Why Omega Oils Are a Hot Topic Among Canadian Pet Parents
If you’ve been hanging around the dog park lately (or scrolling through pet parent groups online), you’ve probably heard someone mention omega oils. From glowing coats to better joint health, these supplements have quickly become the go-to wellness essential for Canadian dog and cat owners.
But what’s driving the buzz - and do pets really need them? According to veterinarians across Canada, the answer is a resounding yes. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play vital roles in your pet’s overall health, from reducing inflammation to improving cognitive function and strengthening the immune system.
The catch? Most commercial pet foods - especially kibble - don’t provide enough high-quality omega oils. These healthy fats are sensitive to heat and often break down during processing. That’s where supplementation comes in, helping bridge the gap with balanced, bioavailable nutrition.
At Brindle Pet Supplies, we carry vet-approved, premium omega oils that Canadian pet parents trust, including:
- Grizzly Fish Oil - A marine-based powerhouse rich in EPA and DHA for joint, heart, and skin health.
- Ultra Oil for Pets - A perfectly balanced 3-6-9 blend supporting coat shine, mobility, and immune balance.
- Smart Earth Camelina Oil - A plant-based omega oil high in vitamin E and antioxidants, ideal for pets with fish sensitivities.
Each of these options supports different needs, but all share one thing in common: they deliver real, vet-recommended results for pets across Canada.
💡 Did You Know?
According to VCA Canada, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, skin allergies, and heart disease in dogs and cats - making them one of the most widely recommended supplements in veterinary practice today.
Key Takeaways
- Omega oils for pets are no longer just a trend - they’re a foundational part of preventive pet health care.
- Canadian vets recommend supplementation due to processing loss in commercial foods.
- Choosing a trusted brand like Grizzly, Ultra Oil, or Camelina ensures purity, balance, and safe dosage.
- Omega oils support skin, joints, heart, brain, and immunity - making them beneficial year-round, especially in dry winter months.
Fact #1: Omega Oils Aren’t Just for Skin and Coat Health
For years, pet parents associated omega oils with shiny coats and fewer itchy spots - and while that’s true, veterinarians say the benefits go far deeper. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential nutrients that affect nearly every system in your pet’s body - from the joints to the brain.
According to VCA Canada, omega-3s like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) have proven anti-inflammatory effects, helping manage arthritis, allergies, and heart disease. Meanwhile, omega-6s support cell growth, hormone regulation, and immune response.
So while it’s true that omegas give your dog that glossy “show coat,” they’re also working hard behind the scenes to:
- Reduce joint pain and stiffness in senior or large-breed dogs
- Support heart and brain function for aging pets
- Promote faster recovery after injury or surgery
- Strengthen the immune system during cold, dry winters
Vet-Approved Omega Oils for Whole-Body Wellness
When it comes to choosing a supplement, quality and source matter most. Here are three trusted omega oils available through Brindle Pet Supplies - each tailored to your pet’s specific needs:
| Brand | Key Ingredients | Primary Benefits | Ideal For |
| Grizzly Fish Oil | Wild Alaskan salmon, pollock | High in EPA/DHA for joints, heart & coat |
Active dogs, seniors, mobility support
|
| Ultra Oil for Pets | Hempseed, flaxseed, fish oils | Balanced 3-6-9 ratio for skin, coat, and immune health |
All-life stages, allergy-prone dogs
|
| Smart Earth Camelina Oil | Cold-pressed camelina seed | Plant-based ALA & vitamin E for antioxidant support |
Sensitive stomachs, fish-free diets
|
Each of these vet-recommended oils is made with premium, sustainable ingredients, ensuring purity and potency. Canadian pet parents love that these formulas are NASC certified, easy to digest, and shipped fresh from Brindle’s Alberta warehouse for fast delivery nationwide.
If you’re adding an omega oil to your pet’s routine, think beyond coat care - you’re investing in whole-body wellness. Vets across Canada recommend omega supplements as part of a long-term plan for mobility, immunity, and longevity.
