Nutritional Supplements for Spinal Disease in Dogs

It can be devastating to find out that your dog has spinal disease. There is no cure for this degenerative condition, but it can be managed using medication and supplements. Nutritional supplements are not a substitute for traditional medication and should be used in conjunction with treatments recommended by your vet. If you are thinking of giving your dog nutritional supplements to aid its health, always consult your vet first.

  1. Tofu

    • Tofu is curd made from soya beans. It is high in protein, which is needed for the healthy growth of cells. Containing lecithin, soya is also important for maintaining healthy nerves. According to R. M. Clemmons, DVM, Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the University of Florida, decreasing the dog's commercial diet by 25% to 33% and adding 5 to 6 ounces of tofu per day will help increase your dog's protein intake.

    B-Complex Vitamins

    • If a dog is suffering from spinal disease, the way it absorbs vitamin B will differ from a healthy dog. Therefore, supplementing its diet with a vitamin B complex will help make up the deficit. This vitamin is crucial for the repair and growth of tissue, and helps maintain healthy nerve function. It is water-soluble, so any excess will be passed in the dog's urine and won't have adverse effects on its health. Vets recommend a dose of 100mg of each B vitamin per day.

    Nutritional Yeast

    • Nutritional yeast is a cheap way of providing your dog with several important vitamins and minerals. It contains protein, vitamin B complex vitamins and trace minerals. You can use it in conjunction with other supplements by adding 1 or 2 teaspoons of yeast powder to your dog's meals.

    Antioxidants

    • Vitamin C, vitamin E and Selenium are a group of supplements classed as antioxidants. They defend the body against free radicals and can help prevent the degeneration of cells associated with conditions like spinal disease. The three supplements work with each other, and should be administered at the same time for optimal effect. Clemmons recommends giving 2000IU vitamin E, 1000mg vitamin C and 200mcg of Selenium per day.

    Coenzyme Q

    • Coenzyme Q is also called Co-Q-10. It is a membrane stabilizer that improves the way oxygen is used in the cells. It is a useful supplement for conditions that involve problems with the heart and other muscles, such as spinal disease. However, it can be expensive. You should give your dog between 30 and 100mg of coenzyme Q each day with its meals.