Benefits of Devil’s Claw for Dogs

Mary Simpson
by Mary Simpson
Published:  December 30th, 2022
sunday pictures/Shutterstock

Also known as Grapple Plant or Wood Spider, the ominous-sounding Devil’s Claw is really just a name given to the flowering Harpagoside plant that’s native to South Africa. But this pretty little shrub is not just another run-of-the-mill garden plant. Renowned for its natural medicinal properties, the root and tuber from this perennial have been delivering fast, effective pain relief to humans (and their animals) for centuries.


In fact, anti-inflammatory properties from the iridoid glycoside compounds found in the root are today, used throughout the world to treat everything from arthritis and rheumatism to gout, tendonitis, back pain, and even your everyday headache.


And because it can be found in powder, capsule and extract formats, it’s easy to administer to pets who clam up when it comes to popping pills. It’s readily available at any health food store, pharmacy, or even online. So, if this herbal supplement is used by both humans and livestock, is it also safe for dogs? The short answer is yes but with a few caveats.


Related: Best Natural Supplements for Dogs


Like any natural supplement, Devil’s Claw packs a powerful punch and if you are considering testing this (or other) herbal anti-inflammatories on your pet, speak with your vet first.


Who Shouldn’t Take Devil’s Claw


For humans, Devil’s Claw in any format is considered a safe, short-term solution with few side effects. Over time, however, it can aggravate stomach-related issues including ulcers, gallstones, or other gastrointestinal sensitivities. It’s also recommended that Devil’s Claw not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.


Translate all of that into dog-speak and it’s not surprising the same concerns apply to your four-legged buddy. Side effects from over-dosing or extended use can include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. And as above, this is not a recommended course of treatment for pregnant or nursing dogs. It’s also not an appropriate supplement for animals with diabetes or those taking other medications. That’s why running the use of Devil’s Claw past your veterinarian, is an important first step.


How It Works


While still under study, research is suggesting it’s the rich, anti-oxidant properties found in the Devil’s Claw root that can ward off the free radicals responsible for damaging cells and triggering inflammation. This in turn helps to reduce swelling and ultimately alleviate pain.


And because these flavonoids and phytosterols also help your pet digest his food, better absorb nutrients, and promote healthier bile production, they can be a great boost for older or ailing animals with poor appetites.


Best of all results from taking Devil’s Claw – such as greater mobility and less joint pain - can appear in your pet within two-to-three weeks of them beginning this natural regimen.


Dosing and Formats



If you’ve ever tried to pill a dog, you’ll understand why having a powder or extract format is so beneficial when trying to dose your pet. Once you’ve decided to move forward with this form of natural pain relief, choose the format that best suits your pet.


Be sure to check for just how long the manufacturer recommends your dog should receive this type of pain relief, how frequently throughout the day it should be provided, and also whether it should be taken with or without food.


And be aware that brands and formulations differ when it comes to dosing. Read labels carefully and follow them to the letter. While some may consider several teaspoons to be an appropriate dosage, others prescribe just a portion of that.


In all instances, offering Devil’s Claw to your pet for a set period of time (typically no more than two to three months), then taking him off the supplement either permanently or for the short term, is a frequent recommendation.

WOW
Mary Simpson
Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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You might just be surprised at your dog's communication skills.

Auf Wiedersehen Wiener Dog - Will Germany Ban Dachshunds?

