Why Senior Dog Owners Are Obsessed with This Ancient, Golden Spice
Turmeric (or Indian saffron) is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. Veterinary approved supplements for dogs often contain Curcumin – the active ingredient in Turmeric – because it acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Researchers and nutritionists are singing its praises as a medicinally effective herb for the mind and body of both people and pets. And while turmeric would likely benefit dogs of any age, its benefits are particularly pronounced for dogs over the age of 7 who have begun experience joint pain and stiffness.
As many senior dog owners know, joint pain and mobility is one of the most common signs of aging. Many owners first notice their dog is slower to get up from sleeping or not greeting them at the door anymore when they come home. Because turmeric and curcumin fights pain and inflammation, it’s is one of the most popular go-to supplements for senior dogs.
How Turmeric / Curcumin Fights Chronic Inflammation & Pain in Older Dogs
Short-term inflammation actually plays a role in keeping the body healthy by fighting off foreign pathogens. Long-term inflammation, on the other hand, is associated with almost every major disease including heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, dementia and various degenerative conditions. One study showed that the power of Curcumin in reducing inflammation may even match that of many anti-inflammatory drugs – without the side effects.
In particular, dogs suffering from joint pain and stiffness may see great benefits from turmeric.
Why It’s Not Recommended to Give Your Dog Turmeric from Your Spice Rack
While some owners simply add ground turmeric from their spice rack to their dog’s dish, there are a few problems with this method.
First, many dogs do not like the taste of turmeric. If you simply sprinkle ground or grated turmeric over your dog’s food, they may turn up their nose and refuse to eat it.
Second, and more importantly, turmeric is poorly absorbed by a dog’s body. Studies have found that two additional nutritional components have been found to greatly aid the absorption: the addition of 1) a healthy fat and 2) black pepper extract.
Because of the need for these 2 additional nutrients, many pet owners turn to a veterinarian formulated supplement that contains turmeric.
The Easiest and Most Cost Effective Way to Add Turmeric to Your Dog’s Diet
Since nearly all senior dogs are already given a joint care supplement such as glucosamine, for simplicity many owners find a formula that also contains turmeric, a healthy fat, and black pepper extract.
The formula we use and love here at iHeartDogs is the Project Paws™ Brand Advanced Joint Care Supplement with Turmeric. In addition to Turmeric, it contains 7 other active ingredients (such as glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin) that have been shown to promote healthy joints and mobility. And like any product sold from iHeartDogs.com, each purchase supports animal shelters.
As always, before starting any new medication or supplement you should consult your veterinarian. Turmeric is quite safe in healthy dogs, but may have restrictions for those with certain conditions like kidney stones or diabetes.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional.
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via Whisker Therapy