Collection: Prednisone for Dogs, Is There a Natural Alternative?

Natural Alternatives to Prednisone

Depending on the condition, there may be alternatives to using prednisone for dogs. Generally speaking the conditions associated with use of prednisone have to do with an increase in an inflammatory response. Below are some basic steps you can try to improve your dog's health and reduce the need for prednisone perhaps altogether. Make sure to consult with your vet before taking your dog off prednisone.

Overview

Raw and grain free diet
Target a diet that eliminates ingredients that lead to food allergies. Dogs just aren't equipped to digest grains, and raw food is simply superior over a processed diet. Feeding a raw, grain-free dog food will help streamline your dog's health by avoiding food irritants.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, such as found in Celavin™, may be a great natural alternative to anti-inflammatory medications like prednisone. These supplements have been shown to help calm inflammation in the body by naturally reducing the chemicals that cause it. This means they may help manage inflammation-related discomfort and conditions without the side effects often seen with synthetic drugs.

Increase Antioxidants and Amino Acids
Dermix™ is a unique natural supplement containing antioxidant compounds, such as, beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, vitamins C and E, selenium, and sulfur-containing amino acids. These compounds are essential and are needed to protect the body from the tremendous increase in free radicals that takes place during an inflammatory process.

Provide Probiotics & Enzymes
Probiotics are known to combat gastrointestinal disorders which is a side effect of prednisone. Using large doses of Probiotic Miracle® may be in order during and after prednisone therapy to balance GI disruption. Digestive enzymes can help reduce the inflammatory response induced from digestion, as well as prevent metabolic enzymes from being robbed from critical body functions.

What is Prednisone for Dogs?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that is used often as an immunosuppressant drug in the treatment of a number of dog illnesses. This makes prednisone an effective treatment option for autoimmune diseases, which are caused by an overactive immune system attacking different organs in the body.

Prednisone Uses:

1. Excessive itching
2. Hives
3. Inflammatory bowel disease
4. Allergies
5. Asthma
6. Autoimmune disease
7. Spinal cord injuries
8. Kidney disease
9. Rheumatoid arthritis
10. Crohn's disease
11. Addison's disease
12. Ulcers
13. Tumors

In spite of the many uses of prednisone for dogs to treat various canine illnesses, excessive use of prednisone for dogs can cause side effects, ranging from mild to severe.

Prednisone for Dogs Side Effects

Like all drugs, the benefits of prednisone are generally accompanied by side effects and should not be considered as a long term solution to your dog's problem or symptom. It is important to know the facts about prednisone if you are giving it currently, or thinking about giving prednisone to your dog.

With dog food it can be hard to distill down to the actual allergen as it may only be a particular ingredient, so you may want to look for options in dog foods that are designed for low allergy potential. Here are some other steps to take nutritionally that will be sure to help.

List of Side Effects

1. Excessive Thirst and Hunger
2. Gastrointestinal Disorders:
   Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach ulcers, and general gastrointestinal discomfort
3. Joint Inflammation
4. Eye Diseases: poor eyesight, glaucoma, and cataracts
5. Muscle Wasting and Fatigue
6. Behavioral Changes
7. Skin and Hair Coat Problems
8. Diabetes
9. Canine Cushing's Disease

Dealing with Prednisone Side Effects

1. Reduce Duration:
   Short-term use of prednisone is preferred if possible.
2. Use Natural Supplements:
   Key supplements, such as, probiotics and pure fish oil, may be used to ameliorate or improve some of the lesser side effects of prednisone, like, gastrointestinal disorders or inflammation.
3. Support Skin & Coat Side Effects: 
   Use fish oil and skin and coat formulas that provide an array of vitamins, minerals, and key amino acids.

In navigating the challenges of managing your dog's health, particularly when dealing with the side effects of medications, it's reassuring to know there are natural alternatives to prednisone and supplements that can potentially provide relief and support. From adjusting diets to incorporating essential fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, and enzymes, there are several steps you can take to enhance your dog's well-being.

Remember, consulting with your vet before making any changes is crucial. Embracing these holistic approaches can not only help manage symptoms but also contribute to a healthier, happier life for your dog. Explore these options and consider integrating them into your pet's care routine to potentially reduce dependency on medications and nurture their health naturally.

Visit Nusentia® for natural, reliable pet health supplements with proven formulas to improve your furry friend's overall health. A trusted brand by veterinarians and pet parents since 2008.