Enhancing Canine Nutrition for Senior Dogs
Why are we quick to strip away nutrition from our aging pets?
Why We Need to Prioritize Senior Dog Nutrition
Hello fellow dog moms! Recently, I had a heartfelt conversation with a friend whose dog is a senior citizen dealing with some health issues. Their appetite has been decreasing, and they've been resorting to a diet of chicken only to encourage their dog to eat. However, chicken alone won't provide the necessary nutrition for their overall health and certainly not recovery There’s no real nutrition there.
While chicken or chicken and rice might get food into them, it shouldn't be their daily diet. Even Chicken and Rice with Peas and Carrots is not a good recipe. It won't provide the essential nutrients their bodies need to heal and thrive. There are various options available—consider probiotics, vitamins, minerals, and even ground turkey or pork if chicken isn't a favorite.
We all want our dogs to eat, but sometimes they refuse food that they know won't make them feel better. Did you know there are techniques like "muscle testing" to figure out what our dogs need and will eat? It's fascinating how it works!
Exploring Chinese Medicine Insights for Senior Dogs
Let's keep it straightforward, just like a dog's instincts. Chinese Medicine offers valuable insights into senior dog nutrition. Imagine foods that warm their bones—lamb, venison, stews, yum! As dogs age, they slow down, becoming more "Yin" according to Chinese Medicine. This means they need warmer and heartier foods, especially in colder weather. This may mean cooking or a dog that once loved raw.
Incorporate ginger and turmeric for those achy joints, and toss in some root veggies for added comfort.
Unraveling the Protein Puzzle for Senior Dogs
Hold on, the idea that senior dogs need less protein might not be entirely accurate. In fact, our senior pups might require more protein to maintain muscle mass and stay lean! Let's offer a variety of protein sources like eggs, fish, dairy, poultry, and meats to keep them excited about mealtime.
Your dog may have a hard time eating enough volume of food so we may need to explore how to increase calories.
Enhancing Senior Dog Health with Supplements
As our dogs age, it's essential to consider supplements. Joint supplements, Mushrooms, Omega-3s, Probiotics, and Digestive Enzymes can be beneficial. But we may also need to explore supplements that support muscle health. However, the best supplement you can give your senior dog, especially if they're still on kibble, is fresh, real food and a whole-food vitamin-mineral supplement.
We have options to support senior cognitive decline, muscle loss, immunity and pain management with functional foods, supplements, and herbs.
Embracing Natural Senior Dog Care
Beyond dietary changes, let's discuss natural care options. Essential oils, homeopathy, and toxin elimination can significantly contribute to our senior dog's well-being. Being proactive about their health and utilizing natural approaches can make a significant difference. Even if they seem to be getting finicky, we have options!
Essential oils, Homeopathy and other natural modalities can be combined to support the senior.
Nutrition is everything.
See My Guide on Caring for the Senior Dog Naturally