Dogs can be vaccinated against many things, including Kennel Cough, as it’s not a core vaccination many owners often wonder whether their dog should be. Let’s take a look at kennel cough in a little more detail and some data around the vaccination. What is Kennel Cough? Kennel cough is a broad term covering any infectious or contagious condition of dogs where coughing is one of the main symptoms. Several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough, and often at the same time. They include (but are not limited to): Adenovirus type-2 (distinct from the adenovirus type 1 that causes infectious hepatitis), Parainfluenza virus Bordetella bronchiseptica. The coinfection of these pathogens, among others, manifests as CIRD and they act synergistically to cause respiratory illness. Kennel Cough: A Natural Guide What Does The Vaccine Do? The smallpox vaccine was introduced in 1796 after Edward Jenner observed that milkmaids who had previously caught cow pox didn’t catch smallpox. The idea was that exposure to killed or weakened virus/bacteria that cause disease can prime the immune response, but it doesn’t actually make the host sick. So, vaccinations allow the host to develop immunity without having to suffer the disease. This is the basic premise of the kennel cough vaccine – or any vaccine your dog may have for that matter. Sadly, it’s not quite as cut and dry as it sounds. There is increasing evidence that over-vaccination is associated with the development or aggravation of immune-mediated disorders and chronic diseases in individual pets that are genetically predisposed. This raises a particularly interesting element that has perhaps been missed when developing the blanket vaccination schedules for our pets. Twin studies in humans have demonstrated there is a clear genetic role in vaccine response. A growing list of genes have been associated with immune related functions critical to immunological response and much data is concluding it is the status of these genes that is key to immune response. Human data is highlighting that this is one of the reasons vaccines can either elicit partial, complete or failure to protect individuals treated under the same conditions. This would also suggest that the opposite is therefore true; gene status could elicit partial or complete adverse reaction, or hopefully failure to demonstrate adverse reaction. This is likely understood in the canine world to some extent because most vaccines are advised as safe for healthy dogs but not those with a compromised immune system, and this applies to the kennel cough vaccine for dogs. Is the Kennel Cough Vaccine Effective? One study of 972 dogs found that the kennel cough vaccine was around 20% effective in reducing coughing compared with a placebo vaccine. Findings Here In addition, another study demonstrated that between 40-60% of all dogs who suffered with kennel cough, had a history of vaccination. Findings Here However, other studies regularly report a 100% effectiveness rate. A literature review from 1977-2014 explored all relevant studies on the kennel cough vaccines and concluded that questions around the longevity of vaccine induced immunity and the prevalence of natural exposure on immunity remained largely unanswered. They also suggested that many studies into the vaccine are flawed. Whilst researchers seemingly disagree on the effectiveness of the vaccine, they continue to ask whether the live attenuated vaccine and its shedding contributes to exposure and therefore herd immunity? On the other side of this scale, could it be contributing to levels of the pathogens in the environment and fuelling further infections? It is well known that the kennel cough vaccine can shed for around 6 weeks after administration after all. Is the Kennel Cough Vaccine Safe? There are side effects reported after administration of the kennel cough vaccine including: Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal discharge, Lethargy, Fever, Discomfort at vaccination site. We must also consider the risk of vaccinosis. Check out our blog here for more information: Vaccinosis in Pets Whilst researchers are still disagreeing on the effectiveness of the vaccine, they all agree that prevention is better than cure. Largely because most healthy dogs recover uneventfully. There may be concerns if poorly or elderly dogs catch kennel cough, but even if we were to consider a vaccine here, like all data sheets suggest, a vaccine should only be administered to healthy dogs anyway. Can I titre test for Kennel Cough? A titre test is a simple blood test which establishes the levels of existing antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are produced when an antigen provokes a response from the immune system. This response can be from natural exposure or a previous vaccination. The issue is that kennel cough can be caused by a number of bacteria or viruses; often at the same time, so a titre test is little use in this case. So, Should I Vaccinate My Dog Against Kennel Cough? The choice is ultimately up to you, but we would ask the following questions to help you decide? Is the vaccine safe? Is the vaccine effective? Is your dog at risk of catching it? Is your dog healthy? You can also learn more about vaccinations in general in our blog here: Everything You Need to Know About Vaccinations Preventing Kennel Cough The best weapon in your arsenal is to support your dog’s immune function as much as possible. If they have a well-developed and mature immune system they are better able to fight threats. Your Pet’s Immune System Do We Need To Boost Our Pet’s Immune System? 10 Top Foods For Your Dog’s Immunity If you would like some support with your pet’s health, then check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Kennel cough is relatively common in the canine world but its name is slightly misleading. For decades it was associated with kennels and many owners thought that if their dog never went to kennels, it wasn’t a risk for them. The reason it’s common in kennels is because dogs are in such close proximity to each other and so it spreads like wildfire! But any dog can suffer with Kennel Cough, or more technically canine infectious respiratory disease. For the most part, healthy dogs recover without issue – but it can be more of a worry for puppies or older dogs. Let’s take a look at it in a little more detail, and we’ll share some of our favourite remedies. What is Kennel Cough? Canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) is an acute, highly contagious disease complex caused by a variety of infectious agents. CIRD is characterised by an acute onset of mild to severe episodes of a dry cough and nasal discharge. Due to the highly contagious nature of the disease, dogs living in crowded conditions, such as shelters and day care centres, are especially susceptible to infection. Most dogs with CIRD recover spontaneously within days to weeks unless complicating factors occur, such as lower respiratory tract involvement or severe secondary infections. A variety of viral and bacterial agents have been detected in dogs with CIRD. The commonly reported pathogens include: Canine distemper virus (CDV) Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) Canine herpesvirus-1 (CHV) Bordetella bronchiseptica Can I Vaccinate Against It? Yes you can, but one study demonstrated that 43.3% of all dogs with CIRD and 60.9% of CPIV positive dogs with CIRD had a history of parenteral vaccination against CPIV. Since the time between vaccination and the onset of clinical CIRD was not documented, it was not clear whether the dogs developed clinical CPIV due to an insufficient immune response following vaccination or if some dogs tested positive for a vaccination strain of CPIV. After-all, it has been suggested that dogs vaccinated with a modified live CPIV vaccine could shed the virus for some time after vaccination. Can I Prevent My Dog Catching It? CIRD is an attack on the immune system. The pathogens hijack many defences which results in the symptoms we recognise. So, a well-functioning immune system is the first part of your dog’s defence against kennel cough. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection. Foods Containing Vitamin C: Blueberries Seaweed Peppers Sweet Potatoes Pumpkin Vitamin A helps maintain structural and functional integrity of mucosal cells in innate barriers (skin, respiratory tract etc). It is also important for the functioning of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In the adaptive immune response, vitamin A is necessary for the functioning of T and B cells and therefore for the generation of antibody responses to an antigen. Sources of Vitamin A Include: Liver Fish Oil Egg Yolks In the innate immune system, vitamin B6 helps regulate inflammation and has roles in cytokine production and natural killer cell activity. In the adaptive immunity system, vitamin B6 plays a role in the metabolism of amino acids, which are the building blocks of cytokines and antibodies. B6 is also involved in lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation and maturation and it maintains Th1 immune responses. Sources of Vitamin B6 include: Beef Chicken Turkey Sardines Salmon Organ Meats Stock or broth made by boiling chicken bones is a great option and contains gelatin, chondroitin and other nutrients that are helpful in gut healing in immune function. Zinc is a particular powerhouse when it comes to immune function. It has antioxidant effects protecting against reactive oxygen species, it helps modulate cytokine release and also helps maintain skin and mucosal membrane integrity (that first line of defence). In the adaptive immune response, zinc has a central role in cellular growth and differentiation of immune cells. It plays a role in T cell development and activation and supports the Th1 response. Sources of Zinc Include: Seafood Meat Fish We find vitamin D receptors throughout the immune system which demonstrates the role it plays in its function. Vitamin D stimulates immune cell proliferation and cytokine production, and it helps protect against infection caused by pathogens. It also demonstrates an inhibitory effect in adaptive immunity, suggesting that it is in fact an immune modulator. This is often why we notice increased cases of autoimmunity where there is low vitamin D. Sources of Vitamin D Include: Liver Fish Egg Yolks Mushrooms We can also feed a range of foods to support overall immune function. To learn more check out our blog here: 10 Top Foods For Your Dog’s Immunity What Happens if My Dog Gets Kennel Cough? If your dog is generally healthy, it is usually self-limiting, but if you are concerned it is best to seek vet advice. We do have some tried and tested remedies which can usually help too. Chamomile Chamomile is widely used to treat inflammations of the skin and mucous membranes, and for various bacterial infections of the skin, oral cavity and gums, and respiratory tract. Tincture or tea is generally better tolerated by dogs. Honey Manuka honey possesses soothing properties along with functioning as an: Antiviral Antibacterial There is increasing evidence that it inhibits a range of pathogens. Findings Here It also disperses and kills bacteria living in biofilms, those matrixes that adhere to wounds, teeth, and mucosal surfaces. Slippery Elm Gruel and Colloidal Silver Silver is recognized to have antimicrobial activity. There are three main ways in which it achieves this. Firstly, silver cations can form pores and puncture the bacterial cell wall by reacting with the peptidoglycan component. Secondly, silver ions can enter into the bacterial cell, both inhibiting cellular respiration and disrupting metabolic pathways resulting in generation of reactive oxygen species. Lastly, once in the
Your dog may have recently undergone surgery or sadly suffered an injury when out on a walk. We know the importance of rest for healing, but if there is trauma to the skin in the form of a wound, can we support that process? Let’s take a look. The Wound Healing Process Wound healing, as a normal biological process in the body, is achieved through four precisely and highly programmed phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. For a wound to heal successfully, all four phases must occur in the proper sequence and time frame. Hemostasis consists of vascular constriction, platelet aggregation, degranulation and fibrin clot formation. When tissue damage results in bleeding, fibrinogen is converted at the wound into fibrin by the action of thrombin, a clotting enzyme. Fibrin molecules then combine to form long fibrin threads that entangle platelets, building up a spongy mass that gradually hardens and contracts to form the blood clot. During inflammation there is neutrophil infiltration, monocyte infiltration and differentiation to macrophage and lymphocyte infiltration. Proliferation consists of re-epithelialization (formation of new epithelial and skin appendages), angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), collagen synthesis and ECM (extracellular matrix) formation. During remodelling, there is collagen remodelling and vascular maturation and regression. Wounds that exhibit impaired healing, including delayed acute wounds and chronic wounds have generally failed to progress through the normal stages of healing. These wounds frequently enter a state of pathologic inflammation due to a postponed, incomplete, or uncoordinated healing process. Factors That Can Affect Wound Healing Oxygenation Oxygen is important for cell metabolism, especially energy production by means of ATP, and is critical for nearly all wound-healing processes. It: prevents wounds from infection Induces angiogenesis Increases keratinocyte differentiation Increases migration Promotes re-epithelialization Enhances fibroblast proliferation Enhances collagen synthesis Promotes wound contraction In wounds where oxygenation is not restored, healing is impaired. Infection Infection, not surprisingly, also influences wound healing. Age Many clinical and animal studies at the cellular and molecular level have examined age-related changes and delays in wound healing. It is commonly recognized that, in healthy older bodies, the effect of ageing causes a temporal delay in wound healing, but not an actual impairment in terms of the quality of healing. Interestingly, exercise has been reported to improve cutaneous wound healing in older humans as well as aged mice, and the improvement is associated with decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the wound tissue. Stress Studies in both humans and animals have demonstrated that psychological stress causes a substantial delay in wound healing. Caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s and students undergoing academic stress during examinations demonstrated delayed wound healing. Medications Many medications, such as those which interfere with clot formation or platelet function, or inflammatory responses and cell proliferation have the capacity to affect wound healing. Systemic glucocorticoids (GC), which are frequently used as anti-inflammatory agents, are well-known to inhibit wound repair via global anti-inflammatory effects and suppression of cellular wound responses, including fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. In animal models, systemic use of ibuprofen (NSAID) has demonstrated an anti-proliferative effect on wound healing, resulting in decreased numbers of fibroblasts, weakened breaking strength, reduced wound contraction and delayed epithelialization. Obesity An increased frequency of wound complications has been reported for obese human individuals undergoing surgery. Recent findings have documented that adipose tissue secretes a large variety of bioactive substances that are collectively named adipokines. Both adipocytes themselves as well as macrophages inside the adipose tissue are known to produce bioactive molecules including cytokines, chemokines, and hormone-like factors such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin. Adipokines have a profound impact on the immune and inflammatory response. Not only this but in obese individuals, there is increased pressure on the wound, decreased vascularity in adipose tissue and additional skin folds which may harbour infectious pathogens. Obesity in Pets 1 Obesity in Pets 2 Nutrition Carbohydrates Glucose is the major source of fuel used to create the cellular ATP that provides energy for angiogenesis and deposition of the new tissues – to this end, there may be an argument for easily digested carbohydrates in the recovering dog. Protein Protein is one of the most important nutrient factors affecting wound healing. A deficiency of protein can impair capillary formation, fibroblast proliferation, proteoglycan synthesis, collagen synthesis, and wound remodelling. A lack of protein also influences immune system function, with resultant decreased leukocyte phagocytosis and increased susceptibility to infection. Not only this, but collagen is the major protein of connective tissue. Collagen synthesis requires hydroxylation of lysine and proline, and co-factors such as iron and vitamin C. Glutamine is a major source of metabolic energy for rapidly proliferating cells such as fibroblasts, lymphocytes, epithelial cells, and macrophages. To this end, it is important for wound healing. Fat Essential fatty acids are thought to affect pro-inflammatory cytokine production, cell metabolism, gene expression, and angiogenesis in wound sites, suggesting an important role in wound healing. Micronutrients Low levels of Vitamin C result in impaired healing, and have been linked to decreased collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation, decreased angiogenesis, and increased capillary fragility. Also, low vitamin C leads to an impaired immune response and increased susceptibility to wound infection. Whilst healthy dogs are generally able to synthesise their own Vitamin C, there may be a consideration for additional dietary sources during times of high need. Vitamin A behaves as an antioxidant, which protects membrane integrity, in addition it has been associated with increased fibroblast proliferation, modulation of cellular differentiation and proliferation, increased collagen and hyaluronate synthesis, and decreased MMP-mediated extracellular matrix degradation. MMPs play a role in protein breakdown (which is a necessary process – as long as there isn’t too much). Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties and is thought to have a role in decreasing excess scar formation in chronic wounds. Animal experiments have indicated that vitamin E supplementation is beneficial to wound healing. Magnesium functions as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in protein and collagen synthesis. Copper is a required cofactor for cytochrome oxidase, for cytosolic antioxidant superoxide dismutase,
In most cases, a liver shunt is caused by a birth defect. This is known as a congenital portosystemic shunt. But acquired shunts can also occur – this is usually linked to primary liver disease, or a disease involving the normal blood vessels into the liver. We describe the liver as the powerhouse of the body, quite simply because it carries out so many functions, so, is there anything we can do to support it when it’s function isn’t quite up to par? Let’s take a look at whether we can support a dog with a liver shunt. What Does The Liver Do? The liver processes blood and the substances found within it. In a healthy animal, blood draining from the intestines passes immediately through the liver for nutrients to be processed and for toxic compounds to be removed. The blood then re-enters main circulation. What is a Liver Shunt? In an animal with a portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), a significant volume of blood bypasses the liver, enters main circulation and heads to the heart where it can be pumped around the body. As the blood being pumped around the body is technically unfiltered, toxic compounds can build up. In addition, the liver is unable to break down nutrients or regulate the body’s energy balance. Signs and Symptoms of a Liver Shunt: Stunted growth Poor muscle development Abnormal neurological behaviour – disorientation, staring into space, circling or head pressing, seizures Drinking/urinating too much Vomiting Diarrhoea Lethargy In both cases of congenital and acquired, reduced blood flow to the liver also results in atrophy which subsequently affects function. But the liver is a rather unique organ, it is the only one that can regenerate, therefore appropriate intervention and management is essential. Liver Guard Considerations to make for the dog with a liver shunt: Diet The conventional concern with many liver issues is protein intake. When protein is broken down in the body, left behind is ammonia. The liver plays a key role in metabolising ammonia ready for it to be excreted by the kidneys into urine, but when blood flow bypasses the liver, ammonia builds up in the blood and enters systemic circulation – this is what leads to many neurological issues alongside poor liver function. Traditionally, dietary management has included protein restriction to reduce ammonia absorption from the colon, but more recently it is considered that colonic absorption is only significant in those fed poor-quality diets that contain poorly digestible protein. In addition, it has been established that those with chronic liver disease may develop muscle wasting from being in a long-term catabolic state – with low protein diets leading to increased muscle protein catabolism. Findings Here We would advocate a fresh-food diet, with highly digestible protein sources. The general school of thought is 2g of protein per kg of body weight. Beneficial proteins to feed in liver disease include eggs for the most bioavailable protein and choline content, poultry and a little fish such as sardines, salmon and cod. Fats such as omega-6 and omega-3 in 4:1 ratio are important in liver conditions. Moderate amounts of hemp oil, phytoplankton (offering DHA and EPA) and fish, both whole and in pure oil source may help to protect the liver and reduce systemic inflammation and inflammation in the liver. Detoxification The liver neutralises a range of toxic chemicals, both those produced internally (waste from used hormones or neurotransmitters for example) and those from the environment, like air pollution, pesticides and food additives. It does this by filtering the blood to remove large toxins, synthesising, and secreting bile and lastly enzymatically disassembling unwanted chemicals found in the body. If its function isn’t up to par, toxins can start to build up. Enzymatic Detoxification This enzymatical detoxification occurs in three phases. Phase I directly neutralises chemicals and changes them into new metabolites. These are then processed by phase II enzymes. This is known as the conjugation phase, which in short, liver enzymes attach small chemicals to the toxin. There are many ways in which this is done, it all depends on the type of chemical the liver is trying to manage. Phase I results in high levels of reactive oxygen species so antioxidant levels are key in modulating potential damage. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants? Liver Guard Beneficial Additions: Broccoli contains glucobrassicin, the glucosinolate precursor of indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and subsequently Diindolylmethane (DIM) which is attributed to supporting phase one of the liver detoxification. Berries and cranberries whole and in extract contain anthocyanins that demonstrate hepato-protective abilities. An experiment found that antioxidants commonly found in berries slowed the development of lesions and fibrosis, the development of scar tissue, in the livers of rats. Phase II is nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron are essential. There has also been data to suggest dandelion amongst others can support the enzymatic detoxification pathway too. Phase III is the elimination phase. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. It’s important to include a range of functional ingredients in your dog’s diet that can lubricate the digestive tract, promote regular motility, aid elimination and support the microbiome. Prevention of absorption through trapping of potential toxins is also an effective way of mitigating toxin exposure and this is a key feature of many clay products. 7 Reasons to Use Clay In addition, some fibre helps to speed up colonic transit and prevent constipation. This reduces the amount of toxins absorbed from the colon and circulated into the system for the liver to deal with. 7 Foods To Add Fibre To Your Dog’s Diet The most important thing to do to support detoxification is to avoid exposure in the first place, so consider how much you and your dog are exposed to: Pesticides Heavy smoke Phthalates Mould Medications like steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers Heavy metals Cleaning
