How & When to Safely Detox Your Dog: A Complete Guide!

As you could probably guess: our pets are exposed to a lot of toxins on a daily basis! Even if we keep toxins to a minimum in our homes, they are forever in our environment (air, water, soil, food, etc).

You may be wondering if your dog needs help detoxifying his/ her body. But detox isn't just a fancy word; it's an intricate physiological mechanism of the body.

Supporting your dog’s detox pathways is essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being. Just like humans, dogs are exposed to a variety of toxins in their environment, including chemicals in household products, pollutants in the air, and residues from processed foods. These toxins can accumulate in their systems, leading to a range of health problems, including impaired energy levels, joint dysfunction, and a weakened immune response. By actively promoting natural detoxification, you can help prevent the buildup of these harmful substances, thus enhancing your dog's vitality and longevity.

Have you been questioning whether you need support in this complex area of health?

Interested in a safe detox?

If you've been told to detox your pet, are wanting to begin a detox, or are curious about the process:

This post is for you!

In this post, we will drive into several ways to enhance your dog's detoxification processes.

I see it time and time again- people on social media recommending detoxes for every animal under the sun- no matter the age, breed, or lifestyle... without knowing the animal's individual health status, diet, medical history, symptoms, state of their gut health, etc.

So here's the truth:

I would not personally recommend a detox for any pet without knowing a complete history, as this could create a cascade of unwanted/ uncomfortable symptoms and send the animal's body into a dangerous downward spiral.

Detoxification support needs to be done at the right time, in the correct steps, with the proper tools and guidance, and ONLY if the body is ready for it.

Don't go at it alone!

Safeguard your dog's health by gaining the knowledge you need to successfully support your pet's natural bodily functions, with the appropriate steps and guidance in this all-encompassing post!

A WORD OF CAUTION:

I'm going to preface this post with saying:

This blog post is not a substitute for veterinary advice or care.

If your pet is experiencing an acute poisoning emergency:

Please seek professional guidance by calling your veterinarian and reaching out to Pet Poison Helpline.

Head on over to your the nearest emergency vet! Find the closest one here.

Acute vs Chronic:

I'm going to be clear: the information about detoxification in this post is about accumulated buildup over the years of a pet's life. NOT acute poisonings.

Any time your pet has had a sudden ingestion or exposure to toxic substance that is causing immediate discomfort and symptoms- they should be brought to a veterinarian immediately!

Do NOT attempt decontamination at home (such as peroxide emesis or activated charcoal).

Some toxic substances can cause far more damage coming back up, than going in, especially if other substances are introduced (even with good intentions).

If you need immediate assistance-

PLEASE call Pet Poison Helpline right away!

Now.... let's begin!

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What is Detoxification?

Detoxification (or detox, for short) is the act in removing harmful substances. In this case, we are talking about removing toxins from the body.

Detoxing is NOT about restrictive or extreme diets, complex cleansing, extensive protocols, or giving a ton of supplements. While you might see things trending online about doing detoxes, or detoxing your pet- just know that my views on the subject are different. I don't believe you should be forcefully detoxing your pet all the time and putting them on lengthy protocols, restrictive diets, long fasts, broth cleanses, etc. Detox is about SUPPORTING the body to do what it was innately designed to do and assisting its natural cleanup processes to maintain homeostasis (internal balance).

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What is Considered a Toxin & How do they Enter the Body?

Toxins are considered to be a poisonous or harmful, non-biological substance that damages an organism.

Toxins can be natural, or man-made.

Toxicity can be acute (poison ingestion) or an accumulation over time (heavy metals building up in the body over many years).

Of course when we think of toxins, we automatically think of synthetic chemicals and substances.

Methods in which toxins can enter the body:

• Orally

This is primarily via the ingestion of food and water.

And before you think that feeding your dog a raw diet is less toxic than kibble (though in some ways it is), consider this:

Bones, fat, organ meats and muscle tissue contain various levels of toxins.

Bones store heavy metals.

Fat (adipose tissue) stores all kinds of unwanted substances.

Liver processes many toxins (like environmental chemicals, heavy metals, and even medications like antibiotics that were given to the animal) on a daily basis, which can be an exposure for your pets who are consuming it.

Muscle meat can hold various heavy metals, pesticides, etc.

A mother's milk can even excrete many of these toxins from years of build up!

• Inhalation (pollution and chemical vapors in the air)

• Topically (spilled on, applied, lawn exposure, bathing/ grooming products, through the air)

• Inherited

In utero exposure (heavy metals being pulled from bones) can be a major source of toxin buildup in neonates. Maternal exposures are commonly passed down through pregnancy to the developing fetus.

I once heard a really eye-opening saying:

"The quickest way to detox, is to get pregnant."

That really stuck with me!

We'll talk more about some of these routes later on.

Keeping toxins out of the body is a task in and of itself. Since there are so many routes to which things can enter the body, it's important to be aware of all the ways that your pet can be exposed to these harmful substances.

But here's the trick:

Don't get overly worried or obsessive about controlling everything your dog is exposed to. This will drive you into a chaotic loop of anxiety and panic. It is very important to be aware and informed, but we must not let this knowledge take over our minds and well-being.

