Vitamin C In Dogs: What Does Science Say About It?
Unlike humans, dogs can produce vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in their bodies. Because of this ability, nutritionists have deemed the intake of vitamin C in dogs unnecessary.
Until recently, dog food manufacturers rarely added vitamin C to their products. In some cases, the vitamin has been added for its preservative properties rather than its nutritional value.
Effects and benefits of this vitamin
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in the body. Oxidation is the chemical reaction of oxygen when it combines with another substance.
During the body’s metabolism, the calories your pet ingests are processed through the oxidation process. So when the body “burns calories” it produces both the heat and energy that the body needs to function properly.
However , too much or too little oxygen in the system can create toxic by-products called free radicals. These radicals can damage the cell structure as well as alter the immune response and DNA codes.
This is where vitamin C is important, which scavenges the oxygen and eliminates the free radicals. In this way, it protects the cells from destruction or change through oxidation.
Therefore , vitamin C is a regenerative substance that inhibits the destruction of tissue and collagen. It does this by interacting with the other vitamins and minerals that protect the body and its systems.
Medicinal uses of vitamin C in dogs
More than five decades ago, two studies demonstrated the therapeutic benefits of vitamin C in dogs affected by the distemper virus.
Belfield (1967) described the benefits of intravenous vitamin C for three day treatments. He carried out his studies in a series of experiments with 10 dogs.
Leveque (1969) demonstrated that treatment with vitamin C plays a key role in recovery from diseases of the central nervous system. He carried out these studies on a total of 16 dogs.
Several studies have been conducted on dogs with burns. One of them found that taking vitamin C reduced oxidative stress. In addition, it reduced microvascular loss of proteins and fluids (Matsuda, 1993).
Recently, vitamin C has been shown to be effective in treating heart problems in dogs. In addition, this vitamin contributes to the fight against oxidative stress and to the improvement of palpitations (Carnes and Kol., 2001, Shiroshita-Takeshita, 2004).
Because of its role in keeping collagens healthy, this vitamin is useful in delaying degenerative diseases. These include degenerative joint diseases, hip dysplasia, and spinal diseases (Hastings, 2004).
Of particular interest is the report on the effects of vitamin C in dogs affected by cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). This condition is common in older dogs; it is compared to dementia like Alzheimer’s disease in humans.
In these dogs, the vitamin C has been shown to help alleviate associated symptoms and slow down degeneration.
Side Effects of Using Vitamin C in Dogs
In most cases, the use of ascorbic acid for animals is problem-free. However, it is known that excessive use of the vitamin can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
In addition, at high doses, bowel irritation and diarrhea can occur and, very rarely, anemia can develop.
In addition, vitamin C can interact with other prescription drugs such as cyclosporine, tetracycline, beta blockers, loop diuretics, aspirin, and acetaminophen.
When treating dogs with vitamin C, breed is important
Unfortunately, many pet owners don’t know if their pet is at risk of developing kidney stones. In any case, vitamin C should be avoided if a pet has ancestors who formed oxalate stones.
Supplementation should be avoided in high-risk breeds such as Schnauzers, Lhasa Apso, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Poodles, Shih Tzu, and Bichon Frize.
Do not exaggerate
It is important that you consult your veterinarian and let them know about anything you are giving your pet. Remember to always ask him before giving your dog any new nutritional supplements.
In the case of vitamin C, the duration of administration depends on the disease being treated. Always consider the animal’s reaction and information on possible side effects.
In conclusion, while vitamin C makes a great therapeutic addition to veterinary treatment, it may not be suitable for all pets.
Please note that while ascorbic acid is available over the counter, it is extremely important to follow your veterinarian’s dosage instructions.
