Omega-3 fatty acids: for everyone feathered, furred, or scaly

Do you take an omega fatty acid supplement in your diet? Omega-3 fatty acids – alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexanoic acid (DHA) – are the buzz words among human nutritionists these days, as these fatty acids have anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidant actions that can protect the body against tissue damage. ALA is derived from plants (like flax seed, soy, perilla and canola oils, and walnuts), while EPA and DHA come from animal sources (fish oil). There is a growing body of research that shows that these fatty acids may help treat and prevent the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, asthma, kidney disease, allergic skin disease/psoriasis/eczema, ulcerative colitis, and possibly some forms of cancer. They may also be important for brain/eye/nervous system health and development, as well as normal growth. Given the number of studies now showing the benefits of these nutrients, our pets should be given these supplements, as well. As we all know, it’s hard to provide our birds and exotic pets with the same balanced diet that their wild counterparts consume. There are so many omega-fatty acid supplements available, and not all of them have been tested on birds and exotic pets. One product – Omega-3 Booster™ – provides these essential omega-3 fatty acids in a small volume that’s palatable for all species (birds, mammals, even reptiles) and has been found to be safe in birds and exotic pet species. The Veterinary Center has been prescribing this product for many animals (birds, ferrets, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles) and has seen some terrific results. We are now recommending this great supplement for nearly all our patients. So, given all the health benefits omega-3 fatty acids can provide, why aren’t you giving them to your bird or exotic pet? Call the Veterinary Center to find out more and to get some for your beloved pet.