While shopping locally, I noticed there was an entire aisle that was stocked especially for vitamins, nutrients, and minerals for humans. Then I started wondering why don't animals have an aisle dedicated to them for their vitamins, nutrients, and minerals?
Dogs require certain nutrients, including the vitamins and minerals that are normally included in their dog food. But if you are not able to purchase the correct kind of dog food, your pet may not be getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and free from illness.
The following are the most common types of vitamins that dogs require:
- Vitamin A -- if the dog does not have enough of this, they will have poor skin and a poor coat.
- Vitamin B -- shortage of this vitamin will make your dog anemic and tired.
- Vitamin D -- not enough of this vitamin, your dog may have weak bones and poor teeth, leading to possible broken bones and tooth loss.
- Vitamin E -- shortage of this vitamin could increase the chances of your dog developing heart problems or even cancer.
Although most manufacturers of dog food try to ensure that these are all included in your pet's food, they cannot guarantee it every time. Therefore, the owner needs to double check the food and see that all of these important nutrients are included. If not, be sure to order some today to keep that family pet healthy and strong.
