My elderly dog is no longer having bowel movements. What can I do to help them?
Answer by Sally Shultis, Naturopathic Practitioner and owner of Deserts Rose Healing Ranch
This article was first published in the February 2009 issue of Fusion.
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As our dogs age, their digestive systems can become sluggish. This is often due to one or more factors, which can include inactivity, dehydration, and/or poor digestion.
Also, as dogs age they tend to get less exercise. If they have weakness in the hind end, they will be less apt to get up and get water when needed. Spinal degeneration results in “messages” not being passed to organs as well, thus the organs don’t work as well. Aging organs can become toxic and weak. This includes the organs of the digestive system.
There are several things you can do to maintain and even improve the health of our pets' digestive track and colon:
Chiropractics and acupuncture – keeping the spine properly aligned helps the nerve pathways to receive messages from the brain, thus improving function. Acupuncture can stimulate the nerves along meridian and improve organ function.
Supplements from Young Living – Kids Mightyzymes are chewable, so they are easy to give to your dog. These supplements help combat the negative effects of enzyme depletion. They also assist in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Power Meal is a powerful nutritive energizer and cleanser. It is high in fiber which absorbs toxins and helps to move waste through the colon. It is mixed with water, so your dog will also receive much-needed hydration. DiGize is an essential oil blend. It not only supports a healthy digestive system, but it also aids correction of digestive problems. It works wonders for nausea, diarrhea, and colic constipation. I recommend everyone keep this blend on hand. Horse people, DiGize works great for colic!
Add these supplements to your dog's diet for improved digestive and colon health. If you can, the addition of chiropractics and acupuncture would be an added bonus.
Note: Recommended use for Young Living products are on the labels and are based on a 150 lb person. So for a 75 -lb dog, you would halve the amount. Reference: Essential Oils Desk Reference
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Also in this issue (click to view):
Q & A: Urinary Tract Infections in Cats
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