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Dog Antioxidants

Veterinarian Reviewed on March 29, 2014 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Dog Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a significant role in the diet. They help the body in a lot of ways, especially in a Dog Diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants have the ability to prevent the reproduction of Dog Cancer DNA, consequently hastening the death of the cancer cells. They improve the immune system and also block some of the enzymes that cancer cells use for growth. There have been some conflicting studies as to the potential interaction with radiation and Dog Cancer Chemotherapy. Check with your vet before making significant dietary changes.

Primary Antioxidants that benefit cancer patients:

Vitamin C

A vitamin C supplement that is natural includes some bioflavanoid co-factors. There are different kinds of Vitamin C but the all work. Each works a bit differently, but they work.

Calcium Ascorbate

This is beneficial for most dogs but it is quite bitter. Start with a small dose and gradually increase it.

Ascorbic Acid

This can upset the stomach in some dogs. It is very acidic and very sour. It is hard to determine the exact dosage of this vitamin so it is recommended that you increase the dose until there are significant bowel changes. However, since Dog Diarrhea is a common malady among dogs being treated for cancer, it can be hard to decide whether it is the Vitamin or the treatments that are causing it.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A comes from vegetables that contain beta-carotene. Be cautious with the administration as it can be toxic if given in excessive doses. It is better to serve vegetables that are high in Vitamin A rather than a supplement.

Secondary Antioxidants:

Vitamin D

This is well known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’. Dogs can absorb this from their time spent in the sunshine. There are many benefits associated with Vitamin D and as more studies are done, it is become recommended more frequently. It will help keep bones in a healthy state and balances the calcium and the phosphorus that is in the body.

Selenium

In the body, selenium is a mineral acting as an anti-oxidant. The American Cancer Society has stated that it may possibly help prevent the progression and development of cancer cells. It can also become toxic if given in high doses, so caution is recommended. Sources for selenium include kidney, poultry, liver and whole grains.

CoQ10

This particular supplement will support the heart. It is primarily used with chemo in an attempt to lessen the toxic effects of Adriamycin, which is very hard on the heart. It is advisable to include this supplement if you have one of the breeds that are prone to heart problems. This includes but is not limited to Rottweiler, Boxers and Great Dane’s.

The first thing your vet will tell you as you begin cancer treatment for your dog is that you have to work hard to maintain both an adequate fluid level and also to maintain a good diet. The chemotherapy will drain your dog of all energy and the only way to assist as the dog owner is to provide the foods necessary to counteract the effects.

Read also: Dog Liver Failure
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Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

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