Pets and livestock are an important part of many people’s lives, and they want to do everything they can to keep their friends happy and healthy. A balanced diet is crucial for any animal, but sometimes it can be difficult to give them all the nutrients they need. This is where natural supplements for animals come in. Providing a dose of natural supplements every day can make sure that the animals are getting all the vitamins and minerals their body requires. But how do you decide which natural supplement is useful? This guide will clear all your doubts.

Factors to consider while picking natural supplements

When it comes to supplements for animals, there are a few important factors to consider.

• First of all, you should choose a supplement that is tailored to the specific needs of your animal. For example, if you have a dog, you will want to choose a supplement that includes ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support cognitive health. Likewise, if you have a cat, a supplement that includes taurine, an amino acid that is essential for feline health, can be helpful.
• Secondly, it would be wise if you look at the ingredients of the supplement first before buying it. Supplements with natural and herbal ingredients are the best as they ensure that they are safe for your animal and free of harmful chemicals.
• It is also important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your animal any type of supplement. They will be able to advise you on the best option for your particular animal.

Best natural supplements for animals

Here are some of the ingredients that you should look for in natural supplements that are suitable for animals:

1. Sage and thyme

Sage and thyme are two herbs that have been used for centuries in natural healing remedies. Both of them contain compounds that can improve the health of animals, making them an excellent addition to natural supplements. Sage is known for its ability to improve circulation and relieve pain, while thyme is an effective antibacterial agent. In addition, both herbs have antioxidant properties that can protect the body against free radicals and stress. As a result, sage and thyme can offer a wide range of health benefits to animals when used in natural supplements.

2. Rosemary

Rosemary’s strong, aromatic flavor can disguise the taste of other ingredients, making it suitable for finicky eaters. This is useful if your pet refuses to eat some of the supplements you already have. You can replace them with a natural supplement that contains rosemary. You will notice how your pet starts loving the supplement within a few days. Rosemary is a good source of iron, which is crucial for the production of red blood cells. It also contains antioxidants that bolster the immune system. Moreover, rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in the management of conditions such as arthritis. Arthritis is a common problem in dogs and giving them a supplement that contains rosemary can help them recover over time.

3. Dandelion root

Dandelion root is frequently used in natural supplements for animals, as it offers a wide range of health benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, dandelion root is used to support liver function and clear heat from the body. It is also a diuretic, which flushes toxins and reduces inflammation. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, and vitamin C. This makes it an excellent tonic for overall health and vitality. Providing a natural supplement that contains dandelion root can improve digestion, detoxify the liver, and support the overall health and well-being of animals.

4. Valerian root

Valerian root is not just used in supplements for animals; you will also find it in supplements for humans. It helps the animals to relax and boosts their nervous system. Research suggests that this root may reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Valerian root is often used in combination with other herbs, such as chamomile or lemon balm to synergistically enhance its calming effects.

Types of nutrients that natural supplements should contain

1. B vitamins

B vitamins are essential for animals because they help the body to convert food into energy, and they are also essential for cell growth and reproduction. They are water-soluble, meaning that they are not stored in the body and need to be replenished regularly. Because of this, it’s important to look for natural supplements containing a high percentage of B vitamins. Natural sources of B vitamins include liver, yeast, eggs, milk, and meat. However, some animals may not get enough B vitamins from their diet alone, so supplementing with a multivitamin is a good way to ensure that they are getting all the nutrients they need. They are even used in natural livestock nutritional supplements.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and they also play a role in inflammation. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, and they are produced naturally as a result of normal metabolism. However, they can also be generated by exposure to environmental toxins. Choosing a supplement that is high on antioxidants will mean that your pet or livestock will not only be able to fight against free radicals but also experience fewer inflammations due to injuries.

3. Calcium

Calcium is essential for the development of bones and teeth of animals. Additionally, it improves their muscle and nerve function and prevents blood clotting. Calcium also regulates blood pressure and heartbeat. Without adequate calcium, these and other vital functions would be impaired. Calcium works best with phosphorus, so you should choose a natural supplement that contains both these nutrients.

A healthy diet is essential for long and happy life. Animals, just like humans, need the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to thrive. By providing your pet with natural supplements, you can ensure that they stay healthy and active for years to come. Moreover, this can be a way to boost their immune system. Not only will they benefit from the added nutrients, but you can be sure that you aren’t harming them with unwanted chemicals and fillers.