Fiction #1: All Omega Oils Are the Same
You’ve probably seen it before - endless bottles of “omega oil for dogs” lined up online or on store shelves, all claiming to do the same thing. But according to veterinarians, not all omega oils are created equal. In fact, the source and balance of fatty acids can make a huge difference in how effectively your pet’s body can use them.
The type, purity, and bioavailability of an omega oil determines whether it truly helps your dog or cat - or just ends up as an expensive add-on.
Marine Oils: EPA and DHA Powerhouses
Marine-based omega oils like Grizzly Fish Oil are derived from wild Alaskan salmon and pollock, making them rich in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) - two omega-3s that directly support joint health, brain function, and inflammation control.
Because these fatty acids are already in their active form, they’re immediately available for your pet’s body to use. That’s why vets often recommend marine-based oils for:
- Senior dogs or cats with arthritis or mobility issues
- Breeds prone to hip or joint pain
- Pets with heart or kidney conditions
- Dogs recovering from injury or surgery
💡 Tip: Look for transparent sourcing. Grizzly Pollock Oil is made from wild-caught fish, cold-processed to preserve freshness, and proudly NASC-certified.
Plant-Based Oils: Gentle, Antioxidant-Rich Alternatives
For dogs with fish sensitivities or picky eaters who refuse marine oils, plant-based options like Smart Earth Camelina Oil are a fantastic alternative.
Camelina oil is naturally high in ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) - a precursor to EPA and DHA - as well as vitamin E and natural antioxidants that support:
- Skin hydration during dry winter months
- Allergy relief and reduced itching
- Cell regeneration and immune balance
- Anti-aging benefits from antioxidant protection
Even though dogs convert ALA to EPA and DHA less efficiently than direct fish oils, camelina provides broad-spectrum support while being incredibly gentle on the stomach.
Blended Oils: The Best of All Worlds
If you’re looking for a complete balance of omega 3, 6, and 9, Ultra Oil for Pets offers a premium blend of hempseed, flaxseed, and fish oils - delivering a full fatty acid profile that promotes skin, coat, heart, and joint health in one formula.
This all-in-one approach makes it an excellent choice for households with multiple pets or owners who want maximum coverage without juggling multiple products.
Comparison Table: Finding the Right Omega for Your Pet
| Oil Type | Source | Key Omegas | Best For |
Recommended Brand
|
| Marine Oil | Salmon, Pollock | EPA + DHA | Joint, heart, inflammation | Grizzly Fish Oil |
| Plant-Based Oil | Camelina Seed | ALA + Vitamin E | Skin, allergies, sensitive stomachs | |
| Blended Oil | Hemp, Flax, Fish | 3-6-9 Full Spectrum | Coat, immunity, overall vitality | Ultra Oil for Pets |
Why Purity and Source Matter
Many low-cost omega supplements use refined or oxidized oils, which can actually cause inflammation rather than reduce it. Look for:
- Cold-pressed or unrefined formulas
- NASC certification (quality and safety guarantee)
- Transparency in sourcing (wild-caught or cold-pressed ingredients)
- Dark bottles to protect from oxidation
All three premium brands carried by Brindle Pet Supplies meet or exceed these standards - ensuring your pet gets the cleanest, freshest, and most effective omega oil possible.
Don’t fall for one-size-fits-all supplements. Each omega source offers unique advantages - and by choosing the right one for your pet’s needs, you’ll see healthier skin, stronger joints, and brighter eyes within weeks.
Fact #2: Dosage and Freshness Matter More Than You Think
When it comes to omega supplements, more isn’t always better. Veterinarians emphasize that the dosage, quality, and freshness of your pet’s omega oil are just as important as the type you choose. Giving too much - or using an oil that’s gone rancid - can do more harm than good.
Just like human supplements, omega oils are highly sensitive to light, heat, and air exposure, which can cause oxidation. Oxidized oils not only lose potency but may even contribute to inflammation - the very thing you’re trying to reduce.
How Much Omega Oil Does Your Pet Really Need?
Omega oil dosage depends on your pet’s size, age, and overall health.
