Sadly, there are a colossal number of dogs that suffer with their skin, whether seasonal, or 365 days of the year. So, what on earth is going on? Let’s take a look at the skin in a little more detail, what it is, what its function is and what can go wrong. The skin is actually the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – this layer supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. Here you will find cells and compounds involved in inflammatory response and therefore allergies. The Subcutis –this in the innermost layer of the skin, here 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 elements. In dogs, their hair also forms a barrier, therefore hair health is synonymous with skin health, and a dog’s coat type can actually influence skin status. Could My Dog’s Coat Type Contribute to Skin Issues? This protective barrier in fact forms part of the immune system. It is the first line of defence. It does this in two ways: – Through its physical structure – Through its microbiome Gut Guardian The Physical Structure As we have noted, the skin has three layers. Keratinocytes are produced in stem cells and they push their way up through the layers; being smothered in lipids as they go. When they reach the epidermis, they harden and form a tight structure. These eventually shed, and new cells make their way up. Issues arise when this tight structure becomes fragile. We can think of it in a similar thread to leaky gut. What Is The Gut Barrier? In cases of leaky gut, it becomes permeable to larger proteins or pathogens. In short, things from the gut get to places they shouldn’t really be. In leaky skin, the tight structure hasn’t formed, and so potentially harmful compounds can get through the skin layers and go to places they shouldn’t be either. When ours, or our dog’s immune system senses non-self-compounds (those that have gotten through its first line of defence), it mounts an inflammatory response resulting in swelling, itching, pain and so on. If we consider the itchy dog, they gnaw at their paws because they are itchy, this then compromises the skin structure causing further inflammation and so the cycle continues. The other way in which the skin serves to protect is through its microbiome. Not surprisingly when there is dysbiosis in the microbiome of the skin, conditions like atopic dermatitis often ensue. Dysbiosis simply means out of balance. There are good bugs, and bad bugs, and the aim is to keep them in balance. Tackling Atopic Dermatitis In Pets We know that in the canine, there are different species found on different areas of the skin. We also know that the populations found differ between allergic and healthy dogs and that lower diversity is often observed in recurring skin issues in the canine. So, what affects the diversity in the skin microbiome? Colonisation occurs during and immediately after birth. As the newborn puppy moves through the birth canal, he is exposed to a variety of bacteria from the Dam. Once puppy is born and grooming begins, Mum passes even more over to her offspring. What is important to note is that grooming behaviour is significantly reduced in the stressed Mother, and so less microbes are therefore shared with the offspring. This again demonstrates the need to fully research where you have your puppy from. In humans it is thought that the microbiome stabilises somewhat in the first 2-3 years of life, but there isn’t yet a clear answer on this time frame in the canine world. Given the development of a puppy compared to a human child, we can say for certain that those first few months of life are incredibly important. There is also a clear distinction between male and female microbiome, therefore suggesting hormonal influences. This poses food for thought in the neutered pet and how their microbiome is subsequently affected. The environment has a huge impact on the microbiome of the skin. There are noted variations in skin microbial communities between those living rurally and those in urban areas. There is also an increase in chemical use associated with urban living, which also influences the composition of the microbiome. Diversity is significantly reduced with the use of detergents and antibacterial cleaning products. Potentially pathogenic taxa is also increased as there are fewer good guys to keep the bad guys in check. This is why skin issues like acne or dermatitis are deemed western diseases; they simply just aren’t found on the skin of indigenous tribes or on that of individuals from non-industrialised societies. Findings Here Unnecessary use of antibiotics also affects the microbiome, along with excessive use of grooming products and of course nutrition. Does My Dog Have a Gut-Skin Axis? Skin Dysfunction When the physical barrier is broken, non-self-compounds can invade the body, kick-starting an inflammatory response. This results in redness, swelling and so on. These can be pathogens, but they can also be irritants. These irritants need to be managed by the body, but in some cases the burden can be too high and so the body remains in a state of chronic inflammation. This is why removing environmental exposure to toxins is so important in managing skin issues. Does My Pet Need To Detox? Skin issues often go hand in hand with food sensitivities, and so an elimination diet here is essential. Elimination Diets For Dogs But skin issues can also be a result of pain. Some dogs will nibble and chew at