If you are a current pet owner or have been in the past, there is a 99% chance your pet has had pain medication at some point in their life. Or they have at least had it prescribed or suggested for them. For us to fully weigh up what we are administering to our pets, it makes sense to start with the basics. So, how do pain medications work in pets? Pain medications come in different forms, but there are a few common ones: NSAIDs Opioids Paracetamol NSAIDs Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are exactly what they say on the tin – they are used to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is an immune response. When something becomes damaged or threatened in the body, compounds are released which kick start an immune response to help fight the threat or heal the trauma. A Guide to Inflammation in Pets NSAIDs are typically divided into groups based on their chemical structure and selectivity. They include: acetylated salicylates (aspirin) non-acetylated salicylates propionic acids (ibuprofen) acetic acids (diclofenac) enolic acids (meloxicam) anthranilic acids (meclofenamate) naphthylalanine (nabumetone) selective COX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib) The main mechanism of action of NSAIDs is the inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). Cyclooxygenase is required to convert arachidonic acid (a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid) into thromboxanes, prostaglandins, and prostacyclins (which are all inflammatory mediators). The therapeutic effects of NSAIDs are therefore attributed to the reduction of them. Many NSAIDs are not selective, meaning they take out all COX enzymes; this is beneficial if we are targeting inflammatory mediators, but COX enzymes also carry out other roles in the body. COX1 enzymes play a role in: protecting the gastrointestinal tract renal blood flow platelet aggregation This is why proton pump inhibitors are often administered alongside NSAIDs, the reduction in stomach acid secretion is thought to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. In addition, there is also evidence of long term NSAID use and chronic kidney disease. The administration of certain NSAIDs can also trigger hypersensitivity reactions. Non-selective NSAIDs exert effects by inhibiting COX-1 and subsequently shift arachidonic acid metabolism from prostaglandin (especially PGE2) synthesis toward pro-inflammatory cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTs) such as LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4. Overproduction of LTs leads to activation of mast cells and eosinophils, which can result in typical allergic symptoms like itching and hives, along with bronchoconstriction. This is worth noting if you have a particularly sensitive dog. Opioids Opioids function primarily in the nervous system; they inhibit neurotransmitter release. The Neuroscience of Pain Morphine is commonly considered to be the archetypal opioid analgesic and the agent to which all other painkillers are compared. There is evidence to suggest that as long ago as 3000 bc the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, was cultivated for its active ingredients. But, it wasn’t until morphine was isolated from opium in 1806 by Sertürner that modern opioid pharmacology was truly born. In 1847 the chemical formula for morphine was established and this, coupled with the invention of the hypodermic needle in 1853, led to the widespread clinical use of morphine. How Does It Work? Opioid receptors are distributed throughout the central nervous system and within peripheral tissue of neural and non-neural origin. Opioids reduce excitability of neurons, and decrease the release of nociceptive neurotransmitters like substance P. See our blog on The Neuroscience of Pain above to learn more about this. Because opioids work in the nervous system, in essence slowing everything down, the concern is that they may do it a little too well and knock everything a little out of whack. As we know the body likes balance, and it does everything in its power to keep it that way. To this end, behavioural side effects of opioids include panting, vocalisation, salivation, nausea, vomiting, defecation, and sedation or hyperactivity. Physiological side effects of opioids in dogs may include central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, usually accompanied with little to no change in cardiac output, ileus, and urinary retention. Findings Here Paracetamol It has been assumed that paracetamol probably acts through the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway. This is the pathway through which the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) act. Much investigation has focussed on paracetamol’s inhibition of the COX enzyme because its analgesic and antipyretic effects are similar to those of aspirin, the archetype NSAID. However, paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory activity, or does it inhibit production of the pro-clotting TXAs. In addition, paracetamol does not appear to have a major effect peripherally; its action appears to be mostly central. It seems reasonable to assume that although there may be some effect on COX enzymes, this effect is different from that seen with typical NSAIDs. Because of this, other mechanisms of action have been considered. It is thought that serotonin has a major role in modulating pain perception. Serotonergic drugs are used in the treatment of migraine headaches in humans and combined serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors have been used in chronic pain management. It has been considered that paracetamol, in effect, activates serotonin pathways to influence pain perception. Other data has indicated that when cannabinoid receptors are blocked, paracetamol loses its action, suggesting the endocannabinoid system may play a role in paracetamol’s actions too. Findings Here Whilst we may not know the full mechanism of action of paracetamol, it is possibly the widest used pain medication The side effects usually associated with paracetamol include: yellowing of white of eyes or gums (jaundice) reduction in appetite vomiting or diarrhoea blood in faeces Are There Any Other Pain Medications Worth Mentioning? There are a number of products on the market which target pain, but they could fill a book, so we’ll just take a look at two more. Librela Librela is an injectable which targets pain in cases of osteoarthritis. The active ingredient in librela is bedinvetmab which is a monoclonal antibody. This antibody (or protein) is trained to recognise and attach to a protein known as Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Once attached it prevents NGF from attaching to its own receptors on nerve cells and therefore
If you have ever come across some lectures with neuroscientists or psychologists on pain, you will likely hear the story of a man who fell on a nail. He understandably was in agony and had to be given strong painkillers on the way to the hospital. But, when arriving at the hospital, it was discovered that the nail had in fact gone through the gaps in his toes and not penetrated his foot at all. What on earth was going on here? You can’t say his pain wasn’t real, because to him it was sheer agony. But it was his perception of what had occurred which fuelled his response and need for strong painkillers. The brain had constructed a response based on cues from the environment; the pain signal was therefore appropriate to stop the man in his tracks and prevent the likelihood he would fall on another nail. Except the brain got it a little wrong. This example is great for showing us that pain is subjective and a perception; but we already knew this didn’t we? What may be painful for one person, may not even result in a wince from another. This is also true for our dogs. We joke that certain breeds are a little sensitive, and then we find other breeds completely stoic when suffering a chronic issue. If pain is crucial to our survival, quite literally, but it can be subjective, what on earth is it? Let’s take a look at the neuroscience of pain. The Neuroscience of Pain Pain is a sensation and as such is processed in the brain. It is a necessary function that warns the body of potential or actual injury. It occurs when nociceptor fibres detect painful stimulus on the skin or in an internal organ (peripheral nervous system). The detection signal is picked up by receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem and transmitted to various areas of the brain as sensory information. The facilitators of this are known as neurotransmitters and as we know these are in essence, chemical messengers. Some transmitters are excitatory, meaning they facilitate the transmission of the message, and some are inhibitory, meaning they impede transmission. Both types of messengers are important in the modulation of pain. For example, excitatory neurotransmitters acting without an inhibitory system results in pain. Several neurotransmitters are involved, but glutamate and substance P (SP) are the main ones involved in pain. Glutamate is usually involved in the rapid neurotransmission of acute pain, such as with mechanical stimuli or temperature stimuli producing quick, sharp pain. SP regulates smooth muscle contractility, epithelial ion transport, vascular permeability, and immune function in the gastrointestinal tract. SP transmits pain by secretion from nerves and inflammatory cells, and acts by binding to certain receptors on the spinal cord. SP is typically seen in chronic pain cases due to its slow excitatory connection. The success in treating pain with opiates, such as morphine, that block nociceptive transmission of pain within the spinal cord is perceived to be, in part, due to a decrease in the release of SP. Recent data has indicated a role for dopamine in pain too. Dopamine is already known to play important roles in thinking, memory, movement, and reward. However, researchers have shown that dopaminergic neurotransmission plays a central role in modulating pain perception and analgesia within