Veterinarians generally recommend approximately:
- Dogs: 20–55 mg of EPA/DHA per pound of body weight per day
- Cats: 10–25 mg of EPA/DHA per pound of body weight per day
That means a 50-lb dog might need roughly 1,000–2,500 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily. Always check your specific product label and start on the lower end of the range, especially if your pet is new to supplements.
💡 Pro Tip: Measure out your omega oils with a consistent daily routine - ideally added directly to food for best absorption. Products like Grizzly Fish Oil and Ultra Oil for Pets include easy-pour pumps to make portioning foolproof.
Freshness and Storage: The Unsung Heroes of Effectiveness
Even the highest-quality omega oil loses its value if stored incorrectly. Keep these guidelines in mind:
| Storage Tip | Why It Matters |
| Keep it cool and dark | Heat and sunlight accelerate oxidation. Store bottles in a pantry or fridge. |
| Use within 90 days of opening | Omega oils are natural and can spoil. Freshness ensures maximum potency. |
| Avoid clear bottles | Amber or opaque containers protect oils from UV exposure. |
| Seal tightly after every use |
Air exposure can degrade fatty acids quickly.
|
At Brindle Pet Supplies all omega oils - including Grizzly, Ultra Oil, and Smart Earth Camelina Oil - are stored in temperature-controlled facilities and rotated frequently to guarantee Canadian customers receive fresh, effective supplements every time.
Why Freshness Affects Bioavailability
Fresh omega oils deliver active EPA, DHA, and ALA molecules that the body can absorb efficiently. Once oxidized, these molecules break down into compounds that:
- Lose their anti-inflammatory properties
- May irritate the digestive system
- Develop an off odor or taste that pets dislike
That’s why veterinarians always recommend small, frequent purchases from reputable Canadian retailers (like Brindle) over buying large bulk bottles that sit for months.
Quick Vet Tip: The “Smell Test”
A fresh omega oil should have a clean, mild scent - never sour, or rancid. If your dog refuses their usual oil suddenly, that’s a sign it may have gone bad.
Freshness and precision matter. By giving your pet the right amount of a high-quality omega oil — stored properly and used regularly — you’ll ensure they reap every benefit: mobility, immunity, and long-term vitality.
Fiction #2: If Your Pet Eats Kibble, They Don’t Need Omegas
It’s one of the most common misconceptions veterinarians hear: “My dog eats a high-quality kibble, so they’re already getting all their omega oils.”
Unfortunately, that’s rarely true - even for premium or “omega-enriched” pet foods. The reason lies in how pet food is processed. Most kibble is cooked at extremely high temperatures to preserve shelf life, which destroys the delicate omega fatty acids that support your pet’s skin, joints, and heart.
By the time it reaches your dog’s bowl, only trace amounts of active EPA, DHA, or ALA remain. And unlike synthetic vitamins, omega oils can’t be simply added back in post-processing - they lose stability fast.
Why Kibble Alone Isn’t Enough
Even the best kibble formulas with “added omegas” rarely deliver what the label suggests. Here’s why:
| Issue | What Happens | Result |
| High heat during extrusion | Destroys omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids | Minimal nutrition left |
| Long shelf life | Oils degrade over time | Less bioavailability |
| Synthetic replacements | Often lack real EPA or DHA | Lower absorption |
| Imbalanced fatty acid ratios | Too much omega-6, not enough omega-3 |
Promotes inflammation
|
This imbalance is one of the leading reasons vets see dogs with itchy skin, dull coats, or joint stiffness — even when they’re on a “complete” diet.
What Vets Recommend Instead
Veterinarians recommend supplementing daily with a high-quality, cold-processed omega oil to restore the ideal omega-3 to omega-6 ratio (about 1:4).
Adding an omega supplement like:
- Grizzly Salmon Oil: delivers potent EPA/DHA for anti-inflammatory joint and skin support.
- Ultra Oil for Pets: balances omegas 3-6-9 for whole-body nourishment.
- Smart Earth Camelina Oil: provides plant-based omega-3s and vitamin E antioxidants for sensitive stomachs.
These options make it easy to give your pet fresh, bioavailable fatty acids with every meal - restoring balance without altering your feeding routine.
