Benefits of Tumeric for Your Dog
Why Dog Owners Should Be Giving Their Dog This “Golden Spice” Everyday
What if I told you that a little spice (which is probably sitting in your kitchen cabinet) could make a major difference in your dog’s health and lifespan? It may sound unrealistic, but current research shows that it is true! Turmeric (the spice used in curries and mustards) is found to trump a lot of fancy, expensive prescribed drugs and supplements. Veterinary approved supplements for dogs often contain curcumin – the active ingredient in Turmeric – because it acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Researchers and Nutritionists both human and animal, are raving over this herb because of the healing powers it has on the mind and body. Turmeric will likely benefit dogs of any age, but the benefits are particularly great for dogs over the age of seven- the time when dogs typically start to experience joint pain, stiffness and change in mobility. Because turmeric along with curcumin, fight pain and inflammation, it is now being said to be one of the most go-to supplements for senior dogs. Curcumin in Turmeric has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, wound healing and anticancer activities. It can help fight diseases like arthritis, diabetes, cancer, liver disease, gastrointestinal issues, Alzheimers and can even replace steroids in some humans and dogs.
How Does Turmeric Combat Aging and Disease in Dogs
Anti-Inflammatory
When it comes to inflammation, short-term actually plays a role in keeping the body healthy by fighting off foreign pathogens. However, long-term inflammation, is associated with almost every major disease including heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, dementia and various degenerative conditions. Inflammation is a silent killer and is the root of nearly all disease and turmeric is one of the best natural anti-inflammatories nature has to offer.
Cancer
We now know that chronic inflammation can lead to disease, so when it comes to cancer-turmeric is a powerful antioxidant. A recent study showed that curcumin in turmeric could stop the precancerous changes from becoming cancer. So, turmeric can ultimately help prevent cancer AND can also treat cancer naturally. The American Cancer Society claims “Curcumin interferes with cancer development, growth, and spread. Recently, curcumin has received a great deal of focus because of it’s ability to reduce tumor size and kill cancer cells. 1 out of 2 ADULT DOGS WILL GET CANCER, so turmeric is a great way to protect your dog from inflammation that causes cancer.
Arthritis & Pain
“In 2014 a group of researchers in Thailand published a study comparing the effects of cur cumin vs. ibuprofen treatment in patients with knee osteoarthritis. They found that curcumin worked just as well as ibuprofen to reduce pain-but without the gastrointestinal side effects experienced by the patients who took ibuprofen.” So, dogs suffering from joint pain and stiffness can see great benefits from taking turmeric.
Gastrointestinal Issues
“Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory effects can be helpful in treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) as well as other gastrointestinal disorders. It’s been shown in several preclinical studies and uncontrolled clinical trials as having positive effects on gut inflammation and gut permeability.” As with most diseases, prescribed medication is requirement, but sometimes these medications can add to disease complications, most commonly nausea, vomiting, headaches, rash, fever, and inflammation of the liver, pancreas, and kidneys, as well as potentially wiping out our immune system. So, curcumin in turmeric is, in fact, exerting some important biologic effect on humans and dogs.
Can Replace Steroids
Many dogs are on steroids for allergies and joint pain, but recent studies show that curcumin in turmeric is just as effective as steroids. “And the authors note: “The lack of side effects with curcumin is its greatest advantage compared with corticosteroids.” And a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology shows that combing curcumin with a steroid reduced the side effects of the dangerous steroid medication.
Recipe & Dosage of Turmeric for Your Dog
So if you’re ready to give your dog turmeric, there are a few things you need to know. The curcumin in turmeric is hard for your dog to absorb if it’s given by itself. So it’s important to combine turmeric with a healthy oil like coconut oil. This can increase the absorption significantly. While some owners simply add ground turmeric from their spice rack to their dog’s dish, there are a few problems with this method. It is also found that a phytochemical in black pepper called piperine that can increase the absorption of curcumin by up to 2,000%. So you can’t give turmeric by itself and expect good results.
- Small dogs should start with about 1/4 teaspoon per day
- Medium dogs can start with 1/2 teaspoon per day
- Large dogs can start with 3/4 teaspoon per day
- Giant dogs can start with 1 teaspoon per day
Disclaimer: Turmeric is quite safe in healthy dogs, but may have restrictions for those with certain conditions like kidney stones or diabetes. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. Please check with your Veterinarian first before administering for dosage information, etc.
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At Dip’n Dogs Hydrotherapy, we are certified and caring professionals devoted to restoring and enhancing the health and happiness of your beloved pup. Encompassing a state-of-the-art, indoor pool, as well as a certified hydrotherapist, this can provide effective and long lasting results for your pet’s injury or illness. We are conveniently located in Orlando FL near the College Park area. Contact us today at (407) 227-0030. Our Services include the following: Indoor Hydrotherapy and In-Home Mobile Therapy for dogs. We look forward to hearing from you!
