Stomach Discomfort While in a Lying Position: Understanding the Reasons and Remedies
The National Library of Medicine, a reputable source of health information, provides a resource for recognising serious medical emergencies, including signs for when to call 911. This resource is readily accessible to the public.
In the realm of pet health, giving honey to aging dogs can have both benefits and risks, according to experts.
Benefits:
Honey, with its natural sugars, can serve as a quick source of energy, beneficial for older dogs that need a boost or are recovering from illness. Additionally, honey is rich in antioxidants, which may help combat free radicals, potentially supporting overall health and immune function in aging dogs.
Honey's thick texture can soothe mild throat irritation or coughing, like kennel cough, in dogs. It is also believed to offer relief from mild seasonal allergies through gradual exposure to local pollen, although anecdotal evidence supports this claim. Topical application of honey, particularly Manuka honey, can help heal minor cuts and inflammation in aging dogs with skin issues, thanks to its distinct antibacterial properties.
Risks:
Despite its potential benefits, honey carries certain risks. Raw honey can contain botulism spores, which can be harmful, especially to puppies, immunocompromised dogs, or elderly dogs with weakened immunity. Honey is high in sugar and calories, and excessive intake can lead to weight gain, a common concern for older dogs prone to metabolic or mobility issues.
Too much honey may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea or bloating, particularly in sensitive dogs. Dogs with diabetes (more common in older dogs) should avoid honey because its sugars can worsen glucose control. Honey can also contribute to dental decay or gum disease if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
General Expert Advice:
Honey should be given only in small amounts and as a complementary treat—not as a replacement for regular food or medication. Consultation with a veterinarian is crucial before adding honey to an aging dog's diet, especially if the dog has existing health conditions such as diabetes, immune deficiencies, or weight concerns.
In summary, honey can offer some health-supportive benefits to aging dogs if used cautiously and moderately, but carries potential risks mainly due to its sugar content and microbial contamination in raw forms. Vet guidance is important to safely include honey in an older dog’s care routine.
Meanwhile, the National Library of Medicine offers a list of signs for emergency medical attention. If experiencing serious medical symptoms, it is always advisable to call 911. Other resources discussing various health conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Pancreatitis, Abdominal Muscle Strain, Acid Reflux & GERD, and more, are available from reputable institutions like the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and the Cleveland Clinic.
The benefits of honey in pet health, specifically in aging dogs, include serving as a quick energy source, supporting immune function with antioxidants, soothing throat irritation and seasonal allergies, and promoting wound healing with its antibacterial properties. In terms of human health, nutritional advice for maintaining digestive health can be found in resources provided by institutions like the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and the Cleveland Clinic, which cover topics such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and acid reflux.