Types of Toxins:

• Bacteria

While bacteria are not a toxin- bacteria can produce various type of toxins (endotoxins) that can greatly disrupt and harm the body, causing tissue damage and cellular harm, as well as adverse immune responses.

Botulinum toxin (botulism) & Pertussis toxin (Bordetella pertussis bacteria- whooping cough in humans & Bordetlla bronchiseptica- kennel cough in dogs).

*You can read more about Bordetella here.

• Algae

Blue-green algae is well-known to be toxic to pets, and even deadly!

Read more about algae poisoning.

• Synthetic Chemicals

Many toxins are persistent organic pollutants (POP), which are synthetic man-made chemicals.

According to the EPA:

"Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are toxic chemicals that adversely affect human health and the environment around the world. Because they can be transported by wind and water, most POPs generated in one country can and do affect people and wildlife far from where they are used and released. They persist for long periods of time in the environment and can accumulate and pass from one species to the next through the food chain."

-Source.

• Plant chemicals

Some plants contain toxic compounds and can cause illness, or even death in animals. Lilies for example, are very toxic to cats!

• Food items

Chocolate, grapes, onions, and macadamia nuts are known to be toxic to dogs and should not be fed.

Other Sources of Toxins, that our Pets Are Exposed To (and what we will primarily be focusing on):

• Heavy metals (mercury, lead, aluminum, cadmium, arsenic)

• Fluoride

• Pesticides

• Insecticides

*View the "Dirty Dozen" food list, and DDT use history here.

• Fungicides

• PCB's

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

• Petrochemicals

• DDT

• Artificial fragrances (room sprays, perfume, dryer sheets)

• Vaccinations (residual animal DNA, antibiotics, heavy metals, preservatives, etc)

• Lawn fertilizer

• Cigarette smoke

• Car exhaust

• Antibiotics (can contain heavy metals and artificial dyes)

• Herbicides

• Chlorine

• Phalates

• Fungi (mold)

Black mold is probably the most common mold/ fungi you may think of. And it's downright dangerous to all living creatures!

Mycotoxins-

A toxic secondary metabolite produced by fungi and is capable of causing disease and death in both humans and other animals. They are very difficult to kill and are generally resistant to most cleaning methods. Certain crops are notorious for being affected my mycotoxins- these include corn and cereal grains, as well as nuts (peanuts in particular) and even some fruits.

Aflatoxins-

A very toxic type of mycoxin, a common species is Aspergillus, which commonly contaminates corn (think low-quality pet feed).

Some pet foods have had serious recalls and even lawsuits for serious mold contamination.

Read more about mycotoxins.

Mold toxicity can mimic just about any health ailment out there! Which is why it commonly goes undiagnosed in humans, and pets. If you suspect mold in your home, get it professionally tested as soon as you can. Do not use bleach on it! If you are feeding a grain-based diet to your dog, consider food rotation with other grain options, or even a grain-free diet once in awhile to reduce the risk.

If any mold exposure has occurred, you most definitely need to support your dog's ability to detoxify!

With all of the regular exposure to various substances and even hazards, there could undoubtedly be some damage and stress caused to the body!

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Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP's)

POP's are synthetic, man-made chemicals that resist degradation.

Facts about POP's:

• Remains intact for very long periods of time

• Widely distributed throughout the environment due to natural processes (air, water, soil)

• Accumulates in the fat tissue of animals and humans

Since many toxins are fat (lipid) soluble, we must use caution when executing a detox... especially if an animal is overweight, or on a weight loss plan!

Many POP's are considered to be endocrine disruptors. This means they can damage the reproductive systems.

"Although the production of most persistent organic pollutants (POPs) was banned years ago, these toxicants persist in the environment due to their resistance to biodegradation and widespread distribution in various environmental forms (e.g., vapor, sediment, water). As a result, human exposure to these toxicants is inevitable. Largely due to their lipophilicity, POPs bioaccumulate in adipose tissue, resulting in greater body burdens of these environmental toxicants with obesity."

"When considering the toxicity of POPs, it is important to discuss their relationship with adipose tissue (AT), a significant site of toxicant bioaccumulation. The collection and storage of POPs in fatty tissue can have both positive and negative consequences. One beneficial aspect of POP sequestration in AT is that the toxicant concentration in blood is decreased, limiting POP availability to other cells and tissues where they may have hazardous effects. On the contrary, bioaccumulation of POPs in expanded AT of obese subjects results in a significantly increased body burden. The tonic release of these chemicals into the systemic circulation, especially during periods of weight loss, can pose tremendous threats on overall human health."

-Source

Learn more about POP's here.

Not only do toxins affect humans and our domesticated pets...

They also have had quite an alarming impact on wildlife!

"Alaska’s expansive tundra and close proximity to the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean make it a home for a wide variety of wildlife, some of which are at particular risk from POPs. During the long, cold Alaskan winters, mammals metabolize fat, and this process releases POPs that have accumulated in the fat directly into their bodies. Then, in the spring, a critical period of reproduction for Alaskan wildlife, POPs that have accumulated in the ice and snow can be released into the environment and the food chain."

