subject: Omega 3's Can be Helpful in Overcoming Symptoms in Dogs Suffering from Allergies [print this page] Identifying what your dog is allergic to is the first step in relieving discomfort brought on by allergic reactions. Blood tests are fairly inexpensive and tend to be decent indicators for what allergens are affecting your dog. Elimination diets are perhaps the easiest and most cost effective indicator when a food allergy is suspected. The pet owner must be vigilant in reading ingredients and ensuring their dog is not getting any of the food believed to be causing a reaction. Don't forget about treats too. Although dog food comprises the majority of the dogs diet, treats need to be monitored for ingredients as well.
Check your local pet store for commercially made foods that cater to specific food allegens.
The latest research has shown Omega 3's, found in fish oil and flax seed, to be helpful in reducing allergic reactions in dogs. Omega 3's are natural anti-inflammatory agents. An allergic reaction, caused by food or environmental, causes an increase of (IgE) inflammatory antibodies. Omega 3's combat this inflammatory response, thus reducting the negative symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.
Flax seeds are an excellent, easily digestable source of Omega 3's. Grind fresh for a great, nutty flavor and refrigerate after grinding to retain the helpful benefits of the flax seed.
It is important to note that although commercially prepared foods may boast of including flax seed/Omega 3's as an ingredient, high temperature cooking for long periods of time can render them useless. Omega 3's are far less stable than their counterparts, the inflammatory Omega 6's.
One company that has taken this into consideration and developed products for dogs suffering from food allergies is Pampered Pooch and Pony. The company specifically created recipes for their dog products to include the beneficial Omega 3's, and cook at low temperatures to retain the anti-inflammatory properties of freshly ground flax seed.
Omega 3's are not just beneficial to dogs with allergies, but are a great addition to the diet of any dog. They can improve coat condition, are rich in beneficial fiber and can provide relief from inflammation in older dogs suffering from arthritis.
Omega 3's Can be Helpful in Overcoming Symptoms in Dogs Suffering from Allergies
