Coconut oil for our veteran dogs. Yes, many hobbyists are already aware of the enormous advantages of coconut oil for themselves, but it is beneficial for our dogs as well.

Recently, as I was making my way through a book authored by Dr. Jean Dodds, DVM, and Diana Laverdure,

I happened upon their suggestion for supplementing dogs with coconut oil, particularly elderly dogs. Espousing its therapeutic qualities, they share its proven ability to improve brain function in older dogs and people. According to their research, coconut's medium chain triglycerides (MCT) readily cross the blood-brain barrier supplying up to 20% of a normal brain's energy requirements. MCT's are also essential for ketone production as an additional source of brain food. One cited study concluded that MCT's improve age-related cognitive decline by providing an alternative source of energy.

Even more, according to Dogs Naturally Magazine, the benefits of coconut are numerous and include those related to aging dogs:

• Eases inflammation and can help with arthritis discomfort
• Promotes good nerve and brain function and prevents dementia
• Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
• May reduce risk of cancer

So, I am now using unrefined or virgin, organic cold-pressed coconut oil as a supplement for my Irish Wolfhound veterans. I have introduced this supplement to my veteran hound's diet by providing about one heaping tablespoon into their dinner and mixing well. Over three weeks I will increase this amount to the suggested daily dosage of 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.  

For example, my 9.5-year-old Irish Wolfhound male will receive five tablespoons daily!
170 pounds/10 = 17 teaspoons. 17 teaspoons converted into Tablespoons is 17 / 3 tsp per tablespoon = 5.66 Tablespoons.

We are privileged to have four 9.5-year-old veterans here at our home so I will be purchasing quite a bit of Coconut Oil!