There are three types of dietary fats: saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats (PUFA). Omega fatty acids are found in PUFA, and they manufacture important hormones that are not naturally found in the body. Modern diets, both for humans and pets, are rich in Omega 6 (grains, refined oil, etc) but tend to lack Omega 3. Hence why it is important to add Omega 3 to our daily diet, either as a supplement as fish oil or in its natural form (mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, sablefish/black cod, anchovies, albacore tuna, and and nut oils).
A quick search online will yield a variety of potential benefits that fish oil can bring to your pet. Some of those benefits are better researched than others. However, general benefits include:
- Reduced Joint Discomfort
- Less Problems with Dry, Itchy Skin Attractive, Shiny Coat
- Renewed Energy
- Reduced Risk of Stroke or Heart Problems
- Antioxidant Properties Lower Risk of Cancer
- Anti-Inflammatory Activity
- Increased stamina
- Improved immune system
- Decreased shedding
EPA vs DHA
Omega 3 fatty acids from fish can be found in 2 different forms: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). There is no research indicating the exact ratios of EPA vs DHA recommended to our pets, but research indicates that EPA has a stronger anti-inflammatory effect than DHA. Therefore, it is recommended to buy a fish oil that is higher in EPA than DHA.
Looking for EPA levels make reading the label extremely important! At times it may seem like you are getting a great deal based on price and TOTAL essential fatty acids (EFA) advertised in the front of the bottle, but be sure to read the label carefully! EFA may include Omega 3, 6, or other miscellaneous ones. Pets (and humans as well) need a supplement high in Omega 3 with no added Omega 6. Omega 6 is important but it is already consumed with a regular daily diet.
Recommended Dosage & Source
What dosage should you give your pet? It is always recommended to check with your veterinarian first, but a normal dosage will be 20-25mg of EPA/lb of body weight per day. For example, if your pet weights 40 lbs, then a dosage of 800-1,000 EPA per day is recommended!
It is also very important to keep in mind the source used to collect fish oil. Unfortunately, supplements are not closely monitored or follow strict FDA guidelines, so doing some research in the product/company online can be helpful. Some pet specific brands also tend to have a higher concentration per dose compared to human products, making it a better investment in the long run.
In addition, if you calculate the recommended dosage for your pet, you will likely find that they would need A LOT of capsules to meet those guidelines. Thus making a liquid/concentrated form much more manageable and likely more cost-effective. You can also use canned salmon, anchovies, sardine, and other options as a natural option (just be mindful of the stinky breath!).
Conclusion
Protect fish oil from heat, light, and air. Buy it in dark bottles and store in the refrigerator. Fish oils can become rancid since it’s susceptible to oxidation. If it has an “off” odor, throw it away.
In summary, it would be really hard to feed your pet the completely natural diet their ancestors ate, and with so many grains and other processed ingredients in pet food, fish oil will likely be a great supplement to use. Buy only top-quality products and be sure to ask your vet for advice before starting your dog on any supplements.
~TheK9PT
Dr. Francisco Maia, PT, DPT, CCRT
Ps: Personally, I really like Nordic Naturals or Grizzly Salmon Oil but of course there are a variety of other good quality products.