If you’ve spent time in natural bodies of water, you’ve likely seen (or felt!) some seaweed during your swim. Seaweed isn’t just a slimy nuisance, though — certain seaweeds, such as sea kelp. We want to introduce you to one of our staple recipe ingredients, we LOVE the superfood seaweed Kelp. Nutrient-dense and low in calories, we source our wild-picked Kelp fresh from the rocky coastlines of Scotland
Read on to learn more about the benefits, side effects, and other info you should know about enriching your dog’s diet with natural supplements like sea kelp for dogs.
What is this & where does it grow?
Typically found in underwater forests, kelp is a type of brown algae seaweed. Kelp can grow quickly in the shallow ocean water where it thrives — up to a foot and a half per day — ultimately reaching lengths of 100 to 260 feet.
Kelp is naturally nutrient-packed, and scientists say its existence may date back up to 23 million years ago. It is frequently praised for its benefits to human health, based on its richness in antioxidants that fight disease-causing free radicals.
Keep in mind that kelp is a type of seaweed, but not all seaweed is kelp. Nori, for example, is the type of seaweed used in sushi. While nori is delicious, it does not offer the same nutrients as kelp for dogs. Kelp is exclusively grown in saltwater and attaches to the ocean floor. The constant movement of water along rocky coastlines is what allows kelp to obtain such a variety of nutrients.
More common, smaller types of seaweed are typically found floating in almost any open body of water, both fresh and salt, and although still nutritious, do not offer the variety of nutrients that kelp does.
Wild-picked Kelp contain
🟡Kelp contains a natural fibre called alginate which can help stop the absorption of fat in the gut
🟡A rich source of vitamin K, which plays an important role in bone health
🟡A great source of iodine, an essential mineral needed to make thyroid hormones
🟡And fucoidan present in kelp is known to exhibit immunomodulatory and anti-tumour effects.
Wild-picked Kelp benefits
There are a variety of edible sea vegetables, but kelp is the most nutritious for dogs. That 60 different vitamins, minerals, and trace elements as well as 21 amino acids. Kelp is also a complex carbohydrate and a natural source for numerous growth hormones. What kelp is most known for is its iodine content which helps to support your dog’s glandular system as well as his metabolism. Some of the other benefits associated with kelp include the following:
✅ Additional fibre: Sea kelp is 25 per cent protein, giving your dog an extra protein boost. It’s easy to digest, making it a great source of protein for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
✅ Arthritis and joint problems: The protein and amino acids present in sea kelp provide a helping hand to repair tissue that has been weakened by arthritis.
✅ Itchy skin: Sea kelp is an anti-inflammatory, making it an ideal choice when it comes to dog supplements for dry skin, itching, or skin allergies.
✅ Maintaining glandular health: The minerals in sea kelp can help to regulate the activity of the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands.
✅ Healthy teeth: Sea kelp contains alginic acid, a compound that’s known to reduce dental plaque and tartar buildup. This may help you and your dog reduce expensive, traumatic visits to the vet for teeth cleaning.
dog age claims different benefits?
Just as in younger dogs, sea kelp can be used to correct low iodine levels, leading to more energy, better brain function, and healthier thyroid glands. The iodine content of sea kelp is particularly helpful for senior dogs, lifting energy levels and promoting healthy brain function. Sea kelp supplements are a great way to give your sweet doggo the support they need to grow old gracefully.
Possible side effects
Sea kelp is a natural source of protein, amino acids, and vitamins, and many holistic veterinarians recommend supplementing with kelp. When given in the proper amount, it’s an easy way to provide your dog with an additional nutrient boost. The keywords are “proper amount”, though. When you consult with your vet, be sure to talk about any other supplements along with the treats and food you’re feeding at present. This can help you and your vet calculate the amount of sea kelp that’s appropriate for your dog.
It’s especially important to speak with your vet if you’re planning to use sea kelp to manage any canine thyroid problems. Because sea kelp is such a potent source of iodine, it’s vital to provide the proper amount of iodine for your dog. Too much iodine can lead to further, more serious thyroid problems.
If you spend a lot of time at the beach, chances are you’ve come across some stray seaweed. We often think that fresher is better, but not in this case. Eating whole kelp, or seaweed of any type can be a choking hazard, especially if your dog doesn’t chew it properly.
ROCKETO recipes containing kelp
And don’t worry—you don’t have to head to the beach to pick up a batch of kelp. It can be included in dog foods, treats or dietary supplements. However, you should investigate where the kelp has been harvested, as if it was gathered close to the shoreline, it may have absorbed dangerous contaminants from pollution. When possible, buy kelp that’s been collected from deep in the ocean. Our kelp is ecologically grown is Scottland shores and wild-picked so your pooch gets only the highest quality nutrition.
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