Are you worried that your dog may get sick in the midst of the flu season? With so many viruses and the seasonal flu approaching its highest peak, it’s hard to stay healthy. And, while it’s impossible to avoid the flu, you can prepare your dog to fight it.
Here are 4 simple ways to boost your dog’s immune system today!
- Feed Your Dog Nutritious Food
A nutrient-rich diet is vital for a strong immune system since dogs’ gastrointestinal tract contains 65% of their immune cells. Vitamins and minerals, especially antioxidants, play a major role in fighting flu and viruses and keeping your dog healthy. That’s why you need to feed your dog food that is nutrient-dense and rich in antioxidants, such as berries, fruits, veggies, and dried beans.
If you give your dog human foods, like the ones mentioned above, make sure you don’t give them avocados, raisins, grapes, onion, garlic, unripe tomatoes, wild mushrooms, and rhubarb because they are toxic to your dog.
Apart from vitamins and minerals, you should also feed your dog food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. They help reduce inflammation in the body, thus helping your dog’s immune system combat the flu.
- Use Dog Dental Treats for Gut Health
Did you know that dogs’ gastrointestinal system makes up around 70% of their immune system? That’s why it’s essential to keep it healthy with loads of friendly bacteria. One way to do this is by giving your dog probiotics and the other way is to give them dental treats for dogs.
Unlike commercial treats, these are 100% natural and free from additives, preservatives, artificial colours and flavourings, and binders. They are also rich in proteins and are easy to digest.
What makes dental treats for dogs a must for a healthy gut is that they keep your dog’s teeth and mouth clean. And, we all know that a healthy gut starts from a healthy mouth!
- Clean Your Dog’ Bowls and Toys
Dogs love sniffing everything and they don’t refrain from “exploring” the surroundings with their nose. But, apart from bringing dirt on their paws from their walk, they also bring bacteria and viruses from all that sniffing. And, they spread the bacteria and viruses to anything they touch, especially their bowls and toys.
That’s why you need to clean their bowls and toys every day. Washing them regularly reduces the number of bacteria and viruses, thus reducing the risk of your dog getting sick.
- Get Your Dog Moving
Regular physical activity releases endorphins and stimulates the work of the lymphatic system. In that way, it allows the body to filter toxins and fight bacteria. It also helps your dog maintain the proper weight and get rid of excess fat, thus preventing inflammation.
So, take the leash and some treats, and go for a walk. You can also head to the nearest park for a nice run.
Final Thoughts
It’s pretty impossible to avoid the seasonal flu in winter, and you can’t keep your dog isolated to protect it from it. So, instead of thinking about how can you prevent your dog from getting sick, consider making small changes in their diet and starting healthy habits. A nutritious diet, proper hygiene, and some physical activity can work magic on your dog’s immune system.