At My Pet Nutritionist, we often hear from panicked pet parents when their dog presents with joint issues, especially knuckling of the paw. In this guide we will take a dive into some of the conditions which cause knuckling and look into some remedies to help. What is Knuckling? Often called Knuckling Under, the condition concerns the joints in the paw. Knuckling occurs when the dog walks and/or rests on the top of the foot as opposed to the pads. It can be sporadic, or on every step, and can happen on any one of the paws, multiple paws, or all paws. Knuckling can happen in both puppies and senior dogs. Signs of knuckling in puppies usually show between the ages of 6 and 14 weeks, and most commonly affects large and giant breeds, but can affect smaller breeds too. At the other end of the spectrum, senior dogs usually show symptoms of knuckling under at around 8 to 14 years of age, particularly those suffering from Degenerative Myelopathy or Arthritis. What Does Knuckling Look Like? There are a few signs of knuckling under to look out for: Foot scraping: When the dog walks, they will often scrape the top of their paw on the ground which may cause their claws to wear unevenly. Shaking: The metacarpal/metatarsal areas (the lower fore and hind limb, respectively) may shake or be weak. Paw positioning: The toes will be tucked under the foot, so the dog is walking on the top of the foot, not on the paw pads. This can happen when standing, or when walking. When walking, the paw position may be normal some of the time and tucked under some of the time. What Causes Knuckling Under? Knuckling under is usually an outward symptom of an underlying health issue. We will outline these below. Puppies Carpal Flexural Deformity The most common cause of knuckling in puppies is Carpal Flexural Deformity (CFD), more commonly called Carpal Laxity Syndrome. This condition, that usually presents clinically by 4 months of age, can be down to a dietary issue; usually excess protein consumption, overnutrition and undernutrition. In one study, the phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium values were increased in those with CFD when tested. Findings Here Findings Here Another common reason for CFD is rapid growth spurts; this is particularly common in larger breeds of dog. When this occurs, the bones and tendons grow at different rates, causing the carpus to bow, and the paw to knuckle under. Findings Here Findings Here Puppies with CFD may be required to wear a splint to keep the lower limb straight and hold the toes straight so they don’t knuckle under. Gradually building up the extent of the affected puppy’s exercise may also help rectify the deformity. A balanced, fresh diet is essential to avoid over or undernutrition. The Ultimate Guide to a Healthy Puppy Seniors Osteoarthritis Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease. It is long lasting and progressive; meaning it continues to worsen with age. Walking may become difficult as joints seize up. Dogs with OA will often be stiff after laying down for periods of time. The most common disease that can result in knuckling in senior dogs is osteoarthritis (OA). According to Canine Arthritis Management, around 80% of dogs over 8 in the UK have osteoarthritis, possibly 35% of the dog population across all ages. In one study, 69% of the sample dogs with suspected cases of OA were confirmed cases. The researchers estimated that an average of 200,000 dogs are affected by OA each year. Findings Here Feeding a fresh diet, with additional supplements with anti-inflammatory effects, can help reduce pain and keep the joints healthy. Read our Guide to Inflammation here! Severe cases may require prescription NSAIDs from your veterinarian. Degenerative Myelopathy Similarly, to OA, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is also very common in senior dogs. DM is a progressive degenerative disease of the spinal cord, and often causes paralysis of the hind limbs. Degenerative Myelopathy is a hereditary disease which ultimately shortens the lifespan of the dog, usually within 2 years of diagnosis. Larger dogs will progress faster than smaller dogs. A genetic test can be carried out on younger individuals before breeding to show any mutations to the SOD1 gene, which is where DM stems from. The SOD1 gene codes for the protein responsible for the destruction of Free Radicals in the body, called Superoxide Dismutase. When there is a lack of destruction of Free Radicals, they turn from beneficial to harmful as they begin killing cells which then causes the onset of degenerative diseases. Findings Here Findings Here Some of the breeds most affected with DM include: Pembroke Welsh Corgi Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Pug Boxer Golden Retriever Borzoi Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers While the condition is often suggested as not painful, your veterinarian may prescribe NSAIDs. You may wish to add plenty of omega 3 and other anti-inflammatory supplements to your dog’s meals. Many owners with dogs in the later stages of DM purchase a dog wheelchair to enable continued mobility. Intervertebral Disc Disease Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition caused by the herniation of an intervertebral disc and can happen on any part of the spine. Retrogenes are copies of a standard gene, which haven’t copied correctly and have then inserted themselves into the genome. The Fibroblast Growth Factor 4 retrogene (FGF4) on chromosome 12 is mostly responsible for the chance of an individual suffering from IVDD as it controls the length of the spine. Findings Here IVDD is most common in chondrodystrophic dogs (those with short legs and long back) but can also occur in dogs with other structures A study carried out by scientists in Sweden looked at insurance claims, thought to be representative of the entire population of dogs in Sweden. 40% of the claims involved some form of disc disease (not just IVDD),proving its becoming a fairly common issue seen in
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we regularly see frequent urination as a sign of illness, stress and other diet related issues. The scientific name for excessive urination is Polyuria, and it often comes hand in hand with Polydipsia (excessive drinking). Read our Polydipsia blog here. Let’s discuss what may cause this! Diet The diet you feed your dog may affect the amount of urine produced. Dogs fed on a dry food diet will require a larger intake of water as their food is lacking in moisture which puts pressure on the kidneys. Wet/fresh food on average is around 75% moisture verses a dry food which is around 8-10% moisture. Similarly, high salt diets and treats will affect kidney function. The kidneys require a good amount of moisture to keep them functioning properly; so the dog will feel thirstier, consume more water and then as a result, produce more urine to be excreted. Illness Dogs may experience polyuria as a symptom of numerous health issues. Polyuria tends to go hand in hand with polydipsia as excessive thirst causes excessive drinking, which in turn causes excessive urination. Cystitis/Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) A common observation made by pet owners when their dog has a UTI, or cystitis (UTI of the bladder) brewing, is that the dog begins to urinate more often, and in unusual places. This can be tricky to differentiate from adolescent behaviour in younger dogs but is important to rule out if your dog has been urinating in the house, having been fully house-trained previously. A dog will drink more water when experiencing a UTI in an attempt to flush it through the system, which will result in more urine being produced, and the dog being unable to hold it until their next garden visit. If your dog is urinating in unusual places, be sure to collect a urine sample and take it to your vet for analysis. Findings Here Sickness bug/nausea Sickness bugs often cause nausea and/or diarrhoea, which in turn causes a dog to require more liquid. As the dog will have increased their liquid intake, they will also produce more urine. Encouraging a dog to drink more, means they’re less likely to become dehydrated, even if it results in more urination than is normal for that dog. If you’re struggling to get your dog to drink, bone broth is an excellent powerhouse of nutrients as well as moisture –perfect for a poorly digestion. Bladder stones When a dog has bladder stones, they may urinate more frequently than is normal for that dog, producing only a few drops each time.The urine may contain blood, often due to straining, or a secondary Cystitis infection. There are numerous types of bladder stone, and it’s very important to find out from your veterinarian, which type of bladder stone is present. You can then tweak the diet dependent on bladder stone type – check out our bladder stones blog here. Findings Here Findings Here Kidney Disease/Infection Polyuria is one of the most common, and earliest signs of kidney disease. Dogs with kidney disease may also start to urinate overnight. Other symptoms include nausea, weight loss, lethargy, and changes to bowel movements. During the earlier stages of kidney disease, the kidneys become unable to efficiently concentrate urine, causing the dog to drink more; and subsequently urinate more. Kidney infections (scientifically known as pyelonephritis) also cause damage to the inner part of the kidney known as the Medulla, which filters and dilutes urine. When this is damaged, more water is required to successfully dilute the urine; causing the need for more urination. If left untreated, the ability to properly dilute urine decreases. Findings Here Findings Here Liver disease A staggering 50% of canine liver disease cases present with polyuria. Hepatic encephalopathy (the condition when changes in the brain cause liver disease) and liver shunts damage the liver and can cause false signals to be sent back to the brain via neurotransmitters, which causes an increase in the production of a hormone called Adrenocorticotropic (ACTH). Elevated ACTH secretion causes havoc with the tissues in the body, and causes the dog to require more moisture, resulting in the need to urinate more. Findings Here Cushing’s Disease Dogs with Cushing’s Disease usually produce too much of the hormone, Cortisol. As well as being caused by excessive exposure to Cortisol, Cushing’s Disease can be caused by long term use of glucocorticoids – drugs such as hydrocortisone. Like those with Liver Disease, those with Cushing’s Disease have elevated exposure to ACTH, which ultimately leads to increased thirst, and therefore increased urination. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diabetes Insipidus Just like with polydipsia, polyuria is another very common symptom of Diabetes Insipidus. Of course, there are many other things that may cause polyuria, but Diabetes Insipidus is one of the conditions your vet may wish to discuss with you, often once other conditions have been ruled out via various tests. The most common type of Diabetes Insipidus is Secondary Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus, and your vet may need to instruct a water restriction to be able to measure the concentration of the urine produced. An estimate of 0.32% of dogs in the UK have diabetes, mostly occurring between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Findings Here Findings Here Incontinence Dogs suffering with incontinence may urinate more frequently, but usually in smaller amounts. This is because the sphincter at the bottom of the bladder is weak, or the messages sent from the brain are abnormal, causing the lack of controlled flow. Incontinent dogs will often urinate in small drips through the day when standing, sleeping, walking or getting up from a laid down position. Incontinence can be due to many factors including early spaying (known as spay incontinence), ageing, or even down to genetics when the part of the brain which controls the coordination of the bladder muscles; called The Pons, has a defect. Findings Here Medications Long-term use of certain medications can cause polyuria, including glucocorticoids, phenobarbitone, and furosemide.
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we often see excessive thirst as a symptom often related to diet, sickness, disease or behaviour. Many pet owners might notice their dogs drinking more water at certain times, so this guide outlines the basics and possible reasons why, from the not so serious to the serious. The scientific name for excessive thirst, causing excessive water consumption, is Polydipsia. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) define polydipsia as ‘water intake that is twice maintenance requirements’ – dogs consuming more than 100ml/kg bodyweight per day is considered excessive. Dogs may have Polydipsia for a number of reasons, which we will cover in this blog! Findings here Checking for Dehydration First things first, here’s a simple technique called ‘tenting’ which you can use to check if your dog is dehydrated. Gently pinch some of your dogs skin on their side. Does it ping straight back to normal? Yes: your dog is well hydrated No: your dog is dehydrated Gums should be pink and moist. Grey, tacky, or dry gums may show dehydration. Exercise and Environment Just like their human counterparts, dogs if exercising/exerting extra energy and not offered water during their exercise, will become dehydrated. Many will get home and rush straight to their water bowl for a big drink. We recommend taking a portable dog water bowl with you, particularly on longer walks. Filtered water is always recommended. If the weather is warm or humid, your dog will lose water through sweat and panting, so will need to drink more to replenish what’s missing. Diet The diet you choose for your dog may contribute to your dog’s Polydipsia. A fresh food diet (including raw and cooked food), or high quality wet food diet will contain a lot of moisture at around 65-75%. Feeding a dry food, whether it be freeze dried, air dried, or kibble, will sadly be dehydrating, due to lack of moisture at around 6-10%. This may cause a strain on the kidneys also, so many people choose to ‘float’ their dogs meal (adding water to the meal). The salt content in some dry foods and treats, may also contribute to thirst as salt puts extra pressure on the kidneys, meaning a higher water intake is required to help them flush it through. Illness Dogs who have been unwell with a bug, or an intolerance/allergy to a food, causing sickness and/or diarrhoea, may drink excessively, as they lose a lot of water through vomit and faeces. The feeling of nausea may also encourage excessive drinking. There are more specific medical problems of which polydipsia is a symptom. Let’s have a look at those: Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) When dogs experience a UTI, they produce a lot of urine. Due to expelling so much urine, their bodies will feel in a constant state of dehydration, leading to excessive consumption of water to replace the lost fluids. This is the first medical condition to rule out as it is one of the more common reasons a dog may drink lots of water. Findings here Diabetes Polydipsia and Polyurea (excessive urination) are two of the most prominent symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus. Of the types of Diabetes Insipidus in dogs, the most common is Secondary Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus and can be of varying degrees of severity. Your veterinarian may wish to rule out other potential conditions first, then may instruct a water deprivation test to diagnose Diabetes Insipidus – this is the only time you should restrict water from your pet; under full veterinary guidance! Findings here Cushing’s Disease (hyperadrenocorticism) Cushing’s disease is caused when the adrenal gland produces too much of a hormone called Cortisol. Cortisol is used in regulation of blood pressure, keeping heart and blood vessels healthy and working smoothly, and reducing inflammation. When there’s too much Cortisol in the body, weight gain, increased thirst, swelling, hair loss, calcinosis cutis, lethargy, and excessive panting can all be symptoms. Dogs with polydipsia suffering from Cushing’s Disease, drink between 2 and 10 times the normal amount for a dog their size. Cushing’s Disease is often mistaken for dermatitis or liver disease. Findings here Findings here Liver Disease Excessive thirst is one of the most common signs of liver disease, showing in around 50% of liver disease patients. Dogs suffering with liver disease, specifically hepatic