What Is Turmeric and Why It Matters for Dogs
You probably know turmeric as a common cooking spice used in curries. The herbaceous plant, also known as Curcuma longa, has many uses that go far beyond your kitchen!
Numerous clinical trials in dogs have shown the potential health benefits of turmeric. It has been shown to be a potent anti-inflammatory agent and is also a very good pain reliever! It has even been shown to have a positive effect on cancer cells. If your pet has any inflammatory disease (including atopic dermatitis), arthritis, cognitive dysfunction, or cancer you may want to give turmeric a try.
Curcumin, Bioavailability, and Why Black Pepper Helps
The active component in turmeric is called curcumin. Taken alone, only a small amount of curcumin actually gets absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally (limited bioavailability). But by simply combining curcumin with piperine (a compound in black pepper) the bioavailability increases dramatically.
How to Use Turmeric for Dogs: Introducing Golden Paste
So, how can you use turmeric for your dog’s health and make sure that it is available for the body to use? Golden Paste! This whole food recipe, created by Dr. Doug English, an Australian veterinarian, is a wonderful way to safely incorporate turmeric into your furry friend’s holistic healthcare plan.
The Golden Paste will keep for 2 weeks if refrigerated, and you can also freeze a portion if you think you have too much to use within two weeks. A good starting dose is 1/4 teaspoon two to three times daily. Just add to your dog’s food!
PLEASE NOTE: Commercial turmeric capsules/pills that have high levels of curcumin are not recommended for use with animals. That’s why we prefer the whole food recipe above.
When Turmeric Is Not Recommended for Pets
Side effects are very uncommon with turmeric, but there are a few circumstances where it would not be recommended for your pet. Curcumin causes contraction of the gallbladder, so it is contraindicated if your pet has gallbladder stones or bile duct obstruction. Also, use with caution in diabetic patients because it can lower blood sugar a bit. Stomach ulcers and bleeding disorders are two other situations where turmeric is not recommended. It can occasionally cause stomach upset and might slow blood clotting. These effects are all very mild, but if your pet has any of these conditions, then turmeric would not be the best choice for them.
Additional Resources
Further information can be found on Dr. Doug English’s website as well as the Facebook User Group.
Learn More About Our Comfort Care Services
If you are exploring natural options like turmeric to support your pet’s quality of life, our team is here to help. Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice offers comprehensive in home Comfort Care services that focus on pain management, mobility support, symptom relief, and compassionate guidance for families navigating serious or chronic illness.
Our veterinarians partner with you to create a personalized plan that helps your pet stay comfortable, supported, and connected to the life they love. From arthritis and cognitive decline to cancer and advanced age, we provide medical expertise and gentle, attentive care right in your home.
To learn more or schedule a Comfort Care consultation, contact Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice at 757-474-5968 or email [email protected]. Our team is here to support you and your pet every step of the way.
