Sometimes it’s hard being a dog owner: knowing what dogs can and can’t eat or drink. Teas are no different. Some are fine for our pets. Others are not. We’ve covered a lot of topics relating to different foodstuffs including Quavers and Digestive Biscuits and now we’re looking at what they can drink. So, can dogs drink Rooibos tea or should we all avoid giving it to our pets?
What is Rooibos Tea?
Rooibos tea comes from South Africa. Made from the leaves of the African Red Bush plant, it’s been popular in South Africa for more than 300-years. According to the BBC Good Food website, it’s been cultivated since the 1930s and is now exported to more than 31 countries. Oh, and if you’re wondering, it’s pronounced roy-buhs.
Can Dogs Drink Rooibos Tea?
Yes, dogs can drink Rooibos tea so long as it’s the plain variety. Always check the box. Some companies sell rooibos with added flavors that may not be suitable for dogs. Talk to your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet.
Plain old regular rooibos tea is caffeine and tannin-free. The caffeine-free element is particularly important. Caffeine is toxic to dogs so don’t assume that all teas are OK for your pets. Use them on a case-by-case basis. Rooibos is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Rooibos tea can help with allergies, digestive issues and can help boost the immune system.
You can make a cup of rooibos tea and then allow it to cool completely. Many people put it into the refrigerator. Once it’s cool then you can pour it over the dog’s food. You can also apply the tea to bites and sore spots this acts as an anti-inflammatory on the skin. Dog owners also use the tea on sore paws or itchy skin. Rooibos is also believed to help prevent diabetes and cardiovascular disease. What’s great about rooibos tea is that there’s believed to be health benefits for both humans and dogs so you can buy a box and share it with your pet. You’ll also see shampoos that include rooibos tea and snacks, too.
Can Dogs Drink Rooibos Tea with Milk?
According to the American Kennel Club, a couple of tablespoons of milk given occasionally is a nice treat for a dog. It shouldn’t be given too regularly because it can cause an upset stomach. If you’re planning on giving your dog rooibos tea regularly, then it’s best to avoid giving milk.
