At My Pet Nutritionist, Cushing’s Disease is a big topic. We help a lot of dogs with Cushing’s Disease, and so we have created this essential guide to supporting the body with Cushing’s Disease. What is Cushing’s Disease? Cushing’s Disease, formally known as hyperadrenocorticism, was first diagnosed in 1912, by an American neurosurgeon named Harvey Cushing; hence it was informally named Cushing’s Disease. Cushing’s Disease is caused by too much of the hormone, cortisol being produced by the adrenal glands in the kidneys. Cortisol is a steroid hormone, and is responsible for regulation of various important bodily functions, such as immune response, and metabolism, as well as stress responses. Cortisol floods the body during stressful situations, in response to the stressor, which reduces risk of negative impacts during a flight or flight situation. Findings Here How Does Cushing’s Disease Happen? It is thought that predisposition for Cushing’s could be inherited genetically, and there are various breeds that are predisposed to Cushing’s, including: Poodles (and crosses) Yorkshire Terriers German Shepherds Boxers Maltese Labradors Cocker Spaniels Dachshunds Boston Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier There are three different medically underlying causes for Cushing’s Disease. Let’s take a look at these! Prolonged Use of Steroids Both topical and oral steroids used excessively, can lead to Cushing’s Disease. This type of Cushing’s is called Iatrogenic Cushing’s. Steroids contain a synthetic variation of cortisol, which on top of the body’s natural production of cortisol, leads to an overwhelming amount of cortisol, causing Cushing’s. Findings Here Findings Here Adrenal Gland Tumour There are two types of tumour which could form on the adrenal gland, causing excessive cortisol production. Adenomas are benign tumours, which could be surgically removed, are the better of the prognoses; removal is usually successful. Carcinomas are malignant tumours, which can have surgical interventions, but the prognosis is much more negative, and aggressive treatment may be required. Findings Here Findings Here Pituitary Gland Tumour A huge proportion of Cushing’s cases are caused by tumours on the Pituitary Gland. The Pituitary Gland is located at the base of the brain, and secretes a hormone called ACTH, which stimulated the adrenal glands to produce Cortisol. When there is a tumour present on the Pituitary, more ACTH is secreted, which results in overproduction of Cortisol. These tumours may be benign or malignant, and may be microscopic, or large. The larger the tumour, the more neurological signs there will be. Findings Here Findings Here Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease There are a variety of symptoms of Cushing’s Disease, which include: Lethargy Increased appetite Weight gain Excessive thirst Excessive urination Poor skin/baldness Bloated appearance Calcinosis Cutis Difficulty healing from minor wounds Hyperpigmentation (dark spots) Recurring bladder infections How is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed? There are a number of tests used when veterinarians test for Cushing’s Disease. The most common test is the ACTH Stimulation Test, during which a blood draw is taken from the dog, before ACTH is injected into the dog, and a second blood draw is taken some hours later. The two blood samples are compared for levels of cortisol. This is a very effective method, and cost effective. A Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test can pinpoint exactly what is causing the Cushing’s Disease, if Cushing’s is present. In this test, a small amount of Dexamethasone (synthetic cortisol) is injected into the dog. In a healthy dog, ACTH production slows down to regulate the amount of cortisol produced by the adrenal gland; in a dog with Cushing’s, ACTH production would continue, causing raised levels of cortisol in a follow-up blood sample. To check the adrenal gland for swelling or visible tumours, your veterinarian may also run an ultrasound as the adrenal gland will be visible on this. Supporting the Body Diet Feeding a fresh food diet is very important, as with any condition! That could be raw, or cooked, balanced to one of our recipes. A low fat diet may be beneficial because fat and cholesterol levels in the body are increased when in the presence of excessive cortisol. When raw feeding, the organ being fed as part of your 10% offal, contributes to the support of that organ in the body; so feeding kidney may help support the dog’s kidneys. Supplements Omega 3 Omega 3 has an anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body, so is a very important addition to any dog’s diet, especially one suffering from disease, which could be worsened through inflammation. Not only are they anti-inflammatory, but Omega 3 also play a role in the brain’s production of neurotransmitters, which may be beneficial for Cushing’s sufferers. The effect omega 3 has on the brain is also shown to aid the reduction of mental stress. Findings Here Probiotics Cushing’s sufferers can suffer from poor gut health. Gut Dysbiosis is a concern among those diagnosed with Cushing’s, so giving probiotics is a great idea. These may ne teamed up with a mucilage herb such as slippery elm, or marshmallow root. our supplement below. Gut Guardian Findings Here Milk Thistle Particularly useful for patients with Cushing’s caused by a tumour, the active ingredient in Milk Thistle, Silibinin, has been proven to decrease tumour growth, and lower levels of cortisol. This supplement is also great for detoxing the liver; though that’s a topic for another day! You can read more on the liver here! Findings Here Liver Guard Melatonin and Lignans Melatonin and lignans are often used in combination with one another to help Cushing’s Disease patients. Melatonin is great for regulation of hormones. Regulation of cortisol is incredibly important in this situation, so melatonin may be a great option. Circadian rhythms are also maintained by melatonin. Lignans can be found in flax seed hulls, and mimic phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogen plays a large role in reduction of hormone-dependent tumours, as well as managing skin health. Adding lignans into the diet may aid Cushing’s sufferers, especially those suffering from a pituitary or adrenal tumour. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Complementary Therapies Acupuncture Acupuncture is great to reduce inflammation in the body, and
Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin, which is important for regulation of absorption and retention of calcium and phosphorous, which ultimately keeps bones strong. Vitamin D has also been proven to reduce inflammation, help in infection control, and also reduce the growth of cancer cells. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see cases where Vitamin D deficiency may have an effect on the progress of the dog’s health. In this article, we look at the main signs your dog may be deficient! Around 75% of dogs are diagnosed with Vitamin D deficiency! Allergies/intolerances Probably the most common topic here at My Pet Nutritionist; Allergies and Intolerances can be a sign of Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is predominantly associated with respiratory allergies, but can also be associated with dietary allergies and intolerances. The reason Vitamin D deficiency affects the lungs, which presents as respiratory allergies, is because Vitamin D is essential for lung development, and maintenance – take that away, and lung development is compromised. Vitamin D is also a contributor to immunomodulation. As we know, allergies and intolerances are massively down to a poor immune system, which often needs remodulation to overcome intolerances; this means that a lack of Vitamin D can cause issues with modulation of the immune system, which leads to allergies and intolerances. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Hair Loss Another health problem related to immunomodulation, hair loss is a symptom of Vitamin D deficiency. Another factor which contributes to hair loss, is inflammation. Inflammation of the skin can cause hair loss, and Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps control, and reduce hair loss. Vitamin D is essential for differentiation of Keratinocytes; part of the follicle cycle. If differentiation of these cells is poor, and their amounts cannot be rapidly increased due to low Vitamin D levels, hair growth will remain slow, or will stop all together. Several autoimmune disorders have been linked with low Vitamin D during testing, which can also lead to hair loss. Those with a lack of Vitamin D may suffer with a poorly modulated immune system, as well as excess inflammation within the body, so may suffer from mild, or excessive hair loss. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Skeletal Pain and weakness In the veterinary world, when there is skeletal pain and weakness, for no visible reason, it is deemed ‘nonspecific’ musculoskeletal pain. Pets suffering with nonspecific musculoskeletal pain may have a Vitamin D deficiency. The skeletal pain could be in any part of the dog, whether it’s spinal, on the leg, ribs, or other bones and joints in the body. Studies show that increasing the Vitamin D in the blood serum of individuals suffering from skeletal pain and weakness, significantly reduces the pain and weakness being experienced. As one of the main roles played by Vitamin D is regulation of calcium and phosphorus in the skeletal system, if this is suppressed, and the ratio between calcium and phosphorous is off balance, the bones will become weak, and easy to break, as well as causing pain. Vitamin D dependent Rickets is a risk associated with Vitamin D deficiencies too. This occurs congenitally, and is caused by the inability to metabolise Vitamin D sufficiently. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Restlessness/depression There are links between Vitamin D and the nervous system, the lack of Vitamin D in the body, and sleep deprivation as well as anxiety and depression. Links have been suggested in numerous studies, of Vitamin D playing a role in the circadian rhythm; the sleep-wake cycle. Both the inability to sleep, and also lack of sleep quality have been associated with low Vitamin D. Findings Here Findings Here When it comes to depression and anxiety, studies have shown that supplementing the diet of those showing depressed or anxious behaviours, with Vitamin D, has positive effects. This topic is still being explored in the animal sector. Findings Here Findings Here Muscular weakness Vitamin D deficiency has been linked on numerous occasions, with muscle weakness, which can lead to collapsing episodes, and issues using the legs. Severity can vary between individuals. In humans, muscle weakness has been proven to be reversed through the use of dietary Vitamin D supplementation. Muscular weakness can also be as a result of a congenital condition which affects Vitamin D metabolism. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Dietary Sources of Vitamin D Nominal amounts of Vitamin D may be absorbed by the body from environmental exposure to the sun, although diet is the most efficient and major source. Some dietary sources of Vitamin D include: Oily fish Egg yolk Liver Red meats If you feel your dog may be suffering from a lack of Vitamin D, or require general dietary advice, book in with one of our team! Team MPN x
At My Pet Nutritionist, we understand the importance of hormones in the body, and how the slightest imbalance can lead to both minor, and major health issues. This guide will help you understand the role of hormones within the body. What are hormones? Hormones are found in all living organisms, from mammals to plants. They are substances found in the body which regulate bodily functions, including mental development, physical development, reproduction, and metabolism. What is the Endocrine System? The Endocrine system is comprised of all the organs and glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream and into the tissues and organs which use them. Thyroid Hormones Thyroid stimulating hormone While Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is produced in the brain, by the Anterior Pituitary Gland, it is the most important hormone for thyroid function. TSH is the hormone which is needed to stimulate the production of other important hormones in the thyroid gland. Findings Here Dogs suffering from Hypothyroidism have been proven to have fluctuating amounts of TSH produced, which causes issues when trying to produce the relevant hormones in the thyroid itself, leading to Hypothyroidism. Findings Here Thyroxine Thyroxine, also known as T4, is the most important hormone produced in, and secreted by the thyroid gland. Tyroxine is essential for normal functioning of the heart and muscles, neurological development, digestion, metabolism and weight management, and bone repair/strengthening. Findings Here Findings Here Thyroxine supplements may help physical and cognitive abilities if used as a treatment for patients suffering with hypothyroidism. Findings Here Triiodothyronine Also known as T3, Triiodothyronine is another important hormone produced and secreted by the thyroid gland. It aids the control of metabolic rate, heart rate, neurological development, bone development, and digestion. It goes hand in hand with Thyroxine. Triiodothyronine is particularly important for skeletal development and function. Findings Here Calcitonin Calcitonin is the third important hormone produced by the thyroid, and is used in the regulation of calcium and phosphate levels in the blood. It also helps to protect the body against developing hypercalcaemia, by reducing the levels of calcium in the blood. Where the other thyroid hormones are stimulated by TSH, Calcitonin production is also stimulated by Gastrin; one of the gastric hormones, which aids muscle growth, and contributes to muscle health in aging individuals, as well as gut motility, and production of stomach acid. Findings Here Reproductive Hormones Oxytocin Oxytocin is produced in the brain, in the hypothalamus, and is released by the pituitary gland for use in the reproductive system. This is the hormone responsible for sexual arousal, and bonding between mother and infant. The uterus contracts when stimulated by Oxytocin, so it is an important hormone during labour too. Trust and recognition are also controlled by oxytocin, as well as the bond between the owner and pet. Findings Here Findings Here Progesterone Progesterone is responsible for the preparation of the uterus lining; the endometrium. Once fertilized, the eggs will embed themselves in the endometrium, where they will grow and mature. Relaxin Relaxin is utilised in both the musculoskeletal system, and the reproductive system. In the reproductive system, it aids the growth of the placenta, and also helps imbed the fertilized egg (embryo) into the endometrium. In the musculoskeletal system, Relaxin is involved in cartilage and tendon health, as well as bone and muscle repair Findings Here Findings Here Testosterone Testosterone is particularly important for males, however it is present in females too. In females it regulates breast tissue, and fertility. In males, testosterone not only aids sex drive, but also regulates distribution of body fat, bone density and muscle mass, and it also aids the production of Red Blood Cells, and sperm. When testosterone is taken away too early, through premature neutering, the risk of a huge variety of health problems can increase, including weight gain, arthritis, uneven bone growth, poor bone strength, various cancers, among other health issues. Findings Here Adrenal Gland Hormones Cortisol Cortisol has many functions in the body. It is produced in the Zona Fasciculata, which is in the very centre of the Adrenal Gland. It’s functions in the body include controlling the body’s intake and use of protein, fat and carbohydrates, increasing blood sugar levels, decreasing inflammation, and regulating blood pressure. Cortisol is also known as the ‘primary stress hormone’ – it’s the hormone which helps relax urges of stress or anger, and helps build the bond between owner and dog, alongside the aforementioned Oxytocin. Findings Here Adrenaline This one may be quite self-explanatory. When you think of what it feels like to have an adrenaline rush; this is the role of adrenaline! It causes an increase in blood pressure, expansion of passageways to and from the lungs, heightened pain threshold, more acute sensitivity to sounds and sights, and is also very important for distributing blood to muscles. Findings Here Findings Here Aldosterone Produced in the adrenal glands, Aldosterone is responsible for regulation of water to salt ratios in the body. The amount of salt to water in the body dictates blood pressure, so Aldosterone is essential in the regulation of normal, healthy blood pressure. Findings Here Noradrenaline Produced in the adrenal medulla, this is an important hormone used by the brain. It regulates cognitive function at all ages, and is also an important part of arousal and attention span. Findings Here Pancreatic Hormones Insulin This may be a hormone you most likely will have heard of. Insulin is a massive part of diabtetes. Why is this? The role of insulin is to lower blood glucose levels. Type 2 Diabetes is caused by a spike in blood glucose levels, where insulin is not present enough. This hormone is produced in the pancreas. Findings Here Glucagon Alongside Insulin, Glucagon is also produced in the pancreas, and also helps regulate glucose levels within the body. Glucagon regulates glucose homeostasis by stimulating the production of glucose form the liver. Findings Here Findings Here Somatostatin Produced in the pancreas, Somatostatin inhibits the secretion of insulin and glucagon, which is
