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 A Pet Parent’s Guide To The Best Antioxidants For Dogs
 A Pet Parent’s Guide To The Best Antioxidants For Dogs

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A Pet Parent’s Guide To The Best Antioxidants For Dogs

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Antioxidants are chemicals that the body uses to combat free radicals. And free radicals are substances that might harm the body if they exceed a certain level. Antioxidants are also beneficial for your pets, especially your dogs. Your dog needs antioxidants to help promote a healthy immune system. Hence, every IAMS™ dog formula contains optimal levels of these nutrients.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring essential nutrients that help maintain your dog’s health by slowing the destructive oxidative process of cellular molecules. IAMS™ research has been focusing on advancing antioxidant nutrients for senior dogs — and the benefit is improved immune function. Discover how the antioxidants in IAMS™ products can benefit your dog’s health in a number of ways.

 

Benefits of antioxidants for dogs

Antioxidants are found naturally in fruits and vegetables. Common antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and certain compounds called carotenoids (like lutein and beta-carotene). When antioxidants are a part of a dog’s complete diet, they can provide the following benefits:

  • Slowing the oxidative process of cellular molecules.
  • Reversing immune-cell function in senior dogs.

 

How antioxidants work

As cells function normally in the body, they produce damaged molecules called free radicals. These free radicals are highly unstable and steal components from other cellular molecules such as fat, protein, or DNA, thereby spreading the damage.

 

This continues in a chain reaction, and causes cells to die. This process is called peroxidation. Peroxidation is useful because it helps the body destroy cells that have outlived their usefulness, and it kills germs and parasites. However, when left unchecked, peroxidation also destroys or damages healthy cells.

 

Antioxidants help prevent widespread cellular destruction by willingly donating components to stabilise free radicals. More importantly, antioxidants return to the surface of the cell to stabilise other cellular components.

 

When there are not enough antioxidants to hold peroxidation in check, free radicals begin damaging healthy cells, which can lead to problems. For example, free radical damage to immune cells can lead to an increased risk of infections.

 

Antioxidants in IAMS™ adult dog and puppy foods

Antioxidants offer countless benefits to our furry friends. And it is imperative that their food is loaded with it. Want to know why? Read on.

 

Why do dogs need antioxidants?

Antioxidants are a must for dogs as they are exposed to significantly more toxins than humans. These antioxidants work like protective agents within the dog’s body, battling free radicals that cause symptoms and diseases like skin problems.

Furthermore, giving liver antioxidants for dogs will boost liver health and eliminate toxins from their body more efficiently. The liver will convert fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble toxins to easily flush them from your pet’s body through the GI tract and kidneys.

Recent research has examined the benefits of certain antioxidants on the immune response of dogs, and the results of these studies indicated that antioxidants are important in helping dogs maintain a healthy immune system.

IAMS™ adult and puppy formulas contain optimal levels of antioxidants such as:

 

Antioxidant

Source

Function

Vitamin E

Plant oil extract and tocopherols

Optimizes immune system’s T-cell activation

Beta-carotene

Vitamin premix, corn meal, chicken by-product meal and chicken fat

Optimizes types of cells present in the blood,
increases antibody levels in the blood
 

 

Now that you know how dog food with antioxidants can benefit your dog, here’s a list of the best antioxidants for dogs: 
 

Best antioxidants for dogs

Vitamin C

  • One of the most essential vitamins for a dog's health
  • Aids in wound healing and reducing inflammation
  • Provides energy so your dog can enjoy playing outside all day

Vitamin E

  • One of the best antioxidants for dogs with cancer
  • Provides a natural boost to the immune system
  • Supports healthy blood vessels and protects against diabetes and heart disease

Beta-carotene

  • It is a fantastic dietary addition for your dog.
  • Helps boost the number of antibodies in blood and offers additional protection against diseases in older dogs

 

Polyphenols

  • Excellent antioxidants for dogs as they help maintain your pet’s health and strength for many years
  • Shields from diseases like cancer or diabetes 

 

Sources of antioxidants for dogs

You can find natural antioxidants for dogs in the following:

 

Fruits and vegetables

The antioxidant content of plant-based foods is high. Foods that are highest in antioxidants are fruits and vegetables as they are loaded with vitamins and beneficial in countless ways. Some examples of excellent sources of antioxidants are blueberries, strawberries, pears, red cabbages, and kale. Make sure to check which fruits and vegetables are safe for your dog to consume. 