Obesity is a huge problem in the pet world. Whilst official figures are quite reserved in their rates, the true number of pets who are obese or overweight is worrying. Being overweight increases the risk factors for developing: Cancer Diabetes Heart disease Osteoarthritis and degeneration of joints Urinary bladder stones Surgery complications Respiratory difficulties Kidney disease All things considered, it’s easy to see why obesity significantly reduces lifespan and why it is something that really needs to be addressed. What is Obesity? Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amounts of adipose tissue. It is generally a state of positive energy balance. When food is ingested, it is digested and metabolised. The body uses the nutrients it needs and converts the main macronutrients to energy. On a simplistic level, it could be argued that obesity is the result of eating more food than is needed to carry out normal daily activities. However, we know that obesity is far more complex than this. Whilst this can be an issue for some pets, we must also consider other factors which contribute to weight gain in pets. Obese Microbes When we said obesity is multifactorial, we weren’t kidding. Studies have demonstrated that transplanting the microbes from an overweight mouse to a lean mouse, would subsequently make the lean mouse, fat. Findings here The suggestion is that the presence of a particular gut microbial community may affect how much energy is extracted from the diet. Antibiotics of course play a role in this. Studies have shown that treatment with antibiotics markedly influences body composition. In short, low diversity in the gut is associated with marked overall adiposity. There are a range of factors that can contribute to low diversity in the gut including: Maternal grooming behaviour Newborn environment Medications/antibiotics Diet Environmental toxins Stress Microbes can also drive hunger. In short, they secrete proteins that generate cravings for the substances they thrive on. Many processed foods are calorie dense but not nutrient dense. This is worth considering for the hungry dog who never appears to be satisfied. Predisposing Genes There is also a polymorphism found on four genes that can contribute to canine obesity. Not surprisingly one particular variant is found in some Labradors. This variant regulates how the brain recognises hunger and feelings of being full. Findings here This doesn’t mean that these dogs are destined to be obese, what it means is that their environment needs more modification than those dogs who don’t possess the variant. Hormones It seems that, on a simplistic level, certain hormones cause fat cells to suck up fatty acids more readily than they otherwise would or slow down the rate at which triglycerides are converted back. Both oestrogen and testosterone have been shown to decrease the rate at which certain cells take up free fatty acids, which results in keeping the fat cells relatively small (and why in humans you will notice differences in fat gain between males and females). This is why after neutering your pet, you are advised to monitor their weight as more often than not, they gain weight. Thyroid Issues The thyroid gland releases hormones that regulate your dog’s metabolism, so a thyroid condition could cause your dog to rapidly gain weight if it reduces the amount of hormones being produced. This condition is known as hypothyroidism and can cause weight gain, lethargy, dull or dry coat, or oily, greasy skin. Hypothyroidism in Pets Cushing’s Disease Cushing’s disease in dogs, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition where a dog’s body produces too much of the stress hormone cortisol. Hyper meaning too much, adreno meaning the adrenal gland and corticism refers to the outer part, or cortex of the adrenal gland. Cushing’s in dogs is the opposite to Addison’s disease, which is when the body doesn’t produce enough hormones. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs Generally if your dog is gaining weight over a period of time, it is worth looking at their food intake compared with their activity levels. If you see a more rapid onset of weight gain, it could be worth getting your dog checked over for any underlying health issues. Check out our blogs for managing obesity in pets: Obesity in Pets – Part One Obesity in Pets – Part Two If you are concerned about your pet’s health, then check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
If you have followed us here at My Pet Nutritionist for any length of time, you’ll know that we’re great advocates for the inclusion of veggies for their prebiotic and fibrous benefits. But there are also times where we would avoid certain veggies. Keen to learn more? Read on. Nightshade Vegetables and Arthritis Some believe that the solanine contained in nightshade vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes and potatoes may increase levels of inflammation in the body. Whilst there is disagreement over the mechanism, humans suffering with arthritis often report a worsening of symptoms after eating nightshade vegetables. There is one school of thought that it could be more to do with a sensitivity to the food, which results in an inflammatory response, contributing body wide circulating cytokines. Whilst nightshade veggies are a great source of certain nutrients, there are other foods which can provide these and so if you notice a worsening of arthritic symptoms, it’s an easy change to make. Natural Arthritis Guide Lectins and Should My Dog Eat Them? Goitrogenic/Cruciferous Veggies in Thyroid Issues The thyroid gland produces three important metabolic hormones, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and calcitonin. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the anterior pituitary gland controls the production of these hormones. Iodine, derived mainly from sea-foods or consumed in the form of iodised salt, is utilised for producing T3 and T4 hormones. T3 and T4 hormones affect every cell and organ in the body. They regulate the rate at which the body uses energy, which subsequently affects weight loss or gain. They raise or lower body temperature. These hormones influence the speed at which food moves through the digestive system. They affect brain development and also control the way muscles contract. Common thyroid disorders in our pets include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, meaning the thyroid is either under-active or overactive. Ultimate Guide: Hyperthyroidism Ultimate Guide: Hypothyroidism Goitrogens are plant chemicals that can decrease the production or activation of thyroid hormone, meaning they slow thyroid function. These foods are commonly known as goitrogenic, which means they contain substances which slow the thyroid’s ability to uptake iodine. If eaten in excess, these foods interfere with the efficient function of the thyroid gland. The strongest goitrogens are soy products, but moderate inhibitors include: Broccoli Cabbage Kale Cauliflower Brussels sprouts All/Starchy Veggies in Yeast Issues Around 150 strains of yeast are thought to