Well, as my reading and further research turned up, red beets contain a variety of health-boosting nutrients which are great for senior dogs (and younger dogs as well).  If you know anything about red beets, then you may be concerned because these little powerhouse veggies contain the highest sugar content of all the vegetables.  But like many foods, if eaten in moderation they can add great benefits to your dog’s health.

1. Red Beets help fight inflammation.  Red Beets contain a substance that is known to suppress certain inflammatory signals that are involved in arthritis and atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) during the aging process.  This substance can help alleviate arthritis symptoms, protect the arteries of your senior dog as well as alleviate allergy symptoms, 

2. Red Beets have anti-Cancer properties.  Red Beets contain unique phytonutrients and antioxidants that can help fight free radicals and can help prevent certain types of cancer.

3. Red Beets help detoxify the body.  The pigments in red beets hook up with unwanted toxins to neutralize and rid them from the body.  In doing so, these pigments protect healthy cells from the toxins, including cells in the brain and liver.

Red Beets can easily be added into your dog’s diet.  If you cannot find fresh beets to prepare at your local grocery or farmer’s market, and sometimes I cannot find them fresh, you can also use canned beets.  Canned red beets contain enough of all the above nutrients to bring added health benefits to your dog, just be sure to rinse them as the packing liquid may contain some unwanted salt.