Supplements

Give your dog the best vitamins you can, so your pooch stays healthy. It is crucial that dogs receive a supplement that is specifically designed for their life stage. 

 

Look for dog food with antioxidants and nutrients that are bioactive and bioavailable so that these get absorbed properly into your dog’s body. Make sure that the supplement you choose has the ideal ratio of natural elements for your pet’s needs. That can be accomplished by looking for a combination of prebiotics, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

 

For a healthy body from the inside, you can also feed your pooch IAMSTM Proactive HealthTM dog food. Find the products that are best for your dog by shopping based on your pet’s age.

Frequently asked questions about Best Antioxidants for Dogs

  1. What foods have antioxidants?
  2. Fruits, nuts, berries, and vegetables are common foods that act as good sources of antioxidants. Giving your dog an antioxidant-rich diet will aid in the battle against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of any illnesses.

  3. What foods promote healing in dogs?
  4. Foods such as organ meats, mushrooms, eggs, bone broth, and raw goat milk speed up the healing of cuts, wounds, and other injuries in dogs.

  5. Can too many antioxidants be harmful to dogs?
  6. The benefits of antioxidants for dogs are innumerable; however, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian on the right dosage of antioxidants for your pet.

  7. What are the 3 main antioxidants for dogs?
  8. Three of the most important antioxidant vitamins are Vitamin E+C, selenium, and beta-carotene.

  9. Do antioxidants help dogs?
  10. Antioxidant-rich foods for dogs help prevent damages due to free radicals. An adequate intake of antioxidants can help boost your dog’s immunity.

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  • Puppy Basics: Spaying and Neutering
    Puppy Basics: Spaying and Neutering
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    What is Dog Neutering and Why is it Important?

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    Population control is as essential for pets as it is for humans. Overpopulation by unwanted kindle of kittens or puppies is difficult to manage by caregivers. Many newborn young kittens and puppies are either put up for adoption or sent to an animal shelter. Besides, reproduction can be a tedious journey for your furry friend. Hence, it is better to get them spayed and neutered at the right time.
     

    Spaying and neutering are medical procedures performed on dogs to stop their reproduction process. Dog neutering and spaying is one the essential medical procedures for providing care to your fur baby. There are many benefits of neutering and spaying your canine friend. To understand more about this helpful medical procedure, read the following.
     

    What is the procedure for dog neutering and spaying?

    A neutered or spayed dog cannot reproduce as their heat cycle is eliminated. Dog neutering is a medical procedure performed on male dogs while spaying is performed on female dogs. Veterinarian surgeons perform a surgical procedure to remove ovaries and uterus from female dogs. Besides population control, spaying also prevents uterine infections and breast cancer in female dogs. Whereas neutering is a similar procedure performed on male dogs. Neutered dogs undergo surgery for removing both testicles and associated structures. Male neutered dogs are generally believed to be more well-behaved and calmer. The surgery also stops their breeding acts such as humping and the urge to run away.
     

    When are dogs neutered?

    Getting your dog spayed and neutered is essential for their psychological and physical well-being and behaviour. Yet, when to spay a dog and when to neuter a puppy is a common query amongst pet caregivers. Well, it is best to get your pooch neutered or spayed at the earliest. It is best to get your fur baby neutered or spayed before it develops breeding instincts. Undergoing the procedure between 4 and 6 months is suggested. Most breeds of dogs reach redevelopment maturity around 6 months of age, yet some breeds can easily be neutered or spayed until 9 months or even after they turn over a year old. Hence, your pooch’s breed and size decide how soon it needs to be spayed or neutered.
     

