People are often tempted to share their home remedies with their pets. Don’t do it! Many things that are treats or even healthful for people (beer, chocolate, coffee, grapes, etc.) can be quite dangerous for dogs. Cats have another long list of don’ts. But definitely don’t share gin-raisins with your animal companion.
Arthritic Dog Should Not Share Gin-Raisins:
Q. My beloved dog is almost 15 and her arthritis is making it hard for her to climb stairs. Would it be OK to give her gin-soaked raisins? They work for my arthritis so I would like to share the benefit with her.
A. Absolutely not! Raisins are toxic to dogs and can damage their kidneys. Instead, ask your vet about glucosamine and chondroitin. Although clinical trials have been disappointing in humans, many veterinarians tell us that this supplement works for their canine patients. Be sure to check with the vet before you share any home remedy with your non-human companion.
People often get confused about the raisin remedy for themselves. Common questions include how to prepare and store them and whether there are side effects.
There are detailed instructions and answers to FAQs in our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis. Other natural approaches include bromelain in pineapple as well as turmeric, boswellia, ginger, capsaicin and stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).
One reader offered this remedy:
“Gelatin worked well for me and my aging best-buddy canine. We both had joint problems and were beginning to limp slightly. I make a variety of Knox Gelatine-natural fruit smoothies for myself and mix it plain into my dog’s food daily. It has been a couple of months since I began using it and both my buddy and I have had remarkable success with the gelatin.”
