Superfoods for your pup

Boost your pet’s health by adding these fuss-free superfood toppers to her diet.
Pets Team 07 February 2015

 

WOLFBERRIES

Benefits: Wolfberries are rich in amino acids and antioxidants, which are said to improve your pet’s bodily functions, such as growth, metabolism and immunity. According to Dr Brian Loon from Amber Vet, these sweet, tiny fruits are also beneficial for eye conditions and age-related problems such as arthritis when appropriately prescribed by a veterinarian trained in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).

Cheat feed: The size and shape of the berries make them perfect as training rewards. Otherwise, entice your pooch into hydrating more by offering her water boiled with wolfberries—she won’t be able to resist the sweet, refreshing taste! “Prescribed doses [by TCVM trained veterinarians] range from 1 to 2g in cats and 2 to 8g in dogs. Diarrhoea may be a possible side effect,” Dr Loon advises.

 

PARSLEY

Benefits: Parsley contains chlorophyll, which reportedly has antibacterial properties. For this reason, it has been gaining popularity among dog owners who wish to freshen their dogs’ breath. The herb also provides a good source of vitamins A, B and C.

Cheat feed: Chop fresh parsley and mix a small amount into your pet’s food once to twice weekly. Do not overfeed, as too much parsley can act as a diuretic. Parsley is also not suitable for pets with kidney problems.

CINNAMON

Benefits: Reputed for its anti-inflammatory properties, this spice is said to be beneficial for senior dogs suffering from joint problems or arthritis. It may also help prevent diabetes by regulating blood sugar. “Based on a Wheeling Jesuit University study, sniffing cinnamon has been found to improve brain function”, shares Julia Szabo, author of six pet lifestyle books and a regular contributor for New York Post, Cesar’s Way and Dogster. “So if you're working with your dog on learning new tricks, definitely offer her a sniff of cinnamon before you begin your training session!”

Cheat feed:Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to your pet’s food daily. Cinnamon is not suitable for pets with kidney problems.

 

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