    Reasons to get your dog neutered

    There are numerous reasons to opt for spaying and neutering for pets. By undergoing spaying and neutering procedures, pets can achieve better physical and psychological health. Neutered and spayed dogs are known to have better hormonal balance as their reproductive organs are removed which helps in neutralizing their breeding instincts. Mentioned below are a few more reasons why you should get your pets neutered and spayed.

    • Spaying and neutering help in controlling the pet population and overcrowding at animal shelters.
    • Both procedures are known to improve your pet’s health and behaviour.
    • Spaying also prevents potentially life-threatening illnesses like mammary cancer, pyometra, and other uterine infections.
    • Neutered dogs eliminate their risk of suffering from testicular cancer and prostatic cancer.
    • Spayed and neutered dogs are also believed to have better bone health.
    • Male dogs often tend to run away on reaching breeding maturity. Neutering helps prevent such breeding instincts. The procedure also helps in controlling their general aggression and behaviour.

    How to prepare your pet before getting them neutered or spayed?

    It is necessary to take some preventive measures to build trust and assurance before getting your pooch neutered or spayed. The following are a few things you should do to prepare your canine friend before getting it neutered/ spayed.

    • Get an appointment with their vet for a complete physical checkup. This checkup will primarily give you an idea about your pet’s health and if they are ready to undergo surgery.
    • Crate train your pooch so that it does not feel uncomfortable when kept in a crate at the vet’s clinic or after surgery for recovery.
    •  Keep the house puppy-proofed to ensure your pooch doesn’t harm itself post-surgery.
    • Restrict food and water intake the night before surgery. Please consult your vet to know the exact hours of fasting required for undergoing this surgery.
    • Stay calm to keep your pooch away from unwanted tension. Your pet’s mood often depends on your mood. Hence, it becomes curial for caregivers to stay calm and composed to ensure their canine friend is stress-free throughout the procedure.

    How to ensure post-surgery recovery for neutered and spayed dogs?

    Neutering or spaying can typically take anywhere between 20 to 90 minutes depending on the size, breed, and health of your pooch. As a pet parent, you need to ensure the best care and support for your fur baby to ensure its complete and stress-free recovery post-surgery. Puppies and dogs often take up to 10 to 14 days to recover after getting neutered or spayed. The following are a few things you should do to ensure your puppy recovers well after getting neutered or spayed.

    • Proper rest:

    Your pooch needs to relax and rest well to get back to its bubbly mood as soon as possible. Resting is especially required for healing the surgery scars. It is suggested to avoid letting them run or jump right after surgery. You should also puppy-proof your house to limit any potential mishaps to protect them post-surgery.

    • Distant from other animals:

    Puppies and dogs tend to fight for socialising. However, post-surgery recovery requires your fur baby to relax and recover. Mingling with other animals increases their chances of getting into minor accidents which can potentially increase their recovery time. Hence, it is best to limit your pet’s interaction with other animals until it has fully recovered.

    • Avoid bathing:

    Do not bathe your pooch for at least 10 days post-surgery. This is to prevent their wound from getting wet and infected. It is also necessary to change the wound’s dressing to keep it clean and hygienic post-surgery.

    • Check-ups:

    You need to keep a close tab on the pooch’s recovery. Arrange for a vet’s appointment for conducting regular checkups and dressing changes. You should also check for redness, swelling, discharge, odor, and uneasiness to prevent infections and allergies.

    • Stay alert:

    Make sure the pet eats well and is in stable condition once it is back home. Get in touch with your vet immediately if you notice the pooch vomiting, not eating well, or if it suffers from diarrhea. You should also look out for signs of lethargy and discomfort during the recovery period.
     

    Managing the population is essential for strays as well as pets. When you get your pets neutered and spayed, you eliminate their chances of contributing to the overpopulation of dogs. Besides, spaying and neutering also help in managing your pooch’s aggression and urge to run away by controlling their hormones and making them calmer. Neutering and spaying also save your pooch from falling prey to infections and fatal illnesses like cancer. Hence, it is best to get your canine friend neutered or spayed at the earliest by consulting a vet.

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