Introduction
When I moved to New Zealand 2005 I quickly learned that pumpkin was not just for Halloween or Thanksgiving. Once our dog, Jessie, joined our pack, I saw first-hand the benefits of pumpkin for dogs. Pumpkin is one of our main ingredients in Original Blend because it is accessible year around and for its health benefits to your dog including:
- Soothes an upset stomach
- Protects your dog from inflammation
- Supports the growth of good bacteria in your dog's gut
Soothes an upset stomach
Pumpkin is a great food to help ease your dogs discomfort if they suffer from constipation or diarrhoea. It helps regulate the speed of digestion for your dog. If your dog is constipated, the pumpkin will speed up digestion. And, if they have diarrhoea, the pumpkin will slow the digestion. In addition, feeding pumpkin to your dog will boost their potassium levels because dogs often loose electrolytes when they are unwell.
Protects your dog from inflammation
Pumpkin is rich in Vitamin C, an anti-oxidant,that helps support your dog from inflammation, potentially protecting your dog from from certain diseases, including cancer.
Pumpkin is also full of Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin. It fights free radicals, which also may safeguard your dog from certain diseases.
Supports the growth of gut bacteria in your dog's gut
Pumpkin is rich in fibre, which is a prebiotic. Prebiotic encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut to support and build a healthy microbiome. It helps stop the over growth of bacteria in your dog's digestive system.
Conclusion
The pumpkin used in Original Blend is sourced from local organic and/or spray free growers in the Wairarapa. This allows us to use all the pumpkin, skin and flesh. Want to try feeding your dog a bit of pumpkin. Either lightly steam or roast it because it will help their body absorb the nutrients. Remember, dogs cannot eat pumpkin raw.