Omega 3 Supplement for Dogs With Hip Dysplasia

When a dog̵7;s muscles lose elasticity around a joint it creates physical problems, such as hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia occurs when the muscles around the hip joint become lax and the joint bones separate causing the condition subluxation. Some dogs are born with a predisposition to hip dysplasia when the soft tissue around the hip joint develops abnormally, according to PetEducation.com. Hip dysplasia can affect any dog at any age and can develop into osteoarthritis. Veterinarians treat the condition with omega-3 (fatty acids) supplements for their anti-inflammatory properties.

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • Fatty acids improve joint health and reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats called Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are found in some foods naturally. However, the overcooking in most pet food processing depletes the concentration of omega-3s.

    Osteoarthritis

    • Unfortunately many commercial pet foods contain a lot of omega-6 fatty acids from the cereals used to create the food and less omega-3s. Too much omega-6 or a lack of omega-3s can contribute to degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis, according to Placervillevet.com.

    Cod Liver Oil

    • Cod liver oil from cold-water fish provides omega-3 fatty acids and can be easily added to your dog̵7;s diet. Unfortunately these fish can concentrate mercury and PCBs, so purchasing a pure cod liver oil is important.

    Proper Storage

    • Since fish oils oxidize in the wrong conditions proper storage will extend the life of the oil and prevent free radical contamination. Once you open the bottle, refrigerate the oil and use it within three months. Pure cod liver oil features a light color and has a mild fish odor. Pump dispensers containing fish oil tend to oxidize quickly, says Placervillevet.com. In order to preserve the effectiveness of fish oil in reducing inflammation store properly.

    Control Joint Inflammation

    • Omega-3 controls inflammation related to canine hip dysplasia by reducing the hormone-like substance prostaglandin, a major factor of inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids balance the inflammation-producing omega-6s, so if you̵7;re feeding a commercial pet food diet rich in omega-6 (grains, cereals) supplement your dog's diet with about a teaspoon of cod liver oil per 50 lbs., Placervillevet.com recommends.