Using krill oil for dogs can be of great worth as an addition or supplement to dog foods. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid (“Any of a class of yellow to red pigments, including the carotenes and the xanthophylls”) supplement which is even more beneficial for dogs than vitamin A. Astaxanthin is made from plants, but because it is red in color it is often mistaken for beta-carotene and lutein. Astaxanthin is formed by microalgae which are then eaten by krill. Krill are then harvested for their oil which are added to various food products for dogs and humans. The benefits of krill oil for dogs include the potent antioxidant nature of the astaxanthin. Antioxidants remove toxins and free radicals from the body which helps to prevent various types of cancer.
Astaxanthin is reported to be the most powerful antioxidant in existence as it is able to move through the body faster than any other. In addition, krill oil for dogs can increase immune defense, improve eye health, optimize skin health, improve the condition of the dog’s coat and stave away arthritis which improves their flexibility. Particularly active dogs are constantly playing and being exposed to different germs. This means they are just as vulnerable to germs and bacteria as their humans.
Prevention now is better than medicine later. Putting appropriate krill oil for dogs into their food can stave off a lot of problems that might plague the dog in its lifetime – including eye, skin and joint health. The mitochondrial functions in dogs (mitochondria are present in both plant & animal cells – and the most important function of the mitochondria is to produce energy) are improved with astaxanthin reducing nitric oxide. In older dogs it improves chemical functions in the cells, tissues and organs.
There are some noted side effects with providing krill oil for dogs. Lowered calcium levels appear to be the biggest worry, but calcium supplements can be provided to off set this. Increased absorption of astaxanthin can lead to decreased absorption of other carotenoids (antioxidants). With higher doses, the skin can take on a reddish pigmentation. These risks are considered to be almost negligible as long as the dog has a balanced diet otherwise and are much improved over the side effects of synthetic dog supplements.