Discover the best herbal supplements for dog joint pain—Boswellia, turmeric & more. Natural support for your dog's mobility and comfort. Learn more.

A daily natural cat supplement can fill nutritional gaps and support long-term feline health. Learn which herbs and nutrients matter most for your cat. Discover how.

A great herbal dog immune supplement targets multiple immune pathways at once. Learn which herbs are backed by research and how they work. Discover how.

Not all pet supplements are equal. Discover what NASC certification means for safety, quality, and your pet's health — and how to spot a trusted brand.

Discover which herbal supplements for dog joint pain actually work — boswellia, devil's claw, turmeric & more. Science-backed, vet-friendly guide for holistic pet owners.

A natural cat supplement daily routine is one of the best investments in feline health. Learn what herbs cats need and why. Discover how.

The best calming herbs for anxious dogs explained — chamomile, valerian, passionflower & more. Learn how each herb supports the nervous system and which situations they're suited for.

Astaxanthin for dogs is one of nature's most powerful antioxidants. Learn how it may support eye health, reduce oxidative stress & more. Discover how.

Wondering about natural heartworm prevention for dogs? Herbs like wormwood & neem may offer seasonal wellness support. Consult your vet. Discover how.

Tick season puts your dog’s immune system to the test. Bor-L-Immune® offers herbal support with Cryptolepis, Cat’s Claw & more. Discover how. Learn more.

Exploring equine herbal wormer options? Learn how traditional plant-based herbs may support your horse's parasite management plan. Discover how.

Discover the best calming herbs for anxious dogs — vet-informed guide to natural dog anxiety relief using safe, plant-based herbal supplements.

Discover how adaptogens for dogs support stress resilience, immune health, and vitality. Learn which adaptogenic herbs are safe and effective for pets.

Joint stress is common in working horses, active dogs, and aging cats. Natural anti inflammatory herbs can help maintain cartilage health and comfortable movement. Early supplementation often helps maintain long term mobility. Horse owners may notice improved recovery after training, while pet owners may see better movement and energy levels at home. Maintaining healthy weight, proper exercise, and daily joint support creates a strong foundation for long lasting comfort and performance.   Explore all Joint Support Options available today.