utilise starch as a sole carbon source for aerobic growth. In short what this means is starch is food for yeast! Starch, or amylum, is a complex carbohydrate that exists in many foods, including grains, vegetables, and fruits. Sources of starch are primarily: Maize Tapioca Wheat Potatoes The extraction of pure starch from food produces a white, tasteless, and odourless powder that doesn’t dissolve in cold water or alcohol. Starch is a natural polymer, or polysaccharide, meaning that it is a long chain comprising one type of molecule. Starch consists of glucose molecules. It can occur in two forms: amylose and amylopectin. You may be familiar with this wording as amylase is a digestive enzyme which helps break down starch. Yeast or candida is an opportunistic fungal pathogen but a normal part of the gastrointestinal flora and genital tracts. The issue is when there’s an overgrowth. If we are tackling an overgrowth, the last thing we want to do it continue feeding it and as you’ve now realised, starch is a great food source for yeast! Is Your Dog A Yeasty Beasty? All Veggies in the Case of An Elimination Diet When we are supporting a dog with digestive issues, we need to know exactly what is contributing to their symptoms. For this reason, we would avoid feeding all vegetables when running an elimination diet. Just like a dog can have a sensitivity to a certain meat type like chicken or beef, they can also have a sensitivity to fruits and vegetables. It’s important to remember that an elimination diet is a diagnostic tool – not a long-term lifestyle and in some cases, a means to give the immune system a welcomed break. In running an elimination diet, we follow the 4 R’s. – Remove – remove offending foods, one at a time and note changes in symptoms. Quite often, even offending foods can be reintroduced at a later stage. – Repair – support immunity and gut healing with ingredients like slippery elm, de-glycerised liquorice, glutamine, and N-acetyl-glucosamine. It is also important to consider how existing medications are affecting gut healing for example, steroid use impairs intestinal absorption which is linked to several gastrointestinal dysfunctions. – Restore – as the microbiome is key in the development of the immune system, supporting this is essential, however, the introduction of specific pre and probiotic foods is often best left whilst we get to the root cause. – Replenish – indigestibility of food proteins can also contribute to their antigenic nature, so consider any long-term medication use including proton pump inhibitors which affect gastric acid secretion. Ensuring HCL, pepsin and digestive enzymes are in good supply will help get the digestive system back to doing what it does best! Elimination Diets For Dogs We can’t deny the fibrous benefits of many vegetables along with their nutrient content, but when we are tackling a specific health issue in a pet, we must prioritise. We can often get those benefits in other ways if we think outside of the box. If you would like any support with your pet’s health and some outside of the box thinking, then please check our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Whilst we get skin issues across the board in dogs; we can’t deny that certain breeds are more predisposed than others. But if we have a list in our mind of those dogs who we think are more likely to suffer, have we even considered that their coat type may play a role? We’re going to take a look at those double coated breeds specifically, and why they may suffer with skin challenges. The Canine Coat When we are discussing the canine coat, we include both the skin and hair/fur. Both have their own individual functions, and both are crucial to your dog’s ability to thrive. 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 is 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 elements. The hair sprouting from the follicles in the skin, known as hair or fur, also protects against harsh weathers, temperatures, and ultraviolet light damage. Double coats are generally termed fur and single coats are generally termed hair. Although, most owners, and groomers for that matter, use the phrases interchangeably. Double Coats vs. Single Coats Dogs can have primary and secondary hairs. Primary hairs are single hairs that grow from a follicle. If present, secondary hairs exit from the same follicle and you can have anywhere from 3-15 of them exiting alongside a primary hair from the same follicle. Primary hairs are often referred to as guard hairs or the outer coat and secondary hairs are referred to as the undercoat. Double coated breeds have both primary and secondary hairs, like the German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, Husky and Akita whereas single coated breeds simply have primary hairs, which include breeds like the Poodle or Bichon Frise. In double coated breeds, hair growth and the thickness of the undercoat is largely responsive to the environment. Cold months call for a thick undercoat where air can be trapped right next to the outer layer of the skin. Think of it like a wetsuit. A wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between your body and the suit. This layer of water is then warmed by your body and water is a great conductor of heat! On the other side of this scale, warm months call for a thinner undercoat that is well-brushed and not impacted. This allows air to circulate, drawing cool air over the skin. A regular issue in double-coated breeds is an impacted undercoat. This is where the secondary hairs become matted. Air is unable to circulate, meaning it gets trapped and warmed up from the heat of the body. The issue is further compounded if you have a damp coat from rainy walks, dips in the pond or after the regular hydrotherapy session and in this scenario, skin health can be compromised. The Canine Skin Not only does the skin provide a barrier to the elements, but its very composition also provides an immunological and microbial barrier because of its bacterial community. This is known as its microbiome. The skin microbiome is made up of a range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They usually function symbiotically; helpful microorganisms keep potentially harmful microorganisms in check. The issue is when