how turmeric can benefit your pooch

A holistic approach to health is centered around natural sources of preventative care. By taking care of our bodies and being mindful about what we put into them, we become healthier, avoiding and minimizing ailments. This practice of living a holistic lifestyle can be extended to our pets. One of our family's daily staples is turmeric. It's as good for our dogs as it is for us.

what is turmeric?

Turmeric is a plant in the ginger family. It is native to southeast India and is used in powder form as a spice in Indian food and curries. It is a natural dye (you'll find it in mustard), and it's flavor is earthy and bitter. The active agent in turmeric is called "curcumin," and is a natural pain reliever.

what's the big whoop about turmeric?

Turmeric has been used for healing in Indian cultures for centuries but is only relatively recently getting a lot of buzz in western cultures as a preventative and healing substance, mainly when consumed as a supplement. Clinical trials have recently begun, but turmeric is widely thought to have many preventative and natural medicinal properties. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and antiviral, and is even thought to aid in cancer prevention and treatment. Wikipedia states that:

As of December 2013, turmeric is being evaluated for its potential efficacy against several human diseases in clinical trials, including kidney and cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, several types of cancer, and irritable bowel disease. Turmeric is also being investigated for potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and other clinical disorders."

I'm not waiting for the "official" FDA approval. Since there are no negative side effects to supplementing with turmeric (unless you are allergic or have a blood-clotting disorder), it can't do me any harm, so why not? I have been using turmeric powder in my morning drink for nearly two years and have recently started my dog, N.A.S.H.A. on a small amount. As with any preventative treatment, results can't really be pinpointed with regard to what I may have been subjected to had I not been supplementing, but I can attest to it's healing properties. 

I have suffered for years from joint issues in my hand as a result of broken bones that occurred in 2007. My knuckles would be painful and difficult to bend and utilize, especially in the cold winter months. Since supplementing with turmeric, my hand has not been a source of pain. I also feel that as my workout schedule has intensified over the last year, turmeric has helped my body heal and repair itself, which is something that took much longer before I began using it. I prefer using turmeric to synthetic workout supplements. I have also noticed a drastic reduction in my environmental allergies, including hay-fever and non-lethal food allergies.

is turmeric safe for my dog?

Generally speaking, we should avoid giving spices to dogs. Turmeric is one rare exception. If proper dosage is followed, turmeric is safe for dogs.

what can turmeric do for my dog?

We've talked about the main benefits of turmeric that apply to humans and dogs alike. After looking at several sources, including healthydogclub.com and dogsnaturallymagazine.com, I've compiled what I think is a fairly decent list of the benefits turmeric brings to the canine variety (and to us):

• anticarcinogenic

• anti-inflamatory

• antioxidant

• antimicrobial

• antibiotic

• anti-inflamatory

• supports heart health (lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) levels)

• supports liver health and function

• aids in weight management

• helps with stomach issues and digestion

• prevention and control of ear infections

• prevention and control of sinus infections

• kills parasites

* prevents cararacts

• heals damage from diabetes

• aids in the treatment of epilepsy

• provides allergy relief

• treats depression

• treats diarrhea (is a binding agent)

• excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals

WHEW! That's a whole lotta good, if you ask me!

Turmeric's role in cancer prevention and treatment in humans and animals has been receiving a lot of attention lately. I won't go into detail about my political views regarding medicine, but suffice it to say that I'm anxious and eager to know what the results of recent studies are. Dogsnaturallymagazine.com cites a UCLA study that indicates that "curcumin (active in turmeric) can inhibit tumor growth and may even shrink existing tumors...(and) antioxidant properties are also helpful in reducing the negative side effects of chemotherapy."

It might be a good long wait to hear that turmeric is a preventative therapy or cure for cancer, but it certainly wouldn't hurt to give it a try in the meantime.

Dogsnaturallymagazine.com also reports that "turmeric boosts the liver's ability to metabolize fat and remove waste from the body," so it can aid in weight management. Although I have been working my butt off for the last year by working out intensely and consistently, I'm sure my use of turmeric supported my efforts at the very least. Through hard work and natural, healthy living, I've been able to shed thirty pounds. That's like three N.A.S.H.A.s! If you have an overweight pooch, this might be another benefit to consider.

how much turmeric should I give my dog?

Turmeric is available in pill and powder form, and the root can also be purchased fresh (best used in cooking). I just add it to my morning drink, which also includes apple cider vinegar, and I sprinkle it on my dog's food, so our favored form is powder. Some people and dogs don't like the taste of turmeric, so a capsule (pill) may be a better choice. 

