Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,

I have read that prolonged use of the cabbage family vegetables can depress thryroid function when these are used in excess. What is excess? Currently my two pups (15 months old, female-65 lb and male-85 lbs) are getting approximately 25% veggie mash over the course of a week, of which no more than 1/3 - 1/2 of the veggies are from the cabbage family (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, collard greens, kale, etc). This works out to be about 10% of their total diet being these veggies. The remaining 75% of their diet is raw meaty bones and other proteins (ground meats, eggs, offal, etc.). Your guidance would be much appreciated.

Second question-- Without realizing it I included hot peppers in a batch of veggie mash. The proportion of hot peppers to the other veggies is less than 20% (by weight). There are few to no pepper seeds and I also cleaned out the membranes pretty well. The rest of the mash is lettuce, apples, sweet green peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, garlic and apple cider vinegar. Can my mixed breed pups tolerate the addition of hot peppers? Should I be concerned for their tummies or general health? This batch of mash is portioned out into 1/2 cup amounts. I can dilute it with other batches of mashes (no hot pepper), so that it is only 1/4 of the total veggies I give my dogs on any single day. Would you suggest I use it diluted, full strength or not at all?

Thanks so much!

I don't believe the cruciferous vegetables would be a problem, but if, at some point, your dog shows signs of hypothyroidism, stop the cabbage famiuly vegetables and see if the symtoms go away; it does not cause permanent changes in peple,

As far as the hot peppers go, there is no contraindication forr them; it is simply a matter of taste. If your dog doesn't like them, keep them out of his food, but if he doesn't mind, it will be fine.

Thanks for the answers! One more, if you please--

What are the signs of hypothyroidism?

Thanks again

Usually itchiness, especially in warmer weather, possible decreased energy, weight gain, ear problems. and increased cholesterol. In some cases we find epileptic seizures. There is often a delay in shedding their haircoat, and if an area is clipped, it takes an excessively long time to grow back. You have to look at the whole picture, not just one or two symptoms, as any of these signs may be due to several causes.

Thanks again!