-Source

Exposure to toxins is not a rare occurrence, its constantly happening, and these substances accumulate in the body over time, being stored in the fat, liver, tissues and other organs if detox pathways are bogged down and cannot keep up.

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Common Misconceptions About Detoxification

I'm sure you've seen a variety of false statements surrounding detox circulating the internet.

Here are some of the top contenders!

• You can detox whenever you want. -MYTH

Really?

Can you?

Take this case for example:

Symptomatic 1 year old mixed-breed dog.

Intermittent diarrhea and constipation.

Head shaking, paw chewing, missing fur, itching, etc.

History of heavy giardia load (4+ months of treatment).

Eating Purina.

Owner tried other foods to no avail, now the dog is on a 'chicken soup diet' (chicken, potatoes, carrots, broth) and the is now attempting to detox with coconut oil, milk thistle and probiotics. *Per a Facebook group recommendation.

I explained that the dog needs good nutrition, gut re-balancing, and to have detox pathways optimized before ANY detox is attempted or it will set a cascade of unwanted symptoms.

Needless to say- someone had to chime in with disagreement. She replied to my comment saying that in 10 years of her being a Facebook group admin, she's never heard of any dog needing a 'good foundation' for detox and they all just recommend following the group protocol of a "soup detox with coconut oil and milk thistle."

Apparently that means force detoxing a dog with a compromised gut, lowered immune system, all while he fasts on nutritionally inadequate soup and isn't getting enough calories, let along nutrition to function at the bare basic necessity?

This person explained it well.

Never has she heard of detox phases and foundational work in being a Facebook group admin. Because she is not a professional, and is not knowledgeable on nutrition or detox.

• Follow detox advice on social media. -MYTH

I'll keep this one short and sweet, because it's obvious at this point. Anyone who is truly knowledgeable on this subject, knows its a complex topic and must be done in correct stages and steps while supervised guidance is at the forefront.

Avoid the misinformed advice like this at all costs, and save your dog the suffering!

• Symptomatic pets need to be detoxed. -MYTH

Nope, nope, nope!

Again, you must start with foundations.

Symptoms means the body is overburdened and struggling to detox... you need to build it up and support it- not force it!

• Kibble, oats, and rice are toxic. - MYTH

You've likely seen statements like this mentioned on social media, people shouting:

"Kibble is toxic!" "Don't feed your dog rice, it's toxic!" "Oats are toxic to dogs!" and so-on...

Actually, none of this is true.

While some low-quality ingredients that specific companies may use IN the kibble can be harmful to overall health... kibble in and of itself is not actually a toxin, and neither are grains.

Rice and oats is a big controversy in the holistic community. They have their place in nutritional management of certain diseases, and life-stages. And anyone with a proper background in nutrition knows this.

Please keep in mind:

There is a sharp difference between a toxin, and something that's simply just unhealthy, inflammatory, or inappropriate for a dog to be consuming on a regular basis (I don't recommend that corn be in a dog's diet for various reasons). Remember, even animal products like bone, meat, and organs are known to be a source of toxins...

• Fasting your dog will detox them. -MYTH

Does fasting detox the body? Yes, on some level... but not in the ways that most people think.

Simply depriving your dog his meals and required nutrients is not going to get you the results you want... or the healing that your dog needs.

• Detoxing your pet will cure their allergies or other health ailments. -MYTH

While detoxing your dog may help their body to eventually regain more of a balance internally and not be so run down... there are still many more layers that need to be addressed with any disease process. This could include re-balancing the microbiome, correcting nutrient deficiencies, decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress levels, clearing out parasites, evaluating stress and management of anxiety, and well as addressing underlying pain that can mimic allergies (obsessively licking and biting at the paws).

• Detoxing is safe. -MYTH (sometimes)

It's a lot more complicated than giving a milk thistle supplement... And when detox is done at the wrong time, your pet's health can truly suffer the consequences. Keep reading to learn how!

• Detoxing your dog is easy and just needs to be done once. -MYTH

I'm not here to tell you that detoxing is quick and painless. It takes a lot of work and can be quite lengthy. From weeks, to months, and even years! We also need to maintain detox pathways function through our pet's entire life.

With all of that said: Let's dive in!

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Signs Your Pet May Need Help Detoxing

Since I work a lot with allergy dogs, I see many who clearly have signs of toxin overload, high levels of oxidative stress and congested detox pathways and poor methylation.

Detox pathways are the body's natural systems that help eliminate harmful substances.

Think of it as the plumbing system.

Methylation is a biochemical process which impacts how the body detoxifies, and regulates gene expression.

Diet is one of the biggest factors in both of these processes. We can literally influence how genes are expressed and how well detox pathways function by working through proper nutrition and supplementation. Certain herbs and foods can turn specific genes on and off, regulating the outcome of how cells are working in the body, ultimately impacting overall health.

Detox pathways:

• Skin- largest detox organ

• Liver- most complex detox organ that processes, and converts toxins, medications and other substances.

• GI/ Colon- binds toxins and removes them via feces

• Kidneys- filters and removes water-soluble toxins and waste products through the urine

• Lungs- excretes toxins and some anesthetics through breathing

• Lymph- transports waste products and excess sludge through the body to be removed

• Mental/ Emotional- trapped emotions may also need to be 'detoxed.' Toxic emotional patterns and traumas can impact animals just like humans as our bodies will store these in a physical way. Emotional regulation and nervous system support is very important here!

