Essential fatty acids control many systems in your pet, primarily the immune system and the inflammatory response. They form healthy cell membranes for your pets nervous system, adrenal glands, thyroid, skin, nails and hair. They build strong muscle mass, bones and teeth. They keep your dog’s mucous membranes lubricated. These acids are literally the building blocks of all cell membranes. Essential fatty acids are only obtained through dietary intake and this dietary fat is very important as a source of energy.

There are three main groups of acids, contained in the omega 3 chain: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega 3 fatty acids cannot be synthesized in the body, so they must be supplemented in your pet’s diet. Making sure your pet gets its essential fatty acids depends on what you feed it. It is important to give him a very well balanced meal. Some low-fat dry foods may lack the necessary essential fatty acids. Other factors, such as certain diseases, can also affect absorption. Diseases of the pancreas and liver, especially, can cause malabsorption of fats, resulting in poor body utilization of these acids. The sources of omega 3 fatty acids are plants and cold-water fish.

Plant sources contain the fatty acids ALA, but flax seed oil is not assimilated or digested well in our pets, as ALA must be converted to DHA and EPA to be beneficial. The best sources of omega 3 fatty acids are oily cold-water fish such as salmon, halibut, herring, cod, and sardines. These contain DHA and EPA. DHA and EPA are the precursors of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are formed in body tissues during self-healing responses to stimuli. These hormone-like substances act as natural anti-inflammatory agents.

Why are omega 3 fatty acids important as a nutritional supplement for dogs?

Originally, omega-3 fatty acids were known to help your pet have a more lustrous and shiny coat. Now, researchers are finding that the addition of omega-3 fatty acids helps with many other conditions, including allergies, autoimmune conditions, arthritis, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and rheumatoid arthritis.

Other new conditions are also seeing the benefits of the addition of omega 3 fatty acids.

Pets with cancer may benefit from fish oil supplements. They have been shown to delay the development and metastasis of certain types of cancer. Heart problems such as ventricular arrhythmia have been prevented and high blood pressure reduced by adding fish oil supplements to your diet.

It has been found that in addition to the effects on the developing immune system, these fatty acids are also necessary for the development of healthy retinas and visual cortices.

Fungal infections are also treated with fish oil. Essential fatty acids appear to slow the growth of Malassezia pachydermatitis, which is a common fungal infection that affects the skin and ears of dogs and cats.

Animal Essentials Ocean Omega Supreme – is a super premium quality fish oil supplement that is made from ethically wild-harvested Alaskan salmon and whole-bodied Menhaden fish. This highest quality fish oil is tested for purity; Analyzed for heavy metals and other known contaminants. This supplement is made in the United States. Replenishes essential fatty acids that are vital to your pet’s daily health.

Animal Essentials Fish Oil Plus provides a well-balanced blend of essential fatty acids. The fish-shaped gelcaps are derived from wild-caught sardines, mackerel, and anchovies. These smaller fish are naturally higher in EPA/DHA levels than salmon oil. Essential fatty acids are necessary for healthy skin and coat, as well as helping to regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and build strong joint tissue. Essential fatty acids are beneficial for the skin and coat, the heart and joints. Additionally, Omega 3 helps regulate inflammation in the body. Additionally, your dog will also be more tolerant of flea bites and other allergens.

Another great source is Grizzly Salmon Oil. Grizzly Salmon Oil provides a wide range of omega-3s, including the long chain omega 3s EPA and DHA.

As our pets age, they face an increased risk of heart disease, arthritis, dullness in their skin and coat, and a general lack of vitality and vigor. By supplementing your dog’s diet with these omega 3 EFA’s, you will help rebuild those systems in your best friend’s body.

Mickey’s Pet Supplies – http://www.mickeyspetsupplies.com