The importance of vitamin D has only recently begun to be appreciated. Conventional wisdom recognizes only the role vitamin D plays in regulating calcium metabolism. Recent reasearch has show that vitamin D affects every cell in the body. Low or insufficient vitamin D contributes to some cancers, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, periodontal disease, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and increased risk of fractures. Increased risk of vitamin D insufficiency has been associated with kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis, enzyme deficiencies, and fat malabsorption diseases. The role of vitamin D in maintaining the immune system is of particular importance in situations where vaccination is not desired. There is data to show that adequate levels of vitamin D produce immunity against influenza. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D is an acceptable alternative to vaccinating dogs against canine influenza. Vitamin D levels can be checked by blood test. Effective supplementation is safe when monitored by appropriate testing.
John B. Smith, DVM ♦ "The Dog Doctor" ♦ DrJohn@DogDoctor.us ♦ 734-434-9055 ♦ 2894 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197