Ever been in the situation where your dog is struggling to poop? You’re certainly not alone – here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have put together this guide with information on how constipation happens, and solutions to help prevent further issues, and get the gut moving again! Diet Dry Food Dry food is incredibly low in moisture, which puts strain on many systems within the body, including the bowel. Kibble products are 8-10% moisture, which dehydrates the bowel. When the bowel dehydrates, gut motility becomes poor, which causes constipation. Raw food is 65-75% moisture, so is a much better choice! Dry food is also typically low in fibre compared to fresh diets. Lack of fibre is another contributing factor to poor gut motility. Raw food bone content Those who feed a raw diet to their pets, will know the basic guidelines for making up a raw diet are 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% offal, plus your plant matter (if suitable for your dog), omegas and other healthy extras. Some dogs don’t tolerate the 10% bone. This could be down to genetics, or simply because the gut needs some work after an abrupt transition from the previous diet. To improve gut health, you may need to add slippery elm or marshmallow root into the regime, alongside a probiotic. For those who just cannot tolerate the 10% bone, you may wish to dilute the bone in the food using boneless raw mince, or even switch to a boneless complete, of which there are a few brands on the market. Alternatively, you can use our recipes. The calcium rich substitute for bone in such products and recipes include Bone Meal, Egg Shell, Kale and calcium-rich seaweed. Specially formulated diets will include the correct amount of specific sources of calcium, whether it be plant material, or through the aforementioned supplements, dependent on the protein source used in the recipe. Some brands tend to have slightly higher bone contents than others despite being labelled as 80-10-10. It’s always worth trying other brands if your dog starts becoming constipated. Protein choices also make a difference regarding the bone content. As an example, a common protein we see dogs constipated on, is rabbit. Rabbits have soft bones (which contain low amounts of calcium), and hard bones (like other bones typical of mammals). Because the softer bones contain less calcium, more bone is often required to hit the minimum FEDIAF guidelines for calcium content, which can cause some dogs to become constipated. If you have this issue, either dilute the bone by substituting a small amount of the raw for boneless mince, looking at changing proteins, or feeding half rabbit 80-10-10, and half other 80-10-10. Those feeding DIY raw instead of premade raw foods, may need to give a day or two of boneless meals (just the muscle meat and offal) following a bone-heavy day. Watching the dogs’ bowel movements is a great way to keep track of what the dog needs in the next meal. Ideas to help get things moving again: Add leafy greens or green beans to the meal Replace a little of the premade diet with boneless mince Add Slippery Elm or Marshmallow Root to the meal Add cooked sweet potato or pumpkin to the meal. Fibre The fibre content and type, your dog is consuming can directly affect bowel movements. First, let’s take a look at the types of dietary fibre and what they contribute to bowel movements. Soluble Fibre: this type of fibre dissolves into water. When it dissolves, a gel substance is formed. Generally speaking, having too much soluble fibre in the diet can reduce movement in the bowel and lead to constipation. Sources include apple, carrots and psyllium husk. Psyllium husk is an exception to the rule of thumb that adding soluble fibres will contribute to constipation as it binds water excess water in the gut, which helps soften stools, as well as solidify them. Insoluble fibre: this type of fibre is found mostly in vegetables, especially in leafy greens. Insoluble fibre helps bulk out stools, and aid movement through the digestive tract. Adding insoluble fibre can also be very useful in the management of anal glands. Ideas to help get things moving again: Add leafy greens or green beans to the meal Add psyllium husk to the meal Add cooked sweet potato to the meal Foreign Object Blockages It is incredibly important to have blockages ruled out by the veterinarian, especially if your dog goes for a long period without defecating, has diarrhoea while straining, is vomiting as well as constipated, is lethargic and has a loss of appetite. All, or even just some, of these symptoms may point toward a blockage, also known as an obstruction in the veterinary world. Obstructions can be anything from impacted bone to parts of toys, cooked bones, and rawhide chews (which should both always be avoided!), or other indigestible items which are unable to pass through the digestive system. The vet, in most cases, will run scans before surgically removing the item. If the item is at the lower end of the intestine, they may try an enema to release it. Very occasionally they may prescribe a glucose treatment to try to get small blockages moving. Findings here Muzzle training may be a good idea for those prone to scavenging. All damaged toys must be removed once damaged, and all dogs should be supervised when playing with toys. Medications Some medications cause constipation. If your dog is on any medications and is constipated, it’s a good idea to ask your vet what the side effects include as this could be the reason, and the dog may need to have a prescription review at the surgery. Medications prone to causing constipation include: Antihistamines (designed to reduce allergy symptoms) Diuretics (such as furosemide and spironolactone, commonly used to treat congestive heart failure. Diuretics help remove pooled fluids) Proton Pump Inhibitors/Antacids (designed to neutralise stomach acid) Iron Supplements Findings here Inflammation and
Those feeding a fresh diet, whether it’s raw, or lightly cooked, will notice their pet’s meals contain offal. Offal is one of the important elements to include in your carnivorous pet’s meals. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we wanted to highlight this element of the diet, and explain it’s importance! Is My Pet A Carnivore? Dogs and cats are both carnivorous species; however they are different types of carnivore. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should be made purely from meat, offal and bone. Dogs are facultative carnivores, which means they predominantly eat a meat based diet, but may benefit from the addition of plant matter. Offal is essential in the diet of both cats, and dogs. What is Offal? When we speak about offal, many people may think back to their biology lesson days, or the packet of giblets and organs that comes with their Christmas turkey! These organs are offal, to some extent; but in the raw/fresh pet food world, we need to be a little more specific! In the world of pet food, when we refer to ‘offal’, we actually mean ‘secreting offal’. ‘Secreting’ means ‘produces a useful substance’; so secreting offal, is organs which produce a substance used by the body. Secreting offal includes: Liver Kidney Spleen Pancreas Testicle Brain We, humans, may think of heart, lung, and tripe as ‘offal’ – which in human terms, it is; however these are classed as muscle meat when talking about a fresh diet for pets. The heart pumps blood through the body, the lungs bring oxygen into the body and rids the body of unwanted carbon dioxide, and tripe is the lining of the stomach. None of these organs produce their own useful substance, so are not classed as offal in the raw diet. How Much Offal Do I Feed? For healthy pets, they require 10% offal in their diet. No more than 5% of this should be liver, due to it being incredibly nutrient dense – it really is a powerhouse! The rest of the raw diet should be 80% muscle meat, and 10% bone. In a fresh cooked diet, it’s important to follow a recipe balanced to FEDIAF, like ours! What is the Role of Offal in the Diet? Offal provides numerous vitamins and minerals; we will discuss what each organ provides! All offal is high in moisture, which really helps keep the dog’s kidneys from being under stress, and reduces the risk of UTIs. Each organ fed, provides benefits to the same organ within the dog’s body too! Liver offers a huge amount of fat-soluble Vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision, healthy growth and development, and support of the immune system. Liver contains large amounts of water-soluble Vitamin B2, which is responsible for metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Vitamin B12 is found in abundance in liver, which keeps nerve and blood cells in good condition, as well as being involved in the body’s production of DNA. As liver contains so much of