encephalopathy, have increased production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH for short!), which causes an increase in cortisol in the body, ultimately causing dehydration of plasma cells. Because the plasma cells require more water, the dog’s thirst is increased. Other liver diseases also cause polydipsia. Findings here Hypercalcemia and Kidney Disease Having too much calcium in the blood causes hypercalcemia, which can lead to poor functioning of the heart and brain, as well as weakened bones, and the potential for kidney stones. It’s caused by overactive parathyroid glands. Hypercalcemia is often as a result of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Acute Kidney Disease, hyperparathyroidism, underactive adrenal gland, Cancers and in very rare cases, when the body has taken in too much Vitamin D. Excessive thirst and urinating are the most typical signs of hypercalcemia due to the kidneys being unable to concentrate urine properly. In order to properly dilute urine before excretion, the dog needs to need to drink more to ensure there’s enough water reaching the tissues ofthe kidneys. Findings here Findings here Tumours There are links between polydipsia and tumours in dogs, primarily cancerous tumours involving the kidneys, for similar reasons as in dogs suffering with kidney disease. Polydipsia can also be a symptom of tumours (benign or malignant) due to paraneoplastic syndromes, that are triggered by the formation of a tumour and activates the immune system in an unusual way. Findings here Findings here Pyometra Entire bitches may suffer from open (more common and generally treatable) and closed (life threatening) pyometra. The average age for pyometra is 7.25 years, but it can happen at any age, especially in those who have had multiple seasons. Excessive water consumption is a common symptom
If you have followed us here at My Pet Nutritionist for any length of time you’ll know that we’re all about the fresh feeding of pets. But did you know that even if you can’t commit to a 100% fresh food diet, you can still add some powerhouse ingredients to your dog’s existing diet to reap some rewards? We thought we’d share some great additions that are super-easy to add to your dog’s diet. Green Leafy Vegetables Top of the list for a reason. Green leafy vegetables include spinach, kale, watercress and broccoli. In green leafy vegetables you will find vitamins A, C, E and K along with many of the B-vitamins. These vegetables also contain carotenoids. Carotenoids act as an antioxidant, deactivating free-radicals and limiting the damage they can cause. Green leafy vegetables also contain a rich source of folate, this is after all, where the name came from. Folate comes from the Latin folium, because it was first found in leaves! Folate functions as a coenzyme in many processes in the body. It is needed to make DNA and other genetic material and is essential in cell division. In short, it helps tissues grow and makes cells work. Folate is also involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, so it is implicated in mood and subsequently behaviour too! Being water-soluble, there is a high turnover in the body so we need to replenish this trusty vitamin regularly! Did you know? One particular study showed a reduced rate of bladder cancer when leafy veg was added to the dog’s diet! Findings Here So, lightly steam your leafy greens and add them to that bowl! Mushrooms Mushrooms have been seen to be: Anti-inflammatory Anti-microbial Antioxidant Prebiotic Anti-diabetic But which ones to feed? Reishi mushrooms are adored for their immunomodulating benefits. Maiitike mushrooms have been used for their antibacterial function. Cordyceps have been seen to inhibit inflammatory responses throughout the body. Findings Here If you are looking to add mushrooms to the bowl, cook them fully, lightly sauteed is fine. If you are looking to use them therapeutically, then please feel free to get in touch for advice and guidance. Eggs There’s a reason eggs are the protein reference. They contain the full essential amino acid profile. Eggs contain essential lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and trace elements including vitamin A, iron, vitamin B12, riboflavin, choline, zinc and calcium. Egg proteins are distributed equally between egg white and egg yolk, whilst lipids, vitamins and minerals are essentially concentrated in the egg yolk. The yolk is a rich source of linoleic acid and as we know, LA is abundant in the epidermis of the skin, so eggs are a great source of food to support skin health. There are also a range of proteins found in the egg that exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic activity. Avidin is seen to target bacteria, lysozyme is seen to target bacteria, virus and fungi, and cystatin targets the above with parasites included! Where you source your eggs from is essential, free-range birds produce more nutrient dense eggs than caged. Free-rearing results in much higher levels of tocopherol, alpha-tocopherol and lutein content. The anti-microbial function of the egg white is also modulated when hens are exposed to environmental microbes. Findings Here So, if you want to add egg to the bowl, source free-range and organic. You can feed raw or cooked, and the egg shell is perfectly safe to feed too! Can My Dog Eat Raw Eggs? Hemp Seeds (milled) Hemp seeds are incredibly popular for good reason! They possess a perfect ratio of omega 6:3! Hemp seeds contain an Omega 6 fatty acid called GLA (gamma linolenic acid) and research shows that GLA can support production of various prostaglandins and leukotrienes (the compounds that influence inflammation and pain). Some of the prostaglandins and leukotrienes can increase symptoms, while others decrease them. Taking GLA helps support the favoured prostaglandins and leukotrienes, helping to reduce inflammation and disease associated with inflammation such as skin disorders, reproductive issues, arthritis and more! Not only that but hemp seeds are a great source of: protein fibre vitamin E magnesium phosphorous potassium iron zinc They are also a good source of B vitamins, including: niacin riboflavin thiamine vitamin B6 folate (B9) These fresh food additions are generally tolerated by most dogs, when fed in moderation. Start slow, and only introduce one new food at a time. If you would like any more support in what to offer in your dog’s diet, then please check out our services! Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Remember, remember the 5th of November. It’s the 5th of November tomorrow although only celebrated in the U.K. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, this isn’t something we celebrate, well certainly not with fireworks. Of course fireworks aren’t a one-day celebration. We observe many holidays, in different countries throughout the year with fireworks. Sadly, this can be a difficult time for pet parents and their beloved dogs. We would also like to mention cats and other wildlife that are affected by the trauma and injury of fireworks. We decided to compile a top 10 tips, aimed more at your dog, to try and manage some of the stress that may be endured, during these times. Sound Desensitisation Probably too late for the impending f November but for future , playing a fireworks sound effect (many are available free online) at a very low level fora brief period of time can be incredibly help to build a tolerance and desensitisation to loud fireworks. Whilst playing these sounds, we suggest giving your dog a series of small, tasty dog treats and praising them when they remain calm. Then turn the sound off and stop giving treats. Repeat the process with the sound at a low level until your dog looks to you for reassurance. Always be sure to check that your dog is comfortable and not displaying signs of anxiety. Keeping the volume low to begin with is key. Gradually turn up the sound in subsequent training sessions, varying the recordings to include a variety of firework types, until your dog begins to associate the noises with goodies and praise for having a calm demeanour. Schedule a Pre-Fireworks Walk Going for a long walk or spending time playing during the day may help stimulate your dog enough before the fireworks begin. A dog that’s mentally and physically tired might be more likely to