Our pet’s diet and nutrition are so important to us because we want our furbabies to be their healthy, best selves! Wholesome food and supplements can contribute to a longer life for them. Every pet has different dietary needs so thankfully there are endless options available when it comes to their food. Many dogs and cats have hard kibbles included in their diet. The convenience of kibbles is what owners love most. To provide more health benefits, owners can spruce up their pet’s food with some added natural ingredients!
When it comes to healthy oils, coconut oil is known as the “mother of all oils”. Humans are always using it for nearly everything whether it’s applied topically or orally. Virgin coconut oil is just as incredible when used for dogs! The secret superfood ingredient in coconut oil are the Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT), which is fat. BUT healthy fat, nonetheless (yes fat can be healthy!). This fatty oil supports digestion, strengthening the immune system, and helps the fur look extra flawless. Dogs who are fighting off an infection could also benefit from this oil as its known to help prevent and treat them. The list of benefits goes on and on. Your dog most likely won’t be refusing any coconut oil added to their food bowls. It’s an oil that’s actually tasty and most will enjoy gobbling it up. A win-win situation. Adding about a teaspoon to your dog’s kibbles will provide them with a beneficial, tasty meal.
It doesn’t stop at coconut oil- there are more excellent oils to be added to your pet’s diet! Fish oil, such as salmon oil, is just as packed with benefits. Fish oil is most known for the high amount of omega 3 fatty acids it contains. A dog thrives off of this supplement because of the positive effects it has on their bodies and mind. Omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties so fish oil is especially important for your pup with allergies and itchy skin. Studies have shown that they keep your four-legged friends healthy by fighting off kidney disease, heart disease, and overall inflammation. Some JenLovesPets clients will have us put a fish oil capsule plopped into their food or in a pill pocket. Fish oil is a common supplement for dogs and cats to have added to their meal plan.
Preventing your pet from begging for your human food is always a good practice. Sometimes it’s difficult not to give in to those puppy dog eyes but feeding scraps to your dog will lead to begging tendencies to form. However, mixing in certain “people food” into your dog’s kibble can be a way to make their food more nutritious and delicious! Some steamed veggies such as carrots, peas, and broccoli thrown into the mix is a great way to add more fiber. Make sure the veggies are not too hot when serving to your pups because you don’t want them to burn their mouths! Fresh whole grains such as brown rice or potatoes are popular mix-ins as well. They’re known for helping with upset stomachs and providing energy and minerals for your dogs. Healthy carbs for the win! Not only are these foods healthy for us humans but we can share them with our pets to make them healthy too!
Probiotics are the perfect supplement when it comes to the gut and tummy. It’s common for both humans and dogs to have some form of probiotics. There are probiotics pills specifically designed for dogs and their bodies. These are particularly appealing for dogs that tend to have tummy issues and need a boost with the health of their gut. Goat milk and kefir are foods naturally packed with probiotics that could be a fun way to mix in with your pet’s kibbles. Their tummies will be healthy and thriving!
There are so many more fun ways to play around with your pet’s meals and make them as healthy and natural as possible! Of course, this is dependent on your pet’s personal needs and it’s always recommended to speak with the vet before introducing new supplements into their diets. What are some other things you add to your fur babies meals? Let us know!
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