Hope you all had a fun and safe Halloween!
The fall season always reminds me of pumpkins (pumpkin pie anyone?). The good news is, pumpkin is not only good for us, but also for our dogs.
What's in Pumpkin that Makes it So Good?
Pumpkin is a healthy food that is rich in the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains vitamin K as well as a host of minerals, such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and copper.
In addition, pumpkin is rich in polyphenolic flavonoid compounds, such as beta-carotenes, zea-xanthin, and more. These are antioxidants that have potential anti-cancer power.
Pumpkin is low in calorie (100 grams of pumpkin provides only 26 calories!) but high in dietary fiber.
Pumpkin seeds are also highly nutritious. They are rich in the antioxidant vitamin E and minerals, such as zinc, manganese, magnesium, and copper. They are also a good source of protein. Interestingly, the unique proteins in pumpkin seeds are the source of many anti-microbial benefits (including anti-fungal and anti-viral benefits).
Health Benefits of Pumpkin to Dogs
Pumpkin and its seeds provide quite a few health benefits for our dogs. For example:
- Diarrhea/Constipation: Pumpkin is good for diarrhea and constipation! If your dog suddenly develops mild diarrhea, or if she has mild constipation, a tablespoon or so of plain pumpkin usually will do the trick. It is therefore advisable for dog parents to have a few cans of plain pumpkin in the pantry - they really come in handy!
- Weight Control: Since pumpkin is low in calorie but is extremely filling, it is beneficial for dogs who need slimming down. If your dog is a bit pudgy, talk to your vet and see if pumpkin can be used to replace part of the dog's regular food.
- Eye Health: The beta-carotenes and zea-zanthin contained in pumpkin are antioxidants that are beneficial to the eyes. They can help protect older dogs from developing age-related macular degeneration.
- Skin Health: The zinc contained in pumpkin can help improve skin and coat health.
- Immune Booster: Pumpkin flesh contains vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. In addition, dogs with arthritis can also benefit from the extra vitamin C in the pumpkin.
- Urinary Tract Health: Oils in pumpkin seeds contain nutrients that can prevent or lower the possibility of kidney stone formation. They also promote and support general urinary health. Dogs with urinary problems, such as incontinence or kidney stones, may benefit from having pumpkin or pumpkin seeds in their diet.
- Elimination of Worms: Traditionally, pumpkin seeds have been used to treat tapeworms. To treat dogs with tapeworms, use whole raw seeds and grind them immediately before feeding the fine meal to the dog. Depending on the dog's size,
1/4 to one teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds can be given for each meal. Alternatively, feed 1/4 to one teaspoon of pumpkin seed oil to the dog.
- Anti-Aging: Because of its bountiful antioxidant beta-carotene, pumpkin can slow the aging process and keep your dog young longer!
With so many health benefits, pumpkin should be a "must-have" in your doggie's pantry! (Be sure to feed only 100% pure unsweetened pumpkin puree to your dog.)
