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The Great Pumpkin!
By Lynn Whittaker
Owner, Bow Wow U
It will soon be pumpkin pickin’ time. What does that have to do with pets? Well, pumpkins are an excellent source of nutrition with which to supplement your loved ones diet.
Rumor has it that pumpkins were first cultivated as far back as 7000 years in 5500 BC in Central America. Seeds from related plants have been detected in Mexico as well. The pumpkin has a very long history!
When Colonists landed in America they found the Indians growing pumpkins in their fields. Seeds were taken to Europe, planted and pumpkin soon became a staple for the colonists as well. There are many conflicting reports as to whether pumpkins were served at the first Thanksgiving meal with the pilgrims and Indians. Regardless of what is true or not, these brightly colored fruits are the essence of Americana.
The name "Pumpkin" originated from "Pepon" the Greek word for "large melon." The Native Americans referred to the pumpkins as "Isqoutm Squash." Pumpkins are a fruit related to the muskmelon and watermelon. They are members of the vines family called curcubits. They are also comprised of 90 percent water. They range in size from under a pound to over a thousand pounds.
From soups to desserts, these gourds served many purposes. The skins were dried and woven into mats, The shells were hollowed and filled with milk, honey and spices. This is where the pumpkin pie is said to have originated. The seeds were roasted and flowers and leaves from the vine were eaten. I can see why this was such a valuable fruit to the Native Americans. They also used pumpkin for medicinal purposes. It was once believed that pumpkins could cure freckles and heal snake bites!
The bright colored shell is a giveaway that they are loaded with the antioxidant, beta carotene. Beta carotene is a plant carotenoid, (nature's dye that produces pigments ranging between yellow, orange and red) converted to Vitamin A. They are rich in potassium and high in fiber.
If your dog or cat is experiencing a bout of constipation, canned pumpkin may be a good choice to feed. It is a fantastic stool softener, which makes a good remedy for your pet. Being so rich in fiber, pumpkin absorbs water and a small amount added to your pet’s food can get the animal’s digestive system balanced and may aid in solving bouts of diarrhea. Canned pumpkin should not be confused with canned Pumpkin Pie Mix.
Seek out pure pumpkin with no sugar added.
It should be noted that both diarrhea and constipation can be serious and may require veterinary care depending on the cause. If your pet has either constipation or diarrhea for more than 24-28 hours, a veterinary professional should be contacted.
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