Updated June 2026 · Ireland Health Shop · The Honey Pot, 14 Abbey Street, Clonmel
Irish pet owners' interest in natural health extends naturally to their animals. The motivations are similar to those driving human supplement use: a desire to support overall wellbeing proactively, to address specific health concerns with gentler approaches before or alongside pharmaceutical intervention, and a preference for natural, food-based ingredients.
The good news is that many of the supplements that benefit human health have genuine evidence for pets too. Dogs and cats have similar (though not identical) nutritional requirements and physiological systems to humans — the same omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and joint health in people do the same in dogs. The same probiotic species used for human gut health colonise canine and feline digestive systems beneficially.
Omega-3 fatty acids — specifically EPA and DHA from marine sources — are among the most well-evidenced supplements for dogs and cats, with a strong veterinary evidence base.
Canine osteoarthritis is extremely prevalent — estimates suggest 20–25% of dogs over the age of 1 develop it at some point, rising to 80%+ in older dogs. Omega-3 supplementation has multiple studies supporting its use in canine OA. A double-blind, controlled study found that dogs fed omega-3-enriched food showed significant improvements in bearing weight on arthritic limbs, rising from rest, and ability to play compared to control dogs. The mechanisms are the same as in humans: reduction in prostaglandin and leukotriene production, decreased cartilage enzyme activity, and reduced joint inflammation.
One of the most obvious visible benefits of omega-3 supplementation in dogs and cats is improved coat condition. A dull, flaky coat, excessive shedding, and itchy skin are among the most common complaints Irish pet owners bring to their vet — and omega-3 deficiency or imbalance is a common underlying factor. EPA and DHA are incorporated into skin cell membranes, improving barrier function and reducing inflammatory skin conditions including atopic dermatitis.
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a concern in cats (historically linked to taurine deficiency, now partly addressed by taurine supplementation in commercial foods). Omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated cardioprotective effects in feline heart disease — reducing arrhythmias, improving cardiac output, and reducing the cachectic (muscle-wasting) syndrome associated with heart failure.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) — the dog equivalent of dementia — affects an estimated 14–35% of dogs over 8 years. Like human Alzheimer's, it involves amyloid deposition and neuroinflammation. DHA's neuroprotective role in dogs mirrors its role in humans. Studies of senior dogs supplemented with DHA show improved cognitive test performance and reduced behavioural signs of cognitive decline.
The canine and feline gut microbiome is as important to animal health as the human microbiome is to ours — and it is similarly disrupted by antibiotics, dietary changes, stress, and modern living. Probiotic supplementation for pets has a growing evidence base.
Acute diarrhoea is one of the most common reasons for vet visits in Ireland. Studies have found that probiotics significantly reduce the duration of acute diarrhoea in dogs. A canine-specific probiotic containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium, and Bifidobacterium animalis strains showed particular efficacy for acute gastroenteritis recovery.
Just as in humans, antibiotic use in pets disrupts the gut microbiome — sometimes severely. Giving a probiotic alongside (at least 2 hours after each antibiotic dose) and for 2–4 weeks after completing a course helps restore microbial balance and reduces antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is as important in dogs and cats as in humans. Regular probiotic supplementation supports immune function, reduces the incidence of gastrointestinal infections, and may help with food sensitivities and atopic skin conditions.
Emerging research suggests that the gut-brain axis is as important in dogs as in humans. A study using Bifidobacterium longum BL999 found significant reductions in anxiety-related behaviours in dogs — particularly barking and agitation related to fireworks and separation. This opens a new frontier for natural anxiety management in pets.
Anxiety is extraordinarily common in Irish pets — separation anxiety, noise phobia (particularly around fireworks and storms), car travel anxiety, and vet-visit anxiety are among the most common behavioural issues. Irish pet owners frequently seek natural calming approaches, particularly around Bonfire Night (31 October/1 November) and New Year's Eve.
An amino acid found in green tea with well-documented anxiolytic effects. It works by promoting alpha-wave brain activity (relaxed alertness without sedation) and modulating GABA and glutamate neurotransmission. Several veterinary studies have found L-theanine supplements (including Anxitane, a veterinary-grade formulation) significantly reduce anxiety scores in dogs and cats. Non-sedating and safe for daily use.
Derived from a protein in cow's milk, alpha-casozepine is a peptide that binds to GABA receptors in a similar manner to diazepam — but without the sedative side effects. Zylkene is a widely used veterinary product available in Irish veterinary practices and health stores. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy for dogs and cats with anxiety, particularly for situational anxiety (travel, vet visits, fireworks). Available at The Honey Pot.
Bach Rescue Remedy (the standard formulation, without added White Chestnut) is widely used by Irish pet owners for anxiety-related situations. The original Bach remedies are considered safe for animals — Edward Bach himself used them with animals. The alcohol-free glycerite version is preferred for pets; drops can be placed directly in drinking water or on a treat. Many Irish pet owners report consistent calming effects for vet visits, travel, and thunderstorms.
Valerian is used for animals as well as humans — it appears to have similar GABA-modulating calming effects in dogs and cats. Some herbal preparations formulated specifically for pets combine valerian with hops and skullcap. Use pet-specific formulations and appropriate doses — human products may contain xylitol or other ingredients toxic to animals.
CBD oil for pets is a rapidly growing area in Ireland. The legal position mirrors that for human CBD — hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.2% THC is legal for sale. Veterinary evidence for pet CBD is still emerging, but preliminary studies suggest benefit for osteoarthritis pain in dogs (Cornell University trial, 2018) and potentially for anxiety and epilepsy. If you're considering CBD for your pet, use a product specifically formulated for animals (THC-free, appropriate concentration) and discuss with your vet.
For older dogs with joint problems, a multi-pronged supplement approach is often most effective:
Beyond probiotics, slippery elm bark is a favourite of naturopathically-oriented Irish pet owners for soothing irritated digestive tracts. Its mucilaginous (gel-forming) properties coat and protect the gut lining, making it useful for both acute gastroenteritis and chronic conditions like IBD. Available as a powder to mix into food. Completely safe for dogs and cats.
Pat Coffey and the team at The Honey Pot, 14 Abbey Street, Clonmel stock a dedicated pet health range including:
Call the store on 052-612 1457 to ask about current stock or to speak with Pat about a specific concern for your pet.