Category: Food & Diet

Apple cider vinegar is a god send remedy for dogs that can be used for so many discomforts. In fact it could be your reach-for-all-problems as far as the dog care is concerned. Apple cider vinegar can be used both internally and externally for the dogs to maintain their health.

Apple Cider Vinegar Varieties

ACV is available in two forms. Most of us know only about the clear liquid. That one is the pasteurized processed one. Though it is effective it is not health as the raw, organic, unprocessed variety. You will get this cloudy liquid that is the best for your dogs. The raw form retains all its nutrients, known as mother of vinegar. This form contains lots of enzymes from the fermentation.

There are so many ways ACV could be used for dog’s health. Here are 5 of those simple uses of it that comes highly recommended for the most common problems faced by the dogs and their owners.

• Flea repellant: The most common problem with dogs is flea infestation. Apple cider vinegar is the quick remedy for this problem. Use equal ACV in the bathing water for dogs, or make a body spray with equal parts of ACV and water to spray over the dogs. The acidic nature of ACV will kill and repel the fleas that they will flee the dog’s body. Use the same to clean the other possible infested surfaces for a thorough cleaning. ACV could be administered internally. Add a little amount of it in the drinking water or food of the dog. This will regulate the pH level of its body towards acidic that repels the fleas and can prevent their attack.
• Keeps skin and coat healthy: Using apple cider vinegar in the bathing water will also help make their skin healthy and shinier. It is the best option for a quick remedy for dry and itchy skin in dogs. Regular usage will also bring the skin health back to normalcy and softens the texture. At the same time, the apple cider vinegar is also a deodorizer that reduces the pet odor. Prepare a body spray and keep it ready and use it on dogs whenever you have guests. It can also be used as the dog shampoo. Just add half a cup of ACV in warm water and a quarter cup of dish detergent or regular shampoo.
• For dental health: Bad breath in dogs is another major problem faced by the owners. Some have unpleasant odors while others have just plain stinky breath. Apple cider vinegar can be used to wash the dog’s teeth. It can destroy the plaque formation on the teeth and gradually erase the problem. This will also prevent tooth decay in them. Use diluted ACV to dip the tooth brush and use it directly.
• Good for arthritis: Adding one teaspoon or tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (depending on the weight of the dog) in its water or food regularly can help relieve the arthritis pain. The acidic nature of ACV helps break down the calcium deposits in the joints to provide relief. Use this method twice a week regularly to see major recovery. Continued use can make the joints more flexible for the dogs. This works wonders in the elder dogs that gradually get inflexible joints. ACV is one way to maintain their joint health.
• Digestive remedy: Apple cider vinegar is a quick remedy for diarrhea and constipation in dogs. Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water and feed it to the dog to relieve diarrhea. Add one tablespoon of ACV in a glass of water, and feed it 2-3 times a day. Repeat the same every day for a week to get relief from constipation.

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I love the flavor of garlic and onion to spice up my food and so my doggy “ jimmy”. Its good, but only if given in low dosage.

Garlic belongs to the Allium family. One of the healthy supplement including benefits like anti-bacterial properties, Flea and worm control and digestive support. In the ancient times, this was considered as a safe medicinal plant for both humans and pets. But recently, the safety of garlic has come under exploration. Garlic contains aliphatic sulfides. These sulfides when eaten by the dogs affects their red blood cells.

What are the health benefits of Garlic for dogs?

There are 30 compounds present in this garlic which are useful for variety of conditions like skin disorders, cancer.

• Boosts the Immune system: Stimulates immune function by increasing the activities of killer cells. Thus is highly beneficial for dogs struggling with cancer.
• Fights Bacterial, Fungal and Viral Infections: This one of the powerful antibiotic and antibacterial effective in destroying various forms of internal and external organisms. Fresh garlic helps to fight infection of the throat, mouth, stomach and respiratory tracts. Crushed garlic diluted in olive oil can be applied as a topical antiseptic for ear infections.
• Lower Blood Cholesterol level: Uncooked garlic is beneficial in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels in dogs.
• Enhances liver function: Garlic has properties of detoxification. It prevents the accumulation of toxic substances which may lead to the development of cancerous growth.
• Cardiovascular Tonic: A compound present in garlic is beneficial in preventing blood clot formation. It also reduces fat accumulation in the arteries.
• Tick/Flea Repellent: The little buggers don’t like the taste of it. Garlic in combination with the brewer’s yeast acts as an effective repellent.

