For some time now I have been giving fish oils to my children, encouraged by the research that shows that the fatty acids called DHA and EPA  found in oily fish can benefit the growing brain, aid concentration and the ability to learn. Well of course it is a no-brainer for kids and as we get older we could all do with a little extra oil in the joints!

But what about Pets? Well I was intrigued to see on a recent visit with Toffee to the vet, that alongside the normal pet vitamins and teeth cleaning chews, were also the same brand of fish oil that I give to the kids. Mine refuse to try the capsules but put up with the rather unpleasant taste of the oil...Toffee being a labrador had no problem with woolfing down the yellow capsule with her lunch!

The vet said that the oils were beneficial for dog's coats, but perhaps more importantly these fatty acids have been shown to work effectively in the same way for pets and humans alike.

Susan McKay, a canine nutritionist writing for Dogs monthly in the UK says that while' the EPA has been shown to be closely ****ociated with joint health, DHA plays an important part in the development of the brain and eyes, and is now identified as an ingredient that could help facilitate learning in young animals. So if you want to have a smarter, more alert and obedient pup, choose a puppy food containing DHA.

Mckay goes on to say that "Both fatty acids have been added into pet foods in such a way that they can exert optimal effects, both in terms of amounts and ratios with other fatty acids."

Well I remember being given cod liver oil as a child, revolting, but even then Granny knew it was 'good for us'.  As Mckay says "Science is providing the justification for using more natural ingredients and allowing us to harness their benefits more effectively."

Well one thing seems clear, it can't do any harm, so it is worth a try...let's see if Toffee gets the best coat in town and can start helping the children with their homework...and if I take the Omegas,EPAs DHAs too perhaps I will be able to outrun her in the park!