sleep. We don’t however advocate exercising your dog into the ground as this can raise cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and may actually heighten anxiety symptoms. Schedule Dinner and Toilet Time Earlier It’s important to time your dog’s meal times and toilet trips well in advance of the night getting dark. Since fireworks typically start early evening, it is good to try avoid going out whilst the fireworks are going off. Give your dog enough time to finish dinner, digest and go to the toilet before the noise begins so that he’s not forced to hold it during an already stressful time. Keep Your Dog Occupied During Fireworks If your dog isn’t too distressed to concentrate, it is good to create some distractions by giving your dog something delicious to focus on like a chew, bone (if they are used to bones),or the use of a kong filled with treats they love. Snuffle mats or search and find games can be helpful or if you dog is used to training; you can maybe create a fun activity. Drown Out the Noise The sound of fireworks will seem like unpredictable booming sounds to your dog. This can be perceived as an impending danger and make a dog feel incredibly vulnerable. While desensitising with a fireworks recording throughout the year will help your dog learn to cope with the noise, an easy way to manage fireworks anxiety during the event, is to try and drown out some of the sound with something more calming to the nervous system. We recommend playing classical music or using a recording specifically for dogs. We recommend ‘through a Dog’s Ear recording’ . Obviously belting out music may be a little alarming but find a volume loud enough to camouflage the sound of the fireworks. Reassure Your Dog You may have heard that comforting your dog in times of stress can reinforce fears. However, unless your dog wishes to be on their own, your dog may benefit from some reassurance and contact, after all a reaction to fireworks is a legitimate fear. Providing comfort during this time may be appropriate and helpful. Read your dog and don’t enforce anything they don’t want to do. Create a Safe Space Shut all blinds and curtains. Sitting in a closed, small room together, with soothing music, allowing your dog to sit or lie where he wants may work out for you. Petting or snuggling with your dog is completely acceptable if they are searching for reassurance. If your dog’s safe place is in his crate or in a small nook in the corner of your home somewhere, you can create a den or cover all sides with a blanket allowing a clear exit at all times. Try ‘Thundershirt’ Very much like swaddling a baby, a snug garment that encases and gently puts pressure on your dog’s torso, touching key acupressure trigger points, can reduce anxiety for stressful events. Get your dog used to wearing an anxiety vest, preferably a few weeks before firework season, allows your dog to become comfortable and acquainted with the garment beforehand. The Thundershirt is designed to help reduce stress in your dog and we have seen some good response to its use. Try Nutrients for Anxiety Chamomile, valerian, skullcap and lemon balm, the amino acid theanine, many vitamin B’s and magnesium are probably the main nutrients to help support anxiety. Foods rich in B vitamins, magnesium, zinc and other herbs may help greatly as well as considering supplements to aid anxiety or herbal teas given as a treat. Find out more here. Calm Complex Consult with a Professional If your dog’s anxiety doesn’t improve, find a positive behaviourist to help you and your dog work through some protocols to help with relaxation during these times. If your dog’s fireworks anxiety puts them in an inconsolable state, talk with a nutritionist or holistic veterinarian. Anxiety supplements (see above) for dogs may be helpful or if your dog poses a danger to themselves or you, medication may need to be discussed with your veterinarian. In conclusion safeguarding against the least stressful event during fireworks season is a multi-step approach. It
We often see the phrase “let food be thy medicine” bandied around, and for all intents and purposes it is accurate. We see that both health and disease are nutritionally responsive. What we mean here is that the food we eat, and feed our pets can influence their health and/or disease states. Where most think this ends with physical health, what we are seeing more and more is that food can also influence emotional states. So, can food support your anxious dog? You bet it can! So let’s take a look. Smashing Fish! Omega-3’s, in particular DHA, play critical neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory roles in the brain. Supplementation of omega-3 has been seen to: – Improve cognitive function Findings here – Reduce anxious symptoms Findings here – Reduce aggressive behaviours Findings here – Reduced stress-related hormone production Findings here Did you know? Omega-3 levels are regularly noted as being low in aggressive dogs. This isn’t indicating causation, simply an observation worth noting. We find these super-omegas in fish! Think SMASH – sardines, mackerel, anchovies, salmon and herring! Calming Chamomile Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is one of the most widely used herbal remedies in the world. While there are many varieties of chamomile, Roman (A. nobilis) and German (M. recutita) are the most widely used forms. These are members of the Compositae (Asteracae) family. German chamomile is considered the more potent and is most widely used. It has many medicinal uses including carminative (anti-colic), antiseptic, and anxiolytic. Did you know? Chamomile is notorious for its continuous bloom! Chamomile serves as a safe, general-purpose calming herb that doesn’t taste too shabby either. In human tests it has been effective in mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder. Findings Here It can be served as a tea, but is also available as an oil infusion, tincture, salve and ointment. Magnificent Magnesium Can we even talk about anxiety without mentioning this super-important mineral? Often noted as the ultimate chill pill, magnesium is an essential nutrient that many are deficient in. Its low levels are regularly established in cases of depression in humans, so it is clear it plays a role in mood modulation and the stress response. Magnesium affects several neurotransmitter systems. Firstly, it inhibits excitatory neurotransmitters. Excessive excitation can lead to the death of brain cells, which affects the overall structure and functioning of the brain. Magnesium also acts as a cofactor in the serotoninergic system. As we know serotonin is that happy chemical, and low levels of magnesium are regularly linked to low serotonin levels. Did you know? Magnesium excretion is increased during times of stress. Catecholamines and corticosteroids enhance the shift of magnesium from inside the cell to outside of the cell leading to increased urinary excretion. In turn, low magnesium levels increase the release of stress-associated hormones. This unfortunately creates a cycle of a reduced resistance to stress. So, if you have a stressed pet, you may want to take a look at how you can increase their magnesium intake. Magnesium is found in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. The ones packing the highest punch are spinach and pumpkin seeds. No wonder Popeye always looked so happy! Brilliant B-Vitamins Many of the B-Vitamins are involved in functions which directly impact the brain and nervous system. To single them out specifically, B12 and folate are reportedly low in cases of mood disorders in humans. Did you know? B-vitamins can become depleted during times of stress, the more the body requires them for tasks, the more they need replenishing. Stress also affects the lining in the stomach and compromises its function. Intrinsic factor is essential in B12 absorption but lack of production due to compromised function can significantly affect B12 levels. B-Vitamins can be found in eggs, liver, kidneys, chicken, red meat, tuna, mackerel, salmon, shellfish and dark green vegetables like spinach and kale. There’s a reason you were always told to eat your greens! Healing Herbs Skullcap and Valerian are some more of our trusted herbs to support the anxious pet. Many will recognise valerian for its similar smell to old, dirty socks! Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is commonly used for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders in humans. It has a mechanism of action similar to benzodiazepines. Valerian has been shown to decrease the removal or metabolism of GABA, thereby allowing GABA to stay around longer and do its thing, and as we know, GABA is the brake-like neurotransmitter in the body. Findings Here Valerian is available in tincture, tea and fresh or dried root. Skullcap has a similar mechanism of action to Valerian in that it is thought to be GABAergic. But it is also thought to have an effect on serotonin receptors, which is why it has reported sedative and relaxing effects. A small, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study of 43 human participants demonstrated that skullcap reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in some individuals without causing an observable reduction in energy or cognition. In both cats and dogs, skullcap has been effective in general nervousness and excitability and in any condition where there is oversensitivity in the nervous system. Skullcap is usually found in dried herb or tincture form. Food is certainly a tool in your box when supporting your pet’s well-being, if you would like any guidance then please check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Whether you are purchasing for your own pet, or for a friend or family member, buying pet products, just like food, can be a bit of a minefield. When more and more of us are trying to live sustainably, can we do this with our pets too? We’ve popped together some things to consider before you buy that next toy, chew, grooming product or bed! The Problem with Plastic It’s clear that the majority of pet products on the market are unfortunately made from plastic. Not only have we got the global issue of too much single use plastic, but it is actually harmful to health (yes, that includes our canine companions too)! A common chemical used in the production of plastic is bisphenol A, also known as BPA. We’re sure you’ve heard of it. Studies have shown that BPA affects the reproductive systems of laboratory animals suggesting it disrupts hormones, and many more body functions. Not only that but you will often find phthalates in plastic toys too. These are what makes the toy more flexible and durable. These too are known as endocrine disruptors. We know that plastic doesn’t break down (you only have to look at the poop of a post-toy-assassination) so when your dog has gotten bored of that particular toy, you’ll dispose of it, but it can’t be recycled, so it will just end up in landfill for hundreds of years! If you are looking to raise a plastic free pooch, it’s not as hard as you think. Opt for toys made out of natural materials like cotton, rope, canvas, wood, wool or bamboo. You can even make your own out of old T-shirts or towels (reusing and recycling is much better for the environment). The other thing to check when you purchase, is how durable the product is. You want to make sure it is safe; that it doesn’t have small parts that can be chewed and swallowed. Squeak toys are the worst! Dogs instinctively want to get to the squeaker, but it’s easily swallowed and can cause an obstruction. You want an item to last, so if your dog is a toy-assassin, then it’s just a waste of money buying one you know will be killed in a matter of seconds! Whilst toys are often gifts of choice, chews and treats are firm contenders too! But this can be even more of a minefield for dog owners! It pays to look at the labels of chews or treats. You need to recognise the ingredients listed. Ideally, the first ingredient should be a meat protein. View chews and treats like you would when searching for a new dog food. Whilst it’s a complementary addition to their diet, it still needs to be beneficial to their health! Look at where it is made and source as local as possible. If you are raising a plastic free pet, then opt for packaging that is totally recyclable or biodegradable too. If you choose natural chews, they often don’t even need packaging! If you are considering buying grooming products for your pet or family member pets, again reduce plastic where possible. Shampoo bars are becoming increasingly popular. They are often cruelty free and do not contain parabens, phthalates or sulfates. Most shampoo bars come in paper packaging which is 100% recyclable. Choose brushes with natural bristles and wooden handles. Perhaps bedding or blankets are your next purchases? Choose items that are machine washable, so you can keep them for a longer period of time as opposed to disposing of them when they get too dirty! When you are washing them, pop them in a guppybag. This acts as a microfilter, stopping tiny plastic particles from getting into the water system. This is especially important for fleecy items as they are made from plastic (albeit recycled). Whilst you may be trying your best to buy safely and sustainably, it can become an issue when friends or family buy for your pet. Many of us have accepted gifts knowing they will just end up in the bin. This is sad for a number of reasons. The sale has already taken place, so there has been indication of demand and secondly, it’s another item in landfill. Consider setting up a wish list for your pooch, with safe and sustainable items on. Or, start buying these products for friends and family and explain why you are so excited about them. Hopefully, they’ll too see the benefits and pass them on the next time they buy a gift. As Bernadette Jiwa suggested “…in a world where it’s easy to be cheaper and faster than the competition, we now recognise the limitations…humans are wired to do what feels good and what feels good to customers right now is to use their choices and purchasing power to support the building of a better tomorrow.” Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Keeping your home clean with a pooch is easier said than done, most of the time. It would be fairly accurate to say it’s like trying to brush your teeth whilst eating chocolate. Whilst most of us accept that our homes will always have some dog hair attached to the sofa and muddy paw prints by the door, there are some top cleaning solutions that can help keep your home odour free and clean! Here we have put together our top 5! Find a good odour neutraliser! It’s fairly common for many pet-parents to be conscious of dog odour when visitors call in, often the routine is to have a mad dash around the house with an air freshener before they walk through the door. This temporarily hides the odour, but what if you could prevent it getting to that stage? Air fresheners work on this thing called volatility. They break down and dissipate into the air which changes its scent. But a study carried out on 25 home fragrance products found a whopping 133 different volatile organic compounds (VOCs). 24 of these VOCs were classified as toxic or hazardous to humans Findings Here Dogs are more sensitive than humans, on a huge scale. If we were to detect a teaspoon of sugar in a cup of coffee, dogs could detect a teaspoon of sugar in a million gallons of water. Their sense of smell is 40 times greater than ours. So if air fresheners can seem overpowering to us as humans, multiply this massively for the impact on our pooch! For that reason, an odour neutraliser is a much safer option. Baking soda works wonders, as do charcoal filled bamboo bags! Stock up on white vinegar! Another household staple with dogs is white vinegar. An equally super odour neutraliser. This is great if you have a puppy or an older dog who sometimes has accidents. Findings Here If your pooch does have an accident, mop up the urine as best you can and then apply vinegar to the area. Some pet owners dilute white vinegar in a mop bucket of hot water and mop their non-porous floors with it just to keep any odours at bay too! Check their bedding! It’s easy as pet-parents to get caught up with buying that new bed for our dog. The blue one, the brown one? The memory foam one, or that one with sides? Whilst we’re so busy looking at the appearance and how comfy it is, we often forget to check the label. Can it be washed? It may sound such a simple thing, but you’d be amazed how many dog beds are on the market and