Over the winter months you may have noticed your dog moving more slowly and not being quite so keen to go for walks or not wanting to walk so far. There’s nothing like the cold weather to emphasise achy joints or a spot of arthritis.
Giving your pet turmeric could make all the difference. Curcumin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, wound healing and anticancer activities. Studies have shown Turmeric can help reduce inflammation and the pain of aching, swollen joints. If your pet is on any medications, check with your vet before adding turmeric to their diet.
Golden Turmeric Paste
(Divide or multiply as necessary)
Ingredients
60g turmeric powder (preferably organic and best quality)
250ml of water (depending on make of turmeric you might need more)
1.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper*
68g / 70ml / 2.4oz raw cold pressed Coconut Oil or cold pressed or extra virgin olive oil
* a phytochemical in black pepper called peperine can increase the absorption of curcumin
Method
- Place turmeric and water in a pot and simmer on low heat for 7-10 mins, adding more water if paste if looking too dry.
- Remove from heat, stir in coconut oil/olive oil and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix well and leave to cool. Stir a few times while cooling to ensure the oil is fully incorporated into the paste.
- Place in chosen storage container and keep in fridge for 2-3 weeks. Can be frozen.
Dosage
Cats:
1/8 to ¼ tsp twice daily with food.
Dogs:
Small dogs should start with 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon per day
Medium dogs can start with 1/2 teaspoon per day
Large dogs can start with 3/4 teaspoon per day
Giant dogs can start with 1 teaspoon per day
Horses:
1 tsp twice daily with feed.
Note:
If stools loosen, reduce dosage until the gut has settled down, it’s a way of detoxing. Turmeric leaves the body quickly, so it’s best to feed smaller amounts a few times a day.