Vitamin E Info Please

[mom2dogs]

I started Sofie on folic acid, and someone recommended supplementing with vitamin e as well (heard to give it jointly with fish oil only, but rather be safe than sorry). I headed to a few grocery stores and could only find it in 200 and 400 IUs. So I grabbed the 200 and did some research on overdosing (when I was giving it in the past, I used a supplement made for dogs, and found it in the 100 IU). The info I got wasn't anything concrete. She is only 15-17 pounds, so I know the 200 is more than she needs.

Does anyone have evidence of it causing harm if giving in excessive doses (as I think in this situation it would be)? Should I puncture and try to only squirt a little bit out instead of the full pill?

 

[ACooper]

I don't have much knowledge or experience with supplementing. I did search around and find this for you though:

Fat soluble vitamins can build up in tissues and become toxic. Excess Vitamin A can lead to bone disease; too much Vitamin D can cause calcification of soft tissue, lungs, and kidneys. Evidence of toxicity in Vitamin E overdose is sketchy; there may be some adverse effects on blood coagulation or thyroid function, but more study is needed to ascertain the extent of such effect.

Found here: Dog Owner's Guide: Nutrients

And this:

VITAMIN E (Tocopherol)

Vitamin E plays an essential role in the healthy function of all cells in the body. It is widely recognized as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. Vitamin E also plays an important part in the development and function of the immune system.

According to a study published in the "Cornell Veterinarian," vitamin E supplementation has an important influence on the dog's immune system, and dogs supplemented with vitamin E produce antibodies against vaccinations significantly faster than dogs on a vitamin E-deficient diet.

Clearly, vitamin E has a strong influence on the immune system. It is especially important to give your dog extra vitamin E in times of stress or illness. It should always be given when your dog has surgery or vaccination(s) or has experienced serious injury or shock.

DOSAGE: 4 to 8 IU per pound a day but not more than 400 IU a day regardless of weight

Found here: Supplements for Home Cooked Diets - Canine Epilepsy Guardian Angels

I don't know anything about these sites, I am not endorsing them, I just noticed you didn't have any replies and thought I could take a moment to see what I could see Hope it helps, and good luck!

 

[mom2dogs]

Thanks AC! I appreciate it. The first site I found, and that's when I got worried about putting her on an excessive amount. I've always followed the 100IU/25lbs. Emailed Sabine Contreras on the DogFoodProject, and she suggested every other day supplementing her with the 200 IUs.

 

[FoxyWench]

i use it directly on the skin ofr jasper 200IUs once per week...leaves his skin great.
never used it internally though. lol

 

[BTmom]

Here's what I found.

VITAMIN E is also an antioxidant and anticarinogen. It helps to protect vitamin C and vitamin A from oxidation. It aids circulation, healing of wounds, aids in arthritis, helps with normal functioning of the nervous system, improves athletic performance and prevents cell damage and may prevent aging. It also works synergistically with omega 3 fatty acids (as found in fish oils) so make sure vitamin E is given with fish oils. It is found in whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, and organ meats.
Vitamin E minimum dosage:
0-25 pounds - 50-100 IUs
25-50 pounds 100-200 IUs
50-75 pounds 400 IUs
75- 100 pounds 400-800 IUs

Vitamins | B-Naturals.Com Newsletter

I would give the 200 IU every other day instead of daily.

 

[irenafarm]

I did this with Zhi when I supplemented seperately and it worked fine. I actually did it every three days since she's only 8 pounds.