these vitamin, it’s important to include in the diet, but not to feed more than 5% of the entire diet. Liver is a great source of Copper; the mineral responsible for keeping the nervous system healthy, keeping blood cells healthy, and aiding the immune system. Findings Here Kidney is a great source of the mineral, Selenium. Selenium protects cells against damage and infection, and also aids the production of DNA. Kidney contains a wide range of B vitamins, including B1, B2, B6 and B12. B6 is very important for brain function, as it controls the level of homocysteine; an amino acid associated with cognitive decline when found in large amounts. Vitamin D is found more in kidney than any other organ, and is essential for regulation of calcium and phosphate in the body, which keep bones, muscles and teeth in good condition. Findings Here Spleen contains high concentrations of iron. Iron is essential for many bodily functions, including haemoglobin production, myoglobin production, as well as production of many hormones. Vitamin B12 can be found in relatively large amounts in spleen, and is also very high in tryptophan; the amino acid which aids the sleep cycle, through regulation of serotonin and melatonin. The liver uses this amino acid for production of Vitamin B3, which is essential for DNA production. Findings Here Pancreas is one of the higher fat offal options. It doesn’t contain any particularly notifiable amounts of vitamins or minerals, but it does offer a range of very useful digestive enzymes. It may be worth considering feeding pancreas as part of a balanced diet if your dog has a sensitive stomach, and requires a little extra digestive help. One study shows replacing ‘lecithin’ in the commercial diet of a dog with lack of pancreatic function, with raw pancreas, is massively beneficial! Findings Here Testicles (yes, we said testicles! Chuckle, if you wish – we do! Some readers may wish to cross their legs when reading this section!) are a great source of vitamin B12, and are also high in protein, and very low in fat. They contain a great amount of sodium too, which is essential for health contraction and relaxation of muscles throughout the body. Chloride is also in abundance in testicles, which along with sodium, regulates the mineral uptake and hydration of the body. Findings Here Brain is a great option for your pet, though contains the same amount of fat as it does protein. Unlike any other offal, brain is a fantastic source of essential fatty acids. The Omega-3 Fatty Acid, DHA, is a natural anti-inflammatory, which is usually found in fish and raw eggs. Brain contains huge amounts of DHA, which is excellent for brain health and cognitive development. A fantastic choice for all dogs, but especially growing puppies, and senior dogs who may be prone to cognitive decline. Findings Here When is a Low Offal Diet Required? Very occasionally, some dogs may require a diet lower in offal than others; namely those requiring
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we love adding vitamin C rich foods to a dog’s diet, even though dogs are able to produce their own Vitamin C, via their liver. However, in some cases, such as during times of stress or illness, supplementing with Vitamin C may be recommended. This blog looks at 5 benefits of feeding vitamin C, Vitamin C rich foods and different ways to supplement this vitamin. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for dogs that plays an important role in several physiological processes in the body. Here are some benefits of vitamin C for dogs, along with references to research studies: Immune system support Vitamin C has been shown to enhance the immune system by promoting the production of white blood cells and boosting the function of immune cells. Research has shown that supplementation with vitamin C can improve immune function in dogs (1). Antioxidant protection Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Research has shown that supplementation with vitamin C can increase antioxidant activity in dogs (2). Collagen synthesis Vitamin C plays a key role in the synthesis of collagen, which is an essential component of connective tissue. Research has shown that supplementation with vitamin C can help improve collagen production in dogs, which can support joint health (3). Stress reduction Vitamin C has been shown to help reduce stress in dogs by reducing levels of stress hormones in the body. Research has shown that supplementation with vitamin C can help improve behavioral and physiological responses to stress in dogs (4). Calm Complex Wound healing Vitamin C has been shown to play a key role in wound healing by promoting the production of new tissue and reducing inflammation. Research has shown that supplementation with vitamin C can help improve wound healing in dogs (5). Vitamin C Rich Food to Add to the Bowl Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries are all high in vitamin C. Kiwi: This small, fuzzy fruit is a great source of vitamin C, with one kiwi containing about 70 milligrams of vitamin C. Papaya: This tropical fruit is a great source of vitamin C, with a medium-sized papaya containing about 95 milligrams of vitamin C. Mango: Another tropical fruit that's high in vitamin C, with a medium-sized mango containing about 60 milligrams of vitamin C. Sugar rich fruit should be kept to a minimum in any dog’s diet. Pineapple: This tropical fruit is a good source of vitamin C, with a cup of pineapple chunks containing about 80 milligrams of vitamin C. Sugar rich fruit should be kept to a minimum in any dog’s diet. Broccoli: This cruciferous vegetable is a great source of vitamin C, with one cup of chopped broccoli containing about 81 milligrams of vitamin C. Brussels sprouts: Another cruciferous vegetable that's high in vitamin C, with one cup of cooked Brussels sprouts containing about 75 milligrams of vitamin C. Spinach: This leafy green vegetable is a good source of vitamin C, with one cup of cooked spinach containing about 17 milligrams of vitamin C. Superfoods: Camu camu berries, acerola cherries, amla berries, and goji berries (organic) are all superfoods that are incredibly high in vitamin C. Supplementing Vitamin C in Times of Need Whilst we prefer getting our vitamins and minerals from food, if there is a therapeutic need for your dog, then supplementing is key. When selecting a supplement, it is good to know what you are looking for. A review article published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2006 concluded that bioflavonoids may enhance the bioavailability and antioxidant activity of vitamin C. The authors suggested that the combination of vitamin C and bioflavonoids may be a useful strategy for preventing or treating a variety of health conditions. There are a few similar studies and something we tend to consider when choosing a vitamin C product. Here are some different forms of supplemental vitamin C: Ascorbic Acid: This is the most common form of Vitamin C and is often used in human supplements. It is also sometimes used for dogs, but can cause digestive upset in some dogs. Sodium Ascorbate: This is a buffered form of Vitamin C that is less likely to cause digestive upset in dogs than ascorbic acid. It is also sometimes used in dog supplements. Calcium Ascorbate: This is another buffered form of Vitamin C that is often used in dog supplements. It may be less acidic than other forms of Vitamin C and may be more easily absorbed by dogs. Ester-C: This is a patented form of Vitamin C that is claimed to be more easily absorbed by the body than other forms of Vitamin C. It may also be less likely to cause digestive upset. Liposomal Vitamin C: Often transported in lecithin via soy or sunflower (we prefer sunflower), to help the absorption of vitamin C. A rather new technology and popular among nutritionists. The amount of vitamin C that a dog can tolerate varies based on their size, age, breed, and overall health status. While vitamin C is an essential nutrient for dogs, they can synthesize it naturally in their body and may not require additional supplementation. In general, dogs require approximately 18mg/kg of vitamin C per day, and the recommended daily dosage of vitamin C for dogs is typically around 500mg to 1000mg per day, depending on their weight and health status. However, giving too much vitamin C to dogs can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and other health issues Conclusion Vitamin C can be a useful addition to your dog’s diet whether
