The cardiovascular system consists of the blood, heart, and blood vessels. Sadly, one of the more common health issues we see here at My Pet Nutritionist are things involving the heart (both emotionally for us, and physically for the client). So, we thought we’d do a whistle stop tour of the cardiovascular system. If we know what it does, we can notice when things start to go a little awry. In addition, we can consider lifestyle choices in which to support its health. 1) The Blood Functions and Properties of Blood: Blood transports oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, wastes and hormones. It helps regulate pH, body temperature, and water content of cells. It provides protection through clotting and by combatting toxins and microbes through certain phagocytic white blood cells or specialised blood plasma proteins. The formed elements in blood include red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. 2) The Heart The heart is located in the chest between the right and left lungs and is contained in a very thin sac called the pericardial sac. The heart extends from around the 3rd to the 6th rib of the dog. The heart is the central organ that contracts rhythmically to pump blood continuously through the blood vessels. The heart consists of four chambers: The right atrium is the collecting chamber for blood from distant parts of the body. Blood is carried back to this upper right chamber of the heart in various veins. The oxygen levels in the blood in this chamber are very low. As the right atrium contracts, blood flows through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle. The right ventricle is the pumping chamber of the lower right heart. As the right ventricle contracts, it sends blood it has received from the right atrium into the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary valve sits at the opening of the pulmonary artery and prevents blood from moving backwards into the right ventricle after it contracts. The pulmonary artery carries the blood into the lungs where it grabs oxygen and gets rid of carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide leaves when dogs breathe out, and oxygen is taken in when they take a breath in. The left atrium – blood that is high in oxygen returns to the heart from the lungs and enters the upper left chamber of the heart, the left atrium. The left atrium is a collecting chamber that sends this oxygenated blood to the left ventricle. The valve that separates the left atrium from the left ventricle is the mitral valve. The left ventricle – the left ventricle is the major pumping chamber of the heart. This lower left chamber is responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. The blood from the left ventricle enters the aorta through the aortic valve. The aorta and other arteries distribute this oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. Cardiac Muscle Tissue Cardiac muscle fibres usually contain a single centrally located nucleus. Compared with skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle fibres have more and larger mitochondria (which as we know, are the powerhouses of cells). In comparison to skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle produces little of the ATP (energy) it needs by anaerobic cellular respiration (without oxygen). Instead, it relies on aerobic respiration (with oxygen). Cardiac muscle uses several fuels to power mitochondrial ATP production. At rest, the heart’s ATP comes mainly from the oxidation of fatty acids and glucose, with smaller contributions coming from lactic acid, amino acids, and ketone bodies. During exercise, the heart’s use of lactic acid, produced by actively using skeletal muscle, rises. Like skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle also produces some ATP from creatinine phosphate. This is relevant in cases of heart issues; when there is injured or dying cardiac muscle, creatine kinase (the enzyme that catalyses the transfer of a phosphate group from creatine phosphate to ADP to make ATP) is found in the blood. Cardiac Output The heart’s operation is mainly governed by events occurring throughout the body. Body cells must receive a certain amount of oxygen from blood each minute, to maintain health and life. When cells are metabolically active, as with exercise, they take up even more oxygen from the blood. During rest, cellular metabolic need is reduced and the workload of the heart decreases. Heart Rate Certain chemicals influence both the basic physiology of cardiac muscle and heart rate. Hormones Epinephrine and norepinephrine enhance the heart’s pumping effectiveness. They increase both heart rate and contractility. As we know. exercise, stress, and excitement cause the adrenal medullae to release more hormones. Thyroid hormones also enhance cardiac contractility and heart rate. One sign of hyperthyroidism is tachycardia, or elevated resting heart rate. Hyperthyroidism Cations The concentrations of several cations are crucial for action potentials in all nerve and muscle fibres. This includes the heart. The relative concentrations of: K (Potassium), Ca (Calcium) and Na (Sodium) have a huge impact on cardiac function. Elevated blood levels of K or Na decreases heart rate and contractility. Excess Na blocks Ca inflow which decreases contraction, and excess K blocks the generation of action potentials. A moderate increase in Ca speeds heart rate and strengthens heartbeat. The bottom line? There are a number of nutrients that are crucial to heart function, and in the incorrect amounts, can start to run amok! Increased body temperature, as with exercise understandably increases heart rate, but in cases of increased body temperature due to infection, the same also applies. So increased heart rate may be a sign of pathogenic load. Why Is The Cardiovascular System So Important? The heart pumps blood through blood vessels to body tissues, delivering oxygen and nutrients and removing waste by capillary exchange. Circulating blood keeps body tissues at a correct temperature. In short, it is vital for homeostasis. Integumentary System (Skin) Blood delivers clotting factors and white blood cells that aid in recovery when skin is damaged. Changes in blood flow contribute to body temperature regulation by adjusting the amount of heat loss via the skin. Skeletal System Blood delivers
Kennel cough is a broad term covering any infectious or contagious condition of dogs where coughing is one of the main symptoms. It’s sadly a common occurrence in the dog population, so let’s take a look at what it actually is and our top tips for prevention and management. Did you know 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. Canine Adenovirus Type 2 Infection CAV-2 infection is a common but transient contagious disease of the respiratory tract of dogs, it tends to cause mild fever, nasal discharge, coughing, and poor weight gain. Viral entry is generally by inhalation of infected particles followed by viral replication in the cells of the upper respiratory tract, mucous cells of the trachea and bronchi, bronchiolar epithelial cells, and others. Infection with CAV-2 is generally deemed mild unless complicated with a secondary bacterial infection or coinfections with other viruses like distemper virus. Experimental work suggests CAV-2 reinfection may lead to hyperreactive airways, which is a nonspecific condition where the bronchial mucosa becomes highly responsive to irritation caused by cold air, gases, or cigarette smoke. Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) This virus is a highly contagious ribonucleic acid virus that causes respiratory disease in dogs. Dogs with CPIV may exhibit no clinical signs or mild clinical signs of a dry, harsh cough for around and up to 7 days, with or without fever and nasal discharge. These signs are generally more severe in those dogs with viral or bacterial coinfections. CPIV suppresses the innate branch of the immune system, resulting in the loss of cilia and ciliated epithelium, making the host more favourable for coinfections. This is why it is of concern for immunocompromised dogs, along with puppies, or the senior dog. CPIV survives on nonporous surfaces for 4 to 12 days, but it is susceptible to a range of disinfectants. Bordetella bronchiseptica B bronchiseptica is a gram-negative, aerobic coccobacillus that is often implicated as a complicating factor in dogs with concurrent viral respiratory infections. After B bronchiseptica colonises the airways, it can evade the immune system by expressing various virulence factors that lead to: Direct cellular injury of respiratory epithelium Impaired immune recognition Disrupted immune clearance It seemingly manages to paralyze the mucociliary apparatus—a key component of the respiratory tract’s local defence mechanisms. The mucociliary apparatus moves inhaled debris and potentially harmful pathogens away from the lower respiratory tract, decreasing the risk of colonisation by these organisms. By doing this, B bronchiseptica not only improves its own virulence and chance for colonisation, but also paves the way for infections of the lower respiratory tract. In cases of infection, some dogs suffer mild disease including nasal discharge and intermittent coughing, whereas others develop severe pneumonia. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRD) The coinfection of these pathogens, among others, manifests as CIRD and they act synergistically to causes respiratory illness. This is why a multifaceted approach to prevention and subsequent management is crucial. Immune Function As you have likely noticed, CIRD is an attack on the immune system. The pathogens hijack many defences which results in the lingering symptoms. 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 as you know if you read our guide to the immune system, they help protect the body against infection. Your Pet’s Immune System 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. Vitamin A also supports the Th2 anti-inflammatory response. 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. 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. 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. Further to this, we often note higher rates of infection (with a range of pathogens) when there are existing health issues that involve: The gut Thyroid Kidneys Liver function 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health Liver Health Kidney Disease Therefore, ensuring you take a holistic approach to your dog’s health is vital. But, we do have some tricks up our sleeves when it comes to dealing with kennel cough in dogs. Mushrooms Mushrooms are thought to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer
It’s possibly the million-dollar question for those of us who DIY our dog’s diet. Are we getting it right? There are so many things to consider in response to this question, like digestive function, pre-existing health issues, sourcing of ingredients and more, but here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have noticed that certain nutrients can be low in a DIY diet. So, we thought we’d share what they are, their function in the body (why they are important) and our top sources! 1) Sodium Chloride Sounds like a swimming pool additive, doesn’t it? Well, sodium chloride or NaCl is what we commonly know as salt. And whilst it’s been demonised time and time again in the human diet, it is an essential compound that the body uses to: Absorb and transport nutrients Maintain blood pressure Maintain the right balance of fluid Transmit nerve signals Contract and relax muscles Sodium and chloride play an important role in the small intestine. Sodium helps the absorption of chloride, water and amino acids. Chloride when in the form of hydrochloric acid (stomach acid) also helps the body digest and absorb nutrients. Sodium and potassium are electrolytes too! The balance between these particles contributes to how cells maintain energy. It’s also how signals are sent to the brain, how muscles contract and how the heart functions. Too little sodium is usually associated with excessive water intake, prolonged vomiting and/or diarrhoea, use of diuretics and in some kidney diseases. For us humans, salt is added to most processed foods we eat, but for our dogs, in a fresh food diet, this isn’t the case. Source: Himalayan Salt 2) Manganese Manganese is necessary for: turning food into energy forming bones and connective tissue, such as cartilage protecting cells from damage by free radicals brain and memory function Signs of manganese are rare in humans, because we do find it in tea (go Brits), but limited data suggests deficiency is associated with skin issues largely due to increased levels of oxidative stress. There will also be impaired growth and development, along with abnormal metabolism of macronutrients. Findings Here Sources: Ginger (also provides iron and magnesium) Dark leafy vegetables Mussels Sweet Potatoes Pineapple 3) Iodine Iodine is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones that control many functions in the body including growth and development. In addition, iodine is crucial to brain development. In humans, iodine deficiency is listed as one of the leading causes of intellectual disabilities. It often results in irreversible brain damage. Deficiency leading to underproduction of thyroid hormones also affects other organs like the heart, liver, kidney and muscles. Findings Here Unlike nutrients such as iron, calcium or vitamins, iodine does not occur naturally in specific foods, it is present in the soil and is ingested through foods grown on that soil. Iodine deficiency results when there is lack of iodine on the earth’s crust. The food grown in iodine deficient regions can never provide enough iodine to the population and livestock living there. About 90% of iodine intake is obtained from food consumed and the remainder from water. Iodine is available in traces in water, food, and common salts. Iodine found in seawater and so seaweeds are rich in iodine. Sources: Kelp Wakame 4) Magnesium One of the most abundant minerals in the body along with calcium and phosphorus, magnesium is essential to bodily function. Functions: Energy metabolism Regulation of calcium triggered contraction of heart and muscle cells Vasodilation of the coronary and peripheral arteries Nerve signalling Structure of bones and teeth Increased risk of deficiency: Rapid growth Medications – diuretics, steroids, laxatives Intestinal malabsorption Diets emphasising processed foods, refined grains and few vegetables Depleted soils High calcium levels – they compete in the same pathway Signs of deficiency: Muscle spasms Increased risk of arrythmimas Sodium and water retention Impaired Vitamin D action Nausea/vomiting Sources: Spinach Swiss chard Kale Pumpkin seeds Tuna Extra bone Hempseed (milled) Why Magnesium is So Important to Your Pet 5) Vitamin D Around 75% of dogs are believed to have a vitamin D deficiency. There are two forms of Vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol that occurs in plants and Vitamin D3, known as cholecalciferol, is created in the skin during exposure to UV light and occurs in animals. Cholecalciferol (D3) is of greatest nutritional importance to both cats and dogs and luckily it can be obtained from the consumption of animal products that contain it. It is defined as a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it can be stored in the body’s fatty tissue. Vitamin D plays an indirect role in bone health by managing calcium levels in the body. It controls absorption of calcium in the intestine and the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. If Vitamin D levels are low, then the intestines struggle to absorb calcium. Increasing evidence is demonstrating a strong association between vitamin D signalling and biological processes that regulate immune responses. Vitamin D has been found to inhibit pro-inflammatory activity and cytokine production. It is thought to promote TH2 responses which may be protective in autoimmune disease. Vitamin D is also required for the production of natural killer cells which are known for killing virally infecting cells. Many studies are establishing a link between low vitamin D levels and cognitive decline in human patients. This would be no different for our pets. Vitamin D receptors are widespread in brain tissue and it has a role in cell growth, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, detoxification, and reduction of inflammation. Studies have also shown that low vitamin D levels in early life can affect brain development. In humans, it has been established that low levels of Vitamin D are associated with a higher risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack). The vitamin D axis affects vascular muscle cell proliferation (remodelling or regeneration of cells), vascular calcifications (mineral deposits in arteries and veins), inflammation and blood pressure. In their natural state, dogs and cats would have consumed their whole kill. Prey animals store
