From: The Holistic Pet, a nationally syndicated column:

Q: Dear Dr. Shawn:"After reading The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, I know that you're a big believer in using supplements in pets. However, since I feed my dog what I think is a really good natural diet, is supplementation still important? Is there anything in particular you would recommend?"

A: "Like you, I'm a big believer in feeding the proper diet AND combining the best diet with whatever supplements your pet requires. I'm assuming for this discussion that your pet is healthy and does not have any specific needs that I should address. The foundation of any holistic health program starts with a good, natural diet, preferably one free from byproducts and chemicals. However, even the best diets may not provide everything your pet needs to maintain health. This is because diets are formulated for the "average" pet, and I've yet to see any "average" pet. There is a lot of evidence that support the benefits of vitamin and mineral supplementation for all diets. This is especially true for pet foods that are not natural and holistic such as the one you've chosen to feed; many foods are lacking nutritional enhancement and the ingredients used are byproducts from human grade materials that are not fit for human consumption and are deficient in many important nutrients. The diet is a starting place, and supplements are used depending upon each pet's specific needs. Having said this, I think I can make some general recommendations regarding supplements that will be true for all pets.
First, the supplement should be produced by a quality company with a good track record. Ideally, the company manufacturing the supplement will have the stamp of approval from National Animal Supplement Council (NASC.). The supplement should be scientifically formulated and sound, and not just contain some ingredients quickly thrown together. Second, the supplement (like your pet's diet) should be formulated with the finest all natural human grade ingredients available. Third, they should be economical in order to allow you to supplement your pet's diet and ensure that he is getting all the essential nutrients he needs everyday. A little bit of money spend maintaining health is better than spending a whole lot of money to treat illness! Finally, the supplement should be easy to give to your pet; using a supplement as a treat is better than having to force yet another pill down your pet. There are many good supplements your doctor might recommend; one of my favorites is called Vim and Vigor by PetCentrx (www.pettogethers.net/allourpets.) I believe that by using high quality supplements, along with the great diet you're already feeding, that you are doing your best to ensure your pet's health and minimize disease."

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Please address questions to him at Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, 2145 W. Park Blvd., Plano, Tx, 75075, call him at 972-867-8800, or email him at:
Dr. Shawn Messonnier

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