7 Bits About Optimizing Your Dog’s Health
There’s a great article in the 2015 Annual Natural Dog magazine entitled, “15 Natural Tips to Optimize Your Dog’s Health.” Seven are particularly interesting, so I will share them with you here.
- Good food: Feed your dog food that has natural ingredients, such as whole animal protein sources, anti-oxidants, herbs & botanicals, and natural preservatives, such as vitamins C and E.
- Boost immunity with blueberries: Blueberries contain a phytochemical compound that can fight cancer. One TBSP per 10 lbs. of dog per day is all you need.
- Detoxify his environment: Dogs roll around on the floor and outdoors, making them more vulnerable to chemical household products. Opt for natural cleaners like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Use pet-safe bug repellents.
- Trim his nails: Long nails throw off the pet’s posture and can cause back problems. Long nails misalign the wrist joints, elbows, shoulders, and then the spine.
- Be smart about vaccines: Other than the rabies vaccine, which is usually required by law, the other vaccines available might not be necessary. Ask for titer tests to evaluate your dog’s immunity to various illnesses and vaccinate accordingly.
- Soothe him with music: Dogs have definite musical tastes, according to researchers. Classical music might calm him. Heavy metal might aggravate him. Your dog will usually react to the music you play in a way that will tell you what he likes.
- Watch his weight: One of the best ways to stay healthy, for your dog and yourself, is to maintain a healthy weight. Trimmer dogs live 15% longer and have fewer ailments during their lifetime. This means less heartache for you and a fatter wallet.
So, there you have it. Seven ways to keep your dog healthy that you might not have already considered. Now, go hug your dog (and don’t leave him in the car).
Ann Silverthorn writes about a wide variety of topics in numerous genres. She’s currently working on a biography of William E. Dimorier (1871-1951), a nearly forgotten poet and educator, who dedicated his life to the betterment of young people.
Twitter: @annsilverthorn
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