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we work with pet guardians who would move heaven and earth for their cat or dog. Our pets become part of our family; it’s why we want to do the best for them. Do our dogs know this? Is that why we perceive them as being so loyal? Or is it just their nature? Is it quite as simple as us fulfilling their needs, or are there some feelings involved? To get to the bottom of this, it makes sense to go back to the beginning and look at how we actually ended up with these balls of fluff on our sofa. Our modern-day dog is a result of the domestication of wolves. We only have a ballpark figure as there is some confusion as to when this actually occurred. Somewhere between 14,000 -135,000 years ago gives us an idea though. What is clear, is that it happened based on mutual gain. Wolves would seek out food and realise that human camps were a great place to scavenge. Humans accepted the wolves for either protection or companionship. And so, it began. Wolves who were more accepting of humans would access more food and therefore stood a better chance of surviving. They would then produce off-spring who would follow in their parent’s footsteps and learn that humans = food. Humans would accept friendly wolves and likely kill aggressive wolves thereby also influencing which wolves would survive. So very early on, wolves learned that loyalty to humans equalled safety and food. We can almost suggest that we have selectively bred dogs who are dependent on us. Studies have shown that if you present a dog with an impossible task, they will attempt it, but soon look to their owner as if to ask for help. Cats on the other hand will continue to attempt the task in ignorance of their owner. Findings Here So, are dogs loyal because they have to be? Not necessarily. Studies have also shown, that when a dog is forbidden food, he will obey the wait command for as long as the commander has direct sight of the food. If the commander closes their eyes, the dog will disobey and take the food. Findings Here This could suggest that dogs are loyal because they think we want them to be. Dogs are incredibly good at reading human cues especially when we are upset. Dogs show more interest in a human when they are crying as opposed to simply humming or talking. Dogs will nuzzle, sniff and lick both their owners and complete strangers. Findings Here Of course, you could argue that dogs have simply learned to do this. Chances are, if you’ve been upset and your dog has come over to you and nuzzled you, you’ve perhaps smiled, or made a fuss of them. Dogs learn from the consequences of their behaviour, so they may have simply learned that by doing this, they get a happy response with a pat on the head. This isn’t a hard push when we learn that along with humans, when dogs are interacting with their owners, their oxytocin levels also increase. Oxytocin is released during pleasurable social experiences, often dubbed the love or cuddle hormone. So, it does go both ways. When we interact with each other, we both get an oxytocin surge which makes us both feel warm and fuzzy! Win win! It does therefore make sense that a dog’s loyalty is a way to keep us around – especially if it makes them feel good. A recent study has shown that dogs have evolved new muscles around their eyes which allows them to raise their eyebrows, so to speak. This is something wolves cannot do. It is suggested that this raising of the eyebrows triggers a nurturing response in humans because it makes the dog’s eyes seem bigger and look sad! It seems that dogs are still evolving to “need” us more, or at least keep in our good books! Findings Here So, it seems that dogs are loyal because it means they get what they need, like food and shelter. But they also feel just as warm and fuzzy when they interact with us. They’ve learned to read our behaviour and what they need to do to keep us around. What is particularly interesting is that they are still evolving to develop features which will keep us nurturing them. Could this suggest that their loyalty may only get stronger? The take home? Even if you have the most independent and aloof dog, they still depend on us to care for them. This is a huge responsibility, and one most of us don’t take lightly. If you would like any support with your dog’s health, then please check out our range of services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
It turns out September is Happy Cat Month. Now, if you’re like us here at My Pet Nutritionist, we sometimes get a little lost if certain appreciation days are National or International, but either way, what better time to share some of our top tips for keeping your feline friend both happy and healthy? 1) Species Appropriate Diet Cats have evolved as hunters that consume prey containing high amounts of protein, moderate amounts of fat, and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. The cat has seemingly evolved as a strict or obligate carnivore; meaning they nutrients they require are found in animal tissue. As such, the consensus is that there is no current nutritional basis for energy to be supplied by carbohydrates; providing other nutrients are being supplied. There is also evidence that there is limited amylase activity in the pancreas and small intestine (even compared to dogs), which may explain why some cats will not tolerate high starch diets. The fact that cats are also defined as hypercarnivores (small carnivorous mammal with a proportionally large brain) indicates they have a high brain glucose demand. This high demand simply could not be met by carbohydrates present in a natural prey diet; and so, cats therefore have a higher rate of gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources). It is considered that due to the limited intestinal enzyme capacity, consumption of excessive amounts of digestible carbohydrates will not lead to glucose absorption, but rather a substrate for increased microbial fermentation, causing gastrointestinal adverse effects. In similar tests to dogs, cats are able to target their nutrient intake. When given the choice, they will specifically aim for a high intake of protein. In times of low protein, they will opt for an increased fat intake to achieve balance. When carbohydrate intake was high, this limited intake of other nutrients and resulted in deficits – for that reason, a carbohydrate ceiling is proposed for the cat. Findings Here 2) Limit Toxin Exposure Whenever the body is exposed to something, it must do something with it. In the case of toxic substances, it must make it less toxic, hence the word detoxification (de=remove or reverse). Detoxification pathways fall into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our cat’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phase one is particularly nutrient demanding, and it produces a lot of reactive oxygen species in the process (those cheeky things that result in oxidative damage which destroys and damages cells). Phase two is also nutrient demanding, but drafts in many different processes depending on the compounds being detoxified. Phase three deals with getting rid of them once and for all, and occurs in the gut, skin, liver and kidneys. So, it stands to reason that optimal organ function is helpful here. The issue is that the cat is playing catch up. They aren’t as efficient at these processes as other species, like us, and when we are increasing toxin burden year on year, it becomes problematic. They have even demonstrated a total inactivation of certain genes responsible for certain phenol detoxification. So, whilst limited toxin exposure is important for us all, it’s even more important for our cats. Where possible, limit exposure to: Plastics Mould Smoke Air pollution Heavy metals VOCs – air fresheners, cleaning products, fabric softeners The Struggle of The Cat in Our Toxic World Is Your Toxic Home Affecting Your Pet 3) Offer Fresh Filtered Water Cats don’t naturally have a thirst drive, they evolved to survive in hot, desert climates. But when they have access to their natural diet, a large percentage of that would contain moisture. Dry food increases thirst behaviour: this is demonstrated in dog studies time and time again, but there is still a mismatch between the cat’s evolutionary thirst (or lack thereof) and the moisture in their diet. Water is possibly the single most important nutrient for the body. 1) It functions as a solvent that facilitates reactions and also transports nutrients around the body. 2) Water is able to absorb heat from the processes occurring in the body, without the overall body temperature changing too much. 3) It further contributes to temperature regulation by transporting heat away from working organs through the blood. 4) Water is crucial in the digestive process; it is a key player in hydrolysis, which is the splitting of larger molecules into smaller molecules (through the addition of water). 5) The kidneys also use large quantities of water when eliminating waste. A high moisture diet is beneficial to the cat to ensure they are hydrated, but fresh filtered water should also be offered. As in point two, toxin exposure should be limited and even in the most developed countries there is contamination. Chlorine, heavy metals, plastic fibres and pharmaceutical compounds are regularly found in tested tap water, which all pose risks to our feline friends. The Importance of Water 4) Let them Hide! Cats get stressed. There is no denying that. But they are often a little more subtle in their anxieties than other animals. As in humans, cats will have the same response to stress. They may choose to fight, flight, or freeze. When they fight, they become aggressive and defensive. Flight will see them withdrawing from the threat and perhaps running away. When cats freeze, they crouch, lie still, and try to avoid any attention. There is a ladder of response in most animals, and this is no different in cats. They will often show subtle signs of discomfort or stress. If the trigger doesn’t disappear, the behaviours will progress. You may start with the flat ears, then the pupils will dilate. You may have a low growl or a silent hiss. Them running off or lashing out with their teeth and claws may be a few steps up the ladder. For some cats, there are triggers
