Why immune health is important and how to maintain it.
When our pet’s immune health declines, it puts them at risk of being more susceptible to external pathogens, viruses and diseases.
It can also be a contributing factor in declining gut health and overall wellbeing. Poor gut health can also impact immune health with over 80% of our pet’s immune system being located in their gut.
Answer: Puppies/kittens need immune support because their immune systems are still developing and are not yet as strong or efficient as those of adult dogs. Here’s a breakdown of why that matters and what it means for their health:
Immature immune system
- Newborn puppies/kittens receive temporary antibodies from their mother’s milk (colostrum) during the first 24–48 hours after birth.
- After a few weeks, these maternal antibodies wane, and the puppy’s own immune system must take over—but it’s still immature and learning to respond to pathogens.
- This period, called the “immunity gap,” can make puppies/kittens especially vulnerable to infections.
Answer: Senior pets need immune support because aging naturally weakens the immune system, making them more vulnerable to infections, inflammation, and chronic diseases.
Just like people, older dogs and cats experience gradual physiological changes that affect how their bodies respond to illness and stress.
Answer: 1. Aging weakens immune function (immunosenescence)
Over time, the immune system becomes less efficient at recognizing and attacking pathogens.
The production of immune cells (like white blood cells) slows down, and their response becomes weaker.
This means infections may be harder to fight off and healing can take longer.
2. Increased inflammation (“inflammaging”)
Chronic, low-grade inflammation tends to rise with age.
This can lead to or worsen age-related conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney issues.
Supporting the immune system helps balance inflammation and reduce wear on the body.
Answer: Detoxing is about helping the liver, kidneys, skin, and gut — the body’s natural detox organs — work efficiently so the immune system isn’t overloaded. Here’s how detoxing supports immune health in a balanced, science-based way:
1. Reduces toxic burden on the immune system
The liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system constantly remove waste, chemicals, and metabolic byproducts.
When these systems are overworked, the immune system must also help manage inflammation and cellular damage.
Supporting detox helps reduce this burden, allowing the immune system to focus on fighting pathogens instead of cleaning up toxins.
2. Supports gut health — the foundation of immunity
Around 70% of the immune system lives in the gut.
A buildup of toxins or an imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can cause inflammation that weakens immune defenses.
Detox strategies that improve digestion — such as probiotics, fiber, and hydration — help restore balance and strengthen immune response.
3. Enhances liver function
The liver filters toxins, processes nutrients, and produces immune-supportive proteins.
Nutrients like milk thistle, turmeric, and antioxidants support liver enzymes that neutralize and eliminate harmful compounds.
A well-functioning liver means cleaner blood and less immune system activation caused by toxins.
4. Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation
Toxins and poor detoxification can lead to oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress weakens immune cells and contributes to chronic inflammation.
Detox nutrients help neutralize free radicals and keep immune cells strong.
5. Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage
The lymphatic system carries immune cells and removes cellular waste.
Hydration, light exercise, and massage support lymph flow, helping immune cells travel efficiently and clear debris.
6. Promotes whole-body balance
Detox support restores balance by minimizing exposure to harmful substances, optimizing nutrition, and helping elimination pathways stay open.
When detox organs work smoothly, the immune system can maintain better vigilance against infections, allergies, and chronic inflammation.