When adding it to your dog's food, it's best to start gradually, mainly so your pooch can get used to the distinct flavor. What you start with and your ideal amount will depend on the size of your dog. The amount you'll want to work up to is approximately a quarter teaspoon for every ten pounds of body weight. Start with one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon and increase in the same increment each day until the ideal amount is achieved, then maintain that amount daily.

For example, my 11-pound dog's ideal supplement amount would be a one-quarter teaspoon. We started her out on one-eighth teaspoon and it went like this:

day one: 1/8 tsp.

day two: 1/4 tsp. Now we'll maintain that. Our pooch is pretty adaptable to my supplement shenanigans, but if your pooch is more picky, feel free to stay with 1/8 for several days. 

If you have an 80-pound dog, it would go like this:

day one: 1/4 tsp.

day two: 1/2 tsp.

day three: 3/4 tsp.

day four: 1 tsp.

day five: 1 1/4 tsp.

day six: 1 1/2 tsp.

day seven: 1 3/4 tsp.

day eight: 2 tsp. (Provide daily moving forward) 

FINAL DOSE: 1/4 tsp for every ten pounds of body weight.

are there any other considerations?

Eating a quality diet is the key to any holistic health plan. If you are feeding your dog a low-quality kibble, chances are the turmeric won't be able to compensate for the toxins entering the body. If you feed your dog quality kibble, homemade, raw food, or any combination thereof, the turmeric will be much more effective. The same goes for you (though I'm assuming you're not eating kibble)!

It's best to purchase high-quality, organic turmeric in order to avoid pesticides and herbicides and reap the maximum benefit. 

Turmeric can stain. It does stain. Be careful of counters, kitchen towels, and the like. If you notice your white doggy has a yellow mustache, turmeric is probably to blame. I've been told on a couple of occasions to wipe my turmeric mustache (by friends whom I've turned onto the stuff...we look out for each other). 

As with any new endeavor, please consult your veterinarian.

Just get started! You and your dog can do it together. And please come back and let me know your results!

Related:

Apple Cider Vinegar as a Supplement for your Pets

This article, written by me, originally appeared on Hybrid Rasta Mama. 

wordless wednesday: on the prowl

dog park etiquette: dos and don'ts

As if we don't have enough controversy in life, the simple dog park–a space where dogs can explore leash-free–is constantly being scrutinized. Sure, sometimes you get the wild canine that just can't control himself in such a permissive environment, but, for the most part, dog parents are to blame for mishaps. Just because all dogs are allowed in a dog park doesn't mean all dogs should go.

So, first off, how do you determine if your dog is suited for a freedom romp? Ask yourself a few questions before embarking on the adventure.

If your dog displays any of the characteristics in the "heel" column, it's probably best to stick to leashed walks until your pooch is better-trained. Introduce socialization with other dogs slowly, rather than throwing them into the lion's den, so so speak. If your dog displays all of the characteristics in the "release" column, she is probably a good candidate for an off-leash romp at the dog park. Regardless, it is best to use caution and make sure your dog is always in control. You want every trip to the dog park to be a safe and positive experience for both you and your pooch.

But once you're there, what's the proper etiquette? Here are some dos and don'ts:

DO

• Observe before entering. If any dogs already inside the park are exhibiting any of the "heel" behaviors, you may want to postpone entry until the troublemaker has left.

• Bring poop bags. Observe and clean up after your pooch.

• Remove your dog's collar upon entry. Unless you have a breakaway collar, it's best to remove it for the safety of your pooch and the other pooches at play. Teeth and paws can become tangled in collars during interactions, potentially causing serious injury.

• Make sure your dog is healthy. Just like you shouldn't go to work if you're ill, don't bring your dog around other dogs if he's contagious.

• Exercise your dog before entering. An overly-excited dog brings intense energy to the group, which can create conflict. 

• Work on commands. Periodically call your dog to make sure he is listening. This periodic "check-in" will help you maintain control.

• Make sure your pooch is in control at all times. Boisterous play is fine as long as other participants are game, but aggressive behaviors should not be tolerated.

Don't

• Don't set your pooch free without getting the lay of the land. Observe for a few minutes before entering to make sure there aren't any problem personalities (canine or human) in the park.

• Don't leave home without a poop bag. Even if your park has them, sometimes they run out, so don't rely on a supply to be there.

• Don't bring small children. Aside from being easily excitable, changing the energy at the park, small children may also be knocked over by boisterous dogs. The potential for injury for your child is high.

