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Pumpkin is a ‘doggie superfood’ with 3 important health benefits, says vet
Once Halloween is over, don’t be so quick to throw away all your pumpkins – you need to give some to your dog first!
A vet has reminded everyone that pumpkin is a “doggie superfood” with so many health benefits. Just make sure the autumn vegetable is fresh, and don’t give your furry friend too much as it is high in calories.
Health benefits of pumpkin for dogs
Canine Cottages has collaborated with Peter Wright, The Yorkshire Vet, and Harringtons, to share the health benefits of pumpkins for dogs.
1. Packed with nutrients
Firstly, pumpkins are rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as potassium and iron.�As explained by Pedigree, all these nutrients are vital for a healthy pet:
- Vitamin A: Helps maintain healthy vision, regulates the growth of their skin cells, aids protein synthesis and supports reproductive hormones
- Vitamin C: Reduces inflammation, slows ageing and supports the joints
- Vitamin E: Protects healthy cells from being damaged by free radicals and strengthens the immune system
- Potassium: Helps the muscles, nerves, and heart function properly
- Iron: Allows oxygen to be carried around the body and aids in producing energy
2. Improves digestion
The Halloween vegetable can also promote healthy digestion as pumpkin is high in fiber, which prevents diarrhoea. It’s also got lots of soluble fiber, which slows down the digestive process and helps water absorption, regulating bowel movements and reducing constipation.
3. Great for the gut
Giving your dog pumpkin can help their gut health, too, especially in those with sensitive stomachs. The fibre makes waste elimination easier and reduces strain on the intestinal system, again helping to fix constipation and diarrhoea.
As explained by Pooch & Mutt, some other benefits include being a natural de-wormer, helping to settle upset stomachs, maintaining healthy skin and coat, providing hydration and even helping with urinary incontinence.
How to feed your dog pumpkin
However, pumpkin is high in calories so it’s important not to feed your furry friend too much.
One of the easiest ways to feed your dog pumpkin is to remove the seeds and bake it in the oven until it becomes soft. Then, add a small amount to your dog’s dinner.
You can also roast the pumpkin seeds for around an hour, leave them to cool and mix them into your dog’s food.
Alternatively, dogs will enjoy pumpkin puree which can be made by boiling the vegetable for 20 to 30 minutes until it’s soft before mashing it into a smooth paste.
Here are some tips to keep your dog safe this Halloween, from foods to avoid to dealing with noise.
