets with liver and autoimmune disorders and other conditions. Many veterinarians feel that liver problems are the underlying cause of most metabolic disorders.
Extracts of milk thistle protect the liver by stabilizing the cell membranes of liver cells, aiding in detoxification, especially of toxins absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, and promoting regeneration of damaged liver cells. Milk thistle's antioxidant properties promote immune system healing and reduce the toxicity of heartworm medications and flea repellants.
Milk thistle is free of side effects although veterinarians recommend that milk thistle not be used for extended periods in pets who do not have liver disease because excess milk thistle can depress liver function in the absence of chronic liver disease. Doses are comparable to that of humans after adjustment by weight. Dogs up to 5 lbs should use 10% of human dose; 5-10 lb dogs should use 15%; 20% for 11-20 lbs; 30% for 21-40 lbs; 50% for 41-70 lbs; 75% for 71-100 lbs. Dogs more than 100 lbs use adult human doses.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 essential fatty acids are reported to offer benefits for canine autoimmune hemolytic anemia and other autoimmune conditions and also cancer, heart disease, arthritis and kidney disease.
Side effects are rarely seen although high doses can prolong bleeding time. Fatty acid supplements should not be used in combination with other supplements such as ginkgo biloba that can increase bleeding.
Resources
Shawn Messonnier, Supplements and Pets: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Milk Thistle, accessed August 10, 2007.
