Basil and Dogs – A Supherb Combination

A furry one’s favorite hobby is to take mini trips to the kitchen. They enjoy sneaking in and grabbing food items from their different hiding spots. These acts of theft go unnoticed. Our pooches are charged for em-basil-mint on a daily.

What attracts them to the kitchen are the strong aromas that the various types of food being cooked. Although have you wondered why your pooch rushes into the kitchen every time you’re cooking pizza or pasta? Well, I can tell you today that it is the refreshing aroma of basil! Every time you tear the leaves of basil to garnish your pizza or pasta, the herb's aroma mixes into the air and pulls/attracts your pup into the kitchen.

Basil is a herb that is mainly used in Italian and Thai cuisines. This is one such herb from the herb family that is strong in both flavor and aroma. The herb is mostly used at the end of the preparation of the meal. It is the key ingredient in one of the most famous Italian sauces i.e. the Pesto Sauce. Since we know that pizza, pasta and curries cannot be fed to our furry ones, can they at least try and taste basil?

The answer is yes! The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) states that basil is a non-toxic herb for both cats and dogs, respectively.

Basil is a fantastic source of essential nutrients including calcium, vitamins, and anti-oxidants. It has anti-inflammatory properties that fight different forms of inflammation. Basil has the ability to reduce blood sugar levels by decreasing the glucose levels in the body. It has properties that can help cleanse your furry one's body. Basil contains vitamin A and vitamin K. Vitamin A promotes healthy eyesight, maintains skin and coat health as well as boosts immunity. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient that is essential for dogs. It helps in the synthesis of coagulation proteins needed for blood.

When blood changes from liquid to gel in order to form a blood clot, this process is called coagulation. This is a crucial process during haemostasis i.e. reaction of the body to stop bleeding due to an injury.

If you have a diabetic pet, feeding him or her 1 to 2 leaves of basil daily can keeping their blood sugar levels in check. According to a recent study by Medical News Today, basil is proven to help combat various bacterial infections in the body. This herb can work wonders on your pup’s health. That’s why we call it supherb!

You can feed basil to your dog but remember moderation is key! 1 to 2 leaves of basil a day can keep several infections away. Feeding them too much basil could increase the fibre in their body. This can cause diarrhoea or other digestive issues. While feeding basil to your dog, ensure that it is fresh and not overly ripped or rotten. Canines can enjoy roasted basil leaves as long as there is no seasoning, oil, or other condiments used in the process. You and your pooch can together munch on roasted basil leaves. It can be your pup’s #healhtysnack option.

A canine can develop an allergy to any food items. If you notice symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy after feeding basil to your dog, you must take him or her to the vet at the earliest. To be on the safer side! Always consult your veterinarian before you introduce your furry one to a new food item. Every canine’s dietary need differs. Veterinarians have better knowledge about your furry one’s dietary needs. They will help you by determining the portion size of certain food items to be included or excluded from their diet.