Nutrition
Diet is the foundation of health.  The body has amazing capabilities to heal itself given the right building blocks, which come from food.  Consumers know there are many different dog foods available, but which to choose?  Here are some ideas. 

The best foods are fresh so a balanced homemade diet is ideal, either cooked or raw.  Great information is available online or in books about the right and wrong way to prepare your dog’s food.  Visit our NEW Natural Paws Health Store located in our main clinic for a list of resources.

Frozen foods are excellent as well, CRCG now carries Nature’s Variety frozen raw foods, balanced for dogs and cats.  If homemade or raw just isn’t your thing, canned food would be the next best option, especially brands with a high protein content.  Dry foods from the best companies also provide the right foundation for your dog.  You can also try adding some meat or eggs on top for extra protein. 

Questions? Call us at 303-762-SWIM (7946), contact us, or post a question to our "Ask Dr. Angie" section.

Supplements
Supplements can be added to premium foods to provide the building blocks your dog may need.  Glucosamine is well known for helping with joint pain.  Omega 3 fatty acids can enhance your dog’s coat, but also decrease inflammation and take away free radicals.  Antioxidants protect cells against damage and are recommended in any case of inflammation, i.e. allergies or arthritis.   

Our NEW Natural Paws Health Store carries Standard Process - a complete line of supplements that contain herbs, foods and other building blocks for health.  Their Musculoskeletal Support will enhance your dog’s natural ability to decrease inflammation and pain from a joint problem.  Standard Process’s Ligaplex is an excellent choice for dogs after knee or hip surgery.

Questions? Call us at 303-762-SWIM (7946), contact us, or post a question to our "Ask a Holistic Question" section.