The Vitamin Bible for Dogs

PetSmart - PetSmart

Dogs, like their two-legged counterparts, need vitamins and other supplements to lead a healthy, happy life. But how do we know what type of vitamins to give our canine pals? And how do we know what ailments specific breeds may be prone to?
 

Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., author of the best-selling book The Vitamin Bible, has the answers to those questions and much more in his new book, Earl Mindell's Nutrition and Health for Dogs. "My goal was to create a user-friendly book that covers all aspects for maintaining a healthy diet for your dog," Dr. Mindell says.

His motivation to learn about vitamins and proper nutrition for dogs was generated by his bichon frise, Dudley. A dog-lover and owner since childhood, Dr. Mindell wanted to make sure his four-legged pal had all the healthy advantages he could provide.

"Dudley was my inspiration for the book," said Dr. Mindell as he cradled his furry friend. "I felt for a long time that there should be a book that tells pet owners how to care for their animals." When it comes to allergies, Dr. Mindell says that vitamin C and quercetin have antihistamine properties and will help rid your pooch of that runny nose and sneezing.

Arthritis Helpers
As with humans, vitamin C can be effective in combating more than one problem. It also plays a major role in helping senior pets that suffer from arthritis, says Dr. Mindell. "In addition to C, you can give vitamin E and selenium, which help prevent loss of muscle tone. Glucosamine is also great for building cartilage. Start with 500 milligrams per day for all sizes of dogs; if needed, increase to 500 milligrams twice a day."

"All breeds of dogs are highly prone to cataracts," Dr. Mindell says. "I recommend daily supplements of E and C to help prevent them."

Possibly the most unpleasant situation pet owners can face is when their pooch comes down with diarrhea. Dr. Mindell says that short bouts of diarrhea can be treated with a diet that is easy to digest and has plenty of liquids. Use organic liver, tofu or cottage cheese for protein; add well-cooked brown rice, minced or shredded vegetables and plenty of homemade chicken or beef broth.

"If your dog suffers from hot spots, I suggest MSM, a natural source of nutritional sulfur," says Dr. Mindell. "It's a lotion that can be applied directly on the problem, and it takes care of it in no time."

Helping Cancer and the Heart
"Cancer does not have to be a death sentence if caught early," Dr. Mindell asserts. "Vitamin C plays an important role in both the prevention and treatment of cancer. It also boosts the immune system, is a power antioxidant, and has been proven to reduce the risk of the disease."

Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and can reduce your dog's risk of cancer. It also has the unique ability to convert to vitamin A - another anticancer nutrient - as the body needs it.

"The key to a healthy heart is vitamins E and C," says Dr. Mindell. "Garlic is beneficial too. Garlic keeps a dog's blood and blood vessels clean and helps reduce blockages that may already exist. And if your dog has parasites, one-half to two cloves of garlic a day will drive away fleas and kill internal worms, except for heartworms."

"Dogs are such an important part of the family," says Dr. Mindell. "They give love unconditionally and expect nothing in return. I am gratified to be able to help them enjoy a better quality of life through preventive care with vitamins and a healthy diet."

Earl Mindell's Nutrition and Health for Dogs is available at all major bookstores.

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