Symptoms of Garlic Toxicity

• Vomiting
• Breathlessness
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Increased respiratory rate
• Pale gums and collapse

Instant relief for dogs with joint problems and pain related issues. Proven and no side effects. 

About the dosage level

Garlic is good as long as you are not overdosing this

Recommended dosage

• 10-15 pounds: 5 cloves
• 20-40 pounds: 1 clove
• 45-70 pounds: 2 cloves
• 75-90 pounds: 2.5 cloves
• 100 pounds+: 3 cloves

Rotate the garlic cycle as one week on, one week off

Who Should Not Be Given Garlic?

Avoid using garlic for pets suffering from pre-existing anemic condition. Even the pets who are scheduled for surgery. Young puppies before 6-8 weeks of age should not be given garlic. Since they reproduce new blood cells only after 6-8 weeks. Moreover you should not give garlic to dogs with lupus or autoimmune diseases.

Which Forms Of Garlic Should You Use?

Overcooked garlic is likely to loose its medicinal properties and high percentage of its nutrients. Allicin, the compound present in garlic is unstable and dissipates easily when exposed to air, heat or moisture. Garlic in its raw form or garlic juice serves as a great nutritional supplement with desired results.

Garlic Is Good

I feed my dog with safe and beneficial levels of garlic. My vet knows about the level of garlic I use in jimmy’s diet. I take him for regular blood to ensure, he’s in peak form.

Treats are the best rewards dogs love to have. It shows your love and also serves as an encouragement to them in training or anything that they obeyed. Homemade treats are the safest for the dogs and all pets. Before you head out to the kitchen to make some snacks for them, know the difference between a treat and a poison. Not that you are giving poison or toxin to the dog but could be giving him the wrong food in the name of treat.

Treats That Are Real Treat

• Apples are the satisfying chew to the dogs with its crunchiness. It gives ample amount of fiber to strengthen the digestive system. The pectin in this fruit helps eliminate toxins from the body and also counter bad bacteria in the system. You can safely add it into the daily diet or dry it, bake it or use it in any manner. Just remember to deseed the fruits.
• Blueberries: Frozen blueberries are superfood for canines. The antioxidants, fiber content, vitamins, and minerals like manganese provide part of the daily nourishment. Introduce blueberries in dog’s diet in very little amount. Too much of berries all of a sudden could cause a leaky gut. Add it in the treats or frozen it for some icy licks in the summer.
• Carrots are another chew satisfying treat for dogs. It is best given raw than cooked. The crunchiness will satisfy the dogs and will also remove plaque from their teeth. Carrot treats are the best remedy for bad breath in dogs. The fiber and other nutrients in it are an added advantage.
• Sweet potato is yet another nutritious vegetable that is for the dogs to eat. It contains many essential nutrients as well as good amount of fiber.

Recommended Dog Foods

• Ketona Natural
• CannaPet Dog Foods
• Wysong
• Raw Wild
• Raw Paw Pets
• Chow Joy

Food Items That Are Poisonous

• Cakes, sweets pastries: Cakes, minty chocolates, and sweets are not their cup of tea. The artificial sweeteners and the preservatives added in them are poisonous to the dogs that cause immediate side effects. they cause the sudden drop in blood sugar level; causing vomiting, seizures, failure of liver and could even cause them go into coma. Even ice creams are added to this list of harmful treats for dogs. Xylitol in chewing gums, minty sweets etc are also harmful.
• Chocolates that we eat might be good for us but not for the dogs. It is one thing you must strictly keep away from dogs. Chocolate is a stimulant that can cause unnecessary diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, etc. The methylxanthines, caffeine, and theobromine in the chlcolate are the culprits.
• Sausages only seem a best reward for dogs. But in real, the preservatives added in this and the sulphites could cause thiamine deficiency in them. This deficiency if prolonged can even be proven fatal.
• Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs that cause immediate effects. the toxicity causes sudden kidney failure, that too within 48 hours of consumption. The exact reason is not known yet but the fact is it is dangerous to dogs. It is yet another item to be added to the keep-away-immediately list.