The Real-Life Difference
Pet parents often notice visible improvements within weeks of supplementation:
- Softer, glossier coats
- Reduced dandruff and hot spots
- Less itching and licking
- Better mobility and energy
- Stronger immune response during cold weather
Many report that omega oils act as a “booster” for the nutrition already in their pet’s food - helping maximize what kibble alone can’t provide.
Vet Insight
“Even the best kibble diets lack the active omega fatty acids that support inflammation control. A high-quality omega supplement is one of the easiest ways to improve long-term pet health.” — Dr. M. Reilly, DVM, Ontario
Kibble provides calories - omega oils provide cellular nourishment. By supplementing your dog’s daily diet with a fresh, premium omega oil from Brindle Pet Supplies, you’re not just feeding your pet - you’re fortifying their health for life.
Fact #3: Vets Recommend Omega Oils for More Than Just Dogs
When most people think about omega oils, they picture them as a dog supplement - something to help with dry skin, joint health, or coat shine. But veterinarians across Canada are quick to remind pet parents that cats benefit just as much from these healthy fatty acids.
In fact, omega supplementation has become a staple in feline wellness for reasons that go far beyond the surface.
Why Cats Need Omega Oils Too
Unlike dogs, cats can’t produce certain essential fatty acids on their own - they must get them through their diet. This makes high-quality omega oils especially important for maintaining:
- Skin hydration and itch control, especially in dry Canadian winters
- Reduced shedding and fewer hairballs
- Healthy joints and flexibility in senior cats
- Heart and brain support, especially in older or indoor cats
- Shinier, softer fur for that “healthy cat glow”
However, cats are famously selective eaters - meaning the texture and flavor of the oil matter almost as much as the formula itself.
How to Add Omegas to Your Cat’s Routine
- Mix directly into wet food or toppers for easy digestion.
- Start with a half dose to introduce the flavor gradually.
- Store in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.
- Use within 90 days of opening for peak potency.
💡 If your cat eats only dry kibble, omega supplementation is especially important - kibble’s high-heat processing destroys most natural fats before it reaches your bowl.
Omega oils aren’t just a dog supplement - they’re an essential nutrient for cats too. Whether your feline friend struggles with shedding, stiffness, or dull fur, omega supplementation provides year-round wellness support.
Shop vet-recommended omega oils for dogs and cats at Brindle Pet Supplies
- Canada’s trusted source for Grizzly, Ultra Oil, and Camelina Oil.
Fiction #3: Plant-Based Omegas Don’t Work
You’ve likely heard someone say that plant-based omega oils aren’t as effective as fish-based ones - but that’s not entirely true. While it’s correct that plant sources like flax or camelina don’t provide direct EPA and DHA like fish oils do, veterinarians point out that they still play a crucial, complementary role in overall wellness.
In fact, plant-based omegas are uniquely rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) — a type of omega-3 that helps support your pet’s skin, immune system, and inflammation control.
What Makes Camelina Oil Different
Among plant-based options, Smart Earth Camelina Oil stands out as a Canadian-favourite alternative to traditional fish oil. Here’s why it’s earning the trust of vets and pet parents alike:
- Cold-pressed and unrefined: Preserves all natural fatty acids and nutrients.
- Rich in ALA + Vitamin E: Supports antioxidant function, healthy skin, and coat shine.
- Natural anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce dryness, itching, and mild allergies.
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs: Ideal for pets with fish allergies or picky eaters.
Plant-based sustainability: A renewable, Canadian-grown source with a low environmental footprint.
💡 Veterinarians often recommend Camelina Oil as a year-round omega supplement for dogs who can’t tolerate marine oils — offering many of the same benefits without the fishy taste.
Fish vs. Plant: The Balanced Truth
| Feature | Fish Oil (e.g., Grizzly) | Camelina Oil (Smart Earth) |
| Omega-3 Type | EPA + DHA | ALA (converted to EPA/DHA) |
| Vitamin E Content | Moderate | Naturally high |
| Antioxidant Power | Moderate | High |
| Odor & Taste | Fishy | Mild & nutty |
| Ideal For | Joint & heart support |
Skin, coat, allergy relief
|
| Sensitivity Friendly | No | Yes |
The takeaway: You don’t need to choose one or the other. Many vets recommend alternating between fish-based and plant-based omegas - or combining them - to give pets a full nutrient spectrum.
