PetHealth™ Cardiovascular Formula for Dogs

Key Ingredients

Coenzyme Q10†

Coenzyme Q10 belongs to a family of substances called ubiquinones, and is a water-insoluble, wax-like substance that is part of the respiratory chain. Since it is a coenzyme, it supports the action of an enzyme, and it has a similar structure to vitamin K. CoQ10 is found in each of the 50-75 trillion cells throughout the body, except for mature red blood cells. It has a multitude of health benefits at the cellular level, in the cardiovascular system, and with the body’s metabolism. It serves to support the body’s cells and immune system and promotes stamina and endurance by fueling the body’s energy production (ATP) cycle. It is beneficial to the cardiovascular system because it helps to maintain a healthy heart, maintain normal blood pressure, and promote normal mental alertness and brain activity.

The mechanism of action of supplemental coenzyme Q10 has yet to be clarified, and is a matter of much speculation. However, much is known about the biochemistry of CoQ10. Coenzyme Q10 is a two-part compound that is composed of a long, fat-soluble isoprenoid tail that anchors the molecule in the inner membrane of the mitochondria, and quinine that is capable of accepting and transferring electrons through a portion of the respiratory chain. The “Q” stands for quinine and the “10” stands for the number of isoprenoid units in the tail portion of the molecule. It is synthesized in the cells, and supports normal electron transport and energy production in mitochondria. In the cellular system, it promotes the normal generation of energy from oxygen, in the form of ATP, for bodily processes. It serves as a free radical scavenger and an antioxidant. The antioxidant activity in the mitochondria and cell membranes promotes the stability and health of lipid membranes.

Coenzyme Q10 can be found in spinach, broccoli, nuts, soy, organ and muscle meats, and fish. In 1977, a Japanese company succeeded in synthesizing coenzyme Q10, which made the nutrient available to the world. CoQ10 is absorbed in the small intestine and a steady-state concentration can be attained in the body in five to six weeks. In the body, it is found in the highest concentration in the cells of the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas. The liver produces small amounts of CoQ10, and then it is distributed to the rest of the body.

L-Carnitine

The principal function of carnitine is to facilitate the transport of long-chain fatty acids to mitochondria for energy production. In addition, carnitine promotes the normal metabolism of BCAAs, ammonia detoxification and lactic acid clearance from tissue. Carnitine supports the normal removal of plasma toxins from the body and helps promote normal ATP production. In addition, it helps promote normal muscular function.

L-Arginine†

Arginine is an amino acid valued by athletes because it promotes normal protein synthesis. Arginine supports a number of other roles in the body such as the detoxification of ammonia formed during the catabolism of amino acids via the formation of urea. Creatine has been shown to increase muscular strength and muscle fiber size. It promotes cardiovascular health by promoting normal blood flow, promoting healthy blood platelet activity and supporting the energy transfer necessary to maintain the normal activities of the heart muscle.

† Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO (Dog or Cat) Food Nutrient Profiles.

Scientific Studies

• Dove, R. Nutritional Therapy in the Treatment of Heart Disease in Dogs. Alternative Medicine Review. 6: S38-S45, 2001.
• Freeman, L., et al. Effects of Dietary Modification in Dogs with Early Chronic Valvular Disease. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 20: 1116-1126, 2006.
• Gompf, R. Nutritional and Herbal Therapies in the Treatment of Heart Disease in Cats and Dogs. Journal of the American Hospital Association. 41: 355- 67, 2005.
• Inarashi, T., et al. Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Experimental Hypertension in Rats and Dogs. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 189(1): 149-156, 1974.
• Kobayashi, A., et al. Effects of L-Carnitine on Ventricular Arrhythmias after Coronary Reperfusion. Japanese Circulation Journal (Kyoto). 47(5): 536-542, 1983.
• Lerman, A. and Lockwood, B. Nutraceuticals in Veterinary Medicine. The Pharmaceutical Journal. 278: 51-55, 2007.
• Monograph. Coenzyme Q10. Alternative Medicine Review. 12(2): 159-168, 2007.
• Takekoshi, N., et al. Effects of Some Radical Scavengers on Reperfusion-Induced Arrhythmias in the Canine Heart. Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy. 5(7): 289-295, 2004.
• Vasdev, S. and Gill, V. Antioxidants in the Treatment of Hypertension. International Journal of Angiology. 14: 60-73, 2005.
• Yao, S., et al. Endogenous and Exogenous Nitric Oxide Protect Against Intracoronary Thrombosis and Reocclusion After Thrombolysis. Circulation. 92: 1005-1010, 1995.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my pet need dietary supplements?

All animals have different nutritional requirements and factors such as age, activity level, environment, genetics and breed will greatly affect the absorption of nutrients from foods. It is therefore important to provide your pet with an adequate supply of nutrients, which will assist the body to successfully work, grow and develop properly.

Do I need to feed PetHealth™ Dog Cardiovascular Formula with a specific diet?

PetHealth Dog Cardiovascular Formula has been scientifically formulated to complement all diets. However, if your vet has recommended a strictly specialized diet and medication is involved you should consult your veterinarian.

What is the recommended feeding program?

It is recommended that PetHealth™ Dog Cardiovascular Formula is fed once, every day.

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