title: Canine plasma and erythrocyte response to a docosahexaenoic acid-enriched supplement: characterization and potential benefits.
abstract: Results of this study confirm that dietary supplementation in dogs with a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids (salmon oil), with a docosahexaenoic acid:eicosapentaenoic acid (DHA:EPA) ratio of 1.5:1, increases plasma and red blood cell levels of these fatty acids. Supplementation with this DHA-enriched oil improves the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid omega-6:omega-3 (n-6:n-3) ratio, which may benefit dogs of all ages. Studies describing some of the neurologic, renal, cardiovascular, immune, and musculoskeletal effects of elevated blood levels of n-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, are reviewed. The importance of providing an enriched source of DHA, instead of its shorter precursors, is emphasized.
authors.affiliation: Research and Development Laboratory, Nutramax Laboratories Inc, 2208 Lakeside Blvd, Edgewood, MD 21040, USA.
authors.forename: Charles R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Filburn
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Griffin
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004285:Dogs / Q000097:blood*; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids