My poor Betsy is 16 weeks. Has had three uti(in the middle of the third), an ear infection, giardia and now she has a cold which I am pretty sure is not allergies as her eye discharge is thick. Has not turned into kennel cough either. Have never had a dog that just got congested with thick eye discharge without it turning worse but I guess it still could. Anyways, I really think she needs some help with her immune system. She is on probiotics and cranberry tablets right now. I got both from the vet so I am not sure if I can find those cheaper elsewhere(anyone have a suggestion?) and also would love the same of a good immune supplement. She is Fromm gold pup and will be going on Fromm grain free. Thank you!!!!
Need an immune builder supplement....
- Jan 28, 2010
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I use nuvet plus, coconut oil, fresh food (homecooked) along with Fromm (currently lamb and lentil and beef Fritatta), yogurt on occasion, nujoint.
Since you have UTI issues I would recommend this as well:
http://www.englishbulldognews.com/f...es/19915-resources-urinary-tract-support.html
Since you have UTI issues I would recommend this as well:
http://www.englishbulldognews.com/f...es/19915-resources-urinary-tract-support.html
Hi, welcome to the site, and congratulations on your new baby. I'm so,sorry you're going through all this with Ernie.
You are doing some really good things already to help her, the probiotics, and the cranberry pills are all great supplements for the immune system, and the cranberry is a great preventative supplement, but you have to first clear up the infections. Has the vet checked her out to see why she is getting so many UTIs? When Ernie pees, does she squat low to the ground, or touch the ground with her privates? This can cause dirt and bacteria to get into her private parts. Try wiping her area with a baby wipe after she pees to clean it. Most supplements that we take are also safe for dogs and can be bought cheaper from a health food store, or drugstore, especially cranberry pills, probiotic pills, omegas, etc. you can also ask your vet to write prescriptions for medications and antibiotics and fill them at the pharmacy rather than buying them from the vet, it's usually cheaper to do this. Fromm's puppy is a great food, as is all the Fromm's line, but it's protein source is chicken, and many bullies are allergic to chicken. My female Blossom is allergic to chicken, salmon and beef, and we switched foods 4 times before we found one she tolerated. We are currently feeding our guys Fromm's lamb and lentil.
Ernie's symptoms of congestion and thick eye goop could be a cold, but it still could be caused by allergies. Have you tried giving her a Benadryl to see if the symptoms improve? When Blossom and Dozer have had allergy symptoms, they also had thick eye goop. The use of antibiotics, steroids and other medications that the vet gives, do help with clearing up infections and allergies, etc but they should only be used short term, as they can cause other problems when used for long term use. Giving lots of antibiotics can cause immune system problems and yeast infections.
Boosting up the immune system is a good way of helping to fight these problems. I give our guys 2 Tbsps of plain unsweetened yogurt on their morning kibble everyday for the probiotics and digestion. I also give them 1 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar in their drinking water everyday. You can also put it in their evening kibble, ( don't mix it with the yogurt, as the vinegar will sour the yogurt), there are many health Benefits to ACV. ACV is a natural anti inflammatory, (99% of all diseases including arthritis is caused by inflammation in the body), ACV is also a natural anti bacterial and anti fungal, so it kills the bad bacteria in the body and boosts the immune system, which helps fight allergy symptoms, infections and parasites. You can also use white vinegar and warm water as a rinse after her bath to keep the skin and coat free of problems and conditioned. Plus it keeps them smelling nicer in between baths.
I also add 1 Tbsp of Coconut oil for the Omega Fatty Acids, these are good for the skin, coat, bones, joints, and also for the brain. You can also use Salmon oil instead, but I can't because Blossom is allergic to salmon. The other supplement I use is 1 tsp of Kelp, there are a lot of health benefits to using kelp, and it contains all the vitamins and minerals your dog will need.
You are doing some really good things already to help her, the probiotics, and the cranberry pills are all great supplements for the immune system, and the cranberry is a great preventative supplement, but you have to first clear up the infections. Has the vet checked her out to see why she is getting so many UTIs? When Ernie pees, does she squat low to the ground, or touch the ground with her privates? This can cause dirt and bacteria to get into her private parts. Try wiping her area with a baby wipe after she pees to clean it. Most supplements that we take are also safe for dogs and can be bought cheaper from a health food store, or drugstore, especially cranberry pills, probiotic pills, omegas, etc. you can also ask your vet to write prescriptions for medications and antibiotics and fill them at the pharmacy rather than buying them from the vet, it's usually cheaper to do this. Fromm's puppy is a great food, as is all the Fromm's line, but it's protein source is chicken, and many bullies are allergic to chicken. My female Blossom is allergic to chicken, salmon and beef, and we switched foods 4 times before we found one she tolerated. We are currently feeding our guys Fromm's lamb and lentil.
Ernie's symptoms of congestion and thick eye goop could be a cold, but it still could be caused by allergies. Have you tried giving her a Benadryl to see if the symptoms improve? When Blossom and Dozer have had allergy symptoms, they also had thick eye goop. The use of antibiotics, steroids and other medications that the vet gives, do help with clearing up infections and allergies, etc but they should only be used short term, as they can cause other problems when used for long term use. Giving lots of antibiotics can cause immune system problems and yeast infections.
Boosting up the immune system is a good way of helping to fight these problems. I give our guys 2 Tbsps of plain unsweetened yogurt on their morning kibble everyday for the probiotics and digestion. I also give them 1 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar in their drinking water everyday. You can also put it in their evening kibble, ( don't mix it with the yogurt, as the vinegar will sour the yogurt), there are many health Benefits to ACV. ACV is a natural anti inflammatory, (99% of all diseases including arthritis is caused by inflammation in the body), ACV is also a natural anti bacterial and anti fungal, so it kills the bad bacteria in the body and boosts the immune system, which helps fight allergy symptoms, infections and parasites. You can also use white vinegar and warm water as a rinse after her bath to keep the skin and coat free of problems and conditioned. Plus it keeps them smelling nicer in between baths.
I also add 1 Tbsp of Coconut oil for the Omega Fatty Acids, these are good for the skin, coat, bones, joints, and also for the brain. You can also use Salmon oil instead, but I can't because Blossom is allergic to salmon. The other supplement I use is 1 tsp of Kelp, there are a lot of health benefits to using kelp, and it contains all the vitamins and minerals your dog will need.
Here are some links to some great articles
English Bulldog News Forums - English Bulldog Allergies- Information, Treatment and Prevention
English Bulldog News Forums - How to Successfully Treat a UTI (Urinary Tract
Infection)
English Bulldog News Forums - Vitamin C Benefit For Dogs
Benefits of Apple cider vinegar
By Singing The Praises Of Apple Cider Vinegar on Jul 6, 2008 in Dr.Jeannie, Dog Health - Immune System, Dog Breeders Corner, Dog Heart Health, Dog Nutrition, Doggone Home & Garden Stuff
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider is known around the world as Mother Natureās miracle medicine, a powerful weapon in the war against aging and disease that is more effective than many high-priced prescription drugs. When God created this fruit He designed it be a food and a medicine!
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is golden liquid concentrated with the healthy goodness of apples. It contains more than 30 important nutrients, 12 minerals, over 6 vitamins, essential acids and several enzymes. Moreover, it has a large dose of pectin for a healthy heart, and thus, healthy as a whole.
Many vitamins, minerals and other nutrients and substances are available in ACV to improve the health of your dog. ACV can provide them with enzymes and important minerals, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine,
phosphorus, iron, silicon and other trace minerals. The vitamins contained in ACV are bioflavonoids (vitamin P), beta-carotene (precursor to vitamin A), vitamin C, E, B1, B2, and B6. Tannins from the crushed cell walls of fresh apples as well as malic acid, tartaric acid, propionic acid, acetic acid and pectin (fiber) are also contained in ACV.
ACV is cheap, easy to use and it really benefits our health in numerous ways. ACV can benefit both people and their pets. It is antibacterial and anti-fungal and gives the immune system a good boost. As a high potassium electrolyte balancer, it remineralizes the body and helps normalizethe bloodās alkaline acid balance.ACV is the natural king of skin remedies. It is wonderful for itching and scratching pets as well as a superb skin and hair conditioner. Good old apple cider vinegar either straight or diluted 50/50 with water can be applied directly to the affected area and allowed to dry. It will kill bacteria on hot spots, eliminate dandruff, rejuvenate hair, skin and help sweeten and balance the pH levels in the body. When giving your dpg a bath, shampoo, rinse, then apply ACV either straight or diluted, followed by rinsing with water. Notice, any residue shampoo will be washed out and you will feel and see an increased softness and sheen to the coat.
Apple cider vinegar is a powerful detoxifying and purifying agent. It breaks down fatty, mucous and phlegm deposits within the body. By breaking down these substances it improves the health and function of the vital organs, such as the kidneys, bladder and liver, by preventing excessively alkaline urine. Put a tablespoon of ACV in your dogās drinking water every day and you will no longer have those brown spots in your lawn from the dogās urine.
This powerful potion also promotes digestion, assimilation and elimination, all the while neutralizing any toxic substances that enter the body. Cider vinegar has been found to ..neutralize any harmful bacteria that may be found in certain foods. While dogs and cats do not have to worry too much about the bacteria in raw meat, if YOU are in doubt, you can pour a little Apple Cider Vinegar over thier raw meal.
Cider vinegar can also be beneficial for symptoms such as tooth decay and splitting of your dogās toenails, which can be symptoms of potassium deficiency. Potassium is essential for the replacement of worn-out tissues within the body. This mineral is also important to soft tissue repair, as calcium is to the bones and teeth which makes it a wonderful supplement for senior dogs.
Tests have proven that when potassium, in the form of cider vinegar is fed to livestock their appearance improves and their stamina increases.
Cider vinegar is thought to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis, as a supplement added to your petās daily water supply (or poured over the food) or with compresses soaked in hot vinegar applied directly to the joints. It is also thought to be helpful when used to treat allergies, osteoporosis, cancer, candida, high cholesterol, constipation, muscle cramps, colitis, diabetes, diarrhea, depression, dizziness, ear discharge, eczema, fatigue, kidney stones, kidney and bladder problems, metabolism, and stiff joints.
The supplementation of ACV has been known to naturally remove red tear stains from the inside out. It is also used by many to prevent fleas when used in a rinse for the dogās coat.
Recently, Dr. Louis Ducarre of Geneva, Switzerland, author of the fairly new book,Natural Cures, Natural Life states that when mixed with honey, apple cider becomes potent enough to cure cancer, heart disease and other deadly ailments .
Natural apple cider vinegar is found in health food stores. It should be a rich amber color with the āmotherā quite visible as sentiment on the bottom. The strength of vinegar is important. All varieties of vinegar contain about 4 to 7 percent acetic acid, with 5 percent being the most common amount. Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its tart and sour taste.
There is nothing beneficial about commercial distilled vinegars except for pickling, cleaning and disinfection āthey have no health value!
-ā-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coconut Oil V Fish Oils
They both are better your dogs health so which do you use for your pet and why?
Tell us your experience with oils. Here is a comparison of the top 2 used for bulldogs.
COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil consists of more than 90% saturated fats, with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). The main component (more than 40%) of MCTs is lauric acid, followed by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids). Coconut oil is higher in Lauric acid than most foods. The only other abundant source found in nature is breast milk. Lauric acid plays a large role in keeping infants from getting viral, bacterial and protozoal infections.
In much the same way, coconut oil can help your dog with specific ailments and contribute to overall health. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their anti-fungal effects.
BENEFITS
Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin
Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
Can also help protect your dog against skin cancer and reduce age spots
Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing
Immune System, Metabolic Function, Bone Health such as preventing osteoporosis
Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
Helps prevent or control diabetes
Helps reduce weight, increases energy
Aids in arthritis or ligament problems
VS
FISH OIL
Has omega3 fatty acids and these omega-3 fatty acids come in more than one form. The types found in fish, called DHA and EPA, seem to have the strongest health benefits. It is said that the omega 3 are fragile and likely wont survive in bags of kibble or maybe rancid before adding it so giving it yourself maybe a better option. Krill oil and whole fish also provide EPA and DHA that may be better absorbed, providing similar benefits in smaller doses.
BENEFITS
Reducing inflammation due to conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Regulating the immune system, boosting those that are suppressed and calming overactive immune systems for dogs with allergies or autoimmune diseases.
Aiding in mental development of fetuses and puppies, and improving cognitive function in older dogs.
Lowering blood pressure and triglycerides.
Providing support for dogs with kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Promoting weight loss in overweight dogs.
Decreased shedding
Adds moisture to dry, irritated skin
May be used to enhance your pet's appetite by adding an appealing fish flavor
Reduced Joint Discomfort
Renewed Energy
Keeping Blood Triglycerides
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefits of Kelp
Kelp is a recognized food supplement for humans. Now vets and advocates of an holistic approach to pet health recommend it for dogs and other animals. This seaweed is rich in natural salts and minerals, and it has a number of benefits for your dog's health.
Natural Dog Arthritis Fix
Thyroid, Adrenal and Pituitary Glands
Kelp is known for being iodine-rich. Thyroid problems are often associated with an iodine deficiency, and kelp as a natural source of iodine is a long-standing medical treatment for people with thyroid problems. The rich mix of iodine and other minerals in kelp makes it an ideal supplement to keep your pup's entire glandular system, particularly the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands, in healthy working order. This in turn ensures your dog's metabolism works efficiently, which is an important element in maintaining a healthy weight. If your pet has hypothyroidism, where the thyroid function slows down, kelp is recommended as a supplement to the standard thyroxine treatment usually prescribed by vets.
Allergies and Fleas
Anything which helps flea control is good news for dog owners. Diane Stein, in her book "The Natural Remedy Book for Dogs and Cats," says after three weeks of kelp supplementation there is a noticeable reduction in fleas on animals who have an infestation. This suggests that kelp repulses fleas and that using the supplement regularly is a useful addition to chemical flea treatments. Kelp also reduces itchiness in those dogs with skin allergies and improves the overall condition of your dog's skin and coat.
General Health
Kelp also supports many of your dog's other body functions. It cleanses the digestive system and keeps its juices balanced. Because it is high in iron it fortifies the blood, which then helps the heart to pump more efficiently. In older dogs especially it is recommended for strengthening the immune system, which can protect them from a range of diseases. Also, dogs on kelp supplements are thought to heal faster from surgery, because the amino acids in the seaweed support tissue repair. And it could help you and your dog to live longer. The Japanese have long maintained that eating seaweed is a source of their longevity.
Dosage
In her book "The Pet Lover's Guide to Natural Healing for Cats and Dogs," Barbara Fougere warns that levels of iodine in kelp are not always consistent. Too much iodine can give your dog iodine toxicity with symptoms such as watery eyes and nose, stomach upsets and lethargy. She says that kelp must be given in measured doses and not freely added to your dog's food. The dosage should be according to your dog's size. Maximum daily doses by size are 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2 teaspoon for medium-sized dogs and 1 teaspoon for large dogs. Avoid kelp harvested along the U.S. coastline as it probably contaminated with industrial pollutants. Deep ocean kelp and Norwegian kelp are considered the best sources.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why Kelp Is Great for Your Dog
Kelp has been touted as a highly beneficial supplement for humans for some time. It contains lots of vitamins and minerals, some of which are hard to get from other sources. But did you know that kelp has numerous benefits for dogs as well.
Feeding your dog kelp on a regular basis can do great things for his health. Here are some of the benefits you can expect to see:
Shinier coat and softer, healthier skin
Better digestion
Increased immune function, which means less sickness and quicker healing from injuries
Greater milk production in lactating females
Healthier puppies born to parents that were given kelp
Kelp is especially beneficial for glandular health. This results in greater balance throughout the dogās system, as well as less incidence of hyperthyroidism and other glandular disorders. The thyroid and pituitary glands directly affect digestion, so this explains in part why dogs that eat kelp digest their food and absorb nutrients better. They have a more efficient metabolism, too.
Dogs also need plenty of fiber to keep their digestive systems in check, and kelp is a great source of fiber. This keeps the digestive tract clean and helps prevent absorption of toxic metals. A diet high in fiber also helps fight inflammation, rheumatism, and the development and growth of tumors.
Puppies can benefit greatly from kelp as well. It contains many of the things they need to grow up healthy and strong. Kelp given to reproducing dogs will make birthing easier and result in better health and increased survival rates for their puppies.
Kelp contains over 100 nutrients that your dog needs. It is a wonderful source of trace minerals, including iodine, magnesium, zinc, copper, gold, cobalt, and selenium. Also found in kelp are high levels of B vitamins, as well as Vitamin E and C. In addition to these vitamins and minerals, kelp is also rich in amino acids.
The easiest way to include kelp in your dogās diet is to give him food that contains it each day. Kelp is also available in dried form, which preserves its nutritional benefits very well. There are also a number of kelp supplements in various forms on the market, but these vary in effectiveness.
Kelp has been called a miracle plant due to its outstanding nutritional value and ability to balance the human system. Including it in your dogās diet on a regular basis can improve his overall health and help treat a number of existing health problems. Whether included as an ingredient in your dogās food or given as a supplement, kelp is one of the best things you can give your best friend.
English Bulldog News Forums - English Bulldog Allergies- Information, Treatment and Prevention
English Bulldog News Forums - How to Successfully Treat a UTI (Urinary Tract
Infection)
English Bulldog News Forums - Vitamin C Benefit For Dogs
Benefits of Apple cider vinegar
By Singing The Praises Of Apple Cider Vinegar on Jul 6, 2008 in Dr.Jeannie, Dog Health - Immune System, Dog Breeders Corner, Dog Heart Health, Dog Nutrition, Doggone Home & Garden Stuff
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider is known around the world as Mother Natureās miracle medicine, a powerful weapon in the war against aging and disease that is more effective than many high-priced prescription drugs. When God created this fruit He designed it be a food and a medicine!
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is golden liquid concentrated with the healthy goodness of apples. It contains more than 30 important nutrients, 12 minerals, over 6 vitamins, essential acids and several enzymes. Moreover, it has a large dose of pectin for a healthy heart, and thus, healthy as a whole.
Many vitamins, minerals and other nutrients and substances are available in ACV to improve the health of your dog. ACV can provide them with enzymes and important minerals, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine,
phosphorus, iron, silicon and other trace minerals. The vitamins contained in ACV are bioflavonoids (vitamin P), beta-carotene (precursor to vitamin A), vitamin C, E, B1, B2, and B6. Tannins from the crushed cell walls of fresh apples as well as malic acid, tartaric acid, propionic acid, acetic acid and pectin (fiber) are also contained in ACV.
ACV is cheap, easy to use and it really benefits our health in numerous ways. ACV can benefit both people and their pets. It is antibacterial and anti-fungal and gives the immune system a good boost. As a high potassium electrolyte balancer, it remineralizes the body and helps normalizethe bloodās alkaline acid balance.ACV is the natural king of skin remedies. It is wonderful for itching and scratching pets as well as a superb skin and hair conditioner. Good old apple cider vinegar either straight or diluted 50/50 with water can be applied directly to the affected area and allowed to dry. It will kill bacteria on hot spots, eliminate dandruff, rejuvenate hair, skin and help sweeten and balance the pH levels in the body. When giving your dpg a bath, shampoo, rinse, then apply ACV either straight or diluted, followed by rinsing with water. Notice, any residue shampoo will be washed out and you will feel and see an increased softness and sheen to the coat.
Apple cider vinegar is a powerful detoxifying and purifying agent. It breaks down fatty, mucous and phlegm deposits within the body. By breaking down these substances it improves the health and function of the vital organs, such as the kidneys, bladder and liver, by preventing excessively alkaline urine. Put a tablespoon of ACV in your dogās drinking water every day and you will no longer have those brown spots in your lawn from the dogās urine.
This powerful potion also promotes digestion, assimilation and elimination, all the while neutralizing any toxic substances that enter the body. Cider vinegar has been found to ..neutralize any harmful bacteria that may be found in certain foods. While dogs and cats do not have to worry too much about the bacteria in raw meat, if YOU are in doubt, you can pour a little Apple Cider Vinegar over thier raw meal.
Cider vinegar can also be beneficial for symptoms such as tooth decay and splitting of your dogās toenails, which can be symptoms of potassium deficiency. Potassium is essential for the replacement of worn-out tissues within the body. This mineral is also important to soft tissue repair, as calcium is to the bones and teeth which makes it a wonderful supplement for senior dogs.
Tests have proven that when potassium, in the form of cider vinegar is fed to livestock their appearance improves and their stamina increases.
Cider vinegar is thought to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis, as a supplement added to your petās daily water supply (or poured over the food) or with compresses soaked in hot vinegar applied directly to the joints. It is also thought to be helpful when used to treat allergies, osteoporosis, cancer, candida, high cholesterol, constipation, muscle cramps, colitis, diabetes, diarrhea, depression, dizziness, ear discharge, eczema, fatigue, kidney stones, kidney and bladder problems, metabolism, and stiff joints.
The supplementation of ACV has been known to naturally remove red tear stains from the inside out. It is also used by many to prevent fleas when used in a rinse for the dogās coat.
Recently, Dr. Louis Ducarre of Geneva, Switzerland, author of the fairly new book,Natural Cures, Natural Life states that when mixed with honey, apple cider becomes potent enough to cure cancer, heart disease and other deadly ailments .
Natural apple cider vinegar is found in health food stores. It should be a rich amber color with the āmotherā quite visible as sentiment on the bottom. The strength of vinegar is important. All varieties of vinegar contain about 4 to 7 percent acetic acid, with 5 percent being the most common amount. Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its tart and sour taste.
There is nothing beneficial about commercial distilled vinegars except for pickling, cleaning and disinfection āthey have no health value!
-ā-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coconut Oil V Fish Oils
They both are better your dogs health so which do you use for your pet and why?
Tell us your experience with oils. Here is a comparison of the top 2 used for bulldogs.
COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil consists of more than 90% saturated fats, with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). The main component (more than 40%) of MCTs is lauric acid, followed by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids). Coconut oil is higher in Lauric acid than most foods. The only other abundant source found in nature is breast milk. Lauric acid plays a large role in keeping infants from getting viral, bacterial and protozoal infections.
In much the same way, coconut oil can help your dog with specific ailments and contribute to overall health. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their anti-fungal effects.
BENEFITS
Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin
Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
Can also help protect your dog against skin cancer and reduce age spots
Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing
Immune System, Metabolic Function, Bone Health such as preventing osteoporosis
Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
Helps prevent or control diabetes
Helps reduce weight, increases energy
Aids in arthritis or ligament problems
VS
FISH OIL
Has omega3 fatty acids and these omega-3 fatty acids come in more than one form. The types found in fish, called DHA and EPA, seem to have the strongest health benefits. It is said that the omega 3 are fragile and likely wont survive in bags of kibble or maybe rancid before adding it so giving it yourself maybe a better option. Krill oil and whole fish also provide EPA and DHA that may be better absorbed, providing similar benefits in smaller doses.
BENEFITS
Reducing inflammation due to conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Regulating the immune system, boosting those that are suppressed and calming overactive immune systems for dogs with allergies or autoimmune diseases.
Aiding in mental development of fetuses and puppies, and improving cognitive function in older dogs.
Lowering blood pressure and triglycerides.
Providing support for dogs with kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Promoting weight loss in overweight dogs.
Decreased shedding
Adds moisture to dry, irritated skin
May be used to enhance your pet's appetite by adding an appealing fish flavor
Reduced Joint Discomfort
Renewed Energy
Keeping Blood Triglycerides
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefits of Kelp
Kelp is a recognized food supplement for humans. Now vets and advocates of an holistic approach to pet health recommend it for dogs and other animals. This seaweed is rich in natural salts and minerals, and it has a number of benefits for your dog's health.
Natural Dog Arthritis Fix
Thyroid, Adrenal and Pituitary Glands
Kelp is known for being iodine-rich. Thyroid problems are often associated with an iodine deficiency, and kelp as a natural source of iodine is a long-standing medical treatment for people with thyroid problems. The rich mix of iodine and other minerals in kelp makes it an ideal supplement to keep your pup's entire glandular system, particularly the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands, in healthy working order. This in turn ensures your dog's metabolism works efficiently, which is an important element in maintaining a healthy weight. If your pet has hypothyroidism, where the thyroid function slows down, kelp is recommended as a supplement to the standard thyroxine treatment usually prescribed by vets.
Allergies and Fleas
Anything which helps flea control is good news for dog owners. Diane Stein, in her book "The Natural Remedy Book for Dogs and Cats," says after three weeks of kelp supplementation there is a noticeable reduction in fleas on animals who have an infestation. This suggests that kelp repulses fleas and that using the supplement regularly is a useful addition to chemical flea treatments. Kelp also reduces itchiness in those dogs with skin allergies and improves the overall condition of your dog's skin and coat.
General Health
Kelp also supports many of your dog's other body functions. It cleanses the digestive system and keeps its juices balanced. Because it is high in iron it fortifies the blood, which then helps the heart to pump more efficiently. In older dogs especially it is recommended for strengthening the immune system, which can protect them from a range of diseases. Also, dogs on kelp supplements are thought to heal faster from surgery, because the amino acids in the seaweed support tissue repair. And it could help you and your dog to live longer. The Japanese have long maintained that eating seaweed is a source of their longevity.
Dosage
In her book "The Pet Lover's Guide to Natural Healing for Cats and Dogs," Barbara Fougere warns that levels of iodine in kelp are not always consistent. Too much iodine can give your dog iodine toxicity with symptoms such as watery eyes and nose, stomach upsets and lethargy. She says that kelp must be given in measured doses and not freely added to your dog's food. The dosage should be according to your dog's size. Maximum daily doses by size are 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2 teaspoon for medium-sized dogs and 1 teaspoon for large dogs. Avoid kelp harvested along the U.S. coastline as it probably contaminated with industrial pollutants. Deep ocean kelp and Norwegian kelp are considered the best sources.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why Kelp Is Great for Your Dog
Kelp has been touted as a highly beneficial supplement for humans for some time. It contains lots of vitamins and minerals, some of which are hard to get from other sources. But did you know that kelp has numerous benefits for dogs as well.
Feeding your dog kelp on a regular basis can do great things for his health. Here are some of the benefits you can expect to see:
Shinier coat and softer, healthier skin
Better digestion
Increased immune function, which means less sickness and quicker healing from injuries
Greater milk production in lactating females
Healthier puppies born to parents that were given kelp
Kelp is especially beneficial for glandular health. This results in greater balance throughout the dogās system, as well as less incidence of hyperthyroidism and other glandular disorders. The thyroid and pituitary glands directly affect digestion, so this explains in part why dogs that eat kelp digest their food and absorb nutrients better. They have a more efficient metabolism, too.
Dogs also need plenty of fiber to keep their digestive systems in check, and kelp is a great source of fiber. This keeps the digestive tract clean and helps prevent absorption of toxic metals. A diet high in fiber also helps fight inflammation, rheumatism, and the development and growth of tumors.
Puppies can benefit greatly from kelp as well. It contains many of the things they need to grow up healthy and strong. Kelp given to reproducing dogs will make birthing easier and result in better health and increased survival rates for their puppies.
Kelp contains over 100 nutrients that your dog needs. It is a wonderful source of trace minerals, including iodine, magnesium, zinc, copper, gold, cobalt, and selenium. Also found in kelp are high levels of B vitamins, as well as Vitamin E and C. In addition to these vitamins and minerals, kelp is also rich in amino acids.
The easiest way to include kelp in your dogās diet is to give him food that contains it each day. Kelp is also available in dried form, which preserves its nutritional benefits very well. There are also a number of kelp supplements in various forms on the market, but these vary in effectiveness.
Kelp has been called a miracle plant due to its outstanding nutritional value and ability to balance the human system. Including it in your dogās diet on a regular basis can improve his overall health and help treat a number of existing health problems. Whether included as an ingredient in your dogās food or given as a supplement, kelp is one of the best things you can give your best friend.
nycbullymama
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@Vikinggirl I don't think Coconut oil contains Omega 3s.
I'm not for or against coconut oil, but want to point out one thing.. it has 14 grams of fat, 12 of which are saturated and 117 cals. per tablespoon. If used every day, those cals. are going to add up and put on weight.
Here's a link from the Harvard School of Public health about Omega 3's. It's a short article and reads like a FAQ. Omega-3 Fatty Acids | The Nutrition Source | Harvard School of Public Health
@bullmama Now I'm obsessed with getting all the info I can about coconut oil. It's quickly turning into a Saturday afternoon obsession and it's your fault..lol..
I'm not for or against coconut oil, but want to point out one thing.. it has 14 grams of fat, 12 of which are saturated and 117 cals. per tablespoon. If used every day, those cals. are going to add up and put on weight.
Here's a link from the Harvard School of Public health about Omega 3's. It's a short article and reads like a FAQ. Omega-3 Fatty Acids | The Nutrition Source | Harvard School of Public Health
@bullmama Now I'm obsessed with getting all the info I can about coconut oil. It's quickly turning into a Saturday afternoon obsession and it's your fault..lol..
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tyree213
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Research Colostrum, a wonderful & natural way to build up immunity.
Good luck & let us know what you decide on and how she does on it.
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