there is an imbalance; we know this as dysbiosis. It has been established time and time again, when dogs and humans are suffering with red and itchy skin, there have been alterations in the skin microbiome. Generally, some bacteria have grown in numbers and others have reduced. A healthy skin microbiome is necessary for the correct function of mast cells founds in the dermis and mast cells mediate inflammatory responses like hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. Subsequently, those dogs suffering with atopic dermatitis are then more sensitive to environmental allergens. It is rather easy to see how skin issues can become so complex. Unfortunately, there are a range of things that can affect the composition of the skin microbiome: – Genes – Lifestyle, including nutrition – Environment – Family make up (other pets) – Personal and home hygiene In healthy dogs the most common bacteria are proteobacteria, closely followed by firmicutes, actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and cyanobacteria. Interestingly, healthy dogs have a higher community of beta proteobacteria ralstonia spp. than those dogs suffering with allergies. The type of bacteria also varies depending on the site of the body, for example, there will be different bacteria found between toe digits to that found in the groin area. Findings Here This is because all bacteria have their own needs to survive. They need food, water and the correct environment which includes a specific temperature, to them. Some bacteria will thrive in cooler temperatures, some prefer warmer climates. This is why we need to pay attention to the coat condition of your double coated breed. Your dog will have their own community of bacteria on their skin. Some bacteria will outnumber others. Which bacteria thrive will largely depend on your dog’s lifestyle, including nutrition. If your double coated breed has gotten wet on a rainy walk or loves swimming, they will get a damp coat. You may towel them off and allow them to dry off in front of the fire or radiator. Star fishing in a centrally heated home is quite far removed from the
There can be a number of reasons why your dog may be suffering with their ears. We’ve compiled some of the more common ones. The Link Between Sensitivities and Itchy Ears Itchy ears often go hand in hand with sensitivities – so you may notice digestive issues alongside itchy ears, paws and more. In order to optimise gut health, check out our blog here: 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health For Pets We can often look to bacterial overgrowth in fuelling those itchy ears, and yeast is often the culprit. Gut Guardian What is Yeast? Candida is an opportunistic fungal pathogen. It is a normal part of the gastrointestinal flora and genital tracts. Healthy systems are more than capable of keeping it in check with their beneficial bacteria, but issues arise when there aren’t enough good guys to keep the bad guys in check, this is what we know as dysbiosis and it can occur in the microbiome of the gut, but also the skin and more! Is Your Dog A Yeasty Beast? Factors that can contribute to dysbiosis: Chronic or excessive antibiotic use Stress Environmental toxins; bisphenol, phthalates, heavy metals, pesticides Poor gut integrity Nutrition Weakened immune function But there are a few other factors to consider when we are addressing our dog’s itchy ears… Why Is My Dog’s Ear Itchy? Anatomy or Breed Certain breeds with those long ears; the ones who end up dragging them in their food or water bowl can be more likely to suffer with bacterial overgrowth. We’re thinking spaniel or setters here. Those long ears provide a warm and moist environment for certain bacteria to thrive. It’s also a consideration for those breeds with greater amounts of hair inside their ear, those who your groomer recommends plucking out! We’re thinking poodles and alike. Whilst it may be a haven for certain bacteria having the hair there, if there is trauma through the act of plucking, we could inadvertently be opening the skin up to infection. In this scenario, it can often feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. Type of Food Fed Yeasts seem to like sugar as fuel, so diets high in grains, starches and other carbohydrates seem to contribute to an overgrowth. Generally, certain beneficial bacteria will metabolise these sugars, keeping candida in check by disrupting its food supply, but in the absence of good bacteria, candida is partying it down at the all-you-can-eat buffet! Whilst we advocate a fresh food diet, in cases of bacterial overgrowth it can be sensible to avoid certain fruits whilst getting a handle on the situation – fruit contains sugar too! Water Babies! Those dogs who love to swim or spend time at hydro can be more prone to ear issues. Again, it creates a perfect environment for certain bacteria to thrive when they are warm and damp. It’s always best to dry your dog’s ears after spending time in water. Especially with those warmer temperatures in hydro pools. Location of walks Where your dog walks or runs can mean exposure to certain grass seeds which can find their way into our dog’s ears. Not only are they initially painful and irritating, if not removed they can cause a whole host of further issues. Parasites Our dogs can be exposed to fleas, ticks or mites which can cause itching. If you would like to learn more about parasites and natural approaches to managing them, check out our blogs below: Parasites and What You Really Need To Know Natural Flea and Worming Treatments Ear Issues as a Report Card Ear issues, or rather itchy ears, can often seem like a never-ending battle, and this is largely because they’re seen as a symptomology to treat. Perhaps we need to see them as a report card. Of course, they could be telling us that our dog has been swimming and we forgot to dry their ears, or they could be telling us there’s a lodged grass seed which needs attention. There could also be a parasite burden. But they could also tell us that our dog’s immune system is a little out of whack; perhaps our dog never managed to rebalance that Th response. They could be telling us our companion’s microbial community isn’t harmonious. Our dog’s ears could be the sign our dog’s food isn’t suiting them and we need to find alternatives. Those ears could also be showing us that there is an excessive burden on detoxification pathways in the body. The reason ear issues often become chronic is because the root cause is rarely explored. We’d be looking to address immune balance and function: Do We Need To Boost Our Pet’s Immune System? We’d be supporting digestive health: Optimal Gut Health For Pets We’d be considering toxin burden: Does my Pet Need To Detox? Liver Guard And we may be considering an elimination diet: Elimination Diets For Dogs But these are only some pieces of the puzzle, we have decades of experience exploring the root cause of symptoms, so head on over to our services page to see how we can help your dog. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
