Imagine a vibrant, nutrient-rich superfood that not only boosts your dog’s health but also enhances their vitality and longevity. Enter spirulina for dogs, a remarkable blue-green algae that has taken the pet wellness world by storm. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, spirulina is a powerhouse of nutrition that can transform your furry friend’s well-being.
As pet owners increasingly gravitate towards natural solutions, discovering the myriad benefits of spirulina can empower you to elevate your dog’s diet and overall health. Let’s delve into why this superfood deserves a spot in your pet’s bowl!
One of the primary benefits of spirulina for dogs is its ability to boost the immune system. An *animal study reveals that spirulina can modulate both the mucosal and systemic immune responses in dogs. With an enhanced immune status, dogs are better equipped to fight off infections and diseases.
In addition to immune support, spirulina can significantly improve your dog’s skin and coat health. Its high content of essential fatty acids helps maintain skin hydration and promotes a shiny, healthy coat. For many pet owners, the visible improvements in their dog’s appearance are a compelling reason to incorporate spirulina into their diet.
The protein content in spirulina is another significant advantage. Containing up to 70% protein, spirulina includes essential amino acids vital for muscle development and overall health. This makes it an excellent supplement for active dogs and puppies that require extra nutrients for growth and energy.
When introducing spirulina for dogs, proper dosage and administration are essential for maximizing its benefits. The recommended amount of spirulina depends on your dog’s size and weight.
Generally, a small dog may require about 1/2 teaspoon daily, while larger breeds might need up to 1 tablespoon. It’s important to start with a smaller dose and gradually increase it to monitor your dog’s response.
Spirulina is available in various forms, including powder, tablets, and chews. Many pet owners find that the powder form is the most palatable and easiest to mix into their dog’s food. When incorporating spirulina into your dog’s diet, consider mixing it with their regular food or treats to make the transition smoother.
Spirulina can be particularly beneficial for dogs with specific health issues. For dogs suffering from allergies, spirulina’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Additionally, dogs with skin problems can benefit from spirulina’s ability to promote healing and enhance skin health.
Moreover, spirulina may support dogs with digestive issues. Its nutrient-rich profile can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall health.
Suggested Reading: Spirulina for Kids: A Superfood for Growing Bodies and Minds
While spirulina is generally safe for dogs, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Some dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting, especially when first introduced to spirulina. To minimize risks, always start with a small dose and gradually increase it while monitoring your dog for any adverse reactions.
If your dog shows persistent symptoms or experiences severe side effects, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and determine if spirulina is a suitable supplement for your pet.
Many dog owners have reported positive experiences after incorporating spirulina into their pets’ diets. Owners often note increased energy levels, improved coat quality, and enhanced overall health.
A 6-week **study evaluated the palatability and owners’ perceptions of increasing amounts of spirulina tablets in client-owned dogs and cats. Overall, the animals accepted the spirulina supplementation well, with no significant side effects observed. Many owners, particularly those with senior dogs, expressed a willingness to continue incorporating Spirulina into their pets’ diets in the future.
These testimonials highlight spirulina’s effectiveness as a supplement for dogs, reinforcing its status as a superfood in canine nutrition.
Before introducing any new supplement, including spirulina, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your dog’s specific health needs and dietary requirements. Discussing spirulina with your vet ensures that you make the best choices for your pet’s health.
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Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours, or in the refrigerator overnight
3 1/2 cups filtered water
1 vanilla bean, insides scraped out
1 teaspoon Blue Majik powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 Medjool dates
Directions:
1. Once cashews have soaked for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator, drain and rinse well.
2. Blend all ingredients in high-speed blender for 1-2 minutes until well blended. Store in refrigerator in airtight bottle or mason jar. Mylk will keep for 3-4 days.
Makes about 3 1/2 cups
Check out other beautiful creations by Alison Griśe Wu (food, prop, wardrobe stylist and blogger) at WuHaus.com
*website not associated with E3Live
Ingredients:
2 cups ground almonds*
2 tablespoons date paste**
3 medium ripe peaches (or apple or nectarines)
(set aside a few thin slices of these for garnish)
1/2 tsp Blue Majik
How to prepare:
1. Put 2 of the peaches in either a food processor or blender to puree.
2. Dice 1 peach into 1⁄4" cubes.
3. Combine all ingredients in big bowl. You can put into a cylinder mold of desired shape and sprinkle almond and cinnamon on top.
4. Garnish top with peach slices. Makes 4 servings.
*how to: ground almonds
2 quarts or more unpasteurized organic raw almonds
1. Soak almonds overnight in filtered water.
2. Drain and put on dehydrator trays for 24-36 hours until dry.
3. Store in airtight container and use as needed for recipes.
4. Skip the soaking and dehydrating if you don't have a dehydrator.
**how to: date paste
25 Medjool dates
1. Pit dates and soak for 1⁄2 hour.
2. Drain and put in food processor.
3. Blend until smooth with no chunks (may need to add water if too thick).
4. Store in fridge.
Ingredients:
1 heaped teaspoon E3Live Blue Majik powder
1 cup almond & brazil nut milk
*2 frozen bananas, sliced ** 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)4 dates, pitted
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Pinch sea salt
How to prepare:
Blend all ingredients together and in a high speed blender and serve.
