The increase in canine and feline cancer is alarming. Many veterinarians believe that environmental toxins are to blame for not only an increase in cancer, but in skin problems, respiratory disorders and other immune related diseases.

A dog or cat's immune system is like an invisible shield that protects it from invading bacteria and viruses. But the strength of its immune system depends on eating right, getting enough sleep and exercise, and avoiding environmental toxins and stress. 

It's almost impossible for humans and animals to avoid environmental toxins because of plastics, automobile emissions, and the overuse of insecticides and pesticides, just to name a few.

As dogs and cats struggle to detoxify environment pollutants, their requirements for vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients increase. Daily nutritional supplementation is their best bet for making sure their nutritional needs are met, as well as supporting their immune health.

If you suspect your pet has a weakened immune system, has frequent bouts of viral infections, skin problems, or respiratory disorders or is battling cancer, read on to see whether your dog or cat could benefit from an immune support supplement.

How Does the Immune System Work?

The immune system is composed of white blood cells, antibodies (proteins in the blood), and the thymus, spleen and liver, all of which help supervise and control the immune system.  It even has its own network of vessels, the lymphatic system, which drains waste products from tissues, and transports lymph to lymph nodes where macrophages filter out debris.

When a foreign invader enters the body, the immune system counterattacks in two ways: 1) White blood cells, manufactured in the bone marrow and thymus, directly attack the invader.  2) Antibodies either damage the invaders directly or alert white cells to mount an attack.

The daily stresses that your pet encounters, along with the stress of aging, can suppress its immune system's function. The good news is there are a number of effective botanicals and other nutrients that have been shown to rev up the immune system, in order to help your pet overcome an illness and prevent the development of a chronic disease.

The Root Cause of Disease

If your pet has been diagnosed with any of the following health complaints, illnesses or diseases, an immune support supplement can help provide symptomatic relief, as well as overall immune system enhancement. And remember, if your pet is sick there's almost always an underlying cause and many times it due to a weakened immune system.

  • allergies
  • asthma
  • cancer
  • chronic infections
  • conjunctivitis
  • dental problems, including gingivitis
  • herpes FeLV
  • immune suppression
  • skin-demodicosis
  • respiratory ailments
  • stomatitis
  • urogenital problems

See Immune Support Supplements for Pets.