Every month I spend quite a bit of time deciding on what to include in my column, thinking about the most common questions and concerns that I hear about from pet owners in our community. In doing this, I try to provide helpful tips that anyone can use to improve your pet’s health and happiness. I’m impressed with the great lengths our community pet owners will go to ensure they are receiving the best information, products and resources for their pets.
This month, I would like to re-address some easy ways to increase your pet’s health in just a few easy steps!
Here are a few ways that you can improve your pet’s health and wellness:
Detox, detox, detox!
Twice a year, we all should be helping our body rid itself of toxins that can build. There are many ways we can do this ourselves, but what about our pets? Doing a detox helps clear your pet’s filtering organs, liver and kidneys, and helps move out unwanted toxins out through the skin. All pets need this, particularly those on medications, medicinal flea control, or who show signs of itchy skin. Internal Gold Detox Kit by Amber Technology, Detox Blend by Animal Essentials and Super Cleanse by Glacier Peak Holistics are three products I trust and carry at my stores.
Add some immune system boosters to your pet’s diet is easy
There are many natural ways to help your cat or dog’s system stay strong and defend against toxins in the environment. Cod liver oil is very high in Vitamin D. Vitamin D is a strong antioxidant, and we are most susceptible to being too low in this vitamin in the winter months. One of my favorites is Cod Liver Oil by Nordic Naturals.
Other immune boosters include Green Juju, a blend of organic vegetables combined with turmeric, ginger, lemon juice and bone broth. Bone broths, in general, are an excellent source of enzymes and probiotics, all of which help the digestive system stay strong. Kure, Answers Pet Food and Open Farm are excellent sources of bone broths that are formulated for dogs and cats.
Increase your exercise with your pet!
Not only is it great for you, but dogs love all of the stimulation that they receive from being outside. Diversify the walks, finding new places to explore. This allows your dog to experience new sights and smells outside of the neighborhood where you live, thus helping physically and emotionally.
For cat owners, look for interactive toys for you both, such as laser pointers or wand toys. Playing with your cat increases your bond and helps them burn extra calories while helping their cardiovascular system.
And don’t forget the food!
Remove foods with fillers and replace them with foods that only contain animal proteins. Does your pet’s food contain corn, wheat, sorghum, soy or the like? Look for a food that lists the type of protein, such as beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, or fish. Stay away from foods that are vague and list “animal meal.” These are not natural or healthy and add to weight gain and more.
Saving the best for last!
Vets now agree, our dogs and cats need more moisture in their diets. To avoid dehydration, which inevitably can lead to kidney issues down the line, moisture is extremely important to your pet’s diet. Do not rely on your cat or dog to drink water to fulfill their needs, as they won’t drink enough, so I talk to my customers daily about adding water to dry food or, better yet, adding some high-quality canned or raw food. This will help with dry, itchy skin, weight loss, kidney and liver function and more!