you can’t actually wash them or at least strip the covers. Most owners would wash their own bedding weekly or fortnightly; why should this be any different for our pets? Keeping their bedding clean reduces odour in the home, but it also keeps any bugs at bay too! Wash as per the manufacturer’s instructions, but stay away from any fabric softeners. You can wash in white vinegar if the odour is getting a little too strong! Air/sun dry where possible. Don’t just hide it! As we’ve already mentioned, as pet parents we are often conscious of our homes smelling of dogs. It’s super easy to get into that cleaning routine where you just plug in scent diffusers, light candles, spray air fresheners and generally browse the cleaning aisles at the supermarket to find ways to make your lounge smell better. But, not only are many of these products toxic to you as a human, but long term exposure has been linked to eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and nausea and in some cases have been linked to cancer. The best way to avoid these risks is to prevent the odours forming in the first place. Buy washable blankets and bedding. Consider wipeable sofas and chairs – leather type for example. If you are ever in the position to be replacing flooring, consider how easy it is to keep clean – are they non-porous and moppable? Air your home as much as possible, it may not be easy in certain climates. Can you afford an air purifier? Vacuum or sweep up regularly, if you have a double coated breed this probably looks like a daily occurrence. Rubber bristle brushes are a lifesaver when you have a furry four legged friend! It’s worth investing in a handheld rubber bristled brush too, to remove hairs from curtains and fabric sofas! 5) Regularly groom your pooch! You can clean your home as much as you like, but if you have a smelly pooch, you’re making your life 10 times harder than it needs to be! Brush them regularly, to remove any dead hair. This reduces how much will be floating around your home. If needed, maintain regular grooming appointments with a grooming salon – if you have a spaniel whose paws are magnets to mud and water, keep them trimmed! This way, they carry less water and grime and they’re also easier to dry on the way in through the door! On that note, keep a dog towel by the door. If you’ve gotten stuck in the rain on a walk, towel dry him when you return, paws included. We all know how much a wet dog smells! Dogs have bacteria and yeasts on their skin which can be a bit pongy. As a wet dog dries, the water evaporates which brings those stinky molecules into the environment and to our noses! Drying them as much as you can will help prevent that wet dog smell! Whilst cleaning a house with a dog in it can seem a never-ending task, it’s certainly better to prevent odour and dirt build up as opposed to hiding it. Find your staple odour neutralisers and regularly wash things around your home. We are huge advocates for using natural products where possible around the home, if you would like to learn
Fats can be a little bit of a minefield, so we thought we’d explore sources of both omega-3 and omega 6 in a little more detail, and how to feed them to your dog. In dogs, the body has a requirement for two distinct EFA families. The Omega-6 and Omega-3 series. Omega-6 Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) Linoleic Acid (LA)Arachidonic Acid (AA) Omega-3 Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Omega-3 fatty acids, ALA (alpha linolenic acid) is often found in certain plants such as flax seed, sacha inchi seed, hemp seeds, chia seeds, avocado flesh only and oysters. Although ALA foods and supplements are not a substitute for fish or algae oil, due to the high Omega-6 content also, they can be an excellent additional supplement to include in the diet and added to certain meat sources. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are often found in high levels and good ratios in fish (these have the most anti-inflammatory effect). Found in salmon, tuna, trout,cod, krill, oysters, seabass, mackerel, sardines and anchovies. Non animal sources containing DHA and EPA are phytoplankton and marine algae oil. Although these are great additions to your dog’s diet, they do not contain as much DHA and EPA as fish.They therefore don’t exert as much of an anti-inflammatory effect. Let’s explore fat sources in a little more detail. Fish and Fish Oil Whole fish is a great addition to your dog’s diet but ensuring you don’t feed fish from the Pacific due to radiation, heavy metals and toxins, is essential. Feeding small fish such as krill, sardines, anchovies and mackerel are better options. Oils in this form can be found too. Oils must not be kept for longer than 3 months and also should be stored in a safe, cool, refrigerated place. Glass tinted bottles or air tight pumps and capsules are best. Always look for antioxidant technology or the addition of tocopherol (vitamin E 4-10 iu for 1 gram is good). Quality is key as is storage to prevent rancidity. Algae Oil Algae are aquatic, plant-like organisms. Algae is always a great option for dogs allergic to or who don’t like fish. Algae sources are also DHA dominant as opposed to fish that are EPA dominant. Phytoplankton Phytoplankton are microorganisms that drift about in water. Phytoplankton are photosynthetic (have the ability to use sunlight to produce energy) and whilst they are plant-like with this ability, phytoplankton are not plants. They do however contain DHA and EPA and hold similar values to algae. Phytoplankton is a good option for those who want a sustainable product, as it can be grown in filtered water, free from heavy metals and toxicity found in the ocean. Hemp Seeds Milled and Hemp Seed Oil (Non Psychoactive) The reason hemp seed oil and hemp seeds milled are so popular is because of the perfect ratio it offers of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids; 3:1. Hempseed contains the Omega 6 fatty acid called GLA (gamma linolenic acid). Research shows that GLA can support production of various prostaglandins and leukotrienes (the compounds that influence inflammation and pain). Some of the prostaglandins and leukotrienes can increase symptoms, while others decrease them. Taking GLA helps support the favoured prostaglandins and leukotrienes, helping to reduce inflammation and disease associated with inflammation such as skin disorders, reproductive issues, arthritis and cancer. Recommended approximate amounts of fats to feed your dog Whole Fish Feed 28-30 grams of fish per 450 grams of ruminant fed. Feed 112-120 grams for every 450 grams of poultry fed. Fish Oil Must be made from sardines, mackerel or anchovies. There will be less toxins and only mostly fed from phytoplankton. Phytoplankton Follow instructions on the phytoplankton you purchase as they frequently differ in volume. Hempseed, Milled Feed 4-6 tsp per 1kg of food. Hempseed Oil Feed up to 1 tsp per 5kg of weight If you are unsure on which fats or how to feed them to your pet, then check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Fats get a bad rap in the human world, we were told for decades that fat makes us fat and it’s not great for our cholesterol either. Thankfully, we have more balanced data available and we now know that it’s more about the type of fat that we eat. But, we can still be a little confused about the types of fats available and we can bring this confusion to our dog’s diet too. So, let’s take a look at fats for the canine. The different types and the functions of them around the body. What Are Fats? Dietary fat is a group of compounds (substances made up of two or more elements) known as lipids. They are insoluble in water (hydrophobic). The easiest way to understand this is noticing that you can’t wash fat off your hands without the help of soap. Lipids that are solid at room temperature are usually called fats, whereas those liquid at room temperature are called oils. Lipids can then be further categorised into: Simple: include triglycerides, which are the most common form of fat in the diet. These are the best reserve of food material, and act as an insulator and protector of internal organs. Compound: consist of a lipid and a non-lipid compound; lipoproteins are compound lipids and these are what carry fat around in the bloodstream. Derived: products of simple and compound lipids. These include sterol (sub-group of steroids) compounds such as cholesterol, and fat-soluble vitamins. Yes you read that right, we need fat to produce steroid hormones like cortisol (regulator of the stress response) and sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone). Fats can then be differentiated by the types of fatty acids they contain. Fatty Acids Fatty acids can be saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated. The difference is in their structure. Saturated fatty acids contain no double bonds between the carbon atoms and are therefore saturated with hydrogen. Monounsaturated fatty acids have one double bond (mono=one). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have two or more double bonds (poly=many). The more double bonds a fatty acid has, the less stable the molecule, which means it is more susceptible to oxidation, resulting in rancidity. This is why fish oils should be stored in a dark, glass bottle and why PUFA rich oils aren’t the best to fry your eggs with. The double bonds found in unsaturated fats can take different configurations, cis or trans. Naturally occurring unsaturated fatty acids have cis configurations. However, trans configurations are usually introduced into foods during manufacturing/processing. Trans fatty acids have been known to negatively affect lipoproteins which, in humans, have been associated with a range of diseases. Findings Here The Function of Fat Fat enters the body from the diet and finds its way through the stomach, and into the small intestine. Here it is bombarded with enzymes from the pancreas (lipase), and bile salts from the liver. During this process, fat and cholesterol is packaged into particles called chylomicrons. The fatty acids are now small enough to be passed through the lymphatic system and then into the bloodstream. As triglycerides are metabolised on the journey, the chylomicron gets smaller; resulting in a remnant which is rich in cholesterol. This is then taken in by the liver and repackaged which can then be released by the liver at a later stage. Your Pet’s Lymphatic System Fat as Energy Fatty acids are used throughout the body for a range of functions, primarily energy, but if they are not needed, they can be stored in adipose tissue. Here, they are an energy source for a later stage. They also serve as insulation, protecting the body from heat loss and also from injury or trauma to vital organs. Dogs seem to be more efficient at using fat as energy than humans. It is thought that albumin (a globular protein made by the liver) binds more free fatty acids in dogs than in other species, so the concentration of fatty acids in the blood is higher and therefore the delivery of fatty acids to muscles is higher. So, fat provides energy, but it also contributes to many metabolic and structural functions. Other Functions Of Fat As we have mentioned, lipoproteins provide for the transport of fats throughout the body, and cholesterol is used to form the bile salts necessary for fat digestion and absorption. It is also a precursor for steroid hormones which help control metabolism, salt and water balance, inflammation, immune function and more. Along with other lipids, cholesterol forms a protective layer in the skin too! The body can synthesise most of the fatty acids it needs, but there are some it cannot, and these are known as essential fatty acids. In dogs, the body has a requirement for two distinct EFA families. The Omega-6 and Omega-3 series. Omega-6 Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) Linoleic Acid (LA) Arachidonic Acid (AA) Omega-3 Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) In most animals, AA can be synthesised from LA, so there isn’t always a dietary requirement for AA (there is for cats). Fatty Acids and Inflammation Eicosanoids are products of the oxidation of the omega families; they are collectively known as prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes. Prostaglandins – these are a group of lipids made at sites of tissue damage or infection. They control inflammation, blood flow and the formation of blood clots. Thromboxane is a substance made by platelets which causes blood clotting and constriction of blood vessels. Leukotrienes are proinflammatory molecules; more commonly noticed for their role in allergy response. They are released when the body encounters an allergen or trigger. The amount and type of eicosanoids synthesised depends largely on the availability and type of fatty acid found in cell membranes. Eicosanoids play an important role in the body, they modulate many processes including reproduction, blood pressure, haemostasis (the process to prevent and stop bleeding) and inflammation. They can be synthesised from AA, GLA and EPA, however, those synthesised from AA are proinflammatory compared to those derived from GLA and
Would you be surprised to know that the skin has developed its own local HPA axis to regulate its exposure to stressors? Recent mapping has found that all regulatory elements found in the central HPA axis are expressed in skin! Could this explain why skin issues tend to worsen when us humans are stressed? More importantly, when skin issues are the top issue facing the majority of dog owners we see here at My Pet Nutritionist, is this something we need to consider? The short answer is yes. So, let us take a deeper dive at what the HPA axis is and how this can influence our pet’s skin issues. The HPA Axis Most of us have heard at one time or another the mention of the HPA axis when we talk about the stress response. It stands for hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. In short, the hypothalamus in the brain receives a message that we are being exposed to a stressor, it then sends a message to the pituitary gland which then sends another message to the adrenal glands. It is the adrenal glands that release the hormones we typically associate with stress, like cortisol and adrenaline/noradrenaline. These stress hormones flood the body, and help it deal with whatever the stressor may be – and then when it has passed, the hormones stop being produced; the body then returns to homeostasis. This exact response also occurs in our pets when faced with a stressful situation, and so our pets too have a HPA axis. Now we know what the HPA axis does, let’s see how the skin has developed its own local axis. The Skin’s HPA Axis The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this in the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the environment. This is the often-forgotten role of the skin – that it forms part of the immune system. When we think of the skin as the first layer of defence in the immune system, and therefore a type of radar, it makes absolute sense that it should have its own response to stress. It seems that skin cells, known as keratinocytes, can produce the same hormones and neurotransmitters that the “internal” stress response does. These include: corticotropin-releasing-hormone (CRH) cortisol adrenaline noradrenaline dopamine histamine acetylcholine All of these compounds help the body deal with a stressor, they include increasing heart rate, upregulating energy conversion and redirecting resources to those functions that are necessary. So, the skin, we can think of like a radar. It constantly senses the environment and reacts to various stressors like humidity, temperature, changes in the skin microbiome and of course injuries. CRH is possibly the most studied hormone and in the skin, it is involved in the proinflammatory response. When exposed to a stressor, CRH brings an inflammatory response to help manage the threat. If your dog scratched himself, the inflammatory response would be a normal part of healing. However, a natural by-product of this process is that it increases skin permeability which isn’t great long term. The skin serves as a protective barrier and if it becomes permeable, harmful compounds can sneak in, which can cause further problems around the body. Acute Vs. Chronic Stress Like everything, moderation is key – acute stress is manageable, the issue is when it becomes chronic. Where this becomes even more problematic is that animal studies have suggested that skin stress can initiate a central HPA axis response. When researchers exposed rodents to UVB radiation, they found increased stress responses in the adrenal glands. So, not only can the skin respond directly to a stressor, but it can bring the central response to the party too! What this means is that skin stress can cause body wide stress, and again this becomes an issue in chronic skin issues – leading to chronic activation of the “internal” stress response. To add insult to injury, psychological stress increases the production of “internal” stress hormones which then affects skin cell growth and function, compromising structure and altering skin permeability. So not only can skin stress cause psychological stress, but psychological stress can cause skin stress. You can see how this can become a challenging cycle to break. But what we must remember is that most functions in the body serve a necessary function and this mechanism (although challenging) is no different. HPA Axis and Skin Barrier The HPA axis in the skin responds to various stressors to regulate homeostasis – it serves to counteract any threat so normal function can resume. The compounds produced and released all serve important roles in maintaining a healthy skin barrier. ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is involved in melanin production which protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation. In dogs, it is melanin that contributes to skin and hair colour. In autoimmune conditions, melanocytes can be destroyed which results in depigmentation. This is also why if you have a dog who has repeated skin trauma (scratching etc) they develop visibly darker skin in those areas. Keratinocytes with more melanin display superior barrier function – which is why the body attempts to achieve it in repeated trauma. Endorphins are also released during skin stress. This enhances epidermal turnover rate, again to protect skin function. This could be why
Caring for our pets can become a bit of a minefield – the more we know, the more we realise there is so much more to know! We thought we’d share 6 of the things we think every pet owner should have in their toolkit. Slippery Elm Slippery elm is a deciduous tree found in forests of the eastern half of the USA and Canada. Slippery Elm is related to the American Elm (ulmus americana) and is sometimes called Red Elm or Moose Elm. It is best used in the digestive tract, where it serves as a soothing, protecting and lubricating demulcent and general astringent at the same time. It creates a mucilage lining where it soothes the passage of food, inflammation and is believed to protect and heal the mucosal lining. The inner bark of the Slippery Elm is not only packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B complex, C, K, calcium, magnesium and sodium, but it is thought to have a number of properties including: Demulcent – when mixed with water, it results in a sticky substance known as mucilage. Demulcents are often referred to as mucoprotective agents and this is why slippery elm is often used to soothe the lining of the digestive tract. It is a common addition when tackling acid reflux. Laxative – data has suggested that slippery elm can enhance bowel movements. Urinary health – slippery elm has been seen to calm the irritation and inflammation associated with urinary infections. Antioxidant capacity – slippery elm contains tannins which display strong antioxidant capacity and protection against reactive oxygen species. Anti-inflammatory – mice models have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in the stomach and intestines. In addition, slippery elm has been seen to influence immune system activity. Skin health – the phenolic compounds found in slippery elm have been seen to modulate inflammatory skin disease. Use with Caution: if allergic to elm trees in pregnancy There is also the suggestion that as slippery elm coats the digestive tract, it could prevent absorption of other medication or herbs; sometimes it may be advised to offer slippery elm at different times to others. Sadly, the tree is declining so slippery elm should be reserved for circumstances where alternatives are ineffective. In many instances slippery elm can be substituted with plantain (Plantagosp.) If a more mucilaginous remedy is needed, marshmallow root (Altheaofficinalis) is an excellent alternative. Sustainable sources should always be sought after. Probiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits to the host when ingested in adequate amounts. They are not to be confused with prebiotics which are selectively fermented ingredients that result in specific changes in the composition and/or activity of the gut microbiota. Synbiotics are products that contain both. Probiotics are live microbes that can be formulated into many different types of products from food to supplements. The most common probiotics you’ve come across will likely be lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. They are reported to suppress diarrhoea, exhibit antimicrobial activities, reduce irritable bowel symptoms, prevent inflammatory bowel disease and support gut integrity and overall health. The more we are learning about probiotic use, the more we are realising that the benefits associated are bacterial strain specific. What this means is the devil is in the detail. In addition, to function as a probiotic, the bacteria must: – Survive the acid and bile in the GI tract – Adhere to intestinal cells or colonise areas within the tract – Exclude pathogenic adherence – Produce acids, or other compounds which antagonise the growth of pathogens – Be safe, non-invasive, non-carcinogenic and non-pathogenic The primary bacterial populations included in probiotics that have been seen to benefit both cats and dogs are lactic acid bacteria, especially lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and enterococci. – Enterococcus faecium (two strains) – Lactobaciullus acidophilus – Bifidobacterium animalis However, Lactobacillus rhamnosus is also known to be of benefit to dogs, as is saccharomyces boulardii. Why Probiotics Are Good For You and Your Dog Colloidal Silver Silver is recognized to have antimicrobial activity. There are three main ways in which it achieves this. Firstly, silver cations can form pores and puncture the bacterial cell wall by reacting with the peptidoglycan component. Secondly, silver ions can enter into the bacterial cell, both inhibiting cellular respiration and disrupting metabolic pathways resulting in generation of reactive oxygen species. Lastly, once in the cell silver can also disrupt DNA and its replication cycle. For these reasons, colloidal silver can have many uses. Clay Bentonite clay can be interchangeably referred to as Montmorillonite clay and are both regarded as an absorbent aluminium phyllosilicate clay from the Smectites family. They are both named after regions they come from but in nature they have the same structure and have a much higher absorption capacity than other clays found in nature and on the market. It has been used and eaten since ancient times as humans believed in its therapeutic benefits. Due to many skin issues arising from immune reactions and toxicity, Bentonite can be calming and cooling both applied internally and externally. Internally, Bentonite clay has proven to remove many different bacteria and fungi, including candida albicans, that can lead to skin issues. Applied externally (clay being wet and made into a paste) can help hotspots, wounds, calm itching and help fungal infections. Bentonite clay has for a long time been considered as an effective treatment for diarrhoea, IBS and IBD too. A trial in 1961, was shown that orally administered bentonite treated 97% of cases with different causative factors of diarrhoea. These being virus, infection, food allergy, spastic colitis, mucous colitis, and food poisoning. In addition, Bentonite clay is negatively charged and so manages to attract and pull out toxins that by nature are positively charged. Leucillin Leucillin is an anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal solution which has many uses. It is a solution containing HOCl (hypochlorous acid). HOCl is an endogenous substance in all mammals and is effective against a broad range of microorganisms. Neutrophils, eosinophils, mononuclear phagocytes, and B lymphocytes produce HOCl in response
