Garlic rules! As a woman who loves to cook for both my family and my dogs I am ecstatic to know that garlic brings an almost magical quality to my dog's home cooked meals. The health benefits of preparing human grade cooked meals for both my family and my dogs is only enhanced by that wonderful little clove with mystical powers.
For centuries garlic has been used as a blood tonic. There has recently been controversy over feeding dogs garlic. Too much can cause a disease called hemolytic anemia. Too much, means 50 cloves at one time - that is too much for anyone! Conservative use of one or 2 cloves per 50lb dog a few times a week has so many benefits. Now even the AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) recognizes garlic as safe. The AAFCO gathers information from professional toxicologists from the entire US and is responsible for monitoring the safety of animal feed products.
Let's look at some of the amazing natural health benefits of garlic. it has pronounced effects on multiple organ systems. For the skin, it makes its way through sweat glands and pores. Garlic is a very effective natural deterrent against fleas, ticks and mosquitos. With them being 10,000 times more sensitive to its smell than humans. How great is that? No more flea powder just human grade dog food with garlic. For the stomach, garlic triggers gastric juices for better digestion and promotes the growth of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract. It also has the ability to help regulate blood sugar and reduces cholesterol and triglycerides while purifying the liver by helping with detoxification. Garlic also contains the powerful antioxidant, selenium. Selenium activates enzymes, which protect against cancer. Cancer is the leading cause of non-accidental deaths in dogs. The National Cancer Institute has found garlic to be effective in slowing the growth of cancer cells.
In summary, we can see that garlic stimulates immunity. It has antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral properties. It also aids in digestion and detoxification
Whether it is garlic and people or garlic and your dog, the power of nature is seen again in the wonderful effects of garlic. The best way to receive these benefits is through eating a diet rich in whole, natural, unprocessed foods. Dogs, like people, live longer when fed human grade dog foods that contain vitamins, minerals and real ingredients like natural garlic. It is a simple thing to do to add to the health and vitality of your canine family! And it tastes great too!
Dr. Janice Elenbaas
Always remember, Health comes from the inside out!
