Did you know feeding your dog raw honey has great benefits? Raw honey is one of nature’s most powerful remedies for everyone, including our furry family members. With its richness in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, it can be a great treatment for many conditions and help speed up the recovery process for our dogs.
Most honey we purchase in our grocery stores has been processed. They are mixed with other sweeteners and as it goes through the process, it eliminates the good bacteria we’re looking for. Raw, local honey that hasn’t been processed contains the bacteria that provide medicinal properties. Shop local!
- Kennel Cough: Just like us humans, honey is a great remedy to help soothe any type of cough, dry throats and provides relief. Your dog will also think it’s a great treat!
- Allergies: For dogs who may struggle with environmental or skin allergies, feeding him wildflower local honey will help reduce symptoms. Wildflower honey covers the largest area of plants and flowers. With exposing your dog to the ingredients in wildflower honey, it will help build up an immunity to allergies over time.
- Digestion: The anti-bacterial properties in honey helps alleviate a wide range of gastrointestinal problems including diarrhea, indigestion and constipation.
- Wounds: Manuka honey works best and can be applied topically to act as an antibacterial and disinfectant for cuts, scratches, bites, hot spots or burns. It helps eliminate bacterial infections, reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. Also, it helps speed up the healing process.
- Energy Boost: Natural sugars in honey help with a boost of energy. This could do wonders for elderly dogs or recovering from an illness.
As with any food, moderation is Key. Make sure your dog doesn’t have any adverse reactions before offering more or increasing the frequency that you give to them. Also, while honey is a great health tool, keep in mind those calories can add up.
One tablespoon a day is ideal for large dogs and ½ – one teaspoon is ideal for small to medium dogs.
Honeybee Conservatory, https://thehoneybeeconservancy.org/2015/04/03/honey-for-dogs/ (accessed Jan. 15, 2019)
American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-honey/ (accessed Jan. 15, 2019)