Would you be surprised to know that short dogs are more aggressive? Or taller dogs are more affectionate? It seems heavier dogs are more inquisitive and lighter dogs are more fearful too. Whilst we’re not about to take such broad statements at face value, studies have shown that the size and shape of a dog can impact their behavior. Findings Here This makes us want to more about the anatomy of our four-legged friends. For that reason, we’ve put together a handy guide in the hope it gives us an even broader understanding of who we share our lives with. Anatomy of The Dog With the range of breeds, despite their differences, dogs generally have the same physical anatomy and characteristics which includes their musculoskeletal system. Did you know that dogs don’t have a collar bone, unlike humans; providing a larger stride for running? Despite their similarities, toy breeds have a skeleton that will mature in around 6 months. Whereas giant breeds can take between 18 months and 2 years to reach full maturity. Speaking of skeletons, a dog has 320 bones in their body (depending on the length of their tail) and around 700 muscles! Muscles enable us and our dogs to move. They stabilize our joints and maintain our posture. Muscle fibers receive electrical impulses from the brain through the central nervous system which tells it whether to contract or elongate; therefore, creating movement. There are a number of different types of muscles. Skeletal muscles are connected directly to bones by tendons (elastic type fibers). Visceral muscles are found inside organs such as the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels. Cardiac muscle is found in the heart. This muscle is responsible for pumping blood around the body. Muscle issues: You may notice muscle atrophy (loss) in dogs who have an injury or developmental issue. Dogs with hip dysplasia or cruciate damage will often have muscle loss in their affected legs. Injury or over-exertion can often cause muscle spasms, which appear as a localized twitch. This is caused by an interruption in the normal muscle contraction. They can be involuntary or sometimes caused by touch. Findings Here Muscles attach to bones via tendons and depending on the breed of dog, they tend to have different types of muscle fibres. You’ve probably heard about slow and fast twitch muscle fibres before? A Lurcher has more fast twitch (anaerobic) fibres in their legs than the Alaskan Malamute who has more slow twitch (aerobic) fibres. Findings Here This is of particular interest when we are considering energy usage and systems. The currency of energy is adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is found in all cells in all the body, but as it is a large molecule, not so much can be stored. To restore ATP there are three relevant energy systems. ATP-PC This is where the body uses all the ATP it has stored in its cells. This is the simplest energy production process; and if we were to consider it in human terms, this is the system that your 100m sprint would utilise (or our speedy dogs with their fast twitch fibres). Glycolytic System This system runs on glycogen, which is the storage form of carbohydrates in animals. In human terms, this system provides moderate power and moderate duration. Both the ATP-PC and Glycolytic system are anaerobic, meaning they don’t require oxygen to product ATP. Oxidative System This system, as its name suggests does involve the use of oxygen to product ATP. This system cannot produce energy as quickly as the other two, but it can produce it continually and for a longer duration. This system can use stored carbohydrates and fats for fuel. In human terms, this would be the system that the marathon runner would access and the system that fuels those slow twitch muscle fibres. On the subject of legs, let’s look at them in a little more detail. Just like humans have arms and legs, dogs have forelegs and hind legs. Two thirds of a dog’s body weight is carried on their front legs. Only one third is carried on their hind legs. However, the muscles on their hind legs are larger and therefore stronger! The foreleg consists of a shoulder, elbow, ulna, humerus radius and wrist. Many large breeds can suffer with elbow dysplasia, where there is abnormal development in the joint. The most common symptom is lameness. Lesions within the elbow joint often start in puppy hood which is why it’s so important to be mindful of their anatomy and typical gait. The hind leg can be confusing to some owners, but it has some of the same features as a human. The bone between the hip and knee is the femur. Below the knee is the tibia and fibula. Then we get to the hock. You’ve probably heard this mentioned more in horses. The hock is like the human ankle. As with the elbow, many large breeds suffer with abnormal development in the hip joint, known as hip dysplasia. Again, lesions can start in puppy hood. Hip dysplasia is often hereditary but there are also environmental factors which can influence the development of this chronic condition including: rapid weight gain/growth, inappropriate nutrition, inconsiderate exercise, and movement during development. Can Nutrition Support Joint Health Puppy Nutrition 101 Obesity and Musculoskeletal Health in Dogs Moving past the hind legs, let’s look at the tail. The tail isn’t just something which wags to show you they’re happy – it serves a much bigger function. They can be long, short, curly, or flat! The tail is an extension of the spine, so any injuries are a cause for concern. The bones of the tail are called vertebrae just like in the spine and they too have discs to cushion the gap between. The muscles and nerves found in the tail contribute to bowel control and movement which is why if a dog ever traps their tail in a door one of the first things to be mindful of is
Generally, when we talk about fasting in the human realms, we are talking about intermittent fasting, and the function is largely to lose weight. What this mechanism actually does is reduce overall caloric intake, so by definition, if you reduce calories, there may be a resultant weight loss (note, we say may, because weight loss isn’t always that simple). But, when we talk about fasting in dogs it’s not generally around weight loss, it’s for longevity and improved health outcomes. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, it’s a question we get asked a lot. Should we fast dogs, or not? Let’s look at the science behind it. What Is Fasting? Fasting is not the same as starvation. Starvation occurs when there are no reserves left in the body; with insufficient intake of nutrients resulting in the break down of vital tissues. Fasting is simply a form of reduced calorie intake. What is interesting is that complete or modified fasting is a natural part of the wild canine diet. Wolves, the closest living relative to the dog are a window into dog physiology. When we look at the behaviour and lifestyle of wolves reintroduced into Yellowstone National Park, they show us that they are well designed for feast or famine. When hunting is easy, they may kill every two to three days. Generally, they will first eat organ meats, then muscle. At the end of the two- or three-day period, they then eat the bones and hide, including the fur. In times of low food abundance, wolves have been seen to scavenge bone and hide for several weeks at a time. Findings Here What Happens During a Fast Digestion is an incredibly demanding task. When it occurs, all hands are on deck. When it isn’t required, hands can be diverted to other tasks. What Does the Science Say? Most of the data is looking at fasting in rats, mice, monkeys, and humans. But we do have some data from dogs. Fasting has been seen to decrease toxic load. With little competition from substances absorbed after a meal, the liver is able to fully process waste products and excrete them efficiently. In addition, it has been demonstrated that during fasting, mitochondria downregulate. As you’ll remember, the mitochondria are the power plants of the cell, where we get energy from. But through the process, a high volume of free radicals are produced. Therefore, with downregulation, fewer free radicals are produced, which reduces oxidative stress. Fasting has been seen to decrease inflammatory molecules in many cell types. As we know inflammation underlies many chronic diseases and so it’s easy to agree when we see data suggesting that fasting reduces the incidence of: Cancer Arthritis Cognitive decline Diabetes (prevention) Dermatitis Liver, kidney, and heart disease Findings Here Findings Here Furthermore, fasting has showed a lower rate of muscle loss with age, with no apparent loss of bone density. Findings Here Finally, fasting for 48 hours has been shown to protect normal cells, but not cancer cells, from the toxic effects of chemotherapy. This approach has been utilised in humans to mitigate side effects associated with chemotherapy. Findings Here So, we know that fasting has some great benefits, but is there anything we should be mindful of? Well, we shouldn’t fast cats, in it’s true definition. The feline liver doesn’t downregulate during fasting, hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) has been seen to occur in a cat fasted for as little as two days. But calorie restriction (to 70% of a standard diet) has been used in therapeutic approaches and favourably affected physical activity, lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Findings Here There’s also no place for fasting in puppies. Puppyhood is one of the most nutritionally demanding periods; to build a body, they need the component parts. The same goes for bitches in whelp; to build babies, they need the component parts. A note on diabetes… Diabetes is a disease that results from an absolute or relative lack of insulin. As we know, insulin helps get glucose into cells to be used as energy; it therefore maintains the amount of glucose found in the bloodstream. Fasting with diabetes can result in dangerously low blood sugar levels. The bottom line? Guidance from a qualified practitioner may be worthwhile if you are considering fasting with any pre-existing health concerns. It may not be appropriate at all. So How Do You Do It? Well, there are two ways really. The first is to fast for a whole day once a week. This was seemingly the accepted routine for farmers and gundogs in decades gone by. But it’s not about removing what your dog would usually eat on that day, you simply spread it out on the other days – some have spread it throughout the week, some load it the day before and the day after the fast. Ensure that the amount you are feeding is appropriate for the healthy weight your pet requires. The other way is just providing an eating window. You can feed one meal per day, or two but within a short eating window of each other (generally 6-8 hours of each other). For example, you feed breakfast at 9am and then supper at 4 or 5pm. During any fasting periods, dogs should always have access to fresh, filtered water. As you have noticed, there is a difference between fasting and calorie restriction – fasting is allowing periods of rest between food ingestion. Calorie restriction is reduction of calories. But both have great health benefits, depending on the pet and their current health status. If you are looking to tackle a weight issue in your pet check out our blogs here. Obesity in Pets – Part I Obesity in Pets – Part II Fasting or calorie restriction may not be appropriate for all pets, and so if you are wondering if any dietary changes may be of benefit to your pet, check out our services. Consultations Thanks for reading, MPN Team x
Dogs are considered senior at half of their life expectancy. For some, this can come around a little earlier than expected. Are there changes we need to make as our dog ages? Well, there are always things we can do to support their health of our companion. Let’s take a look Aging is defined as the process of becoming older and whilst we still haven’t got to grips with the biological process in its entirety, there are some things we do know. Cells are thought to have a finite number of times they can replicate and divide. It is known as the Hayflick Limit. When a cell has reached that limit, it cannot divide anymore and will break down by programmed cell death. It is this limited capability that we see as aging. This programmed cell death usually occurs when telomeres (protective structures found at both ends of chromosomes) reach a critical length. It is therefore considered that telomere length serves as a biological clock. Telomere shortening occurs at every DNA replication – so if there is an increased need for cell replication, they will become shorter. This is why we are particularly interested here at My Pet Nutritionist, because there is such a high turnover of cells in the liver, gastrointestinal tract and skin (all parts of the body that we see many issues with). Shorter telomeres can also induce genomic instability and this sadly, is one of the leading factors in cancer. Cells have planned programmes to divide, replicate and ultimately die (apoptosis) – they get these messages from genes. When genes are unstable, their messages get a little like Chinese whispers and so the cells go rogue – dividing and replicating, but not dying. This aberrant growth is implicated in cancer. Diet can also affect telomeres. A diet contain omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a reduced rate of telomere shortening, Telomere length is positively associated with the consumption of nuts and fruits, Consumption of a diet including Vitamin E, Vitamin C and beta-carotene is also associated with longer telomeres – the inclusion of antioxidant compounds protects against oxidative damage. Dietary restriction also reduces oxidative burden, reducing damage to DNA – for this reason it is regularly associated with improved lifespans. In a study in Labrador retrievers, results indicated that 25 % restriction in food intake increased median life span and delayed the onset of signs of chronic disease. Findings Here The bottom line? The consumption of a whole-food, nutrient dense diet with the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for the aging pet. Caloric restriction is also a consideration to make. On the other side of the scale, are there things that can negatively affect telomere length? Processed meats, high consumption of sugar over time and high intake of refined grains is negatively associated with telomere length. In short, the consumption of these foods is associated with shorter telomeres. If telomeres are shorter, the cell hits its limit sooner and carries out its programmed death sooner. Findings Here Cognitive Canine Dysfunction Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of senior dogs. It’s generally considered the dog version of Alzheimer Disease. It is thought that one third of senior dogs will show signs of confusion, restlessness, and less enjoyment of life. It is a result of a decline in higher brain functions, through degeneration. A variety of studies in the veterinary field have supported the proposal of nutritional manipulation, particularly with antioxidants as part of the treatment regime in cases of CDS and reported significant effects of modified diets. Evidence has demonstrated a place for the following nutrients: Antioxidants Alpha-Lipoic Acid Vitamin C Vitamin E L-Carnitine Co-enzyme Q10 EPA and DHA Phosphatidylserine It is considered that nutritional adjustment provided brain strengthening components, signalling enhancers, metabolic support, and antioxidants. Findings Here What was particularly interesting from the above study is that time spent active increased alongside the nutritional adjustment. Being sedentary is a shortcut to poor immune function largely due to lymph function. The Lymphatic System The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that spans the entire body. It is critical for health and for the immune system to function properly. Your Pet’s Immune System Both blood and lymphatic systems share many functional, structural, and anatomical similarities, but lymphatics are unique. Unlike the blood system, which is a closed loop