By Dr Marlene Siegel
In today’s increasingly toxic world, our pets, just like us, face exposure to a range of harmful environmental toxins (many of which are synthetic), which can lead to acute illness or chronic health issues over time. These toxins come from various sources, including pesticides, environmental pollutants, processed foods, and household chemicals, all of which can accumulate in your pet’s body. Research has highlighted several chronic health problems that may arise as a result of this accumulation. (1)
Do not wait until symptoms manifest to implement detoxification strategies!
The Historical Importance Of Detoxification
Our pets’ bodies (and ours) have built in systems for neutralizing and eliminating toxic harmful substances. In pets (and humans), detoxification occurs through the kidneys, colon, lungs, liver, skin, and lymphatic system. Over the past 80 years, there have been over 100,000 synthetic toxins developed and released into our food, water, and environment. This overwhelming burden of toxins has exceeded many of the organ’s capacity to effectively eliminate toxins.
Consequences of these toxins include triggering inflammation, disrupting the immune system, and contributing to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic issues.
The Toxic Effect On Organs
When the body does not know how to eliminate synthetic toxins, it stores it in fat and tissues.
Detoxification is more than just a temporary cleanse – it’s a proactive, ongoing approach to ensuring your pet’s health and longevity.
- Liver toxicity: The liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxifying harmful substances. Toxins like pesticides and heavy metals can overwhelm the liver, leading to conditions like hepatotoxicity, which impairs liver function and overall health. This can manifest symptoms of fatigue, poor digestion, or skin issues in pets. (2)
- Kidney damage: Heavy metals like lead and cadmium can lead to nephrotoxicity. Prolonged exposure to these contaminants can cause kidney failure or chronic kidney disease, a common condition in aging pets. (2)
- Colon Toxicity: A study on intestinal health in pets found that heavy metals like cadmium and lead, when accumulated, can lead to gastrointestinal issues and disruption of colon function. (3)
- Skin Toxicity: A study showed that pet exposure to environmental pollutants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), can lead to skin disorders and allergies, with persistent exposure resulting in chronic dermatitis. (4)
- Lung Toxicity: Study Example: Inhalation of toxic substances, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from household cleaning products, has been shown to affect lung function in pets, causing chronic respiratory issues. (5)
- Lymphatic System Toxicity: A study found that prolonged exposure to environmental toxins like persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can disrupt the lymphatic system in animals, leading to immune system dysfunction and chronic inflammatory responses. (6)
- Fascia and Toxicity: Toxins such as heavy metals can accumulate in fascia and connective tissue, impairing their ability to function properly. Research indicates that exposure to mercury, for instance, can target cells in the synovium, articular cartilage, and fibroblasts, potentially contributing to autoimmune diseases and connective tissue disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Similarly, toxins like lead and cadmium have been shown to affect connective tissues, leading to inflammation and chronic disorders (7)
Common toxins include: (8)
Pesticides and herbicides found in yards and parks.
- Pesticides like glyphosate, often used in parks and yards, have been linked to health risks in pets. A study published in the journal of Environmental Health Perspectives highlighted that pesticides could lead to a range of health problems, including cancers and endocrine disruption in both humans and pets.
Processed pet food containing artificial preservatives, chemicals, hormones, and heavy metals.
- A study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine reported that chemicals like artificial preservatives and additives in processed pet food can cause allergic reactions, digestive problems, and more severe chronic conditions over time. Particularly dangerous are brands that are highly processed, incorporate low-quality ingredients, elevated levels of carbohydrates, have heavy metal contamination and protein with a low biological value.
- Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, strontium, and aluminum can accumulate in the environment through industrial waste, agricultural runoff, chemtrails or contaminated water sources. In pets, these metals are often ingested through contaminated food or water. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found that exposure to heavy metals is linked to kidney and liver damage, neurological issues, and developmental delays in pets. A review in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry emphasized the importance of controlling exposure, especially for animals in urban environments.
Pharmaceuticals and overmedication can damage the liver and kidneys.
- Pharmaceuticals and overmedicating of pharmaceuticals in pets, particularly pain relievers like NSAIDs or corticosteroids, have been shown to lead to liver and kidney damage. A study in Veterinary Internal Medicine noted that overuse or improper dosing of these medications can overwhelm a pet’s detoxification organs. This makes it crucial to manage medication usage and consider safer and more effective alternative treatments to reduce dependency on pharmaceuticals. (Find alternative solutions click here)
Household chemicals like cleaners, air fresheners, and even pet grooming products.