Probably the biggest minefield of confusion and misinformation in the pet food and health industry in recent years, Dilated Cardiomyopathy (commonly known as DCM) is a topic that has many of our customers and readers here at My Pet Nutritionist, worrying. We thought we would put together this handy guide on DCM, what it is, what the conflict is all about, how to reduce the risk of your dog developing it, and how to support the body when suffering with it. What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy? Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major, incurable heart condition, whereby part of the heart is enlarged. The left ventricle is one of the four chambers of the heart, and is responsible for pumping blood from the heart to the rest of the body. As the chamber dilates (enlarges), the chamber wall becomes thinner and thinner. As we all know, the heart is a muscle. When a muscle is overstretched for long periods of time, it becomes weaker. When the enlarged chamber stretches, and the wall becomes thinner, is also gets weaker; this effects the ability to efficiently pump blood around the body due to the lack of power from the left ventricle. When the body is starved of oxygenated blood, various muscles are affected, and the body is unable to properly function. DCM can be caused by an underlying heart disease, such as blocked or narrow coronary arteries, or badly managed high blood pressure. Genetics also plays a role in DCM development as it can be a hereditary condition. Dogs with a history of heart problems must never be used in any breeding programmes for this very reason. DCM can also be as a result of type 2 diabetes – diabetic cardiomyopathy. Findings Here Findings Here Some breeds are at a higher, predisposed risk of developing DCM. These include: Cocker spaniel Doberman Scottish Deerhound Irish Wolfhound Boxer Great Dane Newfoundland The DCM Conflict In recent years, there’s been a massive debate on pet foods and DCM. A study by one of the large kibble companies suggested a potential link between DCM and grain free diets. Since then, a list of specific brands has been shared virally across various social media platforms, stating these brands are ‘the worst’ – most of those on the list were higher in meat than most dry foods, and didn’t contain grains. While we don’t recommend feeding a kibble diet here at MPN (we prefer fresh feeding!), the initial panic was quickly debunked by a large number of studies, however the misinformation continues to spread to this day. The suggested link was that the legumes often used to replace grains in grain free dry foods, blocked taurine receptors in the heart, which in turn caused DCM. We wouldn’t recommend feeding grains or legumes regardless! Sadly, this suggestion spiralled out of control, and people began thinking even fresh food would benefit from grains to reduce the DCM risk, which of course, wouldn’t! Grains don’t actually contain any taurine, only precursor amino acids called cystine and methionine. Taurine is found most plentifully in meat, offal, and eggs. Let’s take a look at big cats for a minute. Feline species cannot function at all without a taurine rich diet; it’s one of the most essential nutrients in a cat’s diet. Cats are obligate carnivores – meaning they need a purely meat diet to thrive. This proves a fresh meat based diet provides plenty of taurine. Legumes are not a food type we would recommend, regardless of current diet due to their content of lectin. Lectin contributes to leaky gut, which in turn contributes to intolerances due to poor gut integrity. A healthy gut is key to general health. More on Leaky Gut here! Grains are not an ingredient we would recommend feeding your dog either. They have no place in a canine diet, and can cause a blood sugar spike. Grains are hard to digest due to the short digestive tract of a dog, and some, such as rice, contain potentially harmful substances like arsenic. How to prevent DCM, and Support The Body With It Unfortunately, DCM is tricky to prevent, especially in those who are effected genetically. There are a number of supplements and dietary additions which can help reduce the risk of DCM; let’s take a look at some of these: Probiotics Specifically Lactobacillus plantarum has been proven in a study on rats, to improve receptor expression in the heart, and supress apoptosis in the heart. Apoptosis is cell death – when the muscle is enlarged, cardiac apoptosis occurs which weakens the chamber wall. Probiotic therapy using Lactobacillus may be a great option for your pet, particularly if they are suffering from DCM as a result of diabetes. Findings Here Taurine Taurine is an amino acid which is essential for a healthy nervous system, and also contributes to immune health. Taurine helps regulate hydration by balancing cellular electrolytes, helps with bile production which enables healthy digestion, regulates calcium intake in the body’s cells, maintains antioxidant function, and helps keep the heart and eyes healthy. Taurine deficiencies in animals have been linked to muscle weakening, including that of the heart, eye problems, liver disease and increased risk of developing diabetes. Great sources of taurine include brain, heart, muscle meat, and eggs. Findings Here Findings Here Omega 3 Omega 3 is a great anti-inflammatory addition. Inflammation affects the heart as it damages the blood vessels, and can contribute to inflammation of the heart’s chambers, which leads to heart disease. Omega 3 Fatty Acids help regulate triglycerides in the body. While some triglycerides are important for storing energy to be utilised by the body, too many can cause extra fatty deposits which can put strain on the heart. Great sources of omega 3 include oily fish, fish oils, raw eggs, and algae oils. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here CoenzymeQ10 CoQ10 is an antioxidant enzyme which helps repair cells within
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see a lot of arthritis cases. There are numerous types of arthritis in existence, some of which can be autoimmune responses. We thought we would put together a short guide on the two most commonly seen types of autoimmune arthritis; Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. What is Autoimmunity? Autoimmunity is sadly fairly common in both humans and pets and is often overlooked. When an individual has an autoimmune disease, the immune system releases antibodies and T-Killer Cells (cells of the immune system which target and kill cells infected with viruses and cancers) even when they are not in the presence of a necessary target, which causes them to attack normal, previously healthy parts of the body. In layman’s terms, the body attacks itself! Autoimmunity can be linked to Leaky Gut, and Leaky Gut can be linked with arthritis. Read our blogs on these topics below! The Connection Between Leaky Gut and Autoimmunity – Part 1 The Connection Between Leaky Gut and Autoimmunity – Part 2 The Link Between Leaky Gut and Arthritis Immune Mediated Polyarthritis Immune Mediated Polyarthritis (shortened to IMPA) is a painful degenerative joint disease. The term ‘immune mediated’ refers to a group of conditions which are caused by abnormal immune system activity, often due to upregulation of some immune cells, causing the body to attack itself. Symptoms of IMPA include: Pain and swelling in multiple joints Fever Lethargy General stiffness Weight loss Difficulty standing for long periods Enlarged lymph nodes Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea One of the causes of IMPA, is infection of Leishmania. Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease, where the host is infected with Leishmania, which is spread by sand flies. It is not present in the UK, bar in imported dogs, or those who have travelled abroad, and contracted it there. We see many cases in rescued foreign street dogs. The synovial fluid (the fluid located between joints of all mammals) of the dogs affected in a study, was tested, and found to have the inflammatory markers typical of a dog suffering with IMPA. All other pathways of IMPA were ruled out. Findings Here Vaccine Induced IMPA is probably one of the biggest risks, and one often overlooked during diagnosis of IMPA. There are various reports of cases whereby dogs have developed IMPA within 3 weeks post vaccination. Minimally vaccinating is essential to reduce this risk! Findings Here Findings Here One study based in Canada, discusses the various clinical abnormalities which accompanied IMPA in various IMPA positive dogs. These clinical signs included leukocytosis (increased white blood cell production), nonregenerative amaemia (lack of red blood cells due to reduced activity by the bone marrow), high alkaline phosphatase (ALP in blood tests), and hypoalbuminemia (disrupted albumin production, resulting in blood vessels drying up). There was no common age range between cases – cases were present from all ages; young to elderly. Findings Here Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis (shortened to RA) is an autoimmune related degenerative joint disease. It’s symptoms include: Joint pain and stiffness in numerous joints Swelling in joints Weight loss Fatigue and lethargy Loss of strength Those suffering with RA often do so in a mirrored fashion – the pain will usually be the same on