Recommended Dog Foods

• Ketona Natural
• CannaPet Dog Foods
• Wysong
• Raw Wild
• Raw Paw Pets
• Chow Joy

Soothes itching and irritation naturally. Safe. Nonallergic and free from chemicals.  Guards against repeated ear problems and infections.protects from bacteria.

NATURAL REMEDY FOR EAR INFECTION IN DOGS

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Equinox Mullein Garlic Ear Oil

Equinox Mullein Garlic Ear Oil helps in softening earwax, stimulates circulation in the ear, and ease irritation and pain in the ear. The herbal ingredients with including garlic, calendula, yarrow, and natural vitamin E oil addresses various ear problems.

Recommended Products For Dog Ear Infection

• Ear Care Gold Dog Ear Infections
• Ear Clean Gold for Dogs
• Derma Support Gold
• Dog Ear Care Solution
• Dog Ear Cleaner

Garlic oil is universal medicine for localized infections and infestations. Garlic is strong antibacterial agent and can also work against the fungus and mites. Ear infections in dog are the common disease of them. Though it starts mild, it can grow into chronic conditions. The best treatment method is natural and there is nothing better than garlic oil for the same. Garlic oil can provide the temporary relief and serve as a permanent solution. No matter what the cause of the dog ear infection is, garlic oil is the best answer. Let us see how it can help the dogs with their ear infections. 

Uses Of Garlic Oil

Garlic oil can be used to clean the dogs’ ear. It can kill the bacteria or fungus inside the ears. It is also capable of eliminating any foreign bodies inside the ear. Use garlic oil to clean the inside and exterior parts of the ear and the nearby areas. The oil can remove the microbes, dirt, and other objects.

Soothes itching and irritation naturally. Safe. Nonallergic and free from chemicals.  Guards against repeated ear problems and infections.protects from bacteria.

How To Prepare Garlic Oil

Garlic oil can be prepared at home with the simple ingredients. Peel 9-10 garlic cloves and clean them properly and wipe it dry. Slice the garlic cloves into slice pieces and add them into a clean and dry glass jar. Pour some olive oil into the jar and make sure the clove pieces are completely covered in oil. The glass jar should have some empty space at the top. Cover the glass jar with a cheese cloth or an airy cloth. The cloth should not touch the oil. Cover it tightly and secure it in place with the help of a rubber band.
Place this glass jar in sunlight for 5-10 days. The heat from the sun is enough for the infusion. After this curing period, remove the cover and strain the oil over several layers of cheese cloth and transfer it into another glass jar. Keep it aside for a day at least to allow the sediments to settle own. Strain only the top layer into another jar and close it tightly with a clean lid. The garlic oil for any ear infections in dogs is now ready to use. This filtered garlic oil can be kept in the dark, away from heat for a long while. It can also be refrigerated if needed.

Administering Garlic Oil

Garlic oil should be warmed before it is used. Just make it warm and not hot. This slight heat is enough to remove the infection causing microbes or for dirt. Use the garlic oil twice daily until the infection is treated completely. After it is cured, use this oil to clean the dog’s ear regularly. After pouring a few drop of this garlic oil into the dog’s ear, gently rub the base of its ear in circular motion. This will allow better penetration inside. It also loosens the dirt or wax in them. Use a cotton swab to clean the spilled or over flown oil from the ear.

Garlic oil can be used as it is for the dog ear infection or used with other suitable oil as natural ear drops for dogs.

While herbs have been benefiting humans for more than thousands of years, they are special for animals as well. Dogs, horses, birds or even small animals such as rabbit benefit a lot from herbs. If you love enhancing your garden, then here are some the best herbs for you that provide you double the benefit of both – beautifying your garden and delivering health benefits to your dog as well.