- Household chemicals such as petroleum based air fresheners, cleaning products, and certain pet grooming items can contain harmful chemicals like phthalates, which can cause respiratory distress, skin irritation, and long-term endocrine disruption. A study published in Environmental Research found that household air fresheners and sprays can negatively impact both human and animal health, increasing the risk of asthma and allergic reactions in pets. Additionally, toxic residues in pet grooming products, particles containing parabens and synthetic fragrances, can contribute to skin irritations or internal toxicity.
- Nervous system dis-regulation is a growing concern. Neurotoxins, which are found in household cleaning agents and certain food preservatives, can lead to neurological issues, including changes in behavior, tremors, and seizures.
- Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the hormonal systems of both humans and pets. Many of these chemicals are found in everyday household products. Chronic exposure can lead to long-term health issues like hormonal imbalances, reproductive challenges, skin irritation, respiratory issues, and cancer. Click Here to Learn more about endocrine disruptors and where they are commonly found in many homes.
When To Begin Detoxification
Detoxification is not just for sick pets, it’s a preventive measure that can benefit all animals. Here are some signs that your pet may need detox support:
- Frequent itching or skin irritations
- Digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Fatigue or decreased energy levels
- Allergies or respiratory problems
- Behavioral changes, such as anxiety or irritability
- Recurrent infections or weak immune response
In today’s toxic world, it is not a question of “if” pets are exposed to toxins, the question is “how severe” is the exposure. Detoxification practices are especially important to pets that seem healthy, helping them reduce toxin buildup, support their immune system, and promote health and longevity.
Begin with identifying the lifestyle choices that are contributing to the toxicity:
- Diet: Change to a species appropriate organic balanced grass fed/grass finished raw diet supplemented with the essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids. Work with a qualified integrative veterinarian to aid in a smooth transition. Click Here to learn more about diet and digestion.
- Water: Use water that is highly filtered and structured. Personally, I also use a system that adds molecular hydrogen. For more information visit www.evolovestore.com
- Leaky Gut: Stop doing the behaviors that create leaky gut and implement strategies to repair the tight junctions.
- Microbiome: Be mindful to not use products that destroy the terrain (indiscriminate use of antibiotics, NSAIDS and steroids) and microorganism. Create a terrain that replenishes and supports beneficial microbial diversity.
- Biohack: Routinely perform “bio hacking” to aid in detoxifying the 6 organs of elimination. Use natural supplements that are safe for pets to support the organs of elimination. Do work with a qualified veterinary practitioner as not all products and procedures used on people are safe and effective for all pets. Click Here for more info!
- EMF awareness and mitigation: It is highly recommended to test for the amount of electromagnetic pollution pets (and the whole family) are exposed to. Based on the exposure, I create mitigation strategies for my clients.
- Sunlight: We and our pets are light beings. Sadly, most families are suffering from light deficiencies, simply not spending enough time in the sun. We all need to be out in the sun at various times of the day to benefit from the light spectrum.
- Movement: Daily walks, play, and high intensity movement are critically important to move lymph.
Most importantly vote with your dollars.
- Read and understand labels so you know what ingredients are in the product.
- Support companies that are sustainable and produce products that are healthy for us and the environment.
- If you live in an HOA – request the use of environmentally friendly sprays for lawns. Petition for them to stop using toxic chemicals, particularly glyphosate.
Don’t be a bystander – by voting with your dollars you will create the demand for sustainable options.
Get Started On Your Pet’s Detox Journey
Start by learning how to implement detoxification in your pet’s life. Download the 6 Keys to Health and Healing Pets, Naturally eBook for free today and discover how you can support your pet’s health. Click Here to download the free eBook and explore the power of detoxification for your pet’s health!
Dr. Marlene Siegel
Dr. Marlene Siegel has a long, inspiring history in the medical field. From an early age, she knew she wanted to make a difference. Her medical journey started as an emergency medical technician, but she always knew helping animals was her calling. After graduating from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, she soon opened her own clinic, Pasco Veterinary Medical Clinic. She has a revolutionary approach using a raw diet, holistic, and traditional medicines to achieve the best results for her patients. Dr. Siegel practices in Lutz, Florida, and is available for phone consultations.
Footnotes and Sources
- https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l265
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.643972/full
- https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/12/6/388
- https://www.jci.org/articles/view/124612
- https://iaqscience.lbl.gov/vocs-and-respiratory-symptoms
- https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/22/14271
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2019.00168/full and https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.643972/full
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.643972/full and https://gmoscience.org/2020/03/04/our_pets_at_risk_from_glyphosate/
Further Sources:
Environmental Health Perspectives on Pesticides
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry
EWG.org