How to Use Camelina Oil for Best Results
- Add ½ to 1 teaspoon daily (per 10 lbs body weight) to your pet’s meal.
- Store in a cool, dark place — it’s shelf-stable longer than most marine oils.
- Use daily for consistent results — benefits appear within 2–4 weeks.
- Safe for both dogs and cats, with no fish odor or aftertaste.
Plant-based omegas aren’t second best — they’re simply different. Smart Earth Camelina Oil offers natural antioxidants, vitamin E, and anti-inflammatory benefits for healthy skin and balanced wellness — a gentle, sustainable way to support your pet year-round.
Explore Smart Earth Camelina Oil at Brindle Pet Supplies to discover why Canadian pet parents are making the switch.
What Canadian Vets Really Say About Omega Oils
Canadian veterinarians are overwhelmingly in agreement: omega oils are no longer optional — they’re essential. Whether sourced from fish, flax, or camelina, these fatty acids play a critical role in reducing inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health, and improving overall well-being.
What’s changed in recent years is the understanding of dosage, purity, and source quality. Vets now emphasize that the benefits depend entirely on formulation — not all omegas deliver the same results.
What the Experts Are Saying
-
Dr. L. Raymond, DVM (Ontario):
“We used to think of omega oils as a bonus, but now we know they’re essential. For my patients with arthritis or skin allergies, adding a fish or camelina oil supplement has made a visible difference in just a few weeks.” -
Dr. P. Dhillon, DVM (Vancouver):
“Omega oils are one of the few supplements I recommend across the board. Whether it’s Grizzly Fish Oil for inflammation or Camelina Oil for sensitive stomachs, every pet can benefit from balanced fatty acids.” -
Dr. K. Wilson, DVM (Calgary):
“The key is quality. I tell my clients to look for NASC-certified oils from trusted suppliers. Poorly stored or oxidized oils can cause more harm than good.”
Why Canadian Vets Recommend Brindle’s Omega Brands
At Brindle Pet Supplies every omega oil is hand-selected for veterinary-grade quality and stored under Canadian climate-controlled conditions to ensure freshness. Here’s why vets across the country trust and recommend them:
| Brand | Vet Recommendation | Key Benefit |
| Grizzly Fish Oil | Marine omega powerhouse | Joint, mobility, and anti-inflammatory support |
| Ultra Oil for Pets | 3-6-9 balanced formula | Coat health and overall vitality |
| Smart Earth Camelina Oil | Plant-based, antioxidant-rich | Gentle, sustainable option for sensitive pets |
In Summary
Canadian vets agree on three key points about omega supplementation:
- It’s essential year-round — for joints, skin, coat, and heart health.
- Not all omega oils are equal — source and freshness determine effectiveness.
- Choose trusted brands like Grizzly, Ultra Oil, and Camelina Oil to ensure safety and results.
Shop Vet-Recommended Omega Oils in Canada
When it comes to omega supplementation, Canadian pet parents have more options than ever — but few stores combine veterinary-grade quality, freshness, and fast nationwide shipping quite like Brindle Pet Supplies.
Whether your pet needs joint support, a shinier coat, or relief from dry winter skin, you’ll find the most trusted, vet-recommended omega oils right here — all shipped fresh from Brindle’s Alberta warehouse.
Why Shop with Brindle Pet Supplies
- Canadian-based warehouse = No duties, no import fees, and faster delivery.
- Vet-approved products only — curated for safety, potency, and purity.
- For dogs and cats — perfect for multi-pet households.
- Free shipping on orders over $89 across Canada.
- Local customer care — our team is made up of real Canadian pet parents who use these same products every day.
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
Adding a premium omega oil to your pet’s daily routine is one of the easiest ways to boost their long-term health and happiness. Shop Canada’s most trusted selection of vet-recommended omega oils — only at Brindle Pet Supplies.