• Chamomile – Comes with anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-depressant properties
  Chamomile not only improves digestion but also eliminates bacteria or any other virus from your pet’s body. If your dog gets injured or is suffering from any flea bites, chamomile works in healing these wounds. It also reduces the inflammation while acting as a sedative. Puppies who chew on everything whiel teething can be difficult to handle. As per homeopathy, a tinge of chamomile can work in inhibiting constant chewing of everything. Do not use chamomile on pregnant pets. To prevent overdose always consult your pet.
• Echinacea – For a weak immune system, Echinacea works wonders
  It is famous for solving any issues related to urinary tract and lymph system. The antimicrobial properties can be found in the root but you can also derive them from leaves/flowers etc.
• Astralagus – The member of pea family, you can easily detect them from their leaves and dainty drops of flowers
  The medicinal benefits benefits your body by working as anti-inflammatory, lowers blood pressure, blood detoxifier and so on. If your dog is suffering from indigestion, then Astralagus root will boost the digestive process and make you grab that pooper scooper.
• Calendula – Ornaments your garden while assisting in bodily benefits as well both for you and your dog
  Myriad uses for calendula are visible that include anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. The herb is famous for its tumor fighting properties. It supports mucous membrances, gives a rich skin and luscious fur, aggravates the liver function and sppeds up any wound healing.NOTE THAT Calendula should NOT be used on pregnant dogs or other pets. The salicylic acid found in leaves and stems may be toxic to cats.

• Lavender – Freshens your mood by its intoxicating fragrance the moment you land in your Eden
  A combo of beauty and scent, this herb is a must have in your garden. However, the internal benefits are many. An excellent astringent, lavender supports the pet’s nervous system, healthy joints, respiratory tract etc. The anti-bacterial and analgesic properties soothe any wound or itch on your dog’s skin.
• Bee Balm – Also known as Monarda fistulosa, they are fanciful to your garden while working as a medicinal plant as well
  Not only your dog’s urinary tract but skin, digestive tract, kidneys, skin as well benefits from Bee Balm. Bee Balm leaves are famous for their anti-septic and anti-fungal properties. It also helps in expelling gas from your pet’s body.
• Thyme – Creepers of a kind, thyme leaves and flowers are all useful for any health condition in your pets
  They are first priority for those dogs who are suffering from poor digestion or respiratory tract disorder. They offer myriad help such as anti-spasmodic, astringent, release gas, fight internal parasite, expectorant and so on.It contains Thymol that fights any oral infection in dogs/cats such as gingivitis.

To Conclude…

Your dog is one of the most selfless creature you will meet. So it’s up to you to ensure that he stays healthy at all times. These natural remedies assist your pet in many ways than you can imagine. However for safety measures it is always better to consult the Vet before ingesting them.

We all know that essential oils really play a very great role in improving the air quality of your room, but do you know that essential oils are these days effectively used to take care of the furry families? If you haven’t ever considered using essential oils on dogs, keep reading this article further for more information. These popular essential oils will help your furry friend smell good and fresh and keep him stay healthy. But before you begin, make sure you consult with your veterinarian before using any natural product, including essential oils for your pet.

While there are many essential oils that are safe and effective for your pet, not all essential oils will suit your dog. Your dogs may be very selective when it comes to smell and fragrances. So here are some of the essential oils that even your dog will love. Just have a look

• Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil is used for dogs to stimulate circulation in dogs and it may also work as a natural flea repellent. You can also use peppermint oil for treating arthritis and dysplasia in dogs. My friend uses peppermint oil for his Pit bull to treat motion sickness when she travels with her dog.
• Spearmint: This effective essential oil is used to lose weight and is also good for diarrhea and nausea. Spearmint essential oil is also used for cats to treat gastrointestinal problems.
• Lavender: Lavender has been known for its amazing fragrance all over the world. It has been used in homemade sprays and for DIY shampoos for dogs. Lavender oil may provide immune system for allergies, insomnia, ulcers and burns. I use it for my dog to get rid of itchy skin conditions. Many people use lavender essential oil to calm car ride anxiety and car sickness.
• Roman chamomile: The analgesic and nerve-setting properties of Roman chamomile is known for treating muscle pain and cramps in dogs. Apply several drops (2-4) on that particular area, say ankles and wrists. Apply to the vital points. Or else directly inhale or diffuse. Some of them use it as a dietary supplement. You can use this essential oil for dogs in treating stress related issues.
• Bergamot essential oil: Bergamot has powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that help in treating bacterial ear infections. It also helps to get rid of ear infections caused by yeast. Make sure you do limit your pet’s time in the sun when he is on bergamot treatment as it may cause photo sensitization resulting in sun burn.

Things to be considered while purchasing essential oils

• There are several manufacturers selling essential oils in the market, which has become difficult for a common layman to choose the right essential oil. Many at times, people are misled. These following tips will help you to buy the real essential oils from the store.
  Always buy essential oils that come in purple, cobalt blue or amber glass bottles.
• Be sure to check for the label that specifically says “100 percent pure essential oil” and ”therapeutic grade”
• Check for the basic information like country of origin, how the oil was extracted and the names – both common and scientific.

Although we know that essential oils can effectively help in treating your dog’s infections and itchy problems, we have to make sure that none of these essential oils will harm your pet. For this, you have to know how to properly use them. If you are not sure of which essential oil is best for your pet, you can consult with your vet before using any essential oils or other natural products.

Turmeric for dogs!!! Like every other dog owners, I too had a Lab – oh sorry I have (when everyone of us thought that he might not be there for this Christmas), who is the part and parcel of our family. My little Sara has been his best buddy since Sara came to our family. I think Sara loves to be with him than being with us. Oh I didn’t tell his name. He is Ronny. Ronny has been with us since we shifted to Florida. He was only 6 when we brought him here from our old family friend – Uncle Sam. Life was going on so happily when all of a sudden we noticed our Ronny looking tired with sores that didn’t heal. At first, I thought this might be the hot spots or any flea allergies, but when no medications came up with results, I had to take him to the vet to know what exactly he was having. The vet confirmed that he was on stage 1 cancer. I felt like the whole world was turning upside down. I couldn’t accept his words and took a second opinion. He also said the same thing. So what next?

I am not going to lose this game. At any cost, I decided that I will never let him go from us. This was the time when new neighbours came to our colony. Mr. Sharma and wife Kaveri, from India. I heard a lot about Ayurveda from them. They said turmeric would really help in killing the cancer cells in humans. I researched about this for dogs and came to know that many dog owners have tried this and found great relief. Because I didn’t want Rony to go through surgery, chemo and radiation and bear the pain, I thought I will try something like Ayurveda. I thought of taking turmeric treatment for my Lab to see if there is any chance of hope. Her’s what I found after researching on the topic.

Turmeric For Dogs

One of the hottest topics in cancer research these days is the dietary flavonoid group. Doctors say that this is just a bunch of substances that are found in foods having beneficial effects against cancer. As we all know that certain food sources have a direct influence on developing cancer and hampering our general health. A report in human medicine with their numbers stated that about one-third of cancers in people could have been prevented with healthy lifestyle choices (this includes avoiding junkies and other processed foods).

Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines have been long known for the benefits of turmeric for the body inside and out. Curcumin being one of the naturally occurring flavanoids have very lox toxities. It is found in turmeric used in curries. Curcumin is interestingly beneficial for dogs. It is one of the core ingredients used in cancer supplements for dogs.

So is turmeric safe for my dog? Well, generally speaking, dogs are not feed with spices, but turmeric is the only spice that comes with this exception. If proper dosage is followed, turmeric is safe for dogs. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antimicrobial and anti-bacterial properties help to support the liver health, stomach issues, ear infections, kills parasites, prevents cataracts, provides allergy relief, treats cancer and depression.

How much should I give?