both sides of the body; both knees, both hips etc. RA can be triggered following infection of the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted from infected ticks to host; you may be more familiar with the term ‘Lyme Disease’. Findings Here During drug trials for this disease, where RA is concerned, a combination of pharmaceuticals were required to have any effect, as opposed to any of the individual options used in the trial. Findings Here Part of the immune system contains the Dog Leukocyte Antigen (DLA) Complex – this is a part of the immune system which distinguishes the body’s proteins from foreign proteins, viruses and bacteria. Within this complex, lays numerous alleles (pairs of genes – one from each of the dog’s parents), including the DRB1 allele, which is said to influence the susceptibility of an individual to be subject to developing RA, if it contains a certain amino acid. Findings Here A protein called Zonulin plays a part in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). It is synthesised by cells in the liver and intestine, and it’s roll in the body is to regulate the gut permeability, specifically Tight Junction Barrier Cells within the gut wall. When Zonulin is overrepresented, the gut permeability cannot be controlled, and allows useful and harmful substances to enter the blood stream, which are then detected as threats by the immune system. The upregulation of Zonulin, paired with the downregulation of Tight Junction Barrier Cells, causes more leakage of particles into the body, which in turn causes major inflammation throughout the joints in the body, sometimes resulting in Rheumatoid Arthritis. As with other autoimmune conditions, specific strains of good bacteria in the microbiome being leaked and attacked can cause the onset of RA. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Supporting the Body Gut Work Due to the relation between autoimmunity and Leaky Gut, its essential to keep the gut in good condition. Supplements such as Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm or glutamine are great for this, especially paired with a good, clean probiotic to help recolonise the gut. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diet Ensure you are not feeding any pro-inflammatory foods! High carb, processed diets like dry food are very pro-inflammatory and will add to the body’s inflammatory response. Stick to a fresh diet, whether it’s raw or cooked. It’s also imperative to keep on top of any allergies – both food and environmental. When we keep on top of allergies, and remove allergens
Immunity – a word we hear so often in the health and diet industry. The basis of health all around. It can be very much a ‘rabbit hole’ subject, because the further you look into it, the deeper you research. It can be a confusing topic at best, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have put together this handy guide on things that can affect immunity. What is Immunity? Immunity is the ability to be resistant to a pathogen or infectious disease. Immunity can be gained naturally (through careful socialisation), by exposure to the pathogen, or through the use of vaccinations. There are various mechanisms of immunity, which we will briefly outline below: Active Immunity This is what is happening when the dog is exposed to a pathogen. The active immune system is the fastest acting system and is the body’s first response to the presence of a pathogen. In the presence of a pathogen, the B-Lymphocytes create and release antibodies. Passive Immunity This is the immunity passed on to an individual instead of being created by their body. In dogs we call this Maternally Derived Antibodies (MDA). MDA is passed onto the puppies from the mother and is vital to health in the early weeks. It usually wanes between 10 and 16 weeks of age, unless interrupted by vaccination. MDA is passed onto the puppies through the placenta, and through the mothers milk. If a puppy is hand reared, he/she may require extra caution than those who drink mothers milk. Innate (also called non-specific) Immunity This is immunity and defence systems your dog is born with. Barriers like skin, the gastro-intestinal tract, eyelashes etc all help keep pathogens out of the body which is why gut health is so very important – at least 70% of your immune system is in the gut! Defence systems like mucosal layers, saliva, stomach acid etc are also part of the innate immune system. Another immune response included as part of the innate immune system is inflammation – this often acts as a marker to pathogens so they can be destroyed. Adaptive (or Acquired) Immunity This is the immunity gained following seroconversion of vaccinations, or through natural build up of immunity. The Adaptive Immune System can be separated into two mechanisms. Humoral (antibody mediated) immunity This primarily involves B-Lymphocytes. During a humoral immune response, when an antigen is detected, with the help of T Helper Lymphocytes, the B Cells go through a differentiation process, which produces Memory B Cells and Effector B Cells, which are both specific to the B Cell they were differentiated from, and therefore are specifically shaped to combat a specific antigen/pathogen. This is the most common immune response, especially following successful vaccination. Titre Tests pick up these antibodies. Cellular, or cell-mediated immunity This involves another type of cell – T-Cells. When T-Cells differentiate, they become T-Killer Cells which attach to and engulf antigens. Allergic responses and autoimmune conditions are part of the cell-mediated adaptive immune system. So, let’s discuss some of the factors which affect immunity. Genetics Genetics play a large role in immune responses. If a dog comes from lines of ‘breeding stock’ affected by genetic health issues which affect the immune system, it is very likely they will also carry the genes. There are many ‘pathways’ in the genome (all of the body’s DNA), which contribute to various bodily functions. Studies around genetics and the link with the immune system mainly focus on the Toll Pathway, which in vertebrate animals, is all about inflammation. Inflammation occurs in response to infection or virus. The Toll pathway helps to regulate inflammation in the body by triggering the release of antimicrobial peptides in response to challenge. When the pathway is downregulated by SUMOylation (a protein which prepares cells for transcription, DNA binding, and replication), it misfires; this can lead to greater inflammatory response. Findings Here The domestication of dogs has also contributed to genetic immune function issues – going from hunting to having food served to them, going from a natural diet to, in many cases, a commercially prepared diet are both factors which over time, alter genetics. Survival of the fittest, and selective breeding will bring these altered genes out in litters, which then continue for future generations. In many breeds, the gene pool is very small, which also leads to larger affects on the immune system. Findings Here Pregnancy and Birth During pregnancy, many changes occur in the mother’s body. Hormones strengthen and change, the body physically changes, milk production begins, and the immune system takes a beating in order to produce a healthy litter, at the same time as keeping healthy herself. During pregnancy, the immune priorities are changed. It’s a common misconception that during pregnancy there is a time of immunosuppression; what actually happens, is the innate immune system strengthens, in order to provide the puppies with great physical barriers, but there is a reduction in the adaptive immune system, particularly later in the pregnancy, which is why many bitches suffer with itching or yeast toward the end of the pregnancy, and shortly after giving birth. Finding Here During birthing, the neonatal puppy’s innate immune system comes into full force, as it goes from being protected in the womb/uterus, to being completely open to the environment, including various pathogens. The Maternally Derived Antibodies will now be viable too, to help protect the puppy against viruses in the environment. Findings Here If the MDA is interrupted by early vaccination, this can leave the puppy more vulnerable to disease, so it’s incredibly important to understand when the best time to vaccinate is, if using vaccines for your puppy. That leads us nicely on to toxin exposure. Toxin Exposure There are so many toxins our pets are exposed to on a regular basis, both through some veterinary pharmaceuticals, and through household products in the environment. These toxins can have a largely detrimental effect on the dog’s immunity. Vaccinations While we are not against vaccinations here at