certain parts of the brain including the insula, thalamus, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex and periaqueductal grey. It is thought that low levels of dopamine could contribute to the perception of painful symptoms. Amino Acids and Pain Management The body’s three primary pain modulators appear to be the neurotransmitters endorphin, serotonin, and GABA (gamma amino butyric acid). Each of these pain fighters is produced from very specific nutrients called amino acids. Amino acids are required for the production and maintenance of almost every function and tissue in the body. Amino acids are found in abundance in protein rich foods, but you can also find them in supplement form. DLPA (DL-phenylalanine) is a natural amino acid that has been used to treat chronic pain. DLPA inhibits several enzymes that are responsible for the destruction of endorphins. Endorphins are pain-killing hormones and by inhibiting their destruction, pain relief is prolonged. It can also potentiate opiate analgesia and prolong the effects of acupuncture. Tryptophan (Trp) is an indispensable amino acid for domestic canines. Tryptophan, and ultimately the serotonergic system, has been shown to influence behaviours related to anxiety, stress, fear, and aggression which may play a role chronic pain, and its perception. Acute Vs Chronic Pain Acute pain, which serves as a warning signal of injury or illness, normally comes on quickly and lasts for a short time. If not treated properly, acute pain can develop into chronic pain in which the pain persists even after the initial injury or illness is healed. When this happens, considerable changes occur in both the peripheral and central nervous systems (CNS) as well as in the psychological profiles of sufferers. Some recent studies have found that information about the transition from acute pain to chronic pain could be documented by changes in brain structure and function. In general, where acute pain largely activates brain regions involved in nociceptive information processing, chronic pain is consistently and substantially encoded by brain regions related to emotional and motivational states of sufferers. This suggests that we should also consider how stressed or anxious our pets may be alongside their pain experiences. What is particularly interesting about this concept is that our pets can’t talk, so it can be particularly difficult to establish their emotional and motivational states. This is even more worrying when we consider veterinarian and public opinion of pain sensitivity in certain breeds of dogs. A study carried out in 2020 wanted to establish whether there is a breed difference in pain sensitivity in dogs. But, as pain is a perception and there are significant limitations in subjectivity scales, the researchers thought asking veterinarians and the general public would be an interesting
When faced with a sick pet, it can be hard to know where to start. It can sometimes feel like there is a never-ending list of things going wrong. We also have to manage our emotions; our pets are part of the family, and we hate to see them suffering. Sometimes it can help to have a structure when supporting digestive health and to this end, we take a systems approach. Let’s take a look at what this means. Taking A Top-Down Approach We could easily start at the bottom, but let’s start at the top! Neurological Health and Behaviour We can start thinking about any neurological issues our pet may be experiencing, but we can also keep track of their behaviour. Are they quieter than usual? Do they appear anxious or agitated? Are they a fussy eater? We know there is a highway between the gut and the brain, and so what goes on in the gut influences the brain and subsequent behaviour. We may notice sickness behaviour; being quieter than usual, or they may become more anxious. Studies in mice have demonstrated that when experimental colitis was induced, their amygdala became more active along with their fear response. In short, the experimental colitis made them more fearful. Findings Here Time and time again we see that inflammation or digestive discomfort can influence behaviour, so keep a note. Eye Health Moving down slightly, we can see a lot in our pet’s eyes. Not just key components in their body language, but if we have recurring tear staining, this can inform us of immune system health. Tear secretion is complex. It responds to the conditions faced by the eye, but also influenced by a range of hormones and cytokine balance. Cytokine is derived from two Greek words, cyto meaning cell and kinos meaning movement. Cytokines are cell signalling molecules that aid communication in immune responses. They stimulate the movement of cells towards sites of inflammation, infection, and trauma. Cytokines are agents that modulate or alter the immune system response. It makes absolute sense that when faced with an ocular threat, cytokine levels increase, presenting as the usual immune response; water and itchiness which is common with seasonal allergies or intolerances. But what is also interesting is that that the rest of the body can also influence tear production through this inflammatory response. The most considered is how chronic inflammatory diseases of the gut can cause various health issues; inflammatory bowel disease for example is caused by cytokine-driven inflammation of the gut. This leads us to why, no matter what you apply to your white dog’s face, you can’t get rid of those stains. If tear staining is an issue for your dog, then check out our blog here: Is Your Dog A Cry Baby? The Mouth From poor dental hygiene compromising eating habits to translocated bacteria throughout the body, oral health is a huge piece in the puzzle when supporting your dog’s health. Take a look; are there broken teeth? Is there evidence of periodontal disease? Is your dog able to chew? Do they have any abscesses or lesions on their tongue? Whilst it’s a little harder to establish, we can consider the state of the oral microbiota of our pet’s mouth too. Just like in the gut, the food eaten, along with any long term antibiotic or medication use can skew the community of microbes in the mouth. To learn more about oral health, and promoting dental hygiene, check out our blogs here: Your Puppy’s Microbiome Periodontal Disease in Dogs Ear Health Itchy or putrid smelling ears usually tell us things aren’t going as well as they should be. When warm and moist, the ears are perfect breeding grounds for certain bacteria to multiply. This leaves them at risk of infection and bacterial overgrowth. This is particularly common in those water dogs, or those who adore swimming. It can also be a consideration if your dog attends regular hydrotherapy sessions. Ear health is also something to pay attention to, if food sensitivities are prevalent. An elimination diet is often a good place to start. Elimination Diets For Dogs If you think your dog may struggle with yeast overgrowth, check out our blog here: Is Your Dog A Yeasty Beast? Now we’ll head into the digestive system. Stomach Are there any long-term medications that could compromise stomach acid secretion or production? Antihistamines for example? Or the administration of omeprazole alongside long term NSAIDs? As we know, digestion of food starts in the stomach with the help of hydrochloric acid; if there isn’t a good supply, food digestion can be compromised, leaving semi-digested particles to cause issues further down in the system. Gut Guardian Pancreas The pancreas releases a range of digestive enzymes to aid the digestion of food, so a similar principle applies; if the pancreas isn’t working as it should, food isn’t digested as well as it could be, leaving nutrients unavailable and undigested particles to causes issues. A Brief Guide to Our Pet’s Pancreas Liver We call the liver the powerhouse for a reason. It carries out a range of processes, from the assimilation of amino acids into new proteins to the detoxification of harmful compounds. It also produces bile which aids the digestion of fat. If there is an unusual burden for the liver to detoxify, it can get a little overwhelmed. This means that some other processes may be compromised and we may start to see poor protein assimilation, fat digestion issues and more. Liver Guard Gallbladder The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that sits just under the liver. Its function is to store and concentrate bile, a yellow-brown digestive juice produced by the liver. It is part of the biliary tract. Bile contains water, electrolytes and a battery of organic molecules including bile acids, cholesterol, phospholipids and bilirubin. Sadly, the build-up of these very compounds can lead to a number of problems in the gallbladder, they are known as canine gallbladder diseases.
