Rachel Fusaro's Recommendations.

1. Omega-3 & Astaxanthin

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential (meaning they MUST get it from their diet) for brain, joint, heart, and skin health. I often prefer krill oil or algae oil over traditional fish oil packaged in plastic bottles because they’re believed to be more bioavailable, and they’re more sustainable. Krill & algae also naturally contain astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that supports immunity, inflammation, and brain health. Side note, I personally supplement with Astaxanthin for immune support – it’s incredible!

 Avoid oils in plastic or clear bottles. Oxidation can destroy their benefit before they reach your dog’s bowl

 

2. Digestive Enzymes

I genuinely believe MANY dogs are not getting enough digestive enzymes in their diet, which can help your dog break down proteins, fats, carbs, and fiber. Especially dogs with gut issues, diarrhea, indigestion… Digestive enzymes can help dogs DIGEST their food & absorb nutrients – especially for dogs eating a dry kibble diet (ie, highly processed food)

 Avoid excessive filler or inactive ingredients.

3. Whole Foods “Multivitamins.”

Most “pet multivitamins” are synthetic blends of “vitamins” and fillers. I truly believe if I am feeding a complete and balanced whole food diet, with variety, that my dogs don’t need a “multivitamin.” But, many pet parents feed kibble (no shame at all), which is often low in important vitamins/minerals (I have been researching this, and magnesium, for example, is low in many popular kibbles).

Instead of synthetic vitamins, I prefer whole-food-based options that use real fruits, vegetables, and organ meats to provide naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. This also makes me feel better about the risk of toxicity that could happen with synthetic options.

 Avoid excessive synthetics & cheap fillers 

4. Hemp or C.B.D

I will never claim something is a “fix all,” but if I HAD to, this may be it (or close to). Supports calm behavior, eases stress during triggers (like travel or fireworks), and can support healthy inflammation, gut health, pain, and sleep. The only brand I love.

 Avoid anything that doesn’t show lab results/COI

5. Hip & Joint support

I start this in my younger dogs to help prevent issues. Muscle loss is often overlooked in senior dogs or those recovering from injury. I use a muscle support supplement made from fertilized egg yolk concentrate for my 15-year-old chocolate lab, Bentley.

6. Mushrooms

Pet safe mushrooms are, in my opinion, one of the most underrated supplements for dogs. The right ones (fruiting body, not mycelium on grain) contain beta-glucans and other compounds that can support:

• Immune function

• Liver health

• Brain aging

• Cellular repair

I personally use a variety includes turkey tail, reishi, chaga, shiitake, maitake, and ashwagandha. These can be especially helpful for dogs with chronic inflammation, aging dogs, or those with cancer-prone breeds.

7. Daily Fiber from Real Food

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, supports the gut microbiome, and can help reduce anal gland issues.

Here’s what I rotate:

• Steamed green veggies (like broccoli or spinach)

• Chia (soaked) or ground flax seeds

• A sprinkle of psyllium husk