It seems an odd connection; gut health, and arthritis, but the two are connected in multiple ways. We see a lot of patients here at My Pet Nutritionist, suffering from Leaky Gut, and/or arthritis. Read on to learn more about the connection between Leaky Gut and Arthritis! What is Leaky Gut? The condition is growing more and more common in both us humans, and our canine counterparts, and can lead to some pretty serious health issues, long term. The name ‘Leaky Gut’ does somewhat give the game away, but let’s look deeper into what actually happens in the gut of a normal dog, compared to one with Leaky Gut. In healthy individuals, after eating, the food passes through the gut. The gut consists of the stomach followed by the small intestine, followed by the large intestine (known as the ‘colon’), through which nutrients from the digested food are absorbed, before the waste is pushed out through the rectum, then anus. To enable a large surface area, for optimum nutrient absorption, the small intestine is lined with small finger-like structures called villi, which themselves are covered in even smaller finger-like structures, known as microvilli. The gut also houses lots of good bacteria to aid digestion – the colonies of good bacteria, along with yeast cells, any viral particles, or parasitic burdens, are collectively known as the‘microbiome’. The gut wall is extremely thin, to allow efficient nutrientabsorption. The cells lining the gut stay close together, and are supported by the interactions of immune cells, and good bacteria in the gut. In those suffering with Leaky Gut, inflammation occurs in the gut for various reasons, which causes the tight intestine wall to permeate, creating microscopic channels between the cells. Proteins/partially undigested foods then leak out through these channels and are detected by the immune system as a threat, causing a histamine response to occur, which is why one of the most common symptoms of Leaky Gut, is food intolerances. Other symptoms of Leaky Gut include: – Autoimmune Diseases – Issues with stools or sickness – Joint issues – Yeast – Problems concerning other major organs in the body – Hypothyroidism – Changes in behaviour; often anxious behaviour, and short tempered behaviour Possible Causes of Leaky Gut include: Over-use of vaccines; the adjuvants may damagethe gut flora Use of certain pharmaceuticals – Flea, tick, and worm medications; they disrupt the gut microbiome by not only eradicating the visiting parasites (or often lack thereof), but the good bacteria too. – Antibiotics; these wipe out the good and bad bacteria – Antihistamines; these can interfere with the production of mucus in the gut, and can also interfere with the proper functioning of Diamine Oxidase (DAO), which is the enzyme responsible for breaking down, and removing histamine from within the gut. – NSAIDs and Steroids; these can cause ulcerations in the gut and interfere with mucosal production. SIBO and Yeast overgrowth; Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth and Yeast damage the gut lining Diet; feeding a dry food diet may put stress on the gut. Kibble can sometimes contain Glyphosate, which is an antibiotic herbicide and is toxic, as well as very damaging to the gut. Diets inclusive of legumes and other high-lectin content pulses, nightshades and vegetables may contribute to Leaky Gut as lectin causes poor gut integrity. Microscopic moulds often found on kibbles, known as mycotoxins can also bedetrimental to gut health, contributing to Leaky Gut. Stress can have a huge effect on the gut integrity, as stress leads to inflammation Ageing; as our dogs age, the microbiome becomes less diverse which leads to gut damage. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Read our full Gut Dysbiosis blog here! What is Arthritis, and How is it Connected to Leaky Gut? Arthritis is a disease caused by chronic inflammation of the joints. There are numerous types of arthritis, from Osteoarthritis to Rheumatoid Arthritis to Septic Arthritis. Let’s take a look at these types, and their connection with Leaky Gut. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis seen in our pets, and it is especially common in the later years, or following trauma. Other names for osteoarthritis are Degenerative Joint Disease, and Osteoarthrosis. Osteoarthritis affects the body’s synovial joints (these are the joints where a smooth layer of cartilage covers the end of each bone associated with the joint) as well as the tissues around them. It can be a crippling disease, but there are some herbal supplements which have been proven to benefit those suffering from it. Read about these here! The gut isn’t the first thing most people think of when looking at internal associations with osteoarthritis, but the gut-joint axis is very much affected! Like all types of arthritis, inflammation is a huge part, which is where Leaky Gut comes into play. When ‘foreign’ particles are leaked through the gut wall, the body’s natural response is highly inflammatory. The pressure on the body from this inflammation causes an increase in risk of Osteoarthritis. Equally, the gut-brain axis may be affected by the pain and stress caused by the Osteoarthritis, causing poor gut motility, and increased permeability causing systemic inflammation. Findings Here Studies show that building intestinal mucosal immunity, and repopulating the gut, has positive affects on those suffering with Osteoarthritis, as well as helping to prevent it. Findings Here Having a highly permeable gut also leads to increased transportation of microbes, including cytokines, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), particularly in overweight individuals. LPS is known for inducing inflammation, and in many studies it is found in unexpectedly high amounts in the serum around the affected synovial joints. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory joint disease. Multiple joints are often affected at the same time, and symptoms not only include swollen, warm joints and joint stiffness, but also fatigue and loss of appetite. The animal model of Rheumatoid Arthritis is called Collagen Induced Arthritis, for which many studies were originally carried out on mice. Findings Here Findings Here A protein called Zonulin plays a
Oral and dental health is incredibly important for all animals. Here at My Pet Nutritionist we strive to educate pet owners on all aspects of health and welfare, so here is our blog about dental hygiene and keeping your pet’s teeth clean! Anatomy of the Tooth and Gum Types of Tooth Just like in humans, dogs have 4 types of teeth. From the front of the mouth to the back of the mouth, these are; incisors, canines, pre-molars, and molars. Adult dogs naturally have 6 incisors on the top jaw,and 6 on the bottom jaw. Incisors are used for grasping items. The canines, of which adult dogs have 2 on the top jaw, and 2 on the bottom jaw, are used for ripping – particularly meat from bones! Adult dogs possess 8 pre-molars on the top jaw, and 8 on the bottom jaw; these are used for grinding – especially bone, and plant matter. Finally, the molars. In adult dogs, there are 4 molars on the top jaw, and 6 on the bottom; these are also used for grinding. The bottom jaw is called the Mandible, and the upper jaw is called the Maxilla. Tooth Structure The outermost layer of the tooth (the white coloured bit we see) is the enamel. This is a fairly thin, hard layer which protects the more fragile/sensitive parts of the tooth. It’s the hardest tissue in the body. Beneath the enamel, lays the Dentin. This is a thick layer of softer tissue which contains numerous microscopic tubules, leading to the nerves in the tooth. These being exposed due to worn enamel are what give the, sometimes painful, sensation when hot/cold foods are consumed. In the very centre of the tooth, you can find the pulp chamber; the powerhouse of the tooth. The pulp in the chamber creates dentin, and also keeps the dentin healthy by providing it with nutrients. The pulp chamber extends into the roots of the teeth, so is often referred to as the root canal. Surrounding the part of the tooth beneath the gum, is a hard substance called Cementum which anchors the tooth into the gum. Gum Structure The visible outside of the gum is called the Gingival Margin, which keeps the teeth securely in place. The next part of the gum, is what attaches the gum to the tooth, and it is known as the Gingival Sulcus. The area where the tooth meats the gum is called the Cemento Enamel Junction. Between the tooth and the Alveolar Bone (the main jaw bone), is the periodontal ligament, which attaches the tooth to the jaw. What do Healthy Teeth and Gums Look Like? Healthy teeth should be white, free from any blemishes (plaque), and meet the gum. Teeth that are grey in colour may need to be removed by a veterinarian because grey denotes dead tissue inside the tooth. A root canal surgery may be performed to save the tooth. Healthy gums should be pink in colour, and moist. They should meet the tooth in a relatively straight line. If the visible tooth is rounded sharply at the