*To make almond & brazil nut milk place a 1/3 cup mix of almonds and brazil nuts into a high speed blender with 1 cup of water and blend. Strain through a nut milk bag or strainer.
**For frozen bananas - peel them and place in a ziplock bag overnight.
Recipe by Rowena Jayne, Leading International Yoga InstructorRaw Food Chef, Naturopath, NutritionistSpeaker, Writer, Model, www.rowenajayne.com*
*website not associated with E3Live Canada
Ingredients:
1 frozen banana
1 1/2 cup pineapple
1/2 mango (optional)
2 limes (peeled)
1 serving Blue Majik (1/2 tsp)
dash of cayenne
pinch of Celtic sea salt
1 cup ice1/2 cup water
Blend and Enjoy!
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups almond milk pulp, strained (OR 1 cup ground almonds mixed with enough almond milk to create a wet 'paste' in the food processor–less smooth in texture, but it is an adequate substitute)
3/4 cup dried, unsweetened shredded coconut
1/3 cup agave, honey or maple syrup
1 generous pinch salt
Scrapings of 1 vanilla bean, OR 1 tsp real vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons Blue Majik (depending on desired color)
Instructions:
1. Blend all ingredients together in a food processor until they form a dough. Add a little more agave or some almond milk if the mixture is too thick.
2. Line a dehydrator sheet with Teflex and scoop the macaroons out by round tablespoons onto the sheet. Dehydrate at 115 degrees for 6 hours, or until macaroons hold together well but are still a little soft. Enjoy!
Additional topping:
To add a chocolate drizzle or to dip the bottoms of your cookies use the following recipe:
1/4 Cup Cacao Powder
3 Tbsp. Maple Syrup
2 Tbsp. Warmed Coconut Oil
Combine all ingredients and use to decorate the cookies.
Makes: 18-20 Macaroons
Ingredients:
2 frozen bananas
1/2 avocado
1 tsp Blue Majiko
Optional sweetener: 2 pitted dates
Water - as needed for smooth blending, start with 1 Tbs.
How to prepare:
Blend all ingredients until desired consistency, add more water (or ice) as needed to get an ice cream thickness.
Ingredients:
1.5 cups almonds
1 cup dates
4 bananas
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup shredded coconut
1 capsule Blue Majik
1 pinch vanilla powder
How to prepare:
1. In a food processor combine the almonds and dates. Process until sticky.
2. Pack this mixture into a 9 inch pie plate.
3. In a bowl combine the rest of the ingredients except the coconut. With your hand lightly mash the ingredients.
4. Add 1/2 of the shredded coco and mix with banana mash. Be careful not to over mix. It should be chunky.
5. Put the banana mixture into the pie crust and evenly spread out.
6. Top with the remaining coconut and garnish with fresh blueberries. Eat immediately.
For crust:
2 cups ground almonds
*1⁄2 cup date paste**
For filling:
6 oz fresh blueberries (or berries of your choice)
11 Fuji apples peeled
2 tablespoons date paste, (or more to taste)
2 tsps Blue Majik
Make Crust
1. Put almonds in bowl and mix with date paste using a fork.
2. After thoroughly mixed, put in a 9” pie pan (preferably one with removable bottom). Line the pan with a thin layer of crust using your hands.
Make Filling
1. Peel 11 apples. Shred 7 of the apples, using the coarse side of cheese grater. Squeeze out as much juice as possible, leaving apples as dry as possible. Set aside 1 cup of shredded apples and put remainder into mixing bowl.
2. Thinly slice 3⁄4 of an apple and cut slices into 1⁄2” squares. Put remaining 1⁄4 apple into food processor with 3 chopped apples, date paste and blueberries (except for 15-20 of smallest blueberries which you set aside). Process thoroughly then add 1 cup shredded apples you set aside and process again.
3. Put all ingredients including 15-20 smallest blueberries in mixing bowl with remaining shredded apples. Stir and fill piecrust.
4. Refrigerate for 1⁄2 hour, remove pie from pan. Sprinkle almond crumbs, then cinnamon on top of pie. Cut into 8 pieces.
*How to ground almonds:
- 2 quarts or more unpasteurized organic raw almonds
Soak almonds overnight in filtered water. Drain and put on dehydrator trays for 24-36 hours until dry. Store in airtight container and use as needed for recipes. Skip the soaking and dehydrating if you don't have a dehydrator.
**How to date paste:
- 25 Medjool dates
Pit dates and soak for 1⁄2 hour. Drain and put in food processor. Blend until smooth with no chunks (may need to add water if too thick). Store in fridge.