Like humans, our pets are exposed to a wide variety of toxins every day that can affect their health. Insecticides, chlorinated water, pollution, commercial flea collars, second-hand smoke and a highly processed diet filled with artificial preservatives all affect our pet’s health. All this exposure to toxins compromises our pet’s immune system, making it difficult for them to fight any disease or illness. Plus, the food we give them is not always the best for their bodies.
Our lifestyle affects our animal’s health as much as it affects our own health. If pets are not getting enough of the right foods and exercise, it makes it difficult for them to eliminate toxins and reduce body fat from their body, leading to a sluggish metabolism. The first step is to take a look at the food label from the food you are feeding your pet. Commercially prepared food is highly processed and often full of chemical substances that you may not even be able to pronounce, offering very little nutrition. Toxins can build up in our pet’s bodies, causing long-term behavioral and health issues.
NATURAL REMEDIES
Helping your pet to detox is an effective way to support your pet’s natural purification and process of elimination. Removing toxins on a regular basis will help:
• Maintain healthy thyroid
• Support liver function
• Aid in the digestive process
• Support metabolism
• Process fat from their diet
• Increase bile production for a healthier pet
Homeopathic medicine and herbal remedies can help your pet stay healthy all year round. Look for a formula that offers detox support using capsules that are easily digested and processed. The herbs to look for include:
Bladderwrack – is a sea vegetable that is a concentrated source of minerals including potassium, magnesium, iodine, calcium and iron. It helps support thyroid hormone production needed for a healthy metabolism, and acts as a tonic for coat and skin condition. Check to make sure it comes from a reputable company that harvests this sea vegetable in uncontaminated areas.
Aloe Ferox – helps the body break down fat and maintain healthy bile flow, supporting regular bowel movements. It is rich in nutrients, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
Alfalfa – is known for supporting fluid balance while cleansing the body and helping maintain bowel movements.
Burdock – is known for being a blood purifier to cleanse the body. It also helps maintain normal blood sugar levels, aids in digestion and supports the immune system.
Dandelion – is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and supports liver function, urine excretion and gall bladder function.
The herbs can be mixed right in with their food instead of trying to get your pet to swallow the capsules. Always follow label directions and check with your veterinarian for recommendations. Results will vary depending on the health of your pet, diet and exercise; however you should begin to notice increased energy levels, vitality and a healthier coat.
What Else Can You Do?
• Make sure you pet is eating high-quality food, preferably organic
• Give them filtered water
• If your pet does not eat their food, remove it and let them fast briefly – it actually gives the internal organs a rest
• Keep them away from chemicals as much as possible, including pesticides, commercial flea collars and second-hand smoke, which is just as harmful to our pets as it is to us
• Find a holistic veterinarian that will not over-vaccinate your pet and stress out their immune system
• Make sure water and food bowls are made of stainless steel, porcelain or glass
• DO NOT FEED your pet chocolate – it is toxic to them
• Exercise your pet daily
• Cook all food in stainless steel pans
When toxins build up in our pets, symptoms and diseases can develop. A weakened immune system, digestive problems, lethargy, urinary tract infections, weight gain and skin problems make it difficult for them to get rid of toxins. Do all you can to detox your pet regularly and feed them high quality food so they can function at optimum health.
Photo: Courtesy of ocean yamaha via Flickr (CC by 2.0)