Like all the systems in the body, things can and do go a little awry with urinary health. We’ve compiled 3 things to consider if your pet is facing challenges in this system. What can go wrong with my pet’s urinary system? Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are different types of stone composed of different minerals and compounds. What Can I Do For My Dog’s Bladder Stones? Your pet can also suffer from bacterial infection in their urinary system, leading to discomfort in the lower urinary tract. Urinary incontinence, anatomic abnormalities and tumours are amongst other conditions that may affect the urinary tract in cats and dogs too. Female dogs and cats are more likely to suffer with UTI’s and stones often due to structure but also possible hormonal changes. This is also suggests that urinary issues may face those neutered dogs too. Signs of UTI’s, stones or other UT issues may include one or more of the following; Chronic diarrhoea, loose stools or constipation Difficult or painful urination Stooping as if to defecate Incomplete urination Urinary incontinence Darker colour urine and offensive odour Fresh blood spots in urine Bloated, tender abdomen Loss of appetite Lack of energy Crying out in pain (generally from stones) Panting Weight loss Possible Causes of UTI’s and Stones Poor commercial foods. We know fresher fed pets have a more biodiverse microbiota that creates metabolites that protect the mucosa and UT. Food allergies and sensitivities. Stress can cause digestive dysfunction, leading to inflammation of the entire body, including the UT. Hormonal changes and neutering of a cat or dog can make for concurrent issues. Endocrine issues and dysfunction tend to affect the UT. Looking at underlying issues is always helpful. Dysbiosis leads to increased intestinal permeability, loss of immune tolerance, aberrant immune responses, and specific microbiome shifts. SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), is commonly found and highly associated with concurrent UTI’s. Parasitic infections can take hold when the GI is not functioning well and immune function becomes compromised. The urinary tract may become a weakened system because of this. Poor immunity and gut immunity can cause over-reactivity and inflammation. This can arise from birth to not being weaned effectively and even include environmental exposures (or lack thereof). Anatomical structural issues where the urethra is close to the anus, collecting bacteria leading to infection. Genetics in rare occasions can predispose a cat or dog to urinary stones. Cystinuria is a rare inherited disease that results in the formation of stones made of an amino acid called cysteine. The known gene defects responsible for cystinuria affect the kidneys and cause the kidneys to improperly excrete too much cysteine into the urine. Consistent use of antibiotics can wipe out the beneficial bacteria that protect the mucosa of the gut and UT. Adverse drug reactions or over-medication and vaccination can create a hyperactive immune state and inflammation which are implicated in UT issues and infection. Things to consider in supporting UT Health: 1) Feed A Fresh Food Diet A fresh diet rich in easily digestible proteins, beneficial fats and vegetables (fibre) can help support gut microbiota, a healthy body and a healthy UT. Home prepared, cooked or raw is the very best in this instance. The balance of calcium and phosphorus in a dicalcium phosphate form or even better from bones or bone meal is essential. Reducing oxalic vegetables and keeping an eye on high magnesium content is helpful, but a fresher diet can often negate the impact and therefore proliferation of stones and infections. Processed foods and sugars can cause systemic inflammation triggering UT inflammation. Sugar is also the food of choice for many of the less than desirable bacteria. Certain foods can often elicit an unwanted immune response, so understanding what might be causing your pet to react is essential. Elimination Diets For Dogs 2) Consider Supplements Ashwaganda is a beautiful adaptogenic herb, which does what it says on the tin. It helps the body adapt. This is worth considering if there is any element of stress influencing your dog’s UT health. Slippery elm: a beautiful insoluble fibre that tends to help regardless of the cause. It has mucilage properties where it creates a film, soothes, protects and helps to heal the entire gastric system including there productive and UT system. Deglycyrrhised liquorice: this botanical and functional herb is a demulcent (or mucilaginous, the same as slippery elm). It enhances oesophageal and digestive mucosal protection and in powder or liquid form, can help soothe the oesophageal, digestive and UT lining. DGL has been shown to create extra mucus, acting as a barrier to acid in the stomach, oesophagus, and UT. This barrier may allow damaged tissue to heal. Probiotics: the gut microbiota allows for a healthy ecology and functioning of the gut. It helps support immunity, aids the digestion of food, may outcompete pathogenic bacteria and yeast and has shown promise in reducing inflammation. For a happy gut, we need a diverse gut, and this means that certain beneficial bacteria reign. It is proven in humans that a healthy microbiota creates the necessary metabolites within the UT that protect against pathogenic bacteria too, so optimising gut health, with consideration given to probiotic usage may be of benefit. Cranberry and D Mannose: bacterial adhesion has been found to be significantly reduced after culture with urine samples obtained at 30 and 60 days, compared with results for urine samples obtained before extract administration from 12 dogs in a study for UTI’s. Oral administration of
When we understand that that the microbiome has a direct relationship with every organ in the body, why wouldn’t we wonder whether it could play a role in our dog’s bladder stones? We are somewhat lagging in canine data, but let’s take a look at the current information around urinary health and the microbiome. The Urinary System As body cells carry out metabolic activities, they consume oxygen and nutrients. During this process, waste products are made. These waste products must be eliminated from the body because if they are left to accumulate, they can become toxic. As the respiratory system eliminates carbon dioxide, the urinary system picks up the remainder of the waste products. This system consists of: Two kidneys Two ureters One urinary bladder One urethra The kidneys filter the blood of wastes and excretes them into urine. Once formed, urine passes through the ureters and is stored in the urinary bladder. It is then excreted through the urethra. The Bladder and Urine Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections, and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are several different types of stones, and they are composed of different minerals and compounds: Struvite Calcium oxalate Urate Cystine The most common causes include: Bacteria in the urinary tract Urinary pH Minerals present in the urine Genetics Bladder inflammation Struvite Stones These stones form due to excess magnesium, ammonium, and phosphorus. Normal canine urine is slightly acidic and contains waste products from metabolism. Struvite is a normal compound found in canine urine and will remain dissolved if the urine is acidic and not too concentrated. When the urine become too concentrated or alkaline, struvite crystals form. These stones tend to form because of a urinary tract infection and involves an enzyme known as urease. Urease is produced by the pathogenic bacteria and breaks down urea, which is normally found in urine. In the process, excess ammonia is produced which causes the urine to become alkaline. Excess ammonia in the urine also results in bladder inflammation, contributing to the issue. These stones are generally more common in female dogs. Kidney disease, long term use of diuretic medication and PPI’s can also result in alkaline urine, predisposing the dog to struvite stones. Calcium Oxalate Stones The current line of thinking is that urine high in calcium, citrates, or oxalates and is acidic predisposes a dog to developing calcium oxalate urinary crystals and stones. Recent studies have shown diets that cause high urine acidity (urine pH less than 6.5) may predispose dogs to develop this type of bladder stone. But, like most things, there are likely other causes of calcium oxalate bladder stones too. For example, over-usage of antibiotics may reduce numbers of the intestinal bacteria Oxalobacter formigenes whose sole nutrient is oxalate. In dogs with low populations of Oxalobacter, excess oxalate is secreted in the urine, increasing the likelihood that calcium oxalate crystals and stones can form if the urine is highly concentrated or becomes acidic. Calcium oxalate uroliths are noted more commonly in male dogs and the breeds most diagnosed with both struvite and calcium oxalate bladder stones included Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Lhasa Apso, and Yorkshire Terrier. Urate Stones Urate stones are generally caused by a genetic condition in some dog breeds like Dalmatians, Jack Russel Terriers and Bulldogs. But they are also seen with liver disease, especially