Dogs love meat, but unlike cats they do require vegetables in their diet.

And having some good ones in there will always keep them leaning more in the healthy direction as they age, or even strengthen the immune system should anything bad come their way.

Using my experience as an example I will detail the noticeable difference that change in diet made for my 10 year old lab.

Senior Exams

Veterinarians are an important part of your pet’s life especially as they age.

Routine bloodwork could let you know ahead of time if your pet needs something added or even taken away from their daily routine.

Gaining weight

Something like an obviouse change in weight can be a sign to start looking into your pets daily habits, as well as diet.

This could be gaining weight, or even losing weight.

My lab Tyson had become borderline hypothyroid and gaining weight.

It was important for me to step in and manage some of his activities and diet, as he was getting older.

Sometimes these things are missed, especially at a good looking 10 yrs old.  But he was a senior, and getting to be a very lazy senior.

Just like people, lazy can be unhealthy. Especially when being lazy adds to your weight.

Exercise

I had currently put him on an exercise routine that he was able to manage with a good attitude.  Never do more than what they’re able, and always ease into it.  Look to your veterinarian for a routine that fits.

Breakfast

For breakfast Tyson would have 3-4 baby carrots and a couple spoonfuls of wet food mixed with his dry.  Every morning after breakfast I gave 6 blueberries wrapped in a thin turkey slice. As I like to sneak in some antioxidants when he’s not looking.

Adding Broccoli

After losing some weight, which gave Tyson more energy, we were told by the vet that we were definitely on the right path.

We were thrilled, no medication! BUT, I was told instead of canned food, to add broccoli.

Raw broccoli did NOT go over well with my two dogs.  So I decided to change it up a little bit, creatibg a smoothie… They loved it!

Instead of canned in the morning they would get dry food with 3-4 spoonfuls of broccoli smoothie with 3 baby carrots.  After breakfast I still like to add 6 blueberries wrapped in a thin turkey slice.

Dinner Rewards

Dinner remains canned food mixed with dry.  As they may tire of veggies quickly if they get it twice daily.

Keeping dinner exciting, has them always looking forward to meals

The change was amazing!!!

Surprisingly for BOTH of my boys.  Tyson was showing more energy as he continued his exercise, and his brother dog Ace, who had somewhat loose stools, began having firm, and healthy looking stools.  A win win!!

Broccoli Recipe Is A Winner

Adding broccoli ends up getting both dogs in in a healthy state.  No more loose stools from the younger dog, and for my senior…. bloodwork proved healthier, and he was able to avoid daily medications.

So for those that might think that raw broccoli is a no go, try blending it with something just a little more enticing.

Raw Broccoli Smoothie Recipe

1 Giant raw broccoli head with its trunk or 2 small

1 1/2 cups Chicken broth

3-4 Thin Oscar Meyer deli turkey slices

Add to blender chop then puree til smooth.

(Optional-For a boost of vitamins A and C for dogs, blend in 1/2 a red bell pepper)

Makes 6-8 servings

Add 3-4 spoonfuls of broccoli smoothie to dry food daily instead of canned dog food❤❤❤

**Refrigerate unused amounts

**Small dogs may need a smaller serving

**Safe for cats in a smaller portion (VERY picky eaters- good luck)