Does your pet need a detox?

There have been a number of studies over the years that point to the toxic pollution of pets, which might bring to your mind the question - does my pet need a detox?

The studies

The most well known study on the toxic pollution of pets was by the Environmental Working Group in 2008 that showed that dogs and cats were contaminated with 48 of 70 chemicals, including 43 chemicals at levels higher than those in people. These chemicals included carcinogens, chemicals toxic to the reproductive system, chemicals toxic to the endocrine system and neurotoxins.

The results of this study reinforced findings from earlier EWG studies that, compared to humans, pets may be at a higher risk for elevated exposures and health risks from chemical pollutants.

A more recent study by HRI Labs shows that cats and dogs have significantly higher levels of glyphosate in their urine compared to humans. Test results have shown cats with levels 16 times higher than humans, and dogs with levels 32 times higher than humans. Glyphosate levels in horses are also higher than humans (29 times higher).

How are pets being exposed to toxins?

The main sources of toxins that pets are being exposed to are in their food, the air, the soil, water, and in consumer products for both people and pets (including medications, household / garden products, bedding, food packaging etc). Even if you don't use chemical products in your home, your pet can be exposed to toxins from outside of your home. Your neighbour might be using chemicals and they can be seeping in to the soil, the air and water supply - all potential sources of contaminants for you and your pets.

Toxins can accumulate in the body over time if toxin exposure is not managed, interfering with bodily functions and causing inflammation in the body. These are two factors that, if left unchecked, can cause disease in your pet and reduce their life span.

Because of the unique characteristics of pets, toxins can cause pets more harm than they do humans. This is because cats and dogs absorb and concentrate toxins at a much higher rate than we do.

5 signs your pet needs a detox

You can find out if your pet needs a detox by taking this short quiz.

But for a quick answer to whether your pet needs a detox, here are 5 signs that your pet could do with one sooner rather than later:

1. they eat processed food ie foods that are not in their fresh, whole state

2. they are given ongoing medications eg parasite treatments, drugs for specific health issues, vaccinations

3. you use products in the home and / or on you or your pet that contain chemicals

4. they have a chronic health issue eg allergies, skin issues, runny eyes, gut issues

5. your pet is irritable, anxious or aggressive

Benefits of detoxing your pet

When you detox your pet, you're helping their body eliminate toxins that have built up in their body. This is the toxic residue that the body hasn't been able to eliminate by itself. Cats and dogs may struggle to eliminate toxins due to the large amount of toxins they are exposed to over time or because of a weakness or illness that is already present in the body impacting their detoxification pathways.

With a reduced toxic residue, you may notice that your pet is happier and that their health issues have resolved or reduced significantly. You'll also be helping them to reduce their risk of disease.

How do you detox your pet?

Detoxing your pet will involve things like cleaning up their diet, giving them filtered / pure water, reducing their toxin exposure and supporting their elimination channels (eg gut, liver, kidneys).

Pet detox is not a straightforward matter, and doing it incorrectly can have negative impacts for your pet. That's why I created an entire course that will teach you how to safely detox your pet. Find out more here.

When should you detox your pet?

Now is a great time! Don't wait until your animal is sick to give them a detox. Reducing your pet's toxin exposure and incorporating a regular detox protocol into your pet's wellness regime is an effective way to help them prevent disease, increase their vitality and help them live longer.

If you'd like to learn how to detox your pet, enrol in Low Tox Pets today. You'll learn all about the impacts toxins can have on your pets, sources of toxins your pets might be exposed to and strategies for minimising your pet's toxic load, and detoxing your pet, for optimal health and wellbeing.