bottom, the gum is likely in recession due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. Inflammation around the bottom of the tooth is also a major symptom of poor oral health, as well as bleeding gums. If the gum is blue, red, very pale (almost white) and tacky, this shows there is either an underlying health problem, poor dental/oral health, or dehydration. Age is a factor when looking at oral health. As dogs age, their dental health tends to worsen, often resulting in tooth removals. Older teeth may become discoloured and weaker than those of younger dogs. Findings Here Genetics also play a role in dental health in dogs, just as much as it does in humans. Some dogs are genetically more likely to have weaker enamel, and naturally more yellowed teeth. Breeds most prone to poor oral health include: – Toy Poodle – Greyhound – King Charles Spaniel – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Boxer – French Bulldog – English Bulldog – Pug – Yorkshire Terrier – Chihuahua Tips on Keeping Teeth Clean Diet When it comes to diet, which of course we are all about here at My Pet Nutritionist, there are so many things which we could feed our dogs which contribute to poor dental and oral health. Feeding kibble is one of the major contributing factors to poor oral health and dental disease. Firstly, the texture of extruded dry foods; much like when humans eat a biscuit, it gets stuck in our teeth – kibble gets stuck in the dogs’ teeth, as well as around the gumlines, which then contributes to plaque build-up, and gingivitis. Secondly, kibble is very high in starchy carbohydrates which also causes plaque build-up, and damages the enamel. Due to the low level of salivary amylase in dogs (the enzyme that targets carbohydrates), the oral bacteria are put to work, and as a result, the carbohydrates are fermented on the tooth surface, which releases acids which damage the tooth itself. Findings Here Fresh food is much better for the teeth! Not only is it much more digestible than dry food, it’s high moisture content prevents it from getting stuck in the teeth and gumlines. Some breeds with large lips may require a little assistance on removing remnants of food from the inside of the lips. Fresh food is also not high in starchy carbohydrates, so this reduces the risk of tooth and gum damage by carbohydrates. Raw Meaty Bones and Other Chews Feeding Raw Meaty Bones (RMBs) is an excellent way to help keep teeth clean. The ripping action a dog makes to remove the meat from the bone, and the grinding of teeth against the bone itself, help soften and scrape any present plaque from teeth, keeping teeth and gums healthy. Large bones help keep the front teeth and canines clean, whereas smaller bones (always size appropriate for your dog!) will encourage chewing at the back of the mouth to help keep premolars, and molars
Haematomas are one of the more common soft tissue issues we tend to see here at My Pet Nutritionist. The most frequently occurring Haematoma is the Aural Haematoma; a subdermal haematoma found on the ear, however these benign masses can also be found on the spine, the brain, the heart, or anywhere else in the body. This blog will look at some of the types of haematoma, symptoms, diagnoses, and how we can offer support when a dog has a haematoma. What is a Haematoma? Similar to a bad bruise, a haematoma is a collection of blood which has formed in an organ or body tissue, typically as a result of a ruptured blood vessel. Haematomas are often mistaken for a tumour, due to their tumour-like appearance. Haematomas present as hard, raised lumps, which are usually very painful, whereas a bruise is a flat, malleable discolouration of the skin which may be a little sore to the touch. Where bruises usually heal with no additional medical help, haematomas sometimes require surgical intervention, such as drainage as they can become so large, they can cause life threatening issues due to the inability to get sufficient blood flow to a certain area, or they may become infected. Types of Haematoma Let’s discuss a few of the more common haematomas, their symptoms, and causes. Aural Haematoma As previously mentioned, haematomas of the ear are the type we see most often. These usually present on the flap of the ear (scientifically known as the ‘pinna’). When the blood vessel in the ear is damaged, blood leaks into the area between the skin and cartilage of the ear, which causes a pool of blood to form. Depending on the severity of the bleed, the ear position may change as the pool of blood may interfere with the muscles in the ear, as well as the ear canal, due to swelling. Aural Haematomas are extremely painful to the touch, so avoid touching the ear too much so as not to cause pain and distress in your pet. Aural Haematomas happen when there’s trauma to the ear, usually caused by dogs shaking their heads during ear infections and ear mite infestations, or by excessive itching of the area in allergy dogs, or dogs with insect bites on the neck or head areas. Aural Haematomas are also fairly common in dogs who have been a victim of a dog attack when the dog bite hasn’t broken the skin. Studies suggest that Aural Haematomas are not as a result of autoimmunity, but could be caused by other immunological events, such as infection control in the presence of a pathogen, or histamine responses in the presence of an allergen. Findings Here Aural Haematomas can heal on their own, however they often result in ‘cauliflower ear’ – the pinna appears crumpled/intricately folded. The science behind this malformation of the ear following a haematoma, is down to the substance released during the trauma of the area. The fluid which leaks between the cartilage and the skin, is a fibrotic rich serum. When the haematoma heals, the body reabsorbs the leaked fluid, which leads to fibrosis in the pinna. When fibrosis occurs, the fibrotic tissues in the area contract, which causes the folds often seen. Findings Here Haematomas on the Brain Haematomas can be found on the brain, and can be Subdural or Extradural Haematomas. Subdural Haematomas are often associated with underlying brain injuries, whereas Extradural haematomas are usually down to skull fractures, and damage to a meningeal artery (the main blood supply for the brain). These are generally the most dangerous type, and have a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, lethargy, paralysis on one side of the body, confusion, and uneven pupil sizes. In cases where the haematoma is located on the brainstem, upper (cervical) spinal pain is common too. Haematomas on the brain are most commonly seen following trauma to the head from vehicle accidents. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Studies show Cerebral Haematomas can also be caused by an infestation of French Heartworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum). This is just one of the ways the parasite causes major neurological problems. Findings Here While the prognosis for those diagnosed with any subdural haematoma may be a scary one, there is evidence to suggest a veterinary treatment plan is available, and successful for the condition. A study carried out on a large breed dog, kicked in the head by a horse, shows a full recovery within 15 months of intercranial surgery, antimicrobial therapy, and corticosteroids. Findings Here Spinal Haematomas Spinal Haematomas can be present for a number of reasons, and can be debilitating during recovery. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) patients may suffer from a spinal extradural haematoma, as a result of trauma during the herniation of the affected vertebrae. Spinal compression caused by Pneumorrhachis (air bubbles stuck in the spine) can also lead to haematoma formation. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here There is also evidence to suggest that bites from venomous snakes may also contribute to haematoma formation on the spine. The other most common cause of spinal haematoma is trauma during spinal surgery. Findings Here Findings Here Tracheal Haematomas Haematomas in the trachea can cause acute (sudden) respiratory difficulties/blockages, due to the airway being blocked by the raised haematoma. These are most commonly discovered following surgery, and are caused by the intubation tube used. When the wrong type, or size of intubation tube is used, or the tube is not handled carefully, trauma occurs in the trachea which can cause bruising, or damage to the blood vessels, resulting in the formation of haematomas. Trauma following neck surgery may also contribute to the formation of Tracheal Haematomas, but there are studies to suggest this is the case, and others to suggest it isn’t the case so more research needs to be carried out to determine a definitive answer. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here As with other types of haematoma, trauma from non-surgical events can also cause haematomas. A
