Supplements

To help with the after effects of their elbow dysplasia and to reduce the number of chemicals Hal & Zen are exposed to a number of supplements are used:

Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed (Norwegian Kelp or Rockweed) - Ascohyllum nodosum contains minerals such as calcium which promote healthy teeth and bones. Another benefit of consuming this brown kelp is a reduction in dental plaque and calculus.

Bone Broth - Contains glycosaminoglycans, which assist in laying down collagen in the joints, tendons, ligaments and even the arteries; helps the liver detox; promotes a healthy gut; and is a great nutrition for sick dogs.  Click here for the recipe.

Dandelion Leaves - Dandelion leaves are loaded with potassium. They also stimulate the appetite and help digestion along with kidney function. They are an ideal choice for dogs with chronic indigestion or those with gas.
Dandelion leaf also acts as a diuretic, making it useful in cases of arthritis, kidney stones, congestive heart failure and gallbladder disease. And best of all, dandelion leaf contains lots of potassium, which can be lost through urination. Dandelion leaf also stimulates the liver and promotes the elimination of waste material from the body.

Devil's Claw - Eases stiffness and improves joint comfort; reduces symptoms of joint conditions; promotes muscle repair following injury or strenuous exercise; supports joint, tendon, and ligament health; improves flexibility and freedom of movement.

Garlic - A natural antibiotic and won’t affect the good bacteria in the gut which are needed for digestion and immune health; antifungal; antiviral; boosts the immune system; makes dogs less desirable to fleas; antiparasitic; lowers blood cholesterol and triglyceride; boots the cardiovascular system and prevents blood clots.
NB Garlic is safe for dogs in low dosages (0.5 clove per 4.5kg from The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Dr Pitcairn).  However, it should not be given to puppies until at least 8 weeks old.

Glucosamine, Chrondroitin & MSM - Maintains hard working dogs whose joints are challenged or ageing.  It nutritionally supports the health of the joint structure, including cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bone cell regeneration.  It is also often used as an aid in the treatment of spinal disc injuries or post operatively in dogs that have undergone joint surgery

Green Lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus) - Powdered extract of GLM contains very high concentration of omega-3s and a unique combination of fatty acids that is not found in any other marine or plant life.  It provides beneficial effects with joint problems, skin conditions, soft tissue injuries and connective tissue repair.

Ground Pumpkin Seeds - Work as an effective deworming agent against tapeworms and other intestinal parasites in dogs and humans.  They contain the amino acid cucurbitin, which paralyses and eliminates the works from the digestive tract.  Pumpkin seeds are also loaded with protein, amino acids, fibre, iron, copper, phosphorus and magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, folic acid and niacin.

Ignatia - Remedy for depression and bereavement, nervousness, insomnia, moodiness and headaches.  In those needing Ignatia, there is almost always a traceable source of their internal sorrow. It may be grief due to the death of a family member or other traumatic event. In an attempt to ‘put the past behind them,’ they bottle up their grief until they reach the brink, and then may either erupt, and/or suppress their sadness further and develop pathology.
Shandy had two treatments of Ignatia after his brother Casey died, and it helped significantly with his depression.

Tree Barks Powder (Slippery Elm) - Soothes the entire digestive tract and helps slow the passage of food through the system, so increasing absorption, firming stools and easing the discomfort that often accompanies intestinal disorders.  It is also suitable for use during periods of acute diarrhoea and in the recovery period following it.
We only use Tree Barks Powder when necessary, but due to Shandy's age and health he has it with every meal.