Inflammation in dogs can be uncomfortable, painful, and hamper a dog's quality of life. As a dog lover and an owner, it’s important for you to know how to reduce inflammation in dogs naturally, as keeping your pet healthy and happy is not only their right but also your responsibility. Here are some of those ways you can naturally help soothe the inflamed tissues, and do what you can as a dog owner to sustain recovery without putting him on medication.
Most Common Inflammatory Causes in Dogs
Understanding what causes inflammation in dogs can help to control and prevent it. Common causes include:
- Injury: Sprains, fractures and other physical trauma can cause inflammation as the body tries to heal.
- Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections may result in either localized or systemic inflammation.
- Allergies: Inflammatory responses in the body can be set off by environmental allergens (pollen or dust) or some foods.
- Long Term Disorders: Problems like osteoarthritis, autoimmune diseases and inflammatory bowel disease typically keep creating inflammation.
Natural Ways to Reduce Inflammation in Your Dog
Your dog is experiencing inflammation, read here for natural approaches to dealing with it:
1. Adjust Your Dog’s Diet
How you eat can be critical to controlling inflammation. Try covering these healthy anti-inflammatory foods in your dog’s diet:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are found in fish oil and have powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
- Turmeric: Curcumin, found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease swelling and joint pain.
- Green Leafy Veggies: Spinach and kale contain immune-boosting antioxidants.
Avoid processed foods and chemical fillers, which tend to incite inflammation over time.
2. Use Cold and Warm Compresses
You can apply compresses to help reduce inflammation in even the worst cases:
- Cold Pack: Apply ice packs to recent injuries to reduce swelling and dull pain.
- Warm compress: The gentle warmth to treat persistent inflammation especially arthritis.
3. Gentle Massage
A gentle massage on areas of inflammation may help increase blood flow, lessen stiffness, and decrease pain. Stroke the animal with light pressure from your hands and consult with your vet on specific methods.
4. Incorporate Natural Supplements
Some supplements can also work against inflammation naturally:
- CBD Oil: High quality full-spectrum hemp CBD oil supports the Endocannabinoid System and may control inflammation and pain. Just make sure you are choosing veterinarian-recommended, quality products!
Full Spectrum Hemp CBD for Dogs and It is All a Hype
Full-spectrum (whole plant) hemp CBD has been known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has a broad spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes and amino acids that all work together to help your dog’s health. A lot of pet owners have reported good results in arthritis, muscle pain and inflammatory problems.
Important: Please consult your veterinarian before starting CBD or any new supplement to determine what the appropriate usage and quality may be.
How to Select the Best Anti-Inflammatory Products for Dogs
When choosing products that can naturally reduce inflammation, keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose quality ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric and CBD.
- Ensure that the product is made for dogs.
- Look for transparency around sourcing, manufacturing and third-party testing.
- Be sure to read reviews and ask your vet for recommendations.
Conclusion
Learning to treat dogs with natural anti-inflammatories can alleviate not only pain but the harmful effects of inflammation on your dog’s body. With a little dietary tweaks and natural treatments (ice/heat packs, massage, CBD oil), you may be able to ease your dog’s pain in a more compassionate and safe way. As with all holistic treatments, you should work with your veterinarian to create an individualized wellness plan for optimal care for your dog.
