Dietary Supplements for Pets

There is a very good article at msnbc.com about dietary supplements for pets. It points out several important facts that often don't get enough play in the media.

• In humans, 'dietary supplements' don't have to be proven effective, they just have to be safe.
• There is very little scrutiny of dietary supplements.
• Dietary supplements for pets get even less scrutiny.
• An alarming percentage of the tested products either don't contain what they say they contain, or they contain other, harmful ingredients.
• Although there is much anecdotal evidence for the effectiveness of dietary supplements, there is minimal actual scientific data to back that up.

So, whether you are a 'true believer' and swear by your supplements, or whether you are a skeptic, know that there is minimal oversight of dietary supplements for pets. Buyer beware!

Sometimes people are afraid to tell their vet about all of the things they give their pet, because they are afraid the vet will get mad at them or laugh at them. Be aware that there are some well known adverse reactions that can occur between supplements and other treatements, or between different types of supplements. Always tell your vet what supplements you are giving your pet, and preferably, ask your vet before giving them!