with the heart actively pumping blood to oxygenate our tissues, lymphatics are open-ended. Movement of lymph is governed by rhythmic daily muscle movements propelling the fluid along network. The lymph fluid, called chyle, which contains immune cells, permeates every nook of the body. Movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels transports immune cells around the body, where they patrol all the remote corners of the body, keeping a lookout for anything untoward. The lymphatics also bring immune cells together in hubs of immune activity called lymph nodes. If the flow of lymph stops or becomes impaired, this vital immune surveillance and defence function can become compromised. And being sedentary sadly results in compromised lymph function. Therefore, movement for the aging dog is still important to support vital immune function. Within reason. We can’t hide from the fact that degenerative musculoskeletal issues are common in the aging dog, so care must be taken. Can Nutrition Support Joint Health What Is Pain and How to Look For It Obesity and Musculoskeletal Health in Dogs Natural Arthritis Guide and Herbs to Help Dogs You’ll be forgiven for thinking that lifestage nutrition is a bit of gimmick, but there’s no denying that the demands placed upon the body and brain are different across different life stages. For that reason, nutritional adjustment may be appropriate, depending on individual circumstances, lifestyle and health needs. If you would like further support for your aging or senior pet, then please check out our services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
A diet we get asked about all the time here at My Pet Nutritionist, the Ketogenic diet isn’t always appropriate, but if it is, there are some hard and fast tips to follow. We thought we’d head on a whistle stop tour and give you what you need to know. The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat and moderate protein diet. In essence, it shifts the body’s energy fuel pathways. Healthy cells use carbohydrates or fats to produce energy. When carbohydrates are ingested, the body can either convert them to glucose for fuel, or it can store the glucose as glycogen in the liver or muscles. When fat is ingested, it too can be used for energy metabolism, but it can also be stored for a later time as triglycerides. When the body needs them, they are released as fatty acids which can fuel body movement, create heat and provide energy for body processes. If there is excessive oxidation of fatty acids, the cycle that is responsible for all of this gets a little overloaded, and the resulting compound is diverted to create ketone bodies. These ketone bodies can serve as a fuel source if glucose levels are too low in the body. Organs that have classically be thought to be dependent solely on glucose, like the brain, can in fact use ketones as an alternative energy source; it makes sense, above all, the brain needs to function when glucose is limited. The ketogenic diet has gained interest in epilepsy and cases of cancer, largely based on the Warburg theory whereby it was suggested that cancer cells have altered energy metabolism by way of increased glucose uptake. Findings Here A study of 21 epileptic dogs showed a 50% reduction in seizure frequency alongside a ketogenic diet. Findings Here That said, the ketogenic diet isn’t always as easy as thought. There are a number of considerations to make: Possible decrease in microbial diversity in the GI tract Potential nutrient shortfalls if not considered thoroughly Diarrhoea and constipation Generally, for dogs, a ketogenic diet can range from 69-90% fat, 9-30% protein and 1% carbohydrates. But true ketosis is generally achieved when the following are monitored: Macronutrient control and elimination of glucose Repeated testing (blood/ketone) Metabolic conditioning The bottom line? There is increasing evidence that a ketogenic diet has been of benefit in certain conditions, however, the true ratios will be dog dependent and for that reason we would advise any dietary plans to be developed alongside a qualified professional. Consultations However, we can use the basic premise of the ketogenic diet to support the health of our dogs. Top Tips for Dog Health from the Keto Ethos: 1) Keep Insulin Low Feed fat and protein and keep net carbs low. Net carbs are carbs minus their fibre content, so remember, fibre is a carby friend! 2) Keep Calories in Check Feed by eye – you want to see an hourglass figure from a birds-eye view. Feeding guidelines are just that – just because a calculator says you should feed that much, if your dog is looking chunky, reign it in! Feed for function, not for added (rounded) features! 3) Use Periodic Fasts Calorie restriction has been seen to add years to the lifespan! You can feed once per day, or limit feeding to a window (8 hours for example). You can also use 24 hour fasts periodically too! Fasting deserves a blog all on it’s own, so check back for more on this! 4) Reduce Inflammation Low carbs along with a calorie-controlled diet has been seen to reduce inflammation. 5)Keep Moving Most dogs will suffer from inactivity than too much exercise. Regular physical activity is known to regulate inflammatory responses in the body, support heart function and health, prevent telomere shortening (associated with aging), promote growth in brain cells and reduce risk of cognitive decline. If you would like any support creating a new dietary plan for your dog to address existing health concerns or simply to find what’s best for them at their stage of life, then please check out our services. What We Offer Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
Would you be surprised to know that a study carried out in 1988 concluded there were no differences in allergens found on different breeds of dogs? In short, if you’re allergic to dogs, you’re allergic to all dogs? Findings Here Have we moved on significantly from 1988 and produced dogs that we’re no longer allergic to? We have artificial intelligence which can remind us of our daily schedule, but surely, a new type of dog, that’s pushing it? You’re correct. We’ve not produced a new type of dog (in that sense), if you’re allergic to dogs. You’re allergic to dogs. So, where does this notion of a hypoallergenic dog come from? They do exist, but in their true definition. Hypo means under or beneath according to the Greeks. Its synonyms include fewer, or less. Therefore, a hypoallergenic dog simply means a dog that is less likely to cause a reaction. It does not mean the dog is totally allergy safe. Where the confusion lies, is that many think allergy sufferers are allergic to the hair found on the dog. This is not the case. Generally, allergy sufferers are allergic to a protein found in the saliva and urine of the dog. As the dog grooms themselves, they spread the protein to their skin and coat. As new skin cells are produced, old ones are shed, which release into the environment (known as dander). This is why people are often told they are allergic to dog dander. As hair is shed into the environment, you are exposed to the protein covered hair. So, a hypoallergenic dog is generally one that sheds less (less hair for you to be exposed to), they often have curly coats (which traps hair and dander so less is shed into the environment) or have less hair (but these guys still lose dead skin cells which can cause a reaction). They are also more likely to be regularly groomed which removes the protein from the coat and skin more frequently. For many of us who have mild allergies, we tend to put up and shut up simply because we couldn’t imagine spending our lives without pets, so is there anything we can do to reduce our symptoms? You’ll know that here at My Pet Nutritionist we’re not a fan of long-term use of antihistamines, so let’s look at other options. 1) Find a new love for cleaning! Whilst it can often be the last thing you want to do at the end of a long day, getting into a habit of regularly whipping around your home will keep allergens in the environment at bay! If you don’t want to tackle the whole house as soon as you get in, create a to-do list at the beginning of the week. You may tackle your kitchen on Monday, your hall on Tuesday, your bedroom on Wednesday and so on. Rather than dusting, use a damp cloth or use the dusting attachment on your vacuum. You want to remove the allergens not just move them around or throw them back into the air that you are breathing. Set a timer on your phone or clock, spend 25 minutes a day cleaning. That’s 1.74% of your day. 2) Use a Vacuum with a HEPA filter! To keep allergens at bay, vacuum at least 2-3 times a week, if not daily. HEPA means high efficiency particulate air and its design traps microscopic particles keeping them from being thrown back into the environment. Most pet vacuums have an inbuilt HEPA filter but it’s worth checking the label if you’re in the market for a new one! 3) And an air purifier! It may be worthwhile investing in an air purifier in your home. Again, these are built with HEPA filters which trap dust and dirt. They can be a helpful addition to your home if you are struggling with your symptoms. 