Giving dogs spices? Really? Yes really! Turmeric is a powerhouse spice, with a heap of health benefits. In the article we explain how you can use it to enhance your dogs well-being. Before there were pharmaceuticals, pills and medications, health was sustained through the use of herbs, spices, oils and plants. Everything needed to treat any kind of ailment and maintain good health can be found in nature. We as a society have become used to quick fixes. Turning to drugs to solve the symptoms of our ailments. We’ve let our desire for quick fixes roll over to the way we care for our dogs too. Often the first port of call whenever a concerning symptom arises is a trip to the vet, resulting in costly bills and pills. Yet pills often don’t solve the root cause, they simply treat the symptom and can sometimes result in nasty side effects too. We at Regal Dog are all about fuelling dogs the way nature intended and that includes using food as medicine. Embracing the power of mother nature will make a huge difference to the health and vitality of your pups and we’re here to help! Let’s get started with the power of Turmeric. It’s such an amazing little spice with so many healthful qualities we can’t wait to share with you and your doggo.
What Is Turmeric?
It’s a member of the ginger family. A yellow/orange coloured root which originates in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Widely used in traditional medicine for 1000’s of years on humans, featuring prominently in Ayurvedic medicine and other holistic medicine practices. The great news is there’s now a ton of evidence that this potent spice benefits our furry friends too.
What’s So Special About Turmeric?
The active ingredient in Turmeric is Curcumin. Curcumin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, anti fungal, and anticancer properties. To put it simply, it’s an absolute gem of a medicinal spice, which has impressive results in treating aliments and also as preventative health support.
Turmeric and Inflammation
Systemic inflammation in the body is the plague of modern society for humans and for our faithful friends. Connections have been found between systemic inflammation and conditions such as: Arthritis Eczema Asthma Type 2 diabetes Digestive disease Dental disease Obesity Cancer Heart disease.
Inflammation is a necessary function of the body in order to heal wounds and fight infection. When inflammation remains after the threat or injury has dissipated the body starts to experience negative impact. “Systemic” inflammation is chronic persistent inflammation and is usually caused by diet, lifestyle and stress.
Turmeric is exceptionally remarkable in its anti-inflammatory effect and as such is a must have addition to any dogs diet. Often the existence of inflammation in the body is not apparent until specific health problems arise.
Using turmeric regularly therefor acts a preventative measure. If your dog has a diagnosis or is experiencing symptoms associated with any of the conditions mentioned above, then it goes without saying turmeric is a fantastic and simple addition you can make to your beloved companions diet which will help ease symptoms.
Turmeric Is A Potent Medicinal Food
So you’re getting the picture. Turmeric is a wonderful natural medicinal food, which when added to your canine companions food bowl will nourish, heal and protect their health. If you need more reasons to spice things up for your dog here’s 7 compelling facts for you to consider
Turmeric:
- Helps alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
- Lowers cholesterol and reduces the potential for blood clots.
- Can halt the mutation of cancerous cells
- Aids the reduction of inflammation associated with gastrointestinal disorders
- Can be used as an alternative to steroid medications, but without the potentially harmful adverse effects.
- Supports liver function by helping to break down fat and remove waste.
- Slows down ageing, degeneration and is believed to even contribute to an increase in lifespan.
There’s now around 6000 published research studies regarding the health benefits of Turmeric.A few words of caution though
When making any changes to your dogs diet be sure to pay attention during the initial stages of introduction.
- Turmeric is binding so in some cases can cause constipation. In this eventuality add kefir to his diet or call the Regal Dog team for advice. Always make sure water is freely available
- Although turmeric is an exceptionally health giving remedy, it is still a spice and may not suit dogs who are naturally hot and often seeking cool environments
- If your dog is on any medications, check with a holistic vet or dog nutritionist before adding turmeric to his diet.
How Do I Get My Dog To Eat It?
Now you’re on board with the wondrous restorative power of this little yellow spice I guess you’ll be wondering how on earth you actually get your canine companion to down it? Not to worry we have a quick and easy guide Your dog’s body won’t absorb turmeric if it’s ingested in isolation. It must be combined with a healthy oil such as coconut oil. Also black pepper is a must ingredient. A phytochemical in black pepper called peperine can increase the absorption of curcumin by up to 2,000%. With all of this in mind here’s a recipe for turmeric paste designed to achieve optimal absorption
Ingredients:
- 60g turmeric powder
- 250ml water
- 70ml cold pressed Olive or Coconut oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Method:
- Place the turmeric and water in a pan, stirring over a gentle heat until you have a thick paste.
- This should take 7 – 10 mins, add more water if required.
- Add the freshly ground black pepper and oil at the END, whisking to incorporate the oil.
- Allow to cool
- Store in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 2 months
You can add the paste directly into your dog’s meals. Be careful to mix in well otherwise you could end up with a yellow stained dog face beaming at you.
Here’s the recommended guideline for dosage:
- Small dogs – start with about 1/4 teaspoon per day
- Medium dogs – start with 1/2 teaspoon per day
- Large dogs – start with 3/4 teaspoon per day
- Giant dogs – start with 1 teaspoon per day