I searched for this and found that turmeric for dogs is available in both powder and pill form. I just add it to the morning drink. Rony’s morning drink includes apple cider vinegar. I also sprinkle some turmeric powder on his food. If your dog doesn’t love the taste and smell of turmeric, its better to feed him with a pill.

But if you are just going to start the treatment, I would recommend you to start off gradually. This is because your pooch has to get used to the distinct flavor. The exact dosage depends on the size of your dog. Start with one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon and increase in the same increment each day until the ideal amount is achieved. For instance; for a 11 pound dog, the ideal dosage would be a one-quarter teaspoon.

Turmeric for dogs: Conclusion

Simply feeding him with turmeric to fight cancer won’t give any results. Your dog should eat quality diet which is the key to any holistic health plan. When I started off this turmeric treatment, I made sure that my Lab has only home-made, raw food so that the turmeric becomes more effective. Last but not the least, make sure to buy high quality, organic turmeric to avoid pesticides and herbicides. This will help you and your dog to enjoy maximum benefits. Today, Ronny is as healthy like other dogs. I don’t find him sit lazy and tired for the whole day. He plays around with Sara and makes our home a real HEAVEN.

High Protien Dog food . The most balanced diet for your dog. All natural ingredients and Cost effective.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea can be used in dogs for treating various symptoms in a natural way. With this homemade stuff, you can give instant relief to your dogs suffering from upset tummy or stress.

Chamomile tea may be known for its various health benefits in humans, but do you know that chamomile tea can be used for dogs? Chamomile tea can be used in dogs for treating various symptoms in a natural way. With this homemade stuff, you can give instant relief to your dogs suffering from upset tummy or stress. Take a look below at how your dog can enjoy the benefits of drinking chamomile tea.

Recommended products for Dog Stress and Anxiety issues

• Stress Gold for High Stress Situations in Dogs
• Calming Care for Dog Anxiety and Stress
• Pet Melatonin

Chamomile tea contains some natural disinfecting agents that help to fight the bacteria causing upsets in your dog’s stomach. Chamomile is one of the most commonly used herbal remedies in dogs. It has a wide range of uses with numerous health benefits. It can be used as a tea or tincture and is really versatile. Following are some of the uses of chamomile tea in dogs:

• Chamomile tea helps to calm the digestive system, in case of improper digestion, vomiting or gas, you can give him chamomile tincture formula or tea to help soothe a nervous stomach.
• Chamomile tea is recommended for dogs with colic, gas and even stress. It also helps with itchy skin and minor rashes. Cooled chamomile tea can be used on irritated skin as a rinse. This is particularly a good idea in combating the effects of flea bites, allergies and minor infections. This chilled chamomile tea has a cooling effect and can be applied directly to your dog’s coat. After application, simply allow your furry-friend to drip dry. You can also add aloe Vera juice or peppermint tea to increase the anti-itch properties.
• Chamomile tea is useful for dogs with worms. It acts as a non-toxic treatment for long period of time. Its anti-inflammatory properties eliminate the risk of side effects.
• Also, chamomile tea helps in treating anxiety in dogs.

Chamomile tea for dogs – How do you administer it?

It is easy to treat your dog with chamomile tea. Just chill a cup of tea in the fridge. You can spray it directly on to the infected skin, or add it to their drinking water. Spraying on the coat will help with irritation, while adding it to the water helps to soothe his stomach.

You can add ½ mixture of tea with ½ mixture of water. You can raise the tea dosage if you find that it is helping your dog. If your dog doesn’t like drinking it, you could try freezing some of the chamomile tea water in an ice cube tray and let them lick it.
Once your dog ingests chamomile tea, it will kill away the nasty bacteria and help to soothe any irritation. It might take a bit longer to see the effects on his stomach but it will surely be cured.

Conclusion

Although chamomile tea is a great natural remedy to treat anxiety in dogs and those with upset stomachs, it is good to discuss this with your vet. This is a great way to take care of some basic irritations that dog experience and to really help them enjoy a better life.

High Protien Dog food . The most balanced diet for your dog. All natural ingredients and Cost effective.