Isn’t it amazing when you see animals perform different stunts at the circus? The ringmaster uses his whip to direct the animals and they entertain you for more than an hour. Do you know what goes on behind the scenes in a circus? The trainers force the animals to learn the tricks and stunts. They use cruel methods to make the animals follow their instructions. Imagine beating your one-year-old child because he can’t say all the alphabets. Would you do it? You probably won’t. A similar thing happens with animals and that’s why animal welfare is so crucial.

Understanding animal welfare

Animal welfare is more about keeping animals safe and healthy. It deals with animals living in captivity or is being forced to do things that they are not meant to do. The basic philosophy behind animal welfare is it tries to mitigate the suffering that animals go through when humans control them. Animals, like humans, also need a minimum standard of living. If you see guinea pigs or the rabbits on which companies experiment their products, you will feel pity for them.

These companies keep the animals in small cages where they can’t move properly, eat, or drop their faeces. The welfare standards apply to laboratories, horse ranches, entertainment facilities, pet stores, and farms. Of course, the living standards are not the same everywhere. As a result, different welfare standards are set for different places. But the basic requirement is the same – keep animals safe and healthy and don’t torture them for your benefit.

Animal welfare vs. animal rights

Some people think that animal welfare and animal rights are the same because they both deal with the well-being of animals. Although they do have the same goal, they are not the same. Animal rights support the fact that all animals deserve to live freely and not under human control. Vegans believe in this philosophy. That is why they don’t eat or drink anything that comes from animals. For example, milk, cheese, or any dairy products. They also don’t wear leather items apart from products made of vegan leather.

On the other hand, animal welfare advocates the human use of animals. This means you can use animals for your needs but you can’t force them or use any substance that would make them lead an unnatural life. For example, some farms in remote places use certain medicines that make chickens fluffier and heavier. This is against animal welfare. You can use the eggs and everything, but you can’t make the chickens grow artificially.

Does that mean you can’t support both sides? Some people are sceptical because it means leading dual lives. If you already want animals to live freely, why would you support animal welfare where you essentially use animals for your benefit? It’s a tricky debate that has many perspectives.

Freedoms involved in animal welfare

According to the Farm Animal Welfare Council of the UK, animal welfare has five freedoms. They represent the minimum standards that animals living in captivity should have. For example, if you have a poultry farm where there are chickens, goats, and cows, you must provide a minimum standard of living to allow them to survive comfortably. Here are the five freedoms included in animal welfare:

• Freedom from any type of discomfort in the shelter where the animals live
• Freedom from hunger and thirst
• Freedom from fear and distress
• Freedom from pain, injury, or disease
• Freedom to behave naturally

Animal cruelty issues

People often ignore the horrendous acts of companies on animals to sell their products. Do you know that brands first test beauty creams and other beauty products on animals before selling them to their final customers? Suppose the product is not suitable. The animal on which it was tested may die! Who will take responsibility for the death of that animal? You? Or the brand that is selling the product. You may not have a clear answer because both the consumer and the brand are both involved.

The following animal cruelty may make your stomach churn and pay more attention to animal welfare:

1. Animal testing

Do you know that more than 25 million animals are used every year for experiments and operations? This includes guinea pigs, mice, rabbits, and various other animals. Some experiments involve restraining the animals while in others, researchers or scientists drop substances into the eyes of the animals to endure painful operations.

2. Restricting natural behaviour

Caging animals will make them behave differently compared to how they usually behave when in their natural habitat. Moreover, animals get bored living in the same cage year after year. Creating a fake habitat is not the solution. Some circus organizers try to make the environment look more natural by surrounding a small space with artificial rocks, food stuffed in barrels, and a fake waterfall. In reality, these don’t stimulate animals. They are clever enough to differentiate between what’s their original environment and what’s fake.

Similarly, you will notice chickens in farms using their beaks to chew on the cages. This is a cry for help. They are clearly uncomfortable and want to get out.

3. Blood sport

Blood sport, such as dog fighting or bull fighting, is painful for the participating animals. Imagine training and manipulating a set of animals to go out there and kill their opponent. And for what? For people to clap and enjoy and bet on the winner. Can you even imagine putting yourself in that position and defending yourself against another person? Just because you can speak doesn’t mean you have the right to manipulate animals according to your wish.

These games involve raising animals in confined spaces and unlawful breeding. It’s pathetic and unforgiving. Those who have an iota of conscience wouldn’t be a part of these activities.
Apart from these animal cruelty issues, you may also come across puppy mills, whaling, poaching, and sport hunting. They are equally dangerous and harmful for animals. That is why people should follow animal welfare rules where they allow animals to enjoy the freedom they deserve so that they can lead a better life while also helping humans for their benefit.