• Don't bring your female dog if she is in heat. Let's hope she's been spayed, but if not, do not bring her to the dog park. She will attract unwanted attention and possibly cause dangerous conflict. Not to mention an unwanted pregnancy, should there happen to be an intact male.

• Don't leave your dog's leash on. Aside from the fact that his new canine friends will snicker, keeping your dogs leash on is an opportunity for it to get tangled, as other dogs will likely greet you with excitement as you enter. 

• Don't be distracted. Do not get absorbed in your cell phone or a book. Your dog requires your full attention. Though you may be able to trust your pooch, you never know what other dogs will do. Always observe all interactions.

• Don't bring your dog's favorite toys. Your pooch might become possessive if other dogs play with his favorite things. Best be selfish and leave those special items at home, avoiding possible conflict.

Though the dog park can be a great place for a well-trained dog to socialize, it's not a place to take your dog if he or she has "issues," such as fear or aggression. It's best to work those issues out with a professional trainer before coming to the park. If you have any doubts that your pooch may not be well suited for a romp in the dog park, err on the side of caution and seek other forms of exercise and interaction, perhaps something in a more controlled environment. 

Do you take your dog to the dog park? What has been your experience?

should your dog sleep in your bed?

Did you know that about half of the dogs in the United States sleep in their humans' beds? It's true. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, 62% of small dogs sleep with their owners, as do 41% of medium-sized dogs and 32% of large dogs. We must have some gigantic beds to accommodate all of those dogs!

Why do dogs sleep with their humans?

There are several reasons, but mostly it's because they want to, and the feeling is mutual. Some dog owners truly enjoy the companionship. Some may invite their pooch in to avoid dealing with unwanted behaviors during the night such as whining or barking. And some feel more protected and safe with Fido standing guard close by, even if he happens to be busy sawing logs. There is a theory that having your dog in the bed isn't a good idea due to the notion that the dog might develop dominance issues and think he's the alpha of the house. Further studies have shown this not to be true. What's really happening? In most cases, dogs just want to be with their humans. Victoria Stilwell, star of TV Show "It's Me or the Dog," says we should take it as a compliment. She says that dogs will only sleep with humans and animals they trust.

Regardless of your reasons for allowing your dog to share your bed, if you decide to do so, make sure you start as you mean to go on. It's much more difficult to oust a dog from the bed after he's been established there than to simply not allow him there in the first place. That little puppy you just brought home doesn't take up much space, now, but how big will he get and how much mattress real estate will he occupy as an adult? He doesn't care how big he gets, but you might. 

What's so great about having your dog in your bed?

Well, who doesn't love a good snuggle? Dogs are soft and warm, and if bathed properly, super fun to snuggle with. They provide us company and make us feel safe. Some people believe that their dogs offer them better protection if they are in bed with them at night. Many people believe that their canines help them sleep better, finding it relaxing to listen to their rhythmic breathing. If you enjoy sleeping with your dog and he's not disrupting your sleep, then there's no reason why you shouldn't turn down the sheets for him.

Is there a downside to sleeping with your dog?

In some cases, yes.

theilovedogssite.com

If you sleep as a couple with another human, both have to agree that it's a good idea to have the dog in the bed. A disagreement in this area can cause some resentment, so it's best to figure it out before inviting the dog aboard. But what about intimacy? That's a whole other issue that couples handle in a variety of ways. Elizabeth Schmitz, author and love and marriage expert states, "many, many of our successful couples have pets, and many sleep with them...some put them outside the bedroom because they don't want them to watch...some give them a treat to distract them. Some don't mind if the pet stays on the bed." It's all a matter of personal preference. Most experts agree, however, that if your pet is coming between you, physically or emotionally, it's not a good idea to have him share your bed.

Another possible issue with allowing your dog in the bed is allergies. If you are allergic to pet fur or dander, allowing your dog to sleep with you can aggravate their allergies. In this case, the pet should probably be kept out of the bedroom. People with other environmental allergies may also have an issue. Dogs tend to roll and rub up against things, often picking them up and carrying them inside on their fur. A person with a pollen allergy, for example, may find themselves having an allergic reaction to the pollen on the pet's fur. 

If your pet disturbs your sleep, he should not sleep with you. It's important to our health and immune system function to get proper sleep, and pets can be a cause of insomnia. They move, scratch, lick, snore, and pass gas (ladies, your husbands might, too, but best not to kick them out if you can help it), often causing sleep disruptions for their humans. The Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center did a study that found that half of the participants had a dog or cat and 53% of those people with pets said their pets disturb their sleep in some way. 

Whether or not these issues are a factor in your bed are for you to decide.

Is there ever a case when a dog should absolutely NOT sleep in their humans' bed?

Yes.

An outwardly aggressive or dominant dog should not be allowed in the bed. Your dog should not feel that the bed is solely his territory. He has to share, too. A dog should also not be aggressive about the people in the bed. For example, if the dog is snuggled up with wife and husband approaches the bed, the dog should welcome him, not growl as if wife is his possession. Fido needs his own bed, in that case.

Another type of dog who should not be allowed in the human bed is a dog with mobility issues. Unless you sleep with a mattress on the floor, most beds are quite high and can present problems for dogs with joint issues, poor eyesight, or other injuries. A disabled dog can severely hurt himself by attempting to get on and off the bed. Stairs and ramps for just this purpose exist, so those with disabled dogs may want to exercise that option or get their pooch a comfy bed to put on the floor close by.

In summary, whether or not you sleep with your pooch is entirely up to you. As long as it doesn't pose a threat to your health or your relationship with your spouse, you have the green light. The more, the merrier, right?

how to find a great pet sitter

So you're in the market for a pet sitter. Scary, right? You're thinking of having a total stranger come into your home and care for some of the most beloved beings in your life, so, naturally, that task can be daunting, if not downright frightening. What can you do to make sure you find a great pet sitter?

As a professional pet sitter with over ten years of full-time experience, I've developed a few tips to help you with the process:

• Ask for a personal or professional referral. There are quite a few web sites on which you can search for care providers, but I prefer the good ol' fashioned referral. Ask your friends who have pets, and ask your vet and groomer. These are trusted "pet people" in your life, and they are more likely to steer you in the right direction than a random guess from a search engine. Ask your referrer why they would recommend the pet sitter they are suggesting. And if you hear the same thing from multiple sources, all the better! If you get different suggestions, call them all and see who you feel most comfortable with. 

• Make contact. Call or email the pet sitter. Do you get a good feeling from the person? Are they able to answer your initial questions? Check out their web site. Do they provide clear information about services offered? Do they have adequate experience in caring for pets like yours? If the answer is "yes," then they are a good candidate. 

• Meet and greet. Reputable pet sitters will offer an initial consultation, which is usually free. They will come to your home to meet you and your pets, get the lay of the land, and answer and ask questions. If the pet sitter is not willing to meet with you prior to booking, that's a deal-breaker.

• Actions speak louder than words. When your prospective pet sitter meets your pets, how does he or she act. Is the sitter comfortable around your pets? The sitter should be respectful and loving. He or she might ask about the "house rules" right away. For example, do you care if your dog jumps on the sitter? As a professional pet sitter, I follow my client's lead. If they are cool with the dog jumping on me, I'm good with that. If not, I respect the rules from the start. The person you're considering should be professional with you, yet loving to your pets.

• Take note. Does the pet sitter take notes during the consultation? It's a must. There are so many details to consider and remember, so you want to make sure the sitter you're hiring is thorough and writes down the specifics.

• Consider security. Everyone has a different idea of security, but make sure your sitter's sense gels with yours. Are they bonded and insured? How do they identify your house key? Do they drive an unmarked vehicle (they will likely be parked in your driveway while you're away)? Will they rotate lights and window coverings to give your home a lived-in look? These are some security measures to consider.

• Are they flexible? Most professional pet sitters have standard services, but don't be afraid to ask for something special like an extended visit or a visit during a non-standard time. Though it probably isn't reasonable to ask your sitter to visit at 3:00 a.m., and there may be an extra charge for special requests, your sitter should work to help service your needs. 

• What's included? Some pet sitters include "extras" such as dog walks, litter box scooping, medication administration, mail retrieval, etc., in their standard rate, as I do, but some do not. Many will be happy to provide you with a daily update or even an update after each visit, but some may charge extra for that. Ask what is included so you know upfront if you'll have added charges for services you need.

• The price is right. The saying "you get what you pay for" often holds true for pet sitters. I'm not saying to select the pet sitter with the highest price, but I am saying to be skeptical of sitters whose rates seem too good to be true. They probably are. A professional pet sitter's time is valuable, so consider that when making your selection. 

• References. Ask your prospective pet sitter for references. He or she should be able to direct you to multiple people who will give a glowing review. Think about the aspects of hiring a pet sitter that are most important to you, and ask the sitter's references about those things. 

Finding a professional pet sitter who is a great fit for your family doesn't have to be scary. By following these tips, you should be able to find someone who will love your pets as much as you do, and a partner in your pet's care you can trust for life!

Did you know it's National Pet Sitters Week? Do you have a pet sitter you love? Tell me why!

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