If you've spent any time in the dog owner community lately, you've probably heard the buzz around raw feeding. Raw meat diets (often called BARF, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) are gaining serious traction among pet owners who want to get back to basics and give their dogs the kind of nutrition their bodies were actually built for. At Sustenance Herbs, we believe food is medicine. That principle doesn't stop at your own plate. It extends to the four-legged members of your household too. Here's what you need to know about raw feeding, what the most popular proteins bring to the table, and how to make the switch from kibble the right way. What Is a Raw Meat Diet for Dogs? A raw diet for dogs typically consists of uncooked muscle meat, organ meat, raw meaty bones, and sometimes vegetables, fruits, and supplements. The idea is simple: dogs evolved from wolves, and for thousands of years before commercial pet food existed, they thrived on whole, raw animal proteins. Modern kibble, by contrast, is heavily processed. It's often cooked at high temperatures that degrade nutrients and frequently loaded with fillers, artificial preservatives, and starches that dogs have no biological need for. Raw feeding cuts through all of that and gets back to what dogs are designed to digest. The Health Benefits of Going Raw Dog owners who make the switch consistently report a wide range of improvements. Here's what the research and real-world experience point to: Improved Digestion Raw meat is more bioavailable than cooked, processed kibble. Dogs produce enzymes specifically designed to break down raw proteins and fats. Many owners notice smaller, firmer, less odorous stools, a direct sign that the body is actually absorbing more of what it's eating. Healthier Skin and Coat The natural fats found in raw meat, especially those from beef and poultry, are rich in omega fatty acids that support skin barrier function and coat shine. Dogs with dull coats, dry skin, or chronic itching often see dramatic improvements within weeks of switching. Better Weight Management Raw diets are naturally lower in carbohydrates than kibble, which means less blood sugar spiking, less fat storage, and a leaner body composition. For dogs carrying extra weight, this alone can be a game-changer. Increased Energy and Vitality Higher-quality protein and fat means more usable fuel. Many owners report that their dogs become noticeably more energetic, playful, and alert after transitioning. Cleaner Teeth and Better Breath The mechanical action of chewing raw meat and bones naturally cleans teeth and reduces tartar buildup. Bad breath, often accepted as just part of having a dog, frequently disappears entirely on a raw diet. Stronger Immune System A nutrient-dense, low-inflammatory diet supports a healthier gut microbiome, which is directly tied to immune function. Dogs on raw diets often experience fewer ear infections, hot spots, allergies, and vet visits overall. Breaking Down the Proteins: Beef, Chicken, and Turkey Not all raw proteins are created equal. Here's a closer look at the three most popular options and what each brings to your dog's bowl. Beef Beef is one of the most nutrient-dense options available. It's rich in iron, zinc, B12, and creatine, all critical for muscle function, red blood cell production, and neurological health. Beef liver, in particular, is one of nature's most complete superfoods and a staple in most raw feeding protocols. Beef is also higher in fat than poultry, making it an excellent choice for dogs that need to gain weight, support dense muscle mass, or live in colder climates where extra caloric density is beneficial. Ground beef with 20–30% fat content is commonly used as a base, with leaner cuts reserved for dogs managing weight. Best for: muscle development, high-energy dogs, cold-weather breeds, dogs that need caloric density. Chicken Chicken is the gateway protein for most raw feeders. It's affordable, widely available, and easy to source in whole or ground form. Chicken is leaner than beef and packed with easily digestible protein, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those just getting started on raw. Chicken backs, necks, and feet are excellent sources of raw meaty bones, providing natural calcium, phosphorus, and collagen. Chicken feet specifically are a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, key compounds for joint health that are often sold as expensive supplements. Best for: beginners, dogs with sensitive digestion, joint support, leaner protein intake. Turkey Turkey sits between beef and chicken in terms of fat content and is an excellent option for rotation feeding. It's high in tryptophan (which supports serotonin production and can have a calming effect), rich in selenium, and provides a slightly different amino acid profile than chicken. That's a big part of why variety matters in raw feeding. Turkey necks are a particularly popular choice for larger dogs, offering great dental benefits and a solid dose of natural calcium from bone. Ground turkey is easy to portion and great for dogs that are new to handling whole pieces of meat. Best for: variety and rotation, dogs prone to anxiety, medium-to-large breeds, dogs transitioning off chicken. How to Transition from Kibble to Raw Switching your dog's diet isn't something you want to rush, especially if they've been on kibble their whole life. Their digestive system needs time to adjust, and going too fast can cause loose stools or upset stomach. Here's a straightforward approach that works for most dogs: Week 1: 75% Kibble / 25% Raw Start by mixing a small amount of raw into their regular kibble. Keep it simple: one protein, no organ meat yet. This lets their gut bacteria start adapting without being overwhelmed. Week 2: 50% Kibble / 50% Raw If things are going well (normal stools, good energy, no signs of distress), bump up the ratio. If you see loose stools, slow down and hold at the previous ratio for a few more days. Week 3: 25% Kibble / 75% Raw You're almost there. By this point, most dogs are adjusting beautifully and you'll likely already start seeing improvements in coat and energy. Week 4: 100% Raw Full transition. Welcome to the raw feeding world. Important note: Some raw feeders prefer to transition cold turkey (no pun intended) rather than mixing, arguing that kibble and raw digest at different rates and shouldn't be combined. If your dog has a strong stomach and no history of digestive issues, this can work. That said, the gradual approach is safer for most dogs, especially older ones or those with a history of GI sensitivity. A Few Things to Keep in Mind Raw feeding is incredibly rewarding, but it does require some diligence: Source quality matters. Look for human-grade, responsibly sourced meat from reputable suppliers. The better the source, the better the outcome. Balance over time. A single meal doesn't need to be perfectly balanced, but across a week, you want variety: muscle meat, organ meat (especially liver, no more than 10% of the diet), and raw meaty bones. Handle with care. Practice good hygiene when handling raw meat. Wash bowls, surfaces, and hands thoroughly. Talk to your vet. Ideally, find a vet who is supportive of or familiar with raw feeding. Not all are, but the raw feeding community has grown significantly and integrative vets are becoming easier to find. Final Thoughts Making the switch to raw isn't just a diet change. It's a philosophy shift toward treating your dog as the carnivore they are, rather than a convenient consumer of processed food. The results speak for themselves: shinier coats, cleaner teeth, leaner bodies, better digestion, and dogs that simply seem happier. If you've got a dog who's been dealing with chronic allergies, digestive issues, weight struggles, or low energy, raw feeding might be the reset their body has been waiting for. At Sustenance Herbs, we're here to support every member of your household on the path to better health. Paws included. Please visit our storefront to shop our raw offerings. Have questions about raw feeding or how our herbal supplements can complement your dog's raw diet? Reach out. We'd love to help. Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet's diet.