in dogs or cats with liver shunts. Urate stones are made from compounds called purines. Purines are one of the most common chemical compounds on the planet. There are both endogenous and exogenous. Exogenous purines are absorbed by the body through the foods eaten, and endogenous purines are made by the body itself. Purines and pyrimidines are the two families of nitrogenous base that make up nucleic acids – in short, they are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Purines have a number of functions in the body: Signalling molecule Provide energy Control cell growth Part of essential coenzymes Contribute to nervous system function (including neuronal development) As you can see, purines perform many important functions in the cell, and so the balance between its synthesis and degradation is essential. When purines are catabolised, the result is uric acid. In all other mammals, apart from humans and Dalmatians, uric acid is then converted to allantoin, which is a very soluble excretion product. For us humans and those unlucky dogs, we excrete uric acid through the kidneys (with some excreted through the gastrointestinal tract). Uric acid is suggested to behave as a potent antioxidant. It is also thought to maintain blood pressure under low salt conditions and has been seen to function as an anti-inflammatory in certain diseases, but when levels become too high, in a condition known as hyperuricemia, problems can ensue. In humans, this can result in diseases such as kidney stones and gout and may cause hypertension. In those unlucky dogs, high uric acid levels result in bladder stones. For this reason, a low purine diet is often suggested for those pets suffering urate stones. Uric Acid and The Microbiota It is thought that around 1/3 of uric acid excretion occurs via the intestinal pathway. When uric acid is excreted into the gut, it is then metabolised by resident bacteria. What is interesting is that when kidney function is impaired, uric acid will mainly be eliminated by the intestine as compensation. It’s not therefore entirely surprising that there is a correlation between efficient uric acid metabolism and certain strains of bacteria found in the gut. Human studies have found a significantly
It is thought there is over 300 recognised breeds of dogs around the World. The American Kennel Club recognise around 190 of them, and the UK Kennel Club recognise 221. For those of us who have a preference for a certain breed we may fondly discuss our love of the Labrador’s happy-go-lucky nature or the trainability of the poodle. It is clear there are breed differences, which suggests a genetic blueprint of certain traits and characteristic. We also know there are genetic predispositions to certain health issues in various breeds. But would you be surprised to learn that there may be breed differences in clinical measurements? A group of researchers, hoping to establish genetic differences in clinical measurements in humans decided that dogs most closely resemble human parameters and so set out to test eight different breeds for 40 clinical markers. Findings Here This is what they found. For the majority of clinical markers, the researchers couldn’t find any significant genetic variants, but for three, they did. Alanine transaminase: ALT ALT is one of the more commonly known liver enzymes. ALT level in blood is used for the diagnosis of liver disease and injury in human and veterinary medicine. Researchers found a variant (SNP) on the gene known as GPT which codes for ALT. A causal variant linked with this SNP could increase expression level of GPT, which would lead to the production of more ALT protein. Belgian Shepherds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Doberman, Finnish Lapphund, and Newfoundland were breeds identified with a significant variation on this gene compared to other tested breeds, suggesting they may have a higher-than-average ALT level as standard. Additional data has suggested that elevated ALT doesn’t lead to metabolic disease per se and in fact metabolic disease is what leads to elevated enzymes. Therefore, it’s essential to consider test results in context and alongside other results, signs, and symptoms. What Could Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes in My Dog? Fructosamine Fructosamine is a stable condensation product of glucose with serum proteins. It is used as a biomarker for diagnosing and managing diabetes because fructosamine reflects the average blood sugar concentration over the preceding 2 weeks. The researchers found variations in the gene which codes for this protein in the Finnish Lapphund, German Shepherd and Newfoundland. Again, it would be an important consideration to make when monitoring these test results over a period of time, in light of any correlating signs and symptoms. The last marker is one that is particularly interesting. Stress During Physical Exam The researchers identified an experimental-wide association with stress during physical examination at chromosome 1. Two breeds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Dachshunds were the most significant. Dogs with the A allele of BICF2P1232291 showed more stress during physical examination. Whilst genes are fixed, we can often influence their expression and in this case, we can also mitigate stress in our dog’s life to regulate that overarching response. If you are planning a visit where your dog will need a physical examination: Limit stress before the visit, Engage in calming and enriching activities to activate that parasympathetic nervous system, Consider the use of a thunder jacket or similar, Allow your dog to decompress after the examination – again offering activities to activate that parasympathetic nervous system (chewing, enrichment, sniffing etc.) What Does All This Mean? This data suggests genetic variations in three clinical markers in certain breeds. However, these researchers only tested eight breeds. It would be interesting to establish how the data may change when testing additional breeds, especially when there are so many around the world. We know there are genetic glitches which contribute to the development of certain health issues, like the filaggrin mutation in skin health, or glitches in zinc absorption in certain sled dogs, but this information further highlights how complex our pet’s health issues truly can be. Can Genes Result in Poor Skin Function? Why Zinc is Important for Your Dog If you feel overwhelmed by your dog’s health issues, then please check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
When establishing the health status of pets, we often pursue a battery of tests. Whilst they may have been explained, you won’t be the first one to wonder what exactly the tests measure and what the numbers mean. One of the most common tests, along with kidney, is liver function. These tests are then talked about in terms of liver enzymes. But what are these liver enzymes and what jobs do they carry out in the body? Here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d compile a brief guide to liver enzyme function. But before we get cracking, we need to understand a little more about the liver. What is the liver? The liver is one of the largest organs in the body and we call it the powerhouse for good reason. It has some incredible metabolic functions. It converts the nutrients in the diet into substances that the body can use, stores these substances, and supplies cells with them when needed. It also takes up toxic substances and converts them into harmless substances or makes sure they are released from the body. In short, if it’s not working as it should, us or our pets are in a little bit of trouble. How does it work? Liver tissue is made up of lots of smaller units of liver cells called lobules. Many canals carrying blood and bile run between the liver cells. Blood coming from digestive organs flows through the portal vein to the liver, carrying nutrients, medication, and toxic substances. Once they reach the liver, these substances are processed, stored, altered, detoxified, and passed back into the blood or released in the bowel to be eliminated. In this way, for us humans the liver can remove alcohol from our blood and for both us and our pets, it can get rid of by-products from the breakdown of medications and more! Another function of the liver, with the help of vitamin K, it produces proteins that are important in blood clotting. It is also one of the organs that break down old or damaged blood cells. To carry out its job effectively, the liver has enzymes. What are enzymes? Enzymes are proteins that speed up processes in the body, you’ll probably be familiar with digestive enzymes; these are compounds which speed up the digestion of food. So, liver enzymes speed up the processes the liver carries out. Enzymes are found in liver cells, so the reason you may have heard of elevated enzymes is because damaged or inflamed liver cells can release enzymes into the bloodstream, of which a blood test picks up. What are the liver enzymes? Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) AST is an enzyme found mostly in the heart and liver and to a lesser extent in skeletal muscle. It plays a role in amino acid metabolism – transferring amino groups. When heart, liver or muscle cells are injured, they release AST into the bloodstream. ALT, which stands for alanine transaminase, is an enzyme found mostly in the liver. It helps break down proteins for the body to absorb, and therefore also plays a role in converting food into energy in the body. When liver cells are damaged, they release ALT into the bloodstream. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ALP is an enzyme found in the liver and bone and is important for breaking down proteins. Higher-than-normal levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease. Gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) GGT is an enzyme found throughout the body, but it is mostly found in the liver. GGT is typically the first liver enzyme to increase in the blood when any liver bile ducts become blocked or constricted. The primary role of GGT is the extracellular catabolism of glutathione, the major thiol antioxidant in cells, therefore playing a significant role in protecting cells against oxidants produced during normal metabolism. In short, GGT plays an important role in cellular defence. This is why GGT levels are often elevated in cases of environmental toxicity. Liver Guard br] What can cause elevated enzyme levels? All dogs should be assessed individually, but there are some common themes which contribute to higher enzyme levels than the general canine population. Certain Medications As the liver plays such a role in the metabolism and detoxification of medications, we often find that certain medications can contribute to higher-than-normal levels. Vaccine Adjuvants A study carried out in 2012 established an apoptotic effect of the hepatitis B vaccine in the mouse liver. What this means is that after vaccine administration, cell death occurred in the liver. As we know, damage to cells in the liver can result in enzymes being released into the bloodstream. It was thought that the adjuvant aluminum hydroxide played a role in cell apoptosis. It’s important to acknowledge that this study was carried out on mice, but that’s largely because researchers aren’t queuing up to dissect canine livers after they’ve had a vaccine, thankfully! But it’s important to note that this adjuvant can be found in some vaccines administered to pets. Food Aflatoxins (AF) found in food have been associated with increased biomarkers in liver function and oxidative stress. Aflatoxins are found in cereals and nuts and we can head back to 1952 to understand the true risk of them. In 1952, an outbreak of fatal liver disease in dogs occurred in the southeastern United States. The disease, termed hepatitis X, was characterised by icterus, lethargy, anorexia, petechiae, epistaxis, and hematemesis. Affected dogs died one to 14 days after clinical presentation. The postmortem findings of hepatitis X were noted to be similar to those in swine and cattle after ingestion of mouldy corn. The disease resulted from exposure to aflatoxins produced by the fungus Aspergillus species. In 1959, the role of aflatoxins in hepatitis X was confirmed when a group of dogs acquired the disease after being fed purified aflatoxin. Outbreaks of aflatoxicosis sadly do occur. In 2005, there were a number of acute outbreaks of hepatic failure in dogs across the United States which raised
The term allergy is commonly used within the pet nutrition realm. Whilst allergies to cleaning products or compounds in the environment do occur, the true incidence of food allergy in dogs is quite low. Whilst allergies do exist, we tend to see a higher number of intolerances, so what’s the difference and do we need to approach them differently? Let’s take a look at allergies and intolerances in dogs. What is a food allergy? A food allergy or other allergic response is caused by an IgE antibody reacting towards that allergen. IgE binds to mast cells to promote histamine release. In short, the immune system has sensed the particle and wants to get rid of it at all costs. You’ll know the hallmark signs of an allergy if you are unfortunate to suffer with hay fever, but the common symptoms of an allergy include: Itching Hives Swelling Coughing Sneezing/wheezing Watery eyes Anaphylaxis What is a food intolerance? In the case of a food intolerance, we tend to discuss it in terms of IgG. IgG is the work horse antibody; it is the soldier, the memory antibody. This is what gets drafted when your dog is exposed to something they have already figured out a response to. Symptoms usually begin within a few hours of eating the food that your dog is intolerant to but it’s important to note that symptoms can be delayed by up to 48 hours and last for hours or even days, making the offending food especially difficult to pinpoint. IgG’s are mostly raised from the barrier mucosa in the digestive system. After a meal, there are both antibodies and complexes of food antigens bound to specific IgG’s. These complexes are quickly cleared by the reticuloendothelial system. Clinical observations suggest that due to gut inflammation and permeability (leaky gut), the digestive system is unable to digest the proteins effectively which subsequently raises IgG response to certain foods. Chronic intestinal inflammations and permeability are related to and possibly responsible for food IgG sensitivity. A point to note is that 90% of food reactivity comes from IgG’s. Intolerances can be changeable, but allergies tend to be for life and only account for around 10% of food reactivity. The common signs of an intolerance include, and are not limited to: Poor growth in young pets Itching Vomiting Diarrhoea Flatulence Recurring ear issues Acid reflux SIBO Pain or discomfort Loss of appetite As you have gathered there is a glitch in immune function in both allergies and intolerances, but we must also consider the function of the digestive system when we are tackling intolerances. It’s important to note that IgG’s come in different categories but to keep it simple, they are generally defined as cyclic or fixed. A common IgG reaction is cyclic and can take around 3 months to disappear/change. A fixed Intolerance tends to linger for longer and can take around 6 months to disappear/change, what this means is there is no quick fix to support your dog who suffers with intolerances, we’re in it for the long haul. How to Support the Intolerant Dog First of all, we prime and reset the digestive system, and this includes starting with an elimination diet, but also includes gut healing and immune balancing protocols. We follow the 4 R’s. – Remove – carry out an elimination diet. Raw or lightly cooked is the best way to do this. Cooked foods can take pressure off the digestive system, which in these cases is beneficial. Start with novel proteins (proteins your dog’s immune system has not seen before) for example, horse, ostrich, kangaroo and hare are generally well tolerated. Horse is lean too, so a great option if digestive function isn’t where it needs to be, yet. Feed this novel protein for 4-12 weeks. Ideally if you land on a novel protein that helps the itch/digestive discomfort or doesn’t make it any worse, we recommend remaining on this protein for 12 weeks. As we noted this is the time it takes for an intolerance to change. We then introduce other novel proteins – but at no more than one per week and sticking to single source. Treats need to match too! If there are signs of intolerance, then remove that protein and go back to a protein you believe is best tolerated. Notice that it’s called an elimination diet, and not an elimination lifestyle. The overall aim is to eventually maintain a strong diversity in the diet as we know this supports optimal gut health. We would be looking to reintroduce more common proteins as time went on – but this takes time. We also practice the same process when reintroducing any fruit or vegetables – one at a time, over time. It can also be worthwhile opting for a low-histamine approach when reintroducing too. – Repair – support immunity and gut healing. Include ingredients like slippery elm, de-glycerised liquorice, glutamine, and N-acetyl-glucosamine. It is also important to consider how existing medications are affecting gut healing for example, steroid use impairs intestinal absorption which is linked to several gastrointestinal dysfunctions. But, because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, they are often prescribed in cases of allergies or intolerance. Findings here – Restore – optimise microbiome health As the microbiome is key in the development of the immune system, supporting this is essential. However, the introduction of specific pre and probiotic foods or supplements is sometimes best left for a few weeks into your plan, especially when carrying out an elimination diet. There may be probiotics on the market that contain protein sources not indicated on the label – always check with the manufacturer what is contained in their product and indicate that you are carrying out an elimination diet, so you need accurate information. – Replenish Indigestibility of food proteins can also contribute to their antigenic nature, so consider any long-term medication use including proton pump inhibitors which affect gastric acid secretion. Ensuring HCL, pepsin and digestive enzymes are in good
