As a holistic veterinarian, I often talk with pet parents about how to keep their dogs’ bones, muscles, and nerves healthy. One supplement that comes up frequently is Cal-Ma Plus by Standard Process. Even though this formula was originally designed for humans, it’s safe and effective for dogs when used under veterinary guidance.
Cal-Ma Plus provides key minerals and glandular nutrients that support bone strength, nerve balance, and muscle recovery. I’ve used it in many wellness and recovery plans—especially for growing puppies, senior dogs, and those healing from orthopedic procedures.
What Is Cal-Ma Plus?
Cal-Ma Plus is a whole-food supplement made by Standard Process, a company known for over 90 years of producing nutrient-dense formulas from organic, farm-grown ingredients. This blend combines highly absorbable calcium and magnesium with natural cofactors that help the body use these minerals efficiently.
In dogs, these nutrients play vital roles in:
- Bone and joint health
- Nerve and muscle function
- Cardiovascular balance
- Recovery after injury or surgery
Because it supports multiple systems, Cal-Ma Plus fits beautifully into a holistic care plan for dogs of all ages.
Key Benefits of Cal-Ma Plus for Dogs
Each ingredient in Cal-Ma Plus works together to strengthen your dog’s overall wellness. Here’s what I’ve seen in clinical use and what pet parents can expect:
- Stronger bones and teeth: Supports calcium absorption and bone density.
- Better joint mobility: Helps protect bone and cartilage structure, especially in aging dogs.
- Healthy heart rhythm: Magnesium helps regulate nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
- Improved digestion: Honey and calcium lactate can soothe the gut and support nutrient absorption.
- Enhanced skin and coat: A balanced mineral profile often improves coat shine and texture.
Many dogs also show improved energy and muscle recovery after regular use.
What’s Inside Cal-Ma Plus?
Here’s a closer look at its core ingredients and how they help your dog:
| Ingredient | Function in the Body |
|---|---|
| Calcium Lactate | A gentle, absorbable form of calcium that supports bone health and muscle contraction. |
| Calcium Chloride | Adds additional calcium for strong teeth and skeletal integrity. |
| Magnesium Citrate | Promotes nerve function, smooth muscle relaxation, and helps calcium absorption. |
| Bovine Parathyroid Extract | Naturally supports calcium balance in the bloodstream and bone metabolism. |
| Honey | Provides antioxidants, trace minerals, and gentle digestive support. |
| Calcium Stearate | A harmless binding agent that ensures tablet consistency. |
These nutrients work synergistically to promote steady calcium metabolism—something that’s especially important in growing, senior, or healing pets.
When I Recommend Cal-Ma Plus for Dogs
I typically include Cal-Ma Plus in health plans for:
- Puppies and young dogs developing bone structure
- Senior dogs with brittle bones or mobility issues
- Large breeds with higher calcium demands
- Dogs recovering from fractures or orthopedic surgery
- Dogs on homemade diets that may lack sufficient calcium
It’s also useful alongside cold laser therapy and other regenerative treatments, helping tissues heal more efficiently by supplying the minerals needed for cellular repair.
Recommended Dosage and How to Give It
Each dog’s needs are unique, so I always recommend confirming the dosage with your veterinarian. In general:
- Small dogs (under 25 lbs): ½ tablet daily
- Medium dogs (25–50 lbs): 1 tablet daily
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2 tablets daily
You can give the tablet whole, crushed into food, or mixed into a soft treat. I often suggest starting slowly—half the dose for a few days—to let your dog’s system adjust.
Consistency matters. Use Cal-Ma Plus daily as part of your pet’s regular feeding routine to see the best results.
Possible Side Effects and Safety Tips
Cal-Ma Plus is very gentle and well-tolerated. However, a few dogs may experience mild digestive upset (such as loose stool or decreased appetite) when first starting the supplement. If this happens, stop for a few days and restart at a lower dose.
Use with caution if your dog has:
- Chronic kidney disease
- High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia)
- Certain prescription medications that affect calcium metabolism
Always follow your vet’s dosing advice. Too much calcium can stress the kidneys, especially in dogs with existing health conditions.
To ensure purity and quality, always purchase Cal-Ma Plus directly from a trusted source. You can get it from me at Journeys Holistic Life, where I only carry authentic Standard Process and MediHerb products.
Integrating Cal-Ma Plus Into a Holistic Plan
Cal-Ma Plus works best as part of a whole-body approach. In my practice, I often pair it with:
- Renafood or Canine Renal Support for kidney balance
- Ligaplex II for joint and connective tissue health
- Laser therapy to stimulate bone repair and reduce inflammation
- A balanced, whole-food diet tailored to your dog’s unique needs
These combinations help restore balance across systems instead of just treating one symptom at a time.
Final Thoughts
Supporting your dog’s bone and muscle health doesn’t have to be complicated. A thoughtfully chosen supplement like Cal-Ma Plus by Standard Process can make a noticeable difference in comfort, mobility, and overall vitality.
If you’re unsure whether this supplement is right for your pet, I invite you to schedule a holistic consultation through Journeys Holistic Life. Together, we can design a customized plan that includes nutrition, supplements, and natural therapies to help your dog thrive at every stage of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cal-Ma Plus is a whole-food calcium and magnesium supplement that supports your dog’s bones, muscles, and overall health. It’s made from real, nutrient-rich ingredients for safe, gentle support.
Dosage depends on your dog’s size and health needs. Most dogs take it daily with meals. Always follow your vet’s recommendation or contact me for guidance through Journeys Holistic Life.
Cal-Ma Plus is well-tolerated, though some dogs may have mild stomach upset when first starting. If this happens, pause for a few days and restart slowly, or check with your holistic vet.
Yes, puppies can safely use Cal-Ma Plus for healthy bone and muscle development. Always confirm dosage with your veterinarian before adding any supplement to a young dog’s diet.
You can purchase Cal-Ma Plus directly from me at Journeys Holistic Life, where all Standard Process products are sourced fresh and stored correctly for optimal quality.
