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Vitamin K is essential for absorbing calcium, which promotes healthy bones, she added.
6. Supports a healthy heart:
Nutrients like folate and vitamin B6 in pechay help strengthen and maintain proper heart function in dogs.
Guideline on feeding your dog pechay
When it comes to leafy greens like pechay, you have the option to feed them to your dog either cooked or raw. Alternatively, you can even consider pureeing the pechay to make it easier for your dog to consume.
If you choose to cook the pechay for your dog, boiling or blanching are suitable methods. Ensure that the cooked pechay is oil-free and unseasoned, as these can upset their stomach. Keeping it plain is the best approach.
Here are the suggested steps on feeding your dog pechay:
1. Clean and wash vegetables: Before feeding pechay or any other vegetable or fruit to your dog, make sure they are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and chemicals.
If you can, purchase organic fruits and vegetables. These contain even lesser chemicals, pesticides, or any other bacteria, Oraby said.
2. Cut into small pieces: Cut the green leaves into very small pieces that your dog can swallow without chewing. Dogs typically lack the teeth necessary to tear leaves, and feeding them uncut leaves could pose a choking hazard. Unless your dog enjoys crunching, you can opt not to give the white stem as it has minimal nutritional benefits.
3. Test with a small amount: There’s always a risk that your dog might not react properly to a new food. Which is why you must first test to be sure, Oraby noted.
When introducing a new food to your dog’s diet, start with a small quantity as a precautionary measure and observe for any adverse reactions such as diarrhea or runny stools. If any unusual symptoms occur, discontinue feeding pechay immediately. Puppies may require an even smaller amount due to their lower ability to digest high-fiber foods.
4. Practice moderation: “Pechay is nutrient-dense, it can pack a lot of vitamins which can fulfill the daily requirements of a grown adult,” Oraby stressed.
It’s important to feed it to your dog in moderation to prevent overdose or any other potential issues. It is crucial to carefully control the amount of pechay you feed your dog.
5. Opt for greener leaves: As with all vegetables, choose pechay with vibrant green leaves as they contain the highest nutritional value.
Following these steps will help when introducing pechay into your dog’s diet.
Conclusion
“To summarize, pechay is quite safe for dogs, and there’s nothing to worry about if your dog secretly ingests one,” Oraby said.
However, if you choose to include pechay in your dog’s diet, it is important to take necessary precautions and follow the recommended guidelines.
Remember to be mindful of other vegetables and fruits that can be harmful to dogs, keeping them out of your pet’s reach to ensure their safety.
As always, it’s also important to consider your dog’s individual dietary requirements and any potential health conditions before introducing new foods. Consulting with your veterinarian is the best way to ensure that your dog’s diet is safe and appropriate for their overall well-being.
About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of Consular and Diplomatic Affairs and worked at the House of Representatives. He is an entrepreneur and a volunteer for Save Animals of Love and Light – Save ALL.