Germany’s beloved dog breed, the dachshund, could soon be banned under a new law that prohibits the breeding of dogs with “skeletal anomalies”.The draft of the bill, published in February, is currently being reviewed by the authorities and was introduced as a part of the Animal Protection Act. The new bill aims to strengthen existing laws on “torture breeding” and to regulate the online animal trade. The draft of the protection law said it could ban the reproduction of breeds prone to particular health problems, such as spinal problems linked with short legs and long back which are characteristic of the dachshund breed.According to the German Kennel Club (VDH), the bill could be interpreted as a ban on breeding dogs with any major size deviation from the original wolf type. In addition to dachshunds, other dog breeds like the German shepherd, miniature schnauzer, beagle, and Jack Russell terrier could be affected by the bill. The breeding restrictions could also be applied to flat-faced breeds like the English bulldog, pug, and French bulldog.“Some of the disease characteristics listed in the draft law are too vague and undefined,” said Leif Kopernik, the chief executive of the VDH. “Whether too small or too large, if the Animal Welfare Act were to be implemented in its current form, many popular and healthy breeds could be banned from breeding,” he said, according to the New York Times. The VDH has launched a petition to save “our favorite dogs” saying the proposed bill would leave too much room for interpretation in deciding what can be considered a genetic defect. The German Kennel Club agrees that many of the proposed changes, such as stricter regulations for online animal trade and taking action against illegal puppy trade are good measures that make sense. “However, the animal protection law contains requirements that could mean the end of many healthy dog breeds in Germany,” said VDH on its website.Although the proposed changes could affect several dog breeds, the dachshund is at the center of the discussion. Often called dackel by Germans, the dachshund has been the country’s national symbol for many years. The breed has been around for several centuries and was bred specifically for digging and clawing into underground dens to hunt for badgers. These sausage-shaped dogs have strong claws and sharp teeth which proved extremely useful when hunting. According to Sandra Karthauser, a breeder of rough-haired dachshunds from Munster, there is no evidence that dachshunds are sick due to their appearance. However, she admits that certain breed lines might be predisposed to herniated discs and other health issues.“But to ban the whole breed because of this, that doesn’t make sense to me. Then you can also ban Labradors because some suffer from hip dysplasia along with other breeds that might suffer from debilitating diseases and ailments,”  she added.Germany’s agricultural ministry refuted that the new bill would ban particular dog breeds, including the dachshund. “We aren’t seeking to ban the dachshund. What we are aiming at with this reform is a ban on torture breeding.”The goal of this new regulation is to forbid breeding practices that cause long-term suffering to the dogs. “We want to consistently protect animals from pain, suffering, and damage,” said the ministry adding that the new bill is still being reviewed. Germany’s dachshund lovers and breeders hope the breeding ban won’t happen now or in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Poop Incident Grounds a United Airlines Flight

Have you ever been on a flight where your travel experience didn’t go to plan? If so, you’re not alone! From unruly passengers to flight delays and rough weather conditions, so many factors are out of your control.But what about a mid-air doggy disaster?Travelers on an April 5th United Airlines flight from Houston to Seattle learned the hard way just how quickly a traveling pooch, an unfortunate aisle, and the need to “do some business” can create a very unpleasant situation.According to Reddit user James Hobbs, a passenger’s dog had a “messy accident” in the aisle in first class after taking off. He went on to describe the chaotic situation that followed. Since his post, others have shared their experiences on the flight. Additionally, a representative from United Airlines confirmed the event occurred to reporters and larger publications.Unfortunately, this pup didn’t just have a stinky bowel movement. Other travelers described it as being in “very liquid form” with a scent so strong that passengers were given alcohol wipes to sniff to drown out the strong odor.After being diverted to Dallas, ground crews set to work cleaning up the putrid mess for a solid two hours. However, even that wasn’t enough…“The mess was so bad in the first-class bathroom that even after cleaning, they still closed it for the rest of the flight,” described Hobbs. He went on to say, “The cabin crew deserve accolades. They responded well despite having to hop over the mess.”For pet parents, this incident raises concerns that other travelers may question the policies for pets traveling in the cabin. United Airlines allows pet parents to travel with up to two pets. Each pet must fit into a carrier small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Passengers with two pets must purchase two tickets, side by side, to accommodate the spots needed for each pet. As of April 26th, a $150 fee each way is added to your ticket cost for including a pet.During the flight, pets are required to stay in their carrier. The recent incident has confused many frequent travelers.How could the dog have created such a mess while still safely contained within their carrier? If the dog was removed from the carrier, why did this happen? What could have been done to prevent the mess and inconvenience to all other travelers on the flight?While we will likely never have an answer, here are a few tips for smooth airline travel with your pet:Visit the Vet Before Flying: Book a check-up with your vet before taking your dog on a flight. This will ensure your pup is in good health and help reduce the chance of “accidents” due to sickness or other complications during travel.Stop Feeding 4-6 Hours Before the Flight: Make sure your dog has had a solid meal, then cut off any food approximately 4 to 6 hours before boarding the flight. This gives them time to digest and “pass” their meal before the flight.Take a Final Bathroom Break: Make sure you stop at the airport’s pet relief areas just before boarding. Just as we need a final bathroom break before traveling, so do our pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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