The term allergy is commonly used within the pet nutrition realm. Whilst allergies to cleaning products or compounds in the environment do occur, the true incidence of food allergy in dogs is quite low. Whilst allergies do exist, we tend to see a higher number of intolerances, so what’s the difference and do we need to approach them differently? Let’s take a look at allergies and intolerances in dogs. What is a food allergy? A food allergy or other allergic response is caused by an IgE antibody reacting towards that allergen. IgE binds to mast cells to promote histamine release. In short, the immune system has sensed the particle and wants to get rid of it at all costs. You’ll know the hallmark signs of an allergy if you are unfortunate to suffer with hay fever, but the common symptoms of an allergy include: Itching Hives Swelling Coughing Sneezing/wheezing Watery eyes Anaphylaxis What is a food intolerance? In the case of a food intolerance, we tend to discuss it in terms of IgG. IgG is the work horse antibody; it is the soldier, the memory antibody. This is what gets drafted when your dog is exposed to something they have already figured out a response to. Symptoms usually begin within a few hours of eating the food that your dog is intolerant to but it’s important to note that symptoms can be delayed by up to 48 hours and last for hours or even days, making the offending food especially difficult to pinpoint. IgG’s are mostly raised from the barrier mucosa in the digestive system. After a meal, there are both antibodies and complexes of food antigens bound to specific IgG’s. These complexes are quickly cleared by the reticuloendothelial system. Clinical observations suggest that due to gut inflammation and permeability (leaky gut), the digestive system is unable to digest the proteins effectively which subsequently raises IgG response to certain foods. Chronic intestinal inflammations and permeability are related to and possibly responsible for food IgG sensitivity. A point to note is that 90% of food reactivity comes from IgG’s. Intolerances can be changeable, but allergies tend to be for life and only account for around 10% of food reactivity. The common signs of an intolerance include, and are not limited to: Poor growth in young pets Itching Vomiting Diarrhoea Flatulence Recurring ear issues Acid reflux SIBO Pain or discomfort Loss of appetite As you have gathered there is a glitch in immune function in both allergies and intolerances, but we must also consider the function of the digestive system when we are tackling intolerances. It’s important to note that IgG’s come in different categories but to keep it simple, they are generally defined as cyclic or fixed. A common IgG reaction is cyclic and can take around 3 months to disappear/change. A fixed Intolerance tends to linger for longer and can take around 6 months to disappear/change, what this means is there is no quick fix to support your dog who suffers with intolerances, we’re in it for the long haul. How to Support the Intolerant Dog First of all, we prime and reset the digestive system, and this includes starting with an elimination diet, but also includes gut healing and immune balancing protocols. We follow the 4 R’s. – Remove – carry out an elimination diet. Raw or lightly cooked is the best way to do this. Cooked foods can take pressure off the digestive system, which in these cases is beneficial. Start with novel proteins (proteins your dog’s immune system has not seen before) for example, horse, ostrich, kangaroo and hare are generally well tolerated. Horse is lean too, so a great option if digestive function isn’t where it needs to be, yet. Feed this novel protein for 4-12 weeks. Ideally if you land on a novel protein that helps the itch/digestive discomfort or doesn’t make it any worse, we recommend remaining on this protein for 12 weeks. As we noted this is the time it takes for an intolerance to change. We then introduce other novel proteins – but at no more than one per week and sticking to single source. Treats need to match too! If there are signs of intolerance, then remove that protein and go back to a protein you believe is best tolerated. Notice that it’s called an elimination diet, and not an elimination lifestyle. The overall aim is to eventually maintain a strong diversity in the diet as we know this supports optimal gut health. We would be looking to reintroduce more common proteins as time went on – but this takes time. We also practice the same process when reintroducing any fruit or vegetables – one at a time, over time. It can also be worthwhile opting for a low-histamine approach when reintroducing too. – Repair – support immunity and gut healing. Include ingredients like slippery elm, de-glycerised liquorice, glutamine, and N-acetyl-glucosamine. It is also important to consider how existing medications are affecting gut healing for example, steroid use impairs intestinal absorption which is linked to several gastrointestinal dysfunctions. But, because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, they are often prescribed in cases of allergies or intolerance. Findings here – Restore – optimise microbiome health As the microbiome is key in the development of the immune system, supporting this is essential. However, the introduction of specific pre and probiotic foods or supplements is sometimes best left for a few weeks into your plan, especially when carrying out an elimination diet. There may be probiotics on the market that contain protein sources not indicated on the label – always check with the manufacturer what is contained in their product and indicate that you are carrying out an elimination diet, so you need accurate information. – Replenish Indigestibility of food proteins can also contribute to their antigenic nature, so consider any long-term medication use including proton pump inhibitors which affect gastric acid secretion. Ensuring HCL, pepsin and digestive enzymes are in good
