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Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs
Apple cider vinegar for dogs is effective in helping to treat various dog health problems. The health benefits of ACV for dogs
are amazing.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made by the fermentation of apple cider. Fermentation is a process in which sugars in a food are broken down by bacteria and
yeast. In the first stage of fermentation, the sugars in the apple cider are turned into alcohol. Then, if the alcohol ferments further, you get vinegar.
The main ingredient of apple cider vinegar is acetic acid, as well as some lactic, citric and malic acids. ACV also contains:
- Vitamins such as Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and E
- Minerals and trace elements such as Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Chlorine, Sodium, Sulfur, Copper, Iron, Silicon, Fluorine
- Amino acids
- Enzymes
- Roughage in the form of potash and apple pectin
The color of ACV is light yellow-brown. It is often sold unfiltered and unpasteurized with the "mother" which is a dark, cloudy sediment settled at the bottom of the
bottle.
Over the years, apple cider vinegar has gained popularity and attention as it has been found to have a lot of health benefits for people. Recently, it has
been found that the benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs are great as well.
This page takes a closer look at the following topics on apple cider vinegar for dogs:
Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs - Benefits of ACV for Dogs
There are numerous health benefits of ACV for dogs. The main ones are:
- ACV is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and it boosts the immune system. It improves stamina, increases resistance to
diseases, prevents common infections, and is therefore helpful for dogs with weakened immune systems.
- ACV normalizes the blood's acid alkaline balance and its potassium-rich ingredients remineralize the body. ACV breaks down calcium
deposits in a dog's joints and remineralizes the bones, and as such it is beneficial for dogs with
arthritis and joint problems such as
hip dysplasia.
- Another benefit of apple cider vinegar for dogs is its effect on a dog's skin and coat due to ACV's detoxifying properties. Dogs with
itchy skin caused by allergies (e.g.
flea allergies) can get almost instant relief
if ACV is used as an after-shampoo rinse.
- Because ACV is rich in potassium, it is beneficial for dogs with diuretic or heart problems.
- Apple cider vinegar also balances digestive enyzymes in the body, so it is a good remedy for food poisoning and digestive upsets
such as intestinal gas and
constipation. It also reduces fecal odors.
- Other benefits of ACV include the prevention of bladder stones,
kidney infections, and urinary tract infections.
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Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs - Some Common Uses
Apple cider vinegar can be used in various ways to treat dog health problems. Some common uses include:
- General Detoxifier
Use ACV as a general detoxifier and a mild tonic. Long term use of ACV will make your dog more resistant to infections, as well as flea or worm infestations.
Start by adding small amounts of ACV to your dog's drinking water and slowly building up to about 1 teaspoon of ACV per 15 pounds of body weight.
Some dogs may not like the taste of vinegar in their water. If that's the case for your dog, mix ACV with his food, or mix it with a teaspoonful
of raw honey.
- Rinse for Skin Problems
Use ACV as an after-shampoo rinse if your dog has skin problems such as allergies, fleas, or ringworm.
To make the vinegar rinse: Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a quart of water. Use it once a week as an after-shampoo rinse. Remember not
to rinse off the ACV - just towel your dog dry.
- Flea Repellent Spray
You can also prepare a spray by simply using 50% apple cider vinegar and 50% water. Use a spray bottle and spray your dog's coat after his daily
walks, and you can use it to spray his bedding as well.
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Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs - Which ACV?
Not all vinegars have the same benefits. Do not use a vinegar that is clear such as wine vinegar, sushi vinegar, etc. that can be found in most
supermarkets. These types of vinegar are "dead" because they do not contain any enzymes and other live factors as found in unpasteurized ACV.
The best ACV is one that is raw, unpasteurized, unheated, and organic. You can find organic ACV in health food stores.
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Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs - Is it Safe for Dogs?
Apple cider vinegar, when used in appropriate amount, is safe for dogs with one exception - Dogs with a chronic yeast infection (Candida) or those
with an overly acidic system or irritated intestines are not recommended. Vinegar is believed to reactivate or worsen these conditions.
Other precautions when using ACV on your dog:
- Never give undiluted ACV to your dog.
- When using it as a rinse, take care not to let it get into your dog's eyes.
- Also, do not use ACV on open wounds such as cuts or scratches as it will burn.
Related Topic
Natural Supplements for Dogs
References
C.J. Puotinen, Natural Remedies For Dogs And Cats (McGraw-Hill,1999).
D. Stein, The Natural Remedy Book for Dogs and Cats (B Jain Publishers Pvt Ltd, 2002).
WebMd.com
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