A native of the Mediterranean region, parsley has become one of the most popular herbs worldwide. As you can see, the species of this plant are pretty diverse.
Because of its subtle flavor, this herb often serves to garnish soups, salads, and other foods.
In addition to providing many health benefits for humans, can your pet consume parsley also? Or Can Dogs Eat Parsley?
Yes, definitely! Dogs can gain health advantages from the consumption of parsley. According to some reports, parsley can reduce itchiness, provide freshen breath, and treat urinary tract infections.
Parsley leaves contain many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and A, antioxidants, and folic acid. But pregnant or kidney-infected dogs should not consume parsley as a primary source of nutrients.
Find out how parsley can benefit your dog’s health in this article.
Here is a brief history of parsley.
The parsley plant belongs to the Apiaceae family.
More than 2,000 years ago, the herb served various purposes. According to Greek tradition, it was once called “rock celery.” It is traditionally grown in rocky terrain in Mediterranean regions.
Even though the vegetable serves primarily as a garnish, it also adds color and flavor to various dishes. Thus, it is the perfect finishing touch at the end of the cooking process.
Chefs also use the herb alongside thyme, rosemary, peppermint, and oregano.
The popularity of parsley in cooking has spread throughout the world, despite its origins in the Mediterranean.
Can Dogs Eat Parsley? Is it okay?
The answer is yes. It is safe for dogs to eat parsley in small quantities. Only Petroselinum cripsum or curly parsley is acceptable.
The spring parsley plant, Cymopterus watsonii, contains high furanocoumarins that harm dogs. This chemical is known to cause light sensitivity and blindness.
However, you should know whether all types of parsley contain furanocoumarin or not, so feed your dog only small amounts.
Parsley’s health benefits for your dog?
Dogs can benefit from this herb in several ways, including:
- As a result of their antibacterial properties, these herbs safely remove bacteria from a dog’s teeth. It is often used in dog treats to prevent tartar buildup and foul breath. Additionally, it is used in commercial dog foods to enhance their flavor.
- Additionally, parsley is beneficial in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Due to its antibacterial properties, it assists in flushing bacteria out of the system. This product is helpful for dogs that suffer from stomach upsets regularly.
- Additionally, parsley provides a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, notably vitamin K, which eliminates inflammatory cells that adversely affect blood clotting.
- It also contains vitamin C, which supports immunity and heart health, and vitamin A, which maintains eye and skin health.
Parsley for Dogs: How to Feed It?
Have you ever wondered how to introduce parsley to your dog’s diet? Listed below are a few approaches you can use to accomplish this.
- Since parsley is deliciously fresh or cooked, you can prepare it in various ways.
- It is easy for your dog’s breath to smell fresh by mixing parsley with juiced blended after adding it directly to the dog’s water bowl.
- You can chop the parsley and sprinkle it on your dog’s food.
- Alternatively, you can make your dog treats with this herb or purchase commercial dog treats containing parsley.
As an extra precaution, if you are worried that your dog might accidentally consume too much parsley, you can blend it with water and create a juice that you can pour directly into their water bowls if you think that is likely to happen.
The consumption of parsley by dogs poses health risks?
While parsley is safe for human consumption, it may not be the right food for your puppy.
The herb parsley can cause toxicity in dogs, despite its seemingly harmless appearance.
The parsley plant Cymopterus watsonii is known for causing skin irritations in dogs after consumption. In any case, your dog may need supportive care if he consumes this parsley.
Whenever you add spices or greens to your dog’s food, you should always check the safety of the ingredients.
If your dog has accidentally consumed parsley and is acting strange, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Parsley poisoning in dogs: causes and symptoms?
Furanocoumarins are present in parsley, which has a powerful potency enhanced by ultraviolet rays.
As a result, your dog is highly susceptible to developing a sunburn-like reaction after eating the plan.
Parsley poisoning in dogs: symptoms and signs?
There are many symptoms associated with parsley poisoning, including:
- Dermatitis with exudation
- Dermatitis ulcerative
- The toxicity of the eye
How to diagnose dog parsley poisoning?
Your veterinarian will ask several questions about your dog’s medical history.
It is essential to inform your vet if your dog has traveled, had health problems, or ate or foraged inappropriately.
During the physical examination, they will collect your dog’s vital statistics and any symptoms he may be experiencing.
When your dog experiences a skin reaction due to photosensitivity, your veterinarian may scrape a portion of the dog’s skin under the microscope.
A veterinarian will also examine your dog’s skin to check for ulcers. It is not necessary to scrape the ulcerative skin.
A test will be conducted on your dog’s organs to determine the effect of the toxins on your dog. The veterinarian will perform a chemistry panel and complete the blood count.
Veterinarians can also examine kidney function by performing a urinalysis. As a result, they can get an overall picture of the patient and determine if further diagnostic tests are necessary.
A packed cell volume test (PCV) will provide the data needed to determine the degree of dehydration.
Parsley Poisoning in Dogs: Treatment?
The symptoms your dog is experiencing may indicate that he has ingested parsley, in which case your vet may induce vomiting based on the symptoms your dog is experiencing. Doing so will empty any leftover pieces before the body absorbs them.
A prescription for activated charcoal may be necessary when vomiting does not occur after too much time has passed since consumption. The binders and neutralizers will prevent the body from absorbing the parsley’s toxins, causing more irritation to the skin.
You can apply an ointment or cream to treat your dog’s irritation.
Additionally, if he suffers from photosensitivity, he must avoid exposure to the sun until the toxin has left his body.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Is parsley harmful to dogs?
A large amount of parsley can cause dermatitis and other skin allergies.
Kidney stones are at risk in dogs who eat parsley because it contains many oxalates.
There is also a risk of muscle contractions in pregnant dogs, so feeding them parsley is not recommended.
Is parsley a natural remedy for dogs?
The answer is yes; Your dog can drink a tea made from powdered or finely grated roots to relieve arthritis. The concoction can be delivered to your dog daily in 1-2 tablespoons.
Additionally, green leaves can be a healthy soup for your dog if he has urinary issues or needs a nutritional boost.
Conclusion
For centuries, parsley has been used to flavor food and provide medical treatment for various ailments.
For dogs, it is safe to give them at any age. However, if your dog has health issues or you need assistance determining the proper dosages to prevent toxicity, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
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