For some dogs, their sensitivities can be year-round. In this instance we are considering their exposure to environmental toxins, the food they eat and how their immune system matured and subsequently functions. For other dogs there is a direct correlation with the time of year. Whilst the sun is shining and anything feels possible for us humans, it can be a miserable time for our seasonally itchy dogs. Many dogs have a sensitivity to grass sap and keeping them off the freshly mown lawn for a couple of days can help keep pesky irritation at bay, but some allergies are a little more complicated. As always, we are available to help you manage any chronic irritation suffered by your dog, but we thought we would give you some of our top tips that can come in handy when managing your seasonally itchy dog. If you would like to understand more of the mechanism of an allergy or sensitivity, then check out the wealth of information in our other blogs: Why Do Allergies in Dogs Develop? Does My Dog Need an Allergy Test? Your Pet’s Immune System Why Allergies and Itching Have Become Such an Epidemic Now, on to our top tips: 1) Support the Gut! As you will know if you read our articles on the immune system and the lymphatic system, in the gut you will find GALT, or gut-associated lymphoid tissue. The digestive tract is heavily laden with lymphocytes, macrophages and other cells that participate in immune responses. An allergy, in essence is an immune response gone bad, so we need to support immune function and that includes the part of the immune system found in the gut. In addition, in a poor functioning digestive system, rogue particles can end up leaking through the barriers. This can be in cases of periodontal disease (bacteria getting into the blood stream from plaque formation) and damage in the tight junctions in the intestinal tract. When this happens, the immune response is called to the area of the rogue particle to get rid of it. These systemic responses can lead to hypersensitivity, leaving the immune system a little too eager to do its job on a body wide level. It is therefore essential to support the barriers in the mouth; ensuring good dental hygiene but also to support the barrier of the gut. Look to lovely gut healing ingredients such as Slippery Elm, De-Glycerised Licorice, Glutamine and N-Acetyl Glucosamine. 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health for Pets Gut Guardian 2) Consider the overuse of pharmaceutical flea and worm treatments! Whilst there is sometimes a place for the use of pharmaceutical products in high burdens of parasites, we would always advocate the use of wormcount kits to establish any burden of worms before treatment and also the use of flea repellent products over any spot-on or tablet flea treatment. The overuse of certain pharmaceutical products can place an unusual burden on many pathways in the dog’s body, compromising optimal function. It also pays to consider how often you vaccinate your pet. Vaccinosis: Damage Vaccinations Can Cause Your Pet Does My Pet Need to Detox? Natural Flea and Worming Treatments Supporting the liver and lymphatic system is essential during these times, Liver Guard can be great in this instance. Liver Guard 3) Limit Stress! Mast cells have a key role in allergic response; when they detect a substance that isn’t liked by the body, they release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. Histamine makes the blood vessels expand and the surrounding skin itchy and swollen. This is known as degranulation and what’s super interesting is that stress can result in degranulation too! This may explain the red face you feel as you are getting stressed, or if you break out in hives when you’re facing a particularly stressful time in work. If you are working to tackle allergies in your dog, then it is important to remove as many stress triggers as possible, for your dog, but also you. There is this idea of co-regulation of species, that dogs can pick up when we are stressed and we’ll admit, there is nothing more stressful than seeing our dogs suffer and feeling that we aren’t getting anywhere with fixing it! It can pay to establish our own levels of stress when we are managing a poorly pooch. Check out our perceived stress scale in the following blog to help you understand your own stress levels. 5 Tips For Dealing with a Fussy Eater Calm Complex br] 4) Rinse your dog, but not wash! If you suspect your dog may have sensitivities to certain grasses or pollen, rinse their paws, undercarriage, and chest after walks. You can also wipe their muzzle, ears, and face with a damp microfibre cloth when you get home too. But avoid over-shampooing your dog. Whilst you may opt for non-toxic products, washing can skew the microbiome found on the skin of your dog and this provides a first line of defence for the immune response. The skin has its own community of microbes that can engulf and destroy pesky ones before they have chance to cause problems; frequent bathing can alter this community. So, rinse your dog to remove potential irritants, but keep the shampoo for special occasions, like fox poo events. Your Puppy’s Microbiome 5) Essential Fatty Acids Are Just That! Allergies and sensitivities are an immune response and inflammation is the hallmark of an immune response. Inflammation is a necessary process in the body, but we need just enough to solve the problem at hand. We have compounds necessary to kick start the inflammatory response, and we have compounds that reign it back in again. What we often find is that there are more compounds around to perpetuate inflammation, and not enough to reign it back in! Therefore, it can help to fill up on foods to regulate the inflammatory response. Omega-3 is a fatty acid that has regularly been linked inflammation regulation.