National Banana Bread Day is here, and while humans enjoy a warm slice with coffee, our furry friends deserve a treat too. That’s why we’ve crafted a dog-friendly banana bread recipe that’s safe, healthy, and super tasty for your pups. Why This Recipe is Safe for Dogs This recipe uses only dog-safe ingredients: ripe bananas, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, coconut oil, and whole wheat or oat flour. There’s no chocolate, raisins, xylitol, or added sugar, which can all be toxic to dogs. It’s a wholesome way to share the joy of banana bread with your four-legged companion. Dog-Friendly Banana Bread Recipe Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed 2 eggs 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or plain yogurt 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour) 1 tsp baking soda Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mash the bananas and mix in eggs, applesauce, and coconut oil. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and optional cinnamon. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before slicing into dog-sized pieces. Serving Tips Keep portions small—this is a treat, not a full meal. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer. Watch your pup’s reaction the first time—they may go nuts for it! Sharing homemade treats with your dog is a fun way to celebrate special days together. This banana bread isn’t just safe—it’s a reminder that a little creativity and care can make everyone feel special, from your desk to your dog bed.

More pet owners are turning to herbal supplements to support their animals health naturally. Herbs like turmeric, nettle, and boswellia can help maintain joint comfort, while adaptogenic herbs may assist with stress and immune balance. Unlike synthetic solutions that often target a single symptom, herbal blends work to support overall wellness. Quality matters. Look for clean sourcing, transparent ingredient lists, and formulas designed specifically for pets. Avoid products with fillers, artificial flavors, or unclear dosages. When introduced slowly and paired with a balanced diet, herbal supplements can help animals maintain mobility, digestive balance, and a healthy coat. Pet parents should always consider age, breed, and existing health conditions before starting anything new. Herbal support works best as part of a proactive wellness routine, not just when problems arise. With thoughtful use, herbal supplements can become a simple daily habit that supports long term vitality.

We all know we should brush our dog's teeth every day. But let’s be honest, most of us don't. And when we do, it’s a battle. But did you know that plaque isn't just a surface stain? It’s a biofilm of bacteria that can enter your dog's bloodstream and affect their heart, liver, and kidneys. By age three, many dogs show signs of periodontal disease. It starts as a thin film of plaque, but quickly hardens into tartar. This isn't just a cosmetic issue. This bacteria can travel through the gums, into the bloodstream, and eventually settle in the heart, liver, or kidneys. Why Brushing is a Battle We Usually Lose. Daily brushing is difficult. Even if your dog tolerates it, you are only cleaning the surfaces you can reach. You aren't addressing the biofilm, the microscopic city of bacteria living under the gumline. The Biological Reset. To truly fix oral health, we have to change the chemistry of the mouth. This is where Pet-Riodontal comes in. Instead of relying on a plastic brush, it utilizes a sophisticated blend of probiotics and enzymes. Enzymatic Action: These enzymes naturally break down food particles and plaque before they have a chance to mineralize into rock-hard tartar. Probiotic Crowding: By introducing "good" bacteria, we crowd out the "bad" bacteria that cause rot and odor. The Result? Clean teeth, healthy pink gums, and breath that doesn't make you turn your head. Best of all? You just sprinkle it on their food. No wrestling, no stress, just science. Shop the Solution: Pet-Riodontal