4) Pay attention to your bedding! If your dog sleeps with you, first decide whether this is great for your symptoms. If it doesn’t affect you too severely, ensure you wash your bedding at least weekly. Place blankets or throws on your bed so you can wash them even more regularly. Encase pillows and mattress with dust-proof covers as this helps keep particles from getting inside. Vacuum your mattress regularly. 5) Curtains! Be mindful of the curtains you are hanging in your home. Whilst you can purchase some beautiful fabrics, some are dry clean only. This isn’t ideal if you need to be washing them regularly – it’ll cost a fortune! Cotton curtains can often just be washed in the washing machine and hung to dry. Just like the response in our dogs, allergies result in a characteristic pattern of inflammation, so ensuring out own inflammatory responses are appropriate is just as important. Risk Factors in Human Allergies: Family history – predispositions to certain allergies, Microbiome disruption, Ultra-hygienic environment, Regular consumption of high-histamine foods, Nutrient deficiencies, Exposure to environmental toxins, Impaired methylation affects histamine clearance and more. Top Tips to Support Allergies in Humans: Live bacteria supplementation may support immune function, Consider histamine exposure in diet, Quercetin possesses anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, Nettle too functions as an antihistamine and blocks proinflammatory cytokines, Vitamin C supports histamine detoxification, Reduce stress! Gut Guardian A slightly different blog this time, but one we hope was useful, nonetheless. If your dog is sadly the one who suffers with sensitivities or allergies, then check out our blogs: 5 Basic Tips For Allergies Itchy Cats and Dogs Naturally Itching Has Become Such An Epidemic Does My Dog Need An Allergy Test In addition, allergies are one of our expert areas, so check out our services here: Consultations Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
Of course it can. But, we wouldn’t be doing us, you as pet owners, or the pets in your care any justice if we didn’t go into a little more detail. Here at My Pet Nutritionist we’ve seen hundreds of pets with joint concerns. Prevention is better than cure and this is where nutrition can certainly play a role. Even in chronic degeneration, there are changes that can be made for the better. Sadly, there are genetic dispositions to joint issues, and we can’t change that, but we can do a little bit of damage limitation. There’s certainly a lot to cover, so let’s get cracking. The Skeleton The Skeleton is essentially a supporting framework. It consists of strong, mineralised bone which form a sophisticated system to facilitate movement. Bone is a light, yet strong connective tissue consisting of around 30% collagen and other matrix proteins with around 70% minerals. These minerals include calcium and phosphorus, but magnesium, sodium and potassium are also present in conjugated form. Bones come together to form joints. The type of joint formed determines the degree and direction of motion. For example, joints with a ball and socket formation allow for a rotation whilst hinge joints only allow for bending and straightening. In a joint, the ends of the bones are covered in cartilage, which helps reduce friction as joints move. With age, this cartilage can degrade. Tendons connect muscle to bone and are made up mostly of collagen. Ligaments surround joints and help to stabilise them. They also connect bone to bone. Bone Formation Also known as ossification, bone formation is a process where new bone is produced. Bone starts as a cartilage model which gets slowly replaced. Osteoblasts are the cells that form new bone; think of it as a blast that spreads, and osteoblasts spread to form new bone. Osteoblasts secrete osteoids which are simply unmineralized bone tissue. Soon after the osteoid is laid down, inorganic salts (calcium and phosphorus) are deposited which forms the hardened material that we know as bone. Inappropriate levels of calcium and phosphorus during growth therefore understandably contribute to bone deformities and skeletal disorders. Diets high in phosphorus, particularly with low calcium reduce bone mass and density. We see this in the, now thankfully rare, disease in horses. Big head disease, more common in countries like Australia, is also known as bran disease or Miller’s disease. The colloquial names demonstrate immediately the dietary link. Clinically termed hyperparathyroidism, it affects the skeleton of horses. The horse’s bones slowly demineralise due to the low levels of calcium found in their system. The low calcium levels are usually due to one of two reasons. Calcium bioavailability due to high levels of phytates in bran, Calcium bioavailability due to oxalate containing grasses. As we know, phytate is when phytic acid binds to a mineral. Phytic acid is the principal storage form of phosphorus, and it binds to zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium and more! What this means is that the mineral it binds to is less available. Sadly, phytic acid is found in plant-foods like grains, nuts and legumes and for us pet owners, of note, it is found in wheat, barley, rice and maize; the same ingredients found in many commercial pet foods. There is therefore the possibility that phytate can affect calcium bioavailability and be of detriment to bone formation, growth, and maintenance. Oxalic acid is an organic compound found in many plants including leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. This too can bind to minerals including calcium and then becomes calcium oxalate. This not only results in low calcium levels, of detriment to bone formation, growth and maintenance but may also lead to renal issues and/or failure. It seems however, that high phosphorus and high calcium diets blunt the effects of each other. These two minerals interact in the gastrointestinal tract to limit absorption of the other. Therefore, a calcium: phosphorus ratio of 1.1:1 to 2:1 is recommended for dogs. On the subject of the gastrointestinal tract, most minerals are absorbed largely in the small intestine (although they can be absorbed from any portion in the GI tract). So, the digestive tract needs to be working as it should to aid absorption and therefore utilisation of the minerals. Inflammation within the GI tract is often linked with vitamin and mineral deficiency. Findings Here Furthermore, those suffering with inflammatory bowel conditions are often treated with medications like glucocorticoids to reduce the inflammation caused by the disease. In the process, these medications disrupt the development and maintenance of healthy bones. Bone formation proceeds outwards from ossification centres; short bones tend to have one in the middle whereas long bones typically have three, one at each end and one in the middle. Ossification, or bone formation continues until there is a thin strip of cartilage left at each end of the bone. This is known as the epiphyseal plate, or growth plate in the dog world. When the bone reaches full adult maturity, the cartilage is replaced with bone and “sealed” for want of a better word. Glucocorticoids have a direct, inhibitory effect on the growth plate, as demonstrated by in vivo and organ culture studies. Glucocorticoids slow longitudinal bone growth by inhibiting chondrocyte proliferation, hypertrophy, and cartilage matrix synthesis. In vivo, dexmethasone, a potent synthetic glucocorticoid, infused directly into the proximal tibial growth plates of young rabbits caused a 77% inhibition in growth. Findings Here It would therefore be appropriate to consider the root cause of any inflammatory conditions alongside any treatment plan. When considering calcium and phosphorus absorption, it pays to consider vitamin D because it stimulates the intestinal absorption of those minerals. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in foods like oily fish, liver, and eggs. Being a known contributor to bone health, when puppies are fed a diet lacking in Vitamin D, they can develop Rickets. However, at the other end of the scale, puppies fed too much vitamin D experience impaired ossification (bone formation).
