The Science Behind Our Choices
October 2024
Milk Thistle for Liver Support in Dogs: A Holistic Approach to Detoxification
When it comes to our dogs' health, we focus on providing the best nutrition, exercise, and a loving environment. But are we doing enough to support their liver health? The liver works tirelessly to filter toxins and keep our dogs healthy. Just like us, their livers can benefit from extra support, especially when it comes to detoxifying. That's where the incredible power of milk thistle comes in.
Milk thistle is a potent herb that has been used for centuries to promote liver health. It's a popular supplement for dogs, and for good reason! But why is liver health so crucial, and how can milk thistle help?
The Liver's Role in Detoxification
The liver plays a vital role in detoxification by filtering toxins from the bloodstream. These toxins can come from various sources, including food, environmental pollutants, medications (such as flea and tick preventatives), and even the body's natural metabolic processes.
Dr. Chris Bessent, a holistic veterinarian, explains in her talk on antioxidants, "Let's talk about some of the toxins that we see in our animals every single day. And many of them are voluntarily administered. So, for example, excessive vaccinations, we just tend to vaccinate too much, that's been well shown, but we continue to do it, and then the vaccines that we give are stronger than ever."
When the liver is functioning optimally, it can efficiently remove these toxins, keeping the body healthy. However, toxins can build up and contribute to various health issues if the liver becomes overloaded.
Milk Thistle: A Liver-Supporting Powerhouse
Milk thistle contains a compound called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Silymarin helps protect the liver by neutralizing free radicals and promoting cell regeneration. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs exposed to toxins, such as those receiving regular flea and tick prevention or living in polluted environments.
Milk Thistle and Flea/Tick/Heartworm Medications
While flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives are essential for protecting our best friends from parasites, they do contain pesticides that can burden the liver. Some dog guardians have reported that their dogs experience flare-ups of gastrointestinal issues, itchiness, hot spots, or irritated ears after receiving these medications. This could be due to the liver's struggle to process the toxins present in these products.
By giving milk thistle a few days before and after administering these medications, you can support the liver in its detoxification process and potentially reduce the risk of side effects.
Milk Thistle for Allergic and Senior Dogs
Allergic and senior dogs may particularly benefit from milk thistle supplementation. There is some evidence to suggest that allergies can be exacerbated by toxins in the body. Milk thistle's ability to support liver detoxification and reduce inflammation may help alleviate allergy symptoms in these dogs.
Additionally, as dogs age, their liver function naturally declines. Milk thistle can help support liver health in senior dogs, promoting overall well-being and longevity.
The Importance of Whole-Food Antioxidants
In addition to milk thistle, providing your dog with a diet rich in whole-food antioxidants can further support liver health and overall detoxification. Colorful fruits and vegetables like blueberries, cranberries, spinach, and broccoli are packed with antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
Dr. Bessent advises, "As we age, ourselves, our dogs, our own body starts to decrease the amount of antioxidants that are developed. And the way for us to combat that is to increase the dietary antioxidants imperative. And how are you going to do that? You're going to do that with colorful fruits and vegetables, and you're going to do it with omega 3 fatty acids."
This is where feeding a fresh food diet can truly make a difference! When I feed my own dog, I make sure to include plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables, which are naturally packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C.
I also carefully balance the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio to ensure the food has anti-inflammatory properties. I aim for a ratio between 1:1 and 5:1, just as Dr. Bessent recommends, to support overall health and longevity.
By feeding your dog a diet rich in antioxidants and balanced in omega fatty acids, you can provide them with the essential nutrients they need to combat oxidative stress and maintain optimal health throughout their lives.
A Note on Vaccines
Vaccines are an important part of keeping our dogs healthy, but it's also important to be mindful of over-vaccination. I believe in working closely with your vet to determine the best vaccination schedule for your dog, considering their lifestyle, age, and medical history.
For example, a senior dog who primarily stays indoors and has a history of regular vaccinations might not need annual boosters. Instead, titer tests could be used to check their immunity levels. Many vets are starting to offer this option, and it's definitely worth discussing with your vet.
It's important to follow your local regulations regarding rabies vaccinations. In some countries, annual rabies vaccines are mandatory. Here in Cayman, keeping your dog's rabies vaccination up-to-date is essential for travel, especially during hurricane season when evacuations might be necessary.
However, even with necessary vaccines like rabies, there can be frustrating situations. My friend recently had their dog's rabies vaccine lapse by just one day. Despite evidence suggesting the vaccine lasts for at least three years, the vet issued a certificate for only one year because of the one-day delay. This meant the dog had to be vaccinated again the following year, even though it likely wasn't necessary. This is a prime example of how rigid policies can sometimes lead to over-vaccination.
Sometimes, even with the best intentions and careful planning, circumstances arise that are beyond our control. We might find ourselves needing to administer a vaccine, like in the rabies example above, even when we'd prefer to avoid it. In these situations, supporting our dog's overall health becomes even more critical. A healthy dog, with a strong immune system and efficient detoxification processes, is better equipped to handle these unavoidable exposures. This is where nutrition, appropriate exercise, stress management, and targeted supplementation, like milk thistle, can play a crucial role.
While I believe vaccines are important, I also believe in informed decision-making and open communication with your vet. By discussing your dog's individual needs and considering local regulations, you can create a vaccination plan that prioritizes their health and well-being.
Consult Your Veterinarian
While milk thistle is generally safe for dogs, having a conversation with your veterinarian before starting your best friend on any new supplement is always best, especially if they are on other medications. Your vet can advise you on the appropriate dosage and timing to ensure it doesn't interfere with any other treatments.
Remember, a healthy liver is crucial for a healthy dog. By incorporating milk thistle and a diet rich in antioxidants into your dog's routine, you can support their liver health and overall well-being.