Possibly one of the most common ailments that we find in the dog world – some dogs just seem to react to everything! But, if we know how allergies and sensitivities develop, is it something we can tackle? Let’s take a look and consider some top tips to support your dog’s health. What is a dog allergy? An allergy is an unnecessary immune response to an innocuous substance. True allergies are often fatal. More often than not we are faced with sensitivities – which are still an immune response. What is the immune system? The purpose of the immune system is to defend itself and keep microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi out of the body and then destroy any if they happen to get in. It has three lines of defence. The innate immune system provides the first line of defence; broadly divided into physical/chemical barriers. The physical barriers include the skin and the lining of the digestive and respiratory tract. You can think of the body like a sausage; the skin, keeps everything in, but also things out. Chemical barriers include tears and saliva along with gastric acid. But also, the microbiome – which is the community of microbes found in the mouth, lungs, gut and on the skin. We then have the innate immune system – which is for want of a better phrase a row of white blood cells (and other participants) that engulf and destroy invaders. The third defence is acquired or adaptive immunity – this is the memory bank. The cells involved in this response help the body remember antigens that it has encountered before – so it can mount a quicker response before the harmful pathogen causes any damage. The immune system is trained to recognise its own cells as self and leave them to do their jobs. It is trained to recognise anything that isn’t self and attack it. When it works, it works brilliantly and, well, us and our dogs survive. But, it can get a little too enthusiastic and start responding to things it doesn’t really need to. This is what we see as autoimmunity, but also allergies and sensitivities and there are a number of reasons for this. Allergies and Sensitivities First of all, we may be dealing with an immature immune system, and this all starts back in puppyhood. When we talk about immune responses, we tend to reference Th1 and Th2. They are both necessary responses, but a Th2 response is more commonly associated with allergy. During pregnancy, a strong Th2 response is present to reduce the risk of miscarriage. What this means is that puppies are born with a Th2 dominance. This then needs to be balanced and the way in which this occurs is through microbial exposure. This is what we know as immune tolerance – the immune systems develop through exposure to controlled challenge. The immune system is like a computer; it has software, but it needs data. The microbial ecosystem in various mucosal sites is important for the development of the immune system. The young gastrointestinal tract is colonised soon after birth by a variety of commensal bacteria that influence the development of the immune response both in the gut and systemically. The mucosal immune system in the gut must avoid adverse immune responses to dietary antigens and commensals in the new microbial ecosystem while remaining able to mount an effective response to pathogenic organisms. In an ideal world, our pets will develop a heathy immune system, and they will have sufficient immune tolerance but also eliminate threats when necessary. But we don’t always live in an ideal world. Gut Guardian br] So what else can cause issues with immune responses? Often allergies and sensitivities are associated with poor barrier function; so there may be damaged or broken skin, a poor microbiome, or damage to the integrity of the gut. Think of it like an army. If you have a row of soldiers who are standing shoulder to shoulder, you stand a good chance against the enemy. Once soldiers start falling, opportunities arise for the enemy to get through. When skin is damaged, antigens spot their opportunity and sneak in through the gaps. The same occurs in the gut. Cells sit tightly together, but when cell integrity fails, under digested food particles and pathogens see their opportunity and sneak out into circulation. The immune system spots these particles – realises they shouldn’t be there, so mounts a response. Inflammation is a key part of this response. The issue is when the barrier remains compromised, more particles sneak through and so you end up in a chronic state of inflammation. Barrier dysfunction can occur for a number of reasons: Genetic glitches Microbiome dysbiosis Long-term use of medication Toxins Environmental exposure Detoxification Pathways The more inflammatory compounds you have in the presence of a response, the more anti-inflammatory compounds you will need to counter this response. There will also be a heightened need for compounds that break down inflammatory molecules like histamine. Those suffering with allergic disease often have a higher baseline of histamine, and so clearance of this is important too. What this means is that detoxification pathways need to be running as smoothly as possible. Liver Guard Detoxification of dietary histamine normally occurs in intestinal epithelial cells via the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) as well as histamine-N-methyltransferase (HNMT) in the liver. What’s interesting is that there are polymorphisms in the genes that code for the DAO enzyme, but certain medications, including over the counter products are seen to inhibit the activity of DAO enzyme too. They include: Analgesics – morphine, NSAIDs Antiarrhythmics Antibiotics Antifungals Antimalarial Diuretics Motility agents Muscle relaxants Vitamins – ascorbic acid, thiamine In addition, detoxification pathways in general are nutrient demanding and they also produce a high number of free radicals. Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine are essential. Does My Pet Need To
