Supplements during gestation
Is it a good idea to supplement a pregnant bitch?
It is a frequent question, likely because there are loads of prenatal vitamins and supplements for humans. To properly answer this question, it is important to keep in mind that nutrition is all about balance, too much or not enough of one nutrient is not a good thing. After 42 days of gestation we will indeed need to increase the bitch's daily intake of calories, protein and minerals to ensure she can properly fuel the puppies growth process. However, instead of supplementing, the first mandatory requirement is to follow the strict nutrition plan.
Is folic acid supplementation recommended during gestation?
In humans, folic acid supplementation is used to prevent cleft palates. There's an entire body of literature describing the benefits this nutrient can bring, and in dogs there are several studies that have shown that folic acid supplementation does help as well in this regard.
Is it worth supplementing the bitch in EPA-DHA as well during gestation?
There is a whole body of literature documenting the benefits of supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acids EPADHA during gestation, lactation and growth in humans.
EPA and DHA have been shown to support brain development as well as cognitive function and the same has been demonstrated in several of the mammalian species, such as dogs.
You may also be interested in watching the following videos:
The importance of nutrition in newborns
Milk replacers for veterinarians
The duration of the growth period
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