Many of us bring intention and care to our own diets and wellness routines. It makes sense that we want the same level of clarity and confidence when it comes to what our dogs consume and how we support their long-term health. A recent independent analysis by Clean Label Project found that many commercial dog foods, especially highly processed dry kibble, may contain higher levels of heavy metals and processing-related contaminants compared to fresher food options. Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury were detected in some products. These findings highlight the importance of looking beyond marketing claims and thinking about cumulative exposure over a dog’s lifetime. The study also noted that less processed and fresher food options tended to show lower contaminant levels overall. For health conscious pet owners, this reinforces the importance of paying attention to ingredient sourcing, transparency, and overall wellness support. What this means for you: • Daily exposure matters and small choices add up over time• Not all contaminants appear on ingredient labels• Supporting your dog’s overall health and resilience is just as important as evaluating their food At Sustenance Herbs, our focus is on helping pet owners take proactive steps toward whole body wellness through natural herbal supplements that support digestion, immune balance, mobility, and long term vitality. Even when you cannot control every aspect of your dog’s diet, you can still support their health from the inside out. If you are already taking a more intentional approach to your pet’s wellness, explore our natural supplement line and start building a daily foundation that helps support long term health and resilience.

Joyce has successfully formulated a variety of products to help the fragile immune balance swing in a positive direction. The Bor-L- Immune product includes 5 herbs that are anti spirochete, as well as an anti-inflammatory for the treatment of Lyme infection. This therapeutic blend has antimalarial properties, protects heart smooth muscle, and increases liver function to describe just a few benefits of this tincture. The tincture crosses the blood-brain barrier which is critical to the often manifested neurological presentation. It also has the capacity to get into the cartilage and synovial tissue which is often a terrible complication of the Orthopedic presentation. Antibiotics often drive the infective agent deep into tissues to protect itself which can worsen the presentation. Immune function and atrophy of the spleen and thymus is often the result of these stealth infections which are addressed with this herbal tonic.  Cytokines such as IL2 are unregulated initially with a tick bite can disrupt the delicate TH1 TH2 balance of immune regulation. Low levels of CD4 with chronic suppression of T helper cells is one of the biological markers of Chronic Lyme. The formula helps increase the TH1 response with the initial assault. Cats Claw is one of the functional ingredients that acts as an immune tonic that can aid in the prevention of Lyme. This powerful ingredient has been shown to deal with the Arthritic presentation of the disease. It also has proven to increase CD57 and NK cells for the improvement of the frustrating chronically low CD57 and elevated C6 protein as well as low MSH marker. Neem leaf is a powerful part of this blend to affect positive changes in the intra and extracellular compartments of cellular physiology with resistant Malarial bugs. Neem is a powerful anti-parasitic and antiviral agent. Japanese Knotweed is high in vitamin C which helps in a collagen matrix for support and repair. This herb also crosses the Blood-Brain Barrier which is a powerful tool in chronic disease. To summarize this information, it is my personal experience with a 20-month-old German Shepard puppy who walks and runs daily in the great outdoors, who has lowered her C6 titer and improved her immune panel from IDEXX greatly. As a Board Certified clinical Neurologist and a Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist it is my clinical and personal experience that Joyce is a great resource to help turn the tables on the frustrating world of chronic Lyme.   Dr. Richard Herbold Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist