Health and Wellness is something so many people are striving for, and I am certainly seeing this extend to our furry family members. When supporting the health and well-being of our beloved dogs and cats, nature often provides some of the best solutions. One such remarkable discovery native to the pristine waters of New Zealand is the Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus). This humble shellfish is rapidly gaining recognition as a natural powerhouse in pet nutrition, offering a wealth of health benefits to help our cats and dogs thrive.
Perhaps the most fundamental element in the Green-Lipped Mussel’s ability to convey health benefits is its uniquely high concentration of specific omega-3 fatty acids.
These essential fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are crucial for reducing inflammation throughout the body, and we know uncontrolled inflammation is a key driving force in many chronic diseases in our pets.
Osteoarthritis is a painful, progressive condition that affects most of our feline and canine companions as they age and can greatly impact their quality of life.
It is thought that close to 80% of dogs over 8 years old and up to 92% of cats older than 12 years might be affected. Treatment is often multimodal but adding omega-3s into their diet through Green-Lipped Mussels can make a noticeable difference. The Green-Lipped Mussel's efficacy lies in its ability to reduce inflammation, nourish cartilage, and improve joint lubrication. Studies show that omega-3s help reduce the production of inflammatory compounds like prostaglandins, provide relief from pain and stiffness. The shellfish are also rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are important for maintaining the structural integrity of joints. GAGs like chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine work to preserve cartilage, promote flexibility, and slow the progression of joint deterioration – all good things for our furry friends.
Regular supplementation with Green-Lipped Mussels has been shown to increase joint mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall physical activity in pets.
Furthermore, supplementation of Green-Lipped Mussels may also reduce the amount of pain medications required to treat osteoarthritis and therefore reduce the risk of potentially negative side effects.
In addition to their joint benefits, Green-Lipped Mussels are also a boon for your pet's skin and coat.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in these mussels support healthy skin cell membranes and help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier. This can reduce the occurrence of common skin conditions like dryness, itchiness, and allergic reactions, which can plague pets and indefinitely frustrate their owners. Moreover, omega-3s contribute to a shiny, lustrous coat, making sure pets not only feel great, but are putting their best paw forward as well!
Beyond their anti-inflammatory and joint-supporting properties, Green-Lipped Mussels are an abundant source of essential vitamins and minerals.
They are packed with protein, which is critical for muscle development and tissue repair. They also contain important trace minerals such as zinc, iron, and selenium, which play crucial roles in immune function, skin and brain health, and overall cellular wellbeing.
Whether your pet is showing signs of aging, dealing with joint or skin issues, or simply needs a boost in vitality, by incorporating Green-Lipped Mussels into your pet's diet is not only a step towards enhanced health but also a nod to the incredible nutrition that nature provides.
So, if you don’t have access to New Zealand’s pristine waters, how can you add these diet dynamos to your pet’s dinner bowl?
Well, The Team at K9 Natural and Feline Natural have you covered. K9 Natural and Feline Natural Feasts contain sustainably sourced Green-Lipped Mussels as one of their key ingredients, so it is as easy as pouring the food into the bowl!
K9 Natural and Feline Natural Feasts are offered in a range of textures and formats, suitable for both feeding or topping to keep pets happy, healthy, and full of energy. Particularly, K9 Natural Feasts are available in both Freeze-Dried and Cans, whilst Feline Natural Feasts are available in Freeze-Dried, Cans, and Pouches.
In addition, K9 Natural has a freeze-dried Green-Lipped Mussel Healthy Treat which is utterly delectable to dogs (and cats for that matter!). These are my dog Albus’ absolute favorite and the only thing that will get him out of the dog park. The only downside… ALL the dogs will want to come home with you!