*We can see behavioral changes when detox starts happening and things mobilize, such as: irritability, anxiety, aggression, etc.

When our pets live a sedentary lifestyle, toxins and waste products cannot move through the body like they should. Eating a processed diet of inflammatory foods, minimal hydration, and barely any movement can lead to stagnation of detox pathways. If any of these pathways in the body are not working effectively, slow down or even stop- they all do! This leads to the further storage and even re-circulation of toxins, which is a recipe for chronic inflammation and high oxidative stress levels. 

Ultimately we see various health problems and symptoms.

Depending on what type of toxin exposure and symptoms we are dealing with, will determine which detox pathways is most utilized.

Simply doing a liver cleanse means you're missing a variety of substances that won't be able to be properly removed.

Now, not every dog 'needs' a detox forced by us.

Can it be helpful? Yes.

But I also believe that overall bodily support can be just enough in many cases to facilitate and support the natural detoxification process. Oftentimes, nutritional and cellular support is all that's needed to gently bring the body back into balance. This should be gentle, continuous support via a multi-faceted approach, vs one heavy push for a forceful detoxification.

Our goal is to maintain a steady clearance over time to avoid accumulations!

That being said, we should be supporting the body more heavily during seasonal changes (spring time especially). Whether that's just with Seasonal Dietary Support, herbs, or even more stringent supplement regimens.

When deciding if we should detox our dog, we must take into consideration a variety of factors.

History of exposure:

• Over-vaccination (heavy metals)

• Surgical procedures (anesthesia)

• Poor-quality diet (moldy grains, plastic residues, etc.)

• Living in a large city (air pollution, car exhaust, lawn fertilizer)

• Living in the country (herbicides, pesticides, etc)

• Drinking tap water (chlorine, medication traces, heavy metals)

• Antibiotics

• Artificial fragrances (plug-in sprays, perfume, scented laundry detergent and dryer sheets, candles, etc)

Physical symptoms:

• Itching/ scratching

• Rashes

• Loose stools and/ or constipation

• Bad breath

• Joint pain

• Chronic ear infections

• Runny/ goopy eyes

• Dry skin/ coat

• Vomiting

• Anal gland issues

• Coughing

• Diarrhea and/or constipation

• Redness on feet & chewing on paws

• Lumps/ bumps on the skin

• Parasitic infection

Severe toxicity:

• Increased liver values like ALP/ALT

• Low energy/ activity level

• Gut permeability

• Histamine intolerance

• Diabetes

• Lowered immune system (constant skin infections & respiratory illness)

• Hormonal imbalances

• Impaired organ function (abnormal liver or kidney values shown on blood work)

• Neurological changes (anxiety, aggression, seizures)

• Cancer.

.... and much more.

These symptoms are indicative of high toxin load & congested detox pathways, often concurrent with nutritional deficiencies and high levels of inflammation, leading to oxidative stress in the cells, cell damage, impaired bodily functions and ultimately an entire cascade of unpleasant symptoms.

Little known fact:

This is the prime environment where parasites and pathogens like to take hold within the organs and tissues of the body.

Generally, if we are seeing symptoms... we do not want to detox right away.

We must re-balance the animal's body and vitality first, so it's strong enough to get rid of the things it needs to, and subsequently begin the repair work.

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How Can I Detox My Dog?

This is a HOT topic with a ton of dangerous misinformation.

I will start this off by saying:

There is no single, specific supplement protocol for detox!

Anyone who tells you there is:

RUN!

Many people just assume you can start a detox or cleanse at any time.

Many will even encourage it when an animal is itchy, having diarrhea, etc.

They maybe even think they can do it once, and all is well.

This is the farthest thing from the truth.

When there is a buildup of yucky toxicity in the body which has led to unwanted symptoms and even disease: we must move toxins CAREFULLY and SLOWLY.

We also must move them somewhat frequently. This means short intervals of light detox a few times a year, but also maintaining that clearance we talked about earlier. Rather than one large dump every few years.

When we approach a detox, there are some important things to keep in mind:

Each pet's history, exposure type, symptoms and therefore level of support will be different, as I outlined above.

First, we need to know the animal's health history, diet, symptoms, age, and more.

This will help us determine the level of preparation and overall support that is needed.

Next, we need to know more about the level of exposure.

Does the animal live in a big, busy city where they are walking through thick car exhaust 3x/ week?

Is the animal swimming in a pond with pesticide-ridden farmland next door?

Does the pet eat a grain-based diet?

We also need to take into account which organ system(s) are being affected, which symptoms are occurring- when, and where they occur, etc. This will (again) help us to know the level of support that is needed to help the body do its job.

I thoroughly believe in individualized care and a tailored plan vs. a one-size-fits-all approach.

It is extremely important for me to know a few key things:

• Age

• Breed

• Medical & health history

• Diet

• Symptoms

• Lifestyle

To begin:

• Taking a thorough history: Without a detailed history and evaluation, you likely won't be able to pinpoint what exactly needs to be detoxed (for example, a history of giving a low-quality fish oil supplement may mean that there are heavy metals, microplastics, and pesticides in the body).

