What is Boron used for in pets?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – What is boron used for in pets? I have a friend that is really into natural healing and mentioned giving her dog Boron. Do you know why she might be giving her dog boron?

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Joanna B. – Newark NJ

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You asked how and why boron is used in dogs. Boron is a nonmetallic metal, a chemical element with atomic number 5. It has the chemical symbol of “B”.

There is documentation of Boron being used for various uses and purposes even back to ancient Egyptian times. Boron fibers has been used to reinforce aircrafts, in ceramics and glass, in detergents and cleaning products, and even as fire retardants.

Some believe there are therapeutic effects from small amounts. It may help arthritis and aid feature healing although there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Boron can be found naturally in some foods such as nuts, prunes, and some leafy vegetables. I’m not sure why your friend is using boron on her dog. You could…ask her.

It is not commonly used or recommended by veterinarians practicing traditional medicine.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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