Did you ever get warned that kissing a stranger was like kissing everyone they had ever kissed too? Sadly, the same advice applies to our dogs too! Luckily when we’re talking about canine oral papillomas, they can’t be transmitted to humans, but these warts are caused by a virus which can be passed between dogs. So what’s the lowdown on canine papillomas? And why do our dogs get them? Here at My Pet Nutritionist, they seem to be the topic of the year so let’s take a look at them in a little more detail. What is the Canine Papilloma Virus? Warts in dogs are caused by infection with canine papilloma virus (CPV). They appear as lesions mostly found on the lips and muzzle and have a cauliflower like appearance. They can also grow on the oral mucosa which can affect eating and swallowing. In most cases, they are left untreated and may resolve within 3-12 months of presentation. CPV is transmitted through direct contact with another infected canine, and it spreads relatively easily. But as it’s a virus, its understandable that it most commonly strikes dogs with weakened or underdeveloped immune systems (which is why they are more common in younger dogs). The virus will also more easily settle in injured skin, so if a dog suffers with pre-existing skin issues they may be at an increased risk. The Immune System 101 When the body is invaded by bacteria, a virus or parasites, an immune alarm goes off, setting off a chain reaction of cellular activity in the immune system. Specific cells are deployed to help attack the invading pathogen. Those cells often do the job, and the invader is destroyed. But sometimes, when the body needs a more sophisticated attack, it turns to a more specialised set of cells. These cells are like the special ops of the immune system—a line of defence that uses past behaviours and interactions to tell it exactly how to deal with the threat. Through exposure to the virus, he body learns how to deal with it, which is why older dogs don’t always develop lesions even if they are living with another dog who does. But as we know, there are many things that can affect how well the immune system is functioning. Lifestyle and environmental factors can dictate if the immune system is fast and efficient, or whether it’s as much use as a chocolate teapot. What can affect immune function? Sleep Sleep is widely studied for its evolutionary benefits. It is crucial for most daily functions and in humans suffering sleep restriction, they have attention lapses, slowed working memory, reduced cognition and depressed thought. Studies have shown a significant reduction in activity in dogs experiencing sleep restriction. Findings Here One of the main purposes of sleep is to consolidate memories or learning. This has also been found true in dogs. Learning affects sleep structure which ultimately decides whether you retain the information or not. Interestingly, in studies, those dogs allowed to sleep after learning a new command were more likely to retain the command at a later date, than dogs allowed to walk or play. So, if you want to train your dog, they need their sleep. Findings Here But it is clear that sleep and the circadian rhythm significantly influence immune functions. It is thought that sleep facilitates the function of immune cells and also their redistribution to lymph nodes. In addition, in clinical studies, sleep on the night after experimental vaccinations produced a strong and persistent increase in the number of antigen specific cells and antibody titres. This suggests that sleep plays a role in immunological memory. Findings Here Under laboratory conditions, dogs will sleep around 13 hours per day. But this is very generic. Older dogs will sleep more as they tend to experience periods of broken sleep. Puppies too will sleep a lot more – generally 18-20 hours. Stress Since the dawn of time, both us and our dog’s ancestors have been subject to evolutionary pressure from the environment. The ability to respond to environmental threats or stressors such as predation or natural disaster enhanced survival. In mammals, these responses include changes that increase the delivery of oxygen and glucose to the heart and skeletal muscles. We know this as the stress response, or rather more specifically the fight or flight part of the stress response. But this serves as a redirection of resources, and data clearly suggest that chronic stressors suppress cellular and humoral responses in the immune system. In short, stress lowers the body’s response to viral load. Have you ever noticed that that pesky cold sore rears its ugly head when you’re feeling a little run down? That said, acute stressors (lasting a couple of minutes) upregulate certain immune pathways. This makes total evolutionary sense. In addition to the risk inherent in the situation, like a predator, fighting and fleeing carries the risk of injury and subsequent entry of infectious agents into the bloodstream or skin. Any wound in the skin is likely to contain pathogens that could multiply and cause infection. Stress-induced changes in the immune system that could accelerate wound repair and help prevent infections from taking hold would therefore be beneficial. The key is balance. Both us and our pets are designed to tackle short term stressors, the issue is when they become chronic and continually deplete our resources. Diet The immune system has a number of cells it can call upon, but these cells need to be made somewhere. In addition, for the messages to get sent around the body and for the antigens to be effectively neutralised, other cofactors and compounds are needed. Whilst the body is incredibly smart and can synthesise certain compounds itself, the majority of them need to come from somewhere and this somewhere is largely the diet. In addition, an activated immune system further increased the demand for energy during periods of infection. The Ultimate Raw Feeding Guide for Dogs Furthermore, the majority