• Feed a high quality diet and enhance your pet's nutritional status with whole foods that are rich in antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals.

• Be sure your pet is having regular bowel movements.

• Promote good lymphatic flow by increasing exercise.

• Be sure they are hydrated and increase water intake

  
  

But one of the most important things you need to know in relation to detox:

The physiological process & phases.

This refers to the body's natural process that it follows to convert and remove toxins and waste products.

While most people will jump to using supplements, to forcibly purge the body- what many fail to realize (or often forget) is that our bodies are naturally equipped with the innate ability to detox themselves. To do this, you need to set a solid foundation and provide the needed resources for the body to do so!

The 5 Step Process

Here are the main steps I take with my Clients when we work on optimizing detoxification!

We first need to have a good level of knowledge on bodily processes and get the body to a level of stability in order to facilitate a healthy detox.

The liver may be the first thing you think of when the word detox comes to mind, but detoxification is not a liver-only occurrence. It's an intricate, multi-system process that involves many key functions of the body.

1. Be Knowledgeable on the Phases & Pathways of Detox and Optimize them!

You MUST be aware of how the body naturally facilitates detoxification!

The body does not just purge toxins on a whim... it goes through an intricate 3-step process.

Remember those pathways? If those are not functioning optimally, you should not be detoxing!

Always address the foundation first, and that means providing optimal nutritional support.

Certain herbs, vitamins and antioxidants play a key role in detoxification processes. It's very important that you know what to use and/ when.

Phase I:

This phase primarily occurs in the liver, and is responsible for processing and converting fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble toxins in preparation to then be eliminated by the body.

Phase 1 can create a type of by-product of waste called "intermediates."

These are generally taken care of in phase 2, if things are functioning correctly- if not, they can accumulate and recirculate, causing cellular damage that leads to further oxidative stress and other health issues. This is where people usually see "detox reactions."

Nutrients needed for this phase include:

• B Vitamins

• Glutathione (the body's master antioxidant)

• Antioxidants (like A & C)

• Carotenoids

• Vitamin E

Phase II:

Phase 2 transforms and neutralizes the "intermediate" metabolites, requiring specialize nutrients to complete the task. This phase involves the liver, kidneys, intestines, and lungs.

• Amino acids (glutamine, glycine, taurine, cysteine, methionine)

• Glutathione (the body's master antioxidant)

• N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

• Magnesium

• Omegas

• Sulphur compounds (as found in cruciferous vegetables)

Phase III:

The finale- transporting the neutralized toxins for elimination from the body.

This involves the gallbladder, bile flow, and fecal elimination.

It also involves filtration with the kidneys and into the urine for excretion.

As you can see, the body needs a lot of critical nutrients to be able to open up pathways, convert and finally eliminate toxins. The great thing is, once we address nutrition, the body can (and does) effectively detox itself, often times with no symptoms at all! While some would have you believe that symptoms and detox "reactions" are normal.... this is simply not true. This indicates a deeper problem, often with the toxin levels being too high and nutrient levels being too low.

While a big go-to in the detox world is milk thistle (best for the liver)... It takes quite a bit more than that to cleanse the body, as toxins can be stored in more than just the liver! Not only that, but other nutrients and/or supplements are needed first for the body to prepare for proper toxin elimination... others can help to bind and eliminate toxins that are subsequently dumped from the liver.

When things go wrong-

In a recent social media post, I saw:

Someone wrote that she was trying to detox her itchy dog. The morning after the start of the 'detox' the itching had increased so bad, the dog broke out in hives, started panting heavily, and was showing signs of distress. The dog owner was now growing concerned and posted in a social media group for some guidance.

This is an example of force detoxing on a whim and things getting much worse. The body was already struggling, and is now completely miserable. This is a prime example of why we shouldn't be entrusting our pet's health to random advice in social media groups, and why we MUST be aware of how the physiological phases of detox work.

When we jump straight from toxin overload and symptomatic, to mobilizing/ dumping toxins... The body can reach a threshold it cannot handle.

Think of it like a clogged toilet.

The toxins (feces and urine) are swirling and swirling around... meanwhile the blocked detox pathways (toilet paper stuck in the pipes) are backing things up, higher and higher until it overflows... If you keep trying to 'flush' things out... You're going to get an absolutely miserable mess (waste all over your floors)!

When the body is properly supported, and detox is done correctly- we can minimize the amount of stress on the body from toxins being mobilized, transformed, and neutralized... and they get eliminated properly, gently and above all: safely.

If you're considering a detox, you need to know what to do and what to avoid.

Just as it's important to do our research in stopping the toxins we give and expose our pets to...

We must also do the research on how to properly eliminate the toxins that are present.

With this, you need to be sure detox pathways are open and functioning optimally! This means good exercise and brushing the body, good hydration to ensure regular urination, as well as regular bowel movements (at least 2x/day).

2. Know What You're Trying to Detox

Remember that list of toxins and other substances, along with the primary detox pathways that we covered earlier? If you're trying to detox heavy metals, vs environmental chemicals, or even helping the body to cleanse excess histamine or mold: the supplements and type of support that we use are going to be so very different!

