When Does Good Inflammation Become Dangerous?
Inflammation is a natural response in dogs to injury, infection, or stress, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health issues, including joint pain, skin problems, and decreased mobility. Addressing inflammation effectively is essential for maintaining your dog’s health and quality of life. This info blog explains the difference between acute and chronic inflammation and then explores the everyday toxins that may be causing your dog’s chronic health issues, and innovative and non-invasive methods to alleviate inflammation in canines through near-infrared laser therapy, specialized massage techniques, acupressure points, and supportive natural supplements.
How Household and City Pollutants Silently Impact Your Dog’s Health
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism, helping to heal injuries and fight infections. Acute inflammation is part of this healthy response, typically resolving on its own in a four step process utilizing the dog’s lymphatic system to help regain homeostasis. However, when this response lingers due to ongoing irritants or persistent immune activity, it can turn into chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation doesn’t just persist—it can pave the way for health issues like arthritis, allergies, and autoimmune diseases including various types of cancers.
Understanding the distinction between acute and chronic inflammation allows pet owners to recognize when their dogs may need additional support. Everyday exposures to toxins and irritants, both indoors and outdoors, can quietly tax a dog’s immune system, fueling inflammation that remains unnoticed until health issues arise.
Indoor Silent Killers:
The following common household items release volatile compounds that seriously stress and tax dog's immune systems. Even things that you have heard is okay for dogs (ie. lavender) is only okay if it is specifically portioned for dogs in pet aromatherapy products. Otherwise it can be toxic!
Here's a brief list of common indoor immune suppressing toxins:
most cleaning products especially carpet cleaners
air fresheners
scented laundry products (fabric softeners and soaps)
scented candles
aromatherapy oils (ie. wintergreen, tea tree, lemon, pine, and nutmeg can all be dangerous) and even dog-friendly aromatherapy oils to treat pain and anxiety (ie. lavender) are toxic if they have not been correctly dosed for dogs!!
personal care items (hair sprays, deodorants, scented body lotions)
mold and bacteria also contribute, particularly in damp indoor spaces
indoor flowers (lillies, tulips and azaleas)* can cause kidney failure & GI upset
indoor plants (sago palm, dieffenbachia and pothos aka devil's ivy)** can cause liver failure
Opt for scent-free pet friendly cleaning products and don't ever assume because something says its "natural" that it means it is PH-balanced for pets. They have different anatomies to us and they absorb a ton through their amazing nasal structures straight into their lungs (connected to everything!) and also through their little sponges on the bottom of their limbs! Unscented beeswax candles, steam cleaners and aromatherapy designated safe for dogs can all be used in your homes without stress.
City Slicker Pups: Outdoor Common Toxins
For city-dwelling dogs, the risks can continue so just be aware so you can avoid the easy toxins. Here's some obvious and not so obvious ones:
car exhaust is an obvious one, but also all the oil/gas and related substance on the ground in parking lots...guide your dog around obvious oily patches
pesticides and fertilizers...if you see lush green grass without many or any weeds, know that it is absolutely 100% toxic for your dog!
yew and azalea shrubs that line numerous homes on the Pacific West Coast
rodent control chemicals that trickle down with rainwater from those boxes you see next to apartment buildings.
herbicides, often applied in local parks and public spaces, can cling to their fur and paws, leading to ingestion or absorption and triggering repeat GI inflammation.
certain plants that are common in many landscaped homes are so toxic that even 2 seeds can trigger liver failure or worse. Lantana and oleander are bigs ones but azaleas and rhododendrons are bad too.
De-icing salts add to the burden. Nevermind the salt can cut up paws as much as broken glass does, but the toxins added to this salt to speed up and prevent icing can really tax a dog's immune system.
While avoiding clear fertilized lawns, avoiding areas where rat poison boxes are visible, skipping past the yew or azalea shrubs can help, wipe your dog’s paws off after each walk and explore your options to help remove those built up toxins from your dog’s body.
Do NOT avoid exercising your dog! Instead, be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and know that "outdoors" does not mean better just because it seems more natural. Put those booties on when the ice salts come out and always wipe your dog's paws down when returning from a walk. Not just toweling off but actually using a dog-friendly wipe or a paw-water dip to really help remove excess from the paws. Opt wherever you can to take your pup to the forest and avoid public parks that are heavily fertilized!
Non-Invasive Measures You Can Do To Boost Immunity & Reduce Inflammation
To help counteract the effects from daily toxin exposure, therapies like manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage, near-infrared laser therapy, and acupressure provide targeted relief and not only support the body in ridding it of toxins but can help boost their immune systems to prevent issues from occurring. MLD aids in clearing built-up toxins from the lymphatic system, easing immune stress, and helping dogs recover from both acute and chronic inflammation. Near-infrared laser therapy penetrates deep tissues, reducing pain and promoting cellular repair. Meanwhile, acupressure helps balance energy, restore circulation, and relieve inflammation points throughout the body. Incorporating these therapies into your dog’s routine can alleviate inflammation, enhance immunity, and support natural detoxification for better health and vitality.
Near-Infrared Laser Therapy
Near-infrared laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), utilizes specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and underlying tissues without causing heat damage. This therapy works at the cellular level, where the light energy is absorbed by mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell. The absorption of light stimulates various biological processes that provide the following amazing benefits.
1. Cellular Regeneration:
Enhanced ATP production promotes cellular regeneration and accelerates the healing process in injured or inflamed areas. This stimulation encourages the body to repair itself more efficiently which effectively speeds up healing dramatically.
2. Reduced Inflammation:
This advanced therapy effectively alleviates pain and reduces swelling by enhancing blood circulation and decreasing inflammatory markers at the cellular level. With its ability to target specific areas, it offers relief for conditions like arthritis and tendonitis.
3. Pain Relief:
By modulating nerve function and reducing pain perception, it provides significant relief for conditions such as arthritis and muscle injuries.
4. Non-Invasive and Painless:
One of the most significant advantages of near-infrared laser therapy is that it is completely non-invasive and painless. There’s no need for anesthesia, and dogs can remain calm and comfortable during treatment, allowing for a stress-free experience.
5.Versatile Applications: Near-infrared laser therapy is beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, and chronic inflammation associated with degenerative diseases, making it an essential tool in canine rehabilitation.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It promotes relaxation and healing through several mechanisms:
1. Increased Blood Flow:
Massage enhances circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing metabolic waste.
2. Muscle Relaxation:
It alleviates muscle tension and promotes flexibility, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.
3. Stress Reduction:
The calming effects of massage can help lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and its inflammatory effects on the body.
In addition, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specific Massage Technique that homes in on boosting immunity and reducing inflammation and excess toxins. MLD is done as its own session and is one of the best treatments you can do for your dog (and for yourself, actually!).
Acupressure
Acupressure is an ancient healing technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body (acupoints). This technique works on the principle of balancing the body's energy (Qi) and stimulating the nervous system and providing:
1.Pain Relief:
By pressing on acupoints, the body releases endorphins and other natural pain-relieving substances, helping to alleviate discomfort.
2.Stress Reduction:
Acupressure promotes relaxation and can help calm the nervous system, which is crucial for overall well-being.
3. Enhanced Function:
Stimulating acupressure points can improve circulation and lymphatic flow, supporting the body's natural healing processes.
Favourite Inflammation-Reduction Points: LI4, LI 11, GV4, GV 17, ST 36 and PC6 & SJ5
Natural Supplements to Support Inflammation Reduction in Dogs
- Turmeric (Curcumin): Renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help reduce pain and swelling. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate dosages tailored to your dog’s size and health status.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Derived from fish oil, omega-3s are well-studied for their ability to lower inflammation levels and improve joint health in canines. These essential fatty acids play a vital role in maintaining overall wellness.
- Ginger: This natural anti-inflammatory herb can help soothe inflammation and support digestive health in dogs. It can be given in powdered form or as a supplement, following veterinary guidance.
- Boswellia Serrata: An herbal remedy known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, Boswellia can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic inflammatory conditions in dogs, supporting their mobility and comfort.
- Probiotics: Supporting gut health through probiotics can influence inflammation levels, making them a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health and immune function.
Conclusion
By integrating non-invasive near-infrared laser therapy, gentle manual lymphatic drainage, effective acupressure techniques, and supportive natural supplements, you can provide your canine companion with a holistic approach to managing and reducing inflammation.
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