People and pets alike need Omega-3s to stay healthy. Omega-3 are a family of essential fatty acids that support heart health, skin health, eyesight, and mental and cognitive health.

Dogs and cats cannot produce most omega-3s on their own. Most sources of Omega-3s come from seafood, so it may be hard for your pet to get enough just from their food. That’s why most veterinarians recommend adding an Omega-3 supplement to your pet’s diet.

Where do most Omega-3 supplements come from?

The most common source of omega-3 EPA and DHA is fish oil, but we are happy to introduce you to a more sustainable option, marine microalgae.

Algae is incredibly sustainable, grows fast, and requires little maintenance (sunlight, moving saltwater, and some nutrients). Using algae instead of fish allows us to alleviate pressure on marine life – think 16 million metric tonnes of wild fish – and to help preserve biodiversity in the ocean. 1kg of our Natural Marine Algal Oil, replaces 60kg of wild catch fish.

While the demand for omega 3s is growing, the supply of fish oil is in decline. Since the mid-1980s, fish oil supply has decreased by almost 50%. Current supply is at maximum levels and gradually reducing. Overfishing and the negative effect of global warming on fish stocks could lead to a further downward spiral in the supply of Omega-3 from fish oil.

Additionally, for pets that have a fish allergy, using microalgae as a source of omega 3s is a big win since contains no animal products, gluten, dairy, soy, GMO, or sugar.

Omega-3 Benefits

EPA & DHA play an important role in the health of each and every cell in you and your pet’s body.

• They help the immune system regulate and resolve cellular inflammation. Making it important for joint, skin, and coat health.
• They are also essential for your pet’s nervous system. DHA is necessary for brain health, eye development, and cognitive abilities in dogs and cats.
• Omega-3s contribute to good heart health.
• And Omega-3s contribute to kidney health.

EPA & DHA provide health benefits in every stage of life. Contributing to the overall health of dogs and cats. DHA is a critical building block. DHA keeps cell membranes flexible and permeable.

EPA in particular acts as input material in the production of cell mediators. These are key components in your pet’s immune system. Working together or separately EPA & DHA provide distinct health benefits.

Algae as a source of Omega-3s

Algae comes from an unlimited source. It is not taken from the ocean. It is cultivated and harvested on land, which doesn’t create any waste making it incredibly sustainable! Meaning supply can easily meet growing demands.

Algae’s health benefits were discovered trying to solve the challenge of growing food in space during the 1980’s. Trying to find nutritious alternatives in circumstances where sustainability is a matter of survival.

Researching and studying 6500 different microalgae lead to the discovery of an algae in the North Pacific called Schizochytrium.

This specific algae contains both DHA & EPA in higher concentrations than any other algae. It can be cultivated in a water tank and the only ingredient it needs to grow is sugar. This makes a stable quality oil that is free from any ocean-borne contaminants.  You can provide all the EPA & DHA Omega-3 your pet needs.

Flaxseed Oil for Omega-3

Flaxseed oil contains high levels of ALA, an Omega-3 fatty acid. The most important benefit ALA has for your pet is supporting their skin health. But includes:

• Improving kidney function
• Lowering blood pressure
• Easing symptoms of inflammation

Not all flaxseed is safe for dogs. Feeding the whole plant, raw or unprocessed flaxseed, or unprocessed flax meal can cause toxicity in pets.

Taking Vitamin E with Omega-3

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from harmful free radicals. vitamin E and Omega-3 work together and:

• They both help reduce inflammation in your pet’s body.
• Taking vitamin E and Omega-3 together can aid in brain health.
• These two nutrients work together to improve skin health.

Shopping for a Supplement

It is important to shop for non-GMO, NASC certified, and natural supplements. Ensure the label clearly states the amount of EPA & DHA that it contains. Make sure your supplement does not contain any additives, fillers, or preservatives. Watch for artificial colors and only purchase a product that has passed the highest quality standards.

Upgrade Your Pet’s Health the Natural Way

Unlock your pet's health potential with expert advice from Dr Michelle Dulake! Start making informed decisions today with her cutting-edge insights, backed by years of experience and research. Don't miss out – secure a brighter, healthier future for your furry friend!

At Fera Pet Organics, we’re committed to using only the most natural high-quality ingredients to keep your furry family members healthy and happy for as long as possible.

We’d love to hear from you! What do you want to learn about next? Do you have any comments or questions? Reach us at hello@ferapets.com!