Turmeric spices up walkies

Supplement that helps owners is now putting spring in pets’ steps

THEY say pets are like their owners — and a scientifically tested dietary supplement proves the point.

Products containing curcumin, a component of the bright orange spice that illuminates our curries, have been increasingly popular over the past ten years — and now people are looking for something similar for their dogs.

It all started when users of a turmeric supplement told its maker, an innovative Cambridge-based company, that they’d been giving it to their pets — with exciting results.

‘Customers were giving our joint product, Turmeric+, to their pets because they were so pleased with their own experiences — horses, cats, even a parrot — although most were sharing it with their dogs,’ says the company’s chief executive Adam Cleevely.

‘ Their feedback was so positive that we created a special formulation for dogs.

‘ We know dogs in the UK are living a great deal longer, just like their owners, and need a little support to maintain good health in older age.’

Denise S etch field’ s Rottweiler Miya found it difficult to play fight with her brother Bear, a one-yearold puppy, or go running in the forest.

She was making a homemade turmeric paste, which seemed to help a little. So she was curious when she heard about the turmeric product designed for dogs, and decided it was worth giving it a try:

‘The tablets make her life more enjoyable. Miya is active and wants to join in getting involved and playing with Bear.’

Brian and Julie Cully, from Banknock, near Edinburgh, gave it to their Border Collie, Blue, after they both observed positive results from Turmeric+. ‘It is tremendous to see her now,’ says Brian.

Retiree Pooler Leeman, f rom Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, gave the tablets to his chocolate Labrador, Whiskey (pictured above).

‘He is like most ten-yearold labradors, but now he is keeping up during his walks rather than lagging behind.’

Mr Cleevely adds: ‘When you give a supplement to your dog, you can tell if they are happy based on their behaviour.

‘ We’re thrilled that customers are so pleased with the product and that we are helping dogs and their owners stay active for years to come.’