I have many supplements for the dogs, 15+ to be exact!

*Plus a few from my own cabinet that can be used for them.

But do they all get used? No.

These are not all used regularly!

Rotation and tailored support during each phase and even seasonally is KEY!

Some I use only 1-2x per year.

Each dog will only get up to 4 supplements a day, depending on need.

Usually they will get 1-3 at a time. And some days we do none.

Bottom line: you need to know what your're trying to detox, and how to support each organ system in order to assist in flushing things out.

3. Clean up the Environment

Avoiding exposure to chemicals in cleaning products, pesticides, and certain pet care items is essential if you want any method of detoxification to be successful.

As we have all moved to a more industrialized world, filled with air pollution, overuse of pharmaceuticals, and decades upon decades of pesticide use and other chemical exposures...

We absolutely need to minimize the incoming toxins, then help the body to regain balance so it is able to properly release many years of toxic sludge! If you're continuously detoxing your pet, but still use toxins in an around your home.. You're just restocking their toxin tank.

Every time something exits, it gets replaced by more.

To start the natural detoxification process, it is highly advised to first detox your home, inside and out. This means reducing or eliminating environmental toxins that your pet is exposed to regularly.

• Filter the drinking water

• Use natural flea and tick prevention, if you can

• Bathing seasonally, or more frequently for city dwellers

• Reduce environmental toxins (lawn chemicals, dryer sheets, candles, perfume, etc).

• Optimizing veterinary care (tailored vaccine schedules, reduce medication use if possible).

If we are constantly trying to detox our pets, but they are continuously exposed to toxins...

We are sending their body into a round-about-spiral that it could never possibly keep up with.

When more toxins are going in than out, we aren't doing anything to help by forcing detox with supplements.

4. Address Nutrition

Proper nutrition is needed in 100% of all health concerns, whether proactive or as a management tool.

While you'll hear many people in the holistic community say that raw is best (and even shame people for feeding kibble), a raw food diet is in fact NOT needed to reach and maintain optimal wellness.

What people need to take into consideration when feeding raw food diets, especially 80/10/10 models, is the possibility for nutritional imbalance.

Our dogs need more support than ever to assist their bodies in dealing with such a toxic world.

Providing a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omegas can bolster their natural detox pathways. Incorporating foods that are known to support liver health, such as beets, broccoli, and leafy greens, can further aid in the detoxification process.

You also need to be sure you are providing them with the proper nutrients, such as:

• Protein (amino acids)

• Fat

• Carbohydrates (oh yes, carbs can be nutritious and even healing)

• Fiber

• Micronutrients

• Phytonutrients

We can also work through nutrition from a TCVM and/or nutrigenomics standpoint to further support the body. This is the route I personally take with my nutrition clients.

"Food-based nutrients have been and continue to be investigated for their role in the modulation of metabolic pathways involved in detoxification processes.

"Food-derived components and nutrients can modulate processes of conversion and eventual excretion of toxins from the body."

"Specific foods may upregulate or favorably balance metabolic pathways to assist with toxin biotransformation and subsequent elimination."

-Source.

Detoxing is not just about giving milk thistle, herbs, and binders. It's truthfully about whole body nutritional support!

Cruciferous vegetables and berries can be so beneficial and are commonly used in naturopathic and functional-based therapies.

Unfortunately, many things have affected the food supply, and affected the nutrient levels and healing ability in our food, water, and herbs.

• Depleted soils

• Pesticides

• Fertilizers

• Herbicides

Then we have:

• Processed food

• Artificial colors

• Synthetic preservatives

• Rancid fats

This all leads to reduced micronutrients and antioxidant levels found in our foods, and ultimately increased inflammation in the body.

This is also a prime time to change your pet's food, if needed, and start adding whole foods! When adding whole foods, try to buy organic if possible (especially berries and apples, as well as most greens) and wash them thoroughly before serving.

Some great foods to incorporate include:

• Lean meats

• Blueberries

• Apple

• Steamed brocolli

• Cucumber

• Watermelon

• Cooked carrots

• Steamed spinach

Most often I see that low-quality inflammatory diets are being that doesn't help any symptoms we are trying to mitigate... and the diet is likely contributing to an inflammatory and toxin state.

5. Support the Body as a Whole

I'll say it again- detoxification isn't just about giving supplements.

It's about well-rounded support for the entire body.

This means:

• Feeding foods rich in fiber to promote gut health and toxin elimination

• Provide antioxidant rich foods

• Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial, as water plays a significant role in flushing out toxins from the body.

• Brushing, petting and increasing exercise to stimulate lymphatic flow

• Assisting the body before and after surgical procedures to help the pet excrete anesthesia and other medications

• Acupuncture and chiropractic care to promote good circulation and nervous system function, as well as opening up energy meridians to clear things out

• Grounding, nature, fresh air to reconnect the animal to its inherent vitality and source of existence

• Increasing physical activity to encourage good circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, which helps in the elimination of waste products.

• Air purification to minimize exposure to irritants and pollutants and promote healthy lung function (polluted air can irritate and inflame the lungs)

• Ensure good humidity levels, to keep nasal passages and lungs moist

• Routine blood work to be sure all organs are functioning optimally

Far too many times I have seen people trying to detox their pet with a variety of supplements, without ever addressing any of the above. These are all key areas that can be optimized with a few simple daily steps that can be integrated easily into your daily routine!

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When Should I Avoid Detoxing My Pet?

There are some times when we should avoid or delay detoxing our pets.

• Symptoms-

If your dog is currently having unpleasant symptoms, you should almost always avoid detoxing the body. Remember the clogged toilet? Symptoms arise when the body is struggling and out of balance. Further adding more work and purging can create a host of other issues.

Some health conditions may also be contraindicated for detoxing (such as kidney and liver disease).

• Obesity-

Pets who are obese may need a few extra levels of support as they have a lot more toxins built up and more oxidative stress in the body due to increased fat percentages. When animals are on a weightless plan, detox pathways must absolutely be supported as those toxins will begin to release with the fat loss. Nutrition also needs to be fully addressed to be sure proper nutrients are in place for not only maintaining a good weightless plans but also in being sure the body detoxes appropriately.

• Nutrient Deficiencies-

Remember the phases of detox?

If nutrient requirements are not available for the body systems to utilize, you can really harm your dog! You may want to quickly detox an animal that you just rescued, but that is not your priority right off the bat. First and foremost is to focus on nutritional foundations so the body can begin the cleanup process itself, and then you can help it along as needed.

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My Favorite Detox Support Products

If you've been waiting for it, and have read this far- it's time!!

Here are my absolute favorite products for supporting the various phases and levels of detoxification and cleaning up the cells and tissues in the body, while reducing inflammation and oxidative stress!

*Please be aware that this is not an all inclusive list.

I'll dive into each one of these products below.

All of the supplements listed below can be purchased in the HTP Shop!

• LifeVantage - Petandim NRF2 Synergizer

Good health begins deep inside our cells.

Everyday stressors and toxins can damage the body, deep beyond where we can see.... Before any symptoms even arise.

So how do we address it?

That’s where NRF2 Activation comes in— your body’s “master switch” for cellular protection and resilience.

One of the key players in the detoxification process is a protein called NRF2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2). When NRF2 is activated within the body, it triggers the expression of various detoxification enzymes and antioxidant proteins, enhancing the body's ability to neutralize and eliminate harmful substances.

The best part?

You can let the body do all the work, the work it was designed to do.... Without handfuls of supplements each day, that ultimately leave your dog's cells feeling bogged down and overwhelmed.

Getting to the true root of symptoms by Activating NRF2 pathways means we are supporting the body at a cellular level!

Petandim has been shown to:

- Neutralize over 1 MILLION free radicals!

- Reduce oxidative stress in the body by 40% in just 30 days!

- Boost glutathione by 300%!

- Support the body's own ability to repair and rejuvenate its own cells.

- Helps the body detoxify at a cellular level and regulate gene expression.

- Reduces cellular stress.

NRF2 Activation and it's role in detox:

"Nrf2 produces cytoprotection by detoxification mechanisms leading to increased detoxification and excretion of both organic xenobiotics and toxic metals; its action via over two dozen genes increases highly coordinated antioxidant activities; it produces major anti-inflammatory changes; it stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and otherwise improves mitochondrial function; and it stimulates autophagy, removing toxic protein aggregates and dysfunctional organelles."

-Source.

Toxin exposure and waste buildup leads to accumulation of oxidative stress, it is essentially like rust within the body, which can lead to cellular damage, contributing to various health issues, including chronic diseases and accelerated aging.

NRF2 pathways play an essential role in decreasing oxidative stress by activating the body's natural antioxidant defenses by regulating gene expression, which helps produce the protective enzymes that fight against oxidative stress.

This process boosts superoxide dimutase (SOD), a natural antioxidant enzyme that helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, while supporting the liver. This action enhances cellular protections, promotes and regulates cellular detoxification, and helps the body to process and eliminate harmful substances (like environmental and metabolic toxins/ waste) in a gentle and effective way- A critical piece in Phase 2 of detoxification.

A big mistake that is made with detox is often that people just want to dump out the toxins, without actually cleaning up the damage they caused in the cells and tissues.

When NRF2 pathways in the body are supported, it helps your cells:

- Activate natural antioxidant defenses

- Reduce everyday oxidative stress

- Age gracefully from the inside out

- Detoxify & Repair

- Communicate more efficiently

- Boost resilience so the body can handle more of life’s stressors

We can actually even influence how certain genes behave through nutrigenomics and NRF2 Activation.

It really is the master key to wellness!

By understanding the role of NRF2 in activating detox enzymes and taking proactive steps to support your dog’s detox pathways, you can significantly improve their well-being.

Bottom line:

NRF2 Activation is a non-negotiable in our house! This is an absolute daily staple!

Petandim is a great daily addition for raising vitality and boosting longevity!

*And yes, there's a Protandim equivalent for us humans- as well!

Get your entire family Activated!

Read the Petandim study and buy it here.

*If you're outside the USA, click here.

• Ocemida - Hydrogen Rich Water

Medicinal WATER!!! Hydrogen-rich water, to be exact.

Molecular Hydrogen is an ancient molecule, and a potent antioxidant that has a variety of amazing benefits! 

Studies show that ingestion of hydrogen-rich water can:

-Reduce oxidative stress

-Scavenge free radicals

-Improve cognitive function

-Help athletic recovery

-Benefit diabetics & cancer patients

-Reduce inflammation 

-Diversify the gut microbiome 

-Improve mood and lessen anxiety 

THAT is whole body care! 

The device is extremely portable at only 8oz!

Why such a small bottle?

The smaller the device, the higher the concentration of Hydrogen! You do not need a massive machine to generate gallons of this per day. A small amount will do wonders for you! I only drink a few ounces per day.

This little bottle lasts for years when properly cared for, and only requires about 10 minutes of cleaning and maintenance per week! 

What's even better?

No need to pull out a loan or finance like with other hydrogen water generators!

It does not cost thousands of dollars like other machines. You also do not have to send it into the company to be serviced like other products! Clean it yourself, at home in just a few minutes with no extra tools or equipment. 

CAUTION:

If you choose another hydrogen generating product, be aware that cheaply made ones can create harsh secondary chemicals (like chlorine), as well as leach heavy metals from the generating plates, that could adversely affect your health. The bottle I swear by is 3rd party tested and certified & uses only the highest quality parts to avoid secondary contaminants and degradation.

Also, do not directly drink out of the bottle, as mouth bacteria can ruin the delicate membrane. Poor it into a glass for drinking!

Purchase your own hydrogen generating water bottle here and experience the benefits for yourself, and your pets!

• Adored Beast Apothecary - Potent Sea

A concentrated source of EPH & DHA, packed with Omega 3's and sustainably sourced!

Algae Oil is a fantastic alternative to standard fish oil that doesn't harm our oceans, this is a supplement I highly recommend!

Algae oil can help improve liver function, reduce inflammation and enhance cellular support and detox pathways.

This particular product is free from solvents, pesticides, or heavy metals, and is 3rd party tested!

• Animal Essentials - Detox Blend

I absolutely love using herbal supports for detox.

This blend is great for routine and seasonal use! It supports detox pathways, and helps the body maintain it's natural cleanup processes. It is especially helpful in resetting the system, if used appropriately.

Remember, when detox pathways are supported, the body can do what it needs to do!

• ION Gut Support

One of the best gut support products on the market!

ION is primarily comprised of ancient soil-derived humic extract.

Humic extract is powerful, yet gentle, substance that has been scientifically proven to strengthen the gut lining. It helps in sealing the tight junctions in the intestines, even when harmful toxins are present. Ever heard of Leaky Gut? Well, this helps combat that intestinal permeability, and improves immune system function, digestion, and enhances the diversity of the microbiome to improve overall health!

It has been shown to strengthen Renal Proximal Tubules in the kidneys, diversify the microbiome terrain, and bolster the immune system!

This is another non-negotiable in our house!

*We humans- take the human version which is a tad different than the pet one but all the same great benefits!

• Adored Beast Apothecary - Phyto Synergy

Phyto Synergy is a 1 ingredient product:

Pure marine Phytoplankton.

A single-celled organism that is loaded with nutrients and benefits!

Phytoplankton has been an entire food source for ocean life for thousands of years! It's also a powerhouse antioxidant!

Dosing is just 1/16th of a teaspoon! This just goes to show that bigger isn't always better! Some of the best support can be found in the tiniest of places.

• Super Snouts SuperShrooms

A beautiful blend of medicinal mushrooms designed to support full body health!

It promotes resiliency to pathogens and help the body maintain healthy responses to environmental stressors. Mushrooms can help to modulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and research has shown they can even help prevent and fight off serious diseases!

This is one I tend to give more seasonally, or if the dogs are showing they need a bit of extra support.

• Epsom Salt (Foot Soak)

This is a common one that you'll likely see mentioned online. And while Epsom foot soaks are very beneficial, they do not technically detox the body by pulling things out through the feet. The benefit comes from replenishing magnesium levels in the body through transdermal absorption. Magnesium is a lot more bioavailable when used topically, and this replenishment helps the cells, tissues, and nerves function a lot more efficiently for its daily processes.

Do not give Epsom salt orally as it can be toxic when ingested. Whole food sources of magnesium are best!

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When to Consult with a Professional

If you're ever in doubt; please reach out to a professional who is knowledgeable in nutrition, gut health, and detoxification- especially if your dog is currently dealing with any symptoms or health issues.

Not only should you be choosing the correct products for your dog, you should be using them in the correct order, and at the correct time.

While the supplements listed above can indeed help with detox- remember:

It all begins with diet and proper digestive and organ function first and foremost!

If your dog is on a low-quality diet, has skin rashes, loose stools, excessive shedding, or any other symptoms: you should not be working on detox. You should be working through foundations!

This often requires professional guidance to observe and correct imbalances, and layer everything together to prepare the body.

Detoxification is not merely a process of eliminating toxins; it is an ongoing necessity for maintaining optimal health in dogs.

If you're looking to support your dog's health on a cellular level for truly foundational wellness, please reach out and book a free Clarity Call so we can discuss the next steps in getting your pup on the road to wellness!

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