Ensuring a Healthy Heartbeat: How to Support Your Dog's Heart Health

Hey dog mama! As the mamas to our furry friends, it's important that we keep their hearts healthy. Just like us, dogs can develop heart disease which can be a serious concern for their overall health and quality of life.

One common cause of heart disease in dogs is cardiovascular disease, which can be hereditary or develop as a result of aging. Other factors that can contribute to heart disease in dogs include obesity, high blood pressure, and a poor diet that lacks essential nutrients.

Heart disease may affect around 10% of our animals. That may seem like a low number overall until it’s your pet. As many as 40% of our pets may suffer with congestive heart failure (CHF).

Protect Your Dog’s Heart

Enhancing Your Dog's Heart Health: Tips and Tricks

Ensuring your dog's heart stays healthy is a proactive measure you can take as a pet parent. One of the fundamental ways to achieve this is through proper nutrition. Providing your furry friend with a well-rounded diet containing vital nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, and antioxidants can play a crucial role in maintaining their heart health.

In addition to a well-rounded, fresh food-based diet, some pet parents explore alternative therapies like essential oils, herbs, and homeopathy to bolster their dog's heart health.

Regular exercise and a healthy weight are equally important components in supporting your dog's heart health. Engaging your pet in consistent physical activities helps in keeping their heart strong and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Fruits and Vegetables: A Heart-Healthy Addition

Incorporating specific fruits and vegetables into your dog's diet can further support their heart health. Consider adding these heart-healthy options:

1. Wolfberries: aka the goji berry, antioxidant-rich and immune-boosting properties

2. Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, they can help reduce inflammation—a risk factor for heart disease.

3. Carrots: Rich in potassium and fiber, they aid in maintaining heart health and a healthy weight.

4. Sweet potatoes: A great source of fiber and beta-carotene, lowering the risk of heart disease.

5. Spinach: Rich in antioxidants, potassium, and magnesium, crucial for heart health.

6. Hearts: Like supports like—consider including heart as one of your protein sources.

Don't forget to add a splash of color to your dog's diet with these vibrant fruits and vegetables!

Essential Oils and Herbs for Heart Health

In addition to dietary enhancements, essential oils and herbs can also support heart health:

Essential Oils:

1. Cypress: Supports the circulatory system.

2. Ylang Ylang: May aid in supporting heart rhythms.

3. Frankincense: Reduces stress and improves circulation, vital for heart health.

4. Cedarwood: Calms the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting heart health.

5. Helichrysum: An adaptogenic oil supporting pressure and circulation.

6. Marjoram: Aids in muscle support.

7. Rose or Sandalwood: Supports the emotion of the heart.

Herbs:

1. Hawthorn: Traditionally used to support heart health and improve circulation.

2. Milk thistle: Known for liver-protective properties, it can also reduce inflammation and regulate blood pressure, supporting heart health.

3. Cordyceps Mushrooms

4. Bilberry

Supplements for Optimal Heart Health

Consider these supplements to support your dog's heart health:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduces inflammation and enhances circulation and heart rhythm, found in fish oil supplements.

2. Taurine: Crucial amino acid for heart health, regulating heart rhythm and preventing muscle damage.

3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): An antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and improves heart function.

4. Magnesium: Regulates heart rhythm and lowers blood pressure.

5. Vitamin E: An antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress, promoting better circulation and protecting the heart muscle.

6. Ask me about Standard Process supplements for your dog’s needs.

By implementing these heart-healthy options and consulting your veterinarian or pet health coach you can take proactive steps to support your dog's heart health, ensuring a happier and healthier life for your furry companion.

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