We sometimes talk about intolerances and allergies like this is the only thing that can cause your cat or dog’s itching. There can be so many reasons, layered reasons and some more serious than others. Here we explore some of the undetected and misdiagnosed reasons for your dog being itchy. Adrenal function The adrenal glands are located just in front of the kidneys. You will recognise them from when we discuss the stress response more often than not. The adrenal gland has 2 parts—the cortex and the medulla. The adrenal cortex is subdivided into 3 layers, and each layer produces a different set of steroid hormones. The outer layer produces the mineralocorticoids, which help regulate sodium and potassium salts. The middle layer produces glucocorticoids, which are involved in metabolising nutrients and reducing inflammation and immune responses. Finally, the inner layer produces sex hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, and androgens. The adrenal medulla plays an important role in response to stress or low blood sugar levels in the body. It releases adrenaline and noradrenaline, both of which increase heart rate and blood pressure, increase blood sugar and slow digestion; the hallmark responses when us or our dogs are exposed to a stress trigger. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system – which is simply a system of glands that release chemical messengers called hormones. The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function in the body. So, if there is any issue in any part of it, things can start to go wrong. The two most common ways in which adrenal glands cause health issues are by producing too little or too much of certain hormones, which leads to hormonal imbalances. Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease) due to an excess of cortisol production frequently causes dogs to itch, lose hair, have thin skin with dark pigment, drink excessively and have recurring skin problems. But this raises another point, even if there are no physiological issues with the adrenal glands, high cortisol levels due to daily stress can also lead to itchy skin! Thyroid Function We’ll continue with the hormones for a minute and look at thyroid function. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland found in the neck. One of its main functions is to produce hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism, the process that turns food into energy. This too can produce too many hormones, or too few. These conditions are known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism respectively. Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism in Cats Skin issues are regularly noted in times of thyroid dysfunction, and this includes itchiness. Kidney Function Intense itchiness often accompanies late-stage kidney disease, and whilst the jury is out on the exact reasons behind it, it is thought that it’s relating to the build up of toxins in the body. This leads us nicely into the same itchy symptoms associated with early-stage liver disease, and this is considered for similar reasons. Detoxification Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. The Liver The liver neutralises a range of toxic chemicals, both those produced internally (waste from used hormones or neurotransmitters for example) and those from the environment, like air pollution, pesticides, and food additives. It does this by filtering the blood to remove large toxins, synthesising, and secreting bile and lastly enzymatically disassembling unwanted chemicals found in the body. Liver Guard Enzymatic Detoxification This enzymatical detoxification occurs in three phases. Phase I directly neutralises chemicals and changes them into new metabolites. These are then processed by phase II enzymes. This is known as the conjugation phase, which in short, liver enzymes attach small chemicals to the toxin. There are many ways in which this is done, it all depends on the type of chemical the liver is trying to manage. Phase I results in high levels of reactive oxygen species so antioxidant levels are key in modulating potential damage. Phase II is nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron are essential. Phase III is the elimination phase. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. The kidneys will also filter and process toxins from circulation, excreting them as urine. The skin also forms as an elimination pathway. This is why detoxification issues can result in skin issues. In cases of liver disease, it is considered that bile salt deposits under the skin, which results in itchiness. The most important thing to do to support detoxification is to avoid exposure in the first place, so consider how much you and your dog are exposed to: Pesticides Heavy smoke Phthalates Mould Medications like steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers Heavy metals Cleaning products Air fresheners Eating foods cooked at high temperatures (most commercial dry foods) This list