Naturally Healthy Dogs
Superfruits for Super Dogs

February, 2012

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In this issue:

• Superfruits for Super Dogs!
• Product Pick - Cranimals Very Berry
• Recipe - Gourmuttly Granola Apples

More and more health-conscious people are sinking their teeth into "superfruits", such as different types of berries, which are so packed with nutrients that they are considered more like "nutraceuticals". Indeed, many supplements are made from extracts of superfruits.

But did you know that these superfruits are good not only for humans, but also for our dogs? It has been found that dogs can benefit from superfruits as much as we can.

Here are some common superfruits that you can feed to your dog regularly:

• Blackberries: Blackberries are rich in anthocyanins, which are compounds that can neutralize superoxides (free radicals) which, as you know, cause a lot of health problems, including cancer, to us and our pets.
• Cranberries: Cranberries also have powerful antioxidant properties. Moreover, they are good for urinary health because they contain a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder, urethra and kidneys. Cranberries also have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, so cranberry supplements can be used as a tonic for older or arthritic dogs.
• Blueberries: Blueberries have highly concentrated antioxidants that inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce inflammation. Like cranberries, blueberries also prevent bacterial growth in animals' urinary tracts. In addition, blueberries can improve your dog's brain health.
• Raspberries: The humble raspberries are extremely rich in a series of compounds called ellagitannins which are antioxidants especially good for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. Not only that, ellagitannins also have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• Pomegranates: The antioxidants in this superfruit seem to specifically protect animals' bowels. With colon cancer on the rise in dogs, it is a good idea to give this superfruit to dogs as a preventative measure. In addition, pomegranates have been found to be able to help people and animals with heart disease. Finally, pomegranate juice can coat a dog's teeth with bacteria-fighting compounds that prevent gum disease.
• Wolfberries: Wolfberries are rich in antioxidants and they also appear to be able to reduce inflammation, prevent eye disease, improve cardiac health and brain function in animals.

As you can see, feeding berries to your dog regularly can greatly enhance his health, prevent inflammation and infection, and possibly cancer.

One easy way to feed berries to your dog is to mix 1/4 cup fresh (or frozen but defrosted) berries into half a cup of plain yogurt. Your dog will love it!

This Very Berry supplement is made from certified organic blueberries, cranberries, and red raspberries, and is in powdered form so you can easily mix it with your dog's food or snacks. It is a great and simple way to add nutrients to your dog's diet and is suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds!

(from the Animal Wellness Magazine)

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples
• 3/4 to 1 cup of granola (with no added sugar or salt)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cups sun dried unsulphured cranberries
• Local honey

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350F.
• Hollow out unpeeled apples (hint: cut a small edge off the bottom so the apples can sit evenly in the baking dish).
• Firmly pack apples with granola and cranberries.
• Drizzle with honey (1 teaspoon/apple).
• Place apples in a shallow ungreased baking dish.
• Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon.
• Bake, uncovered, for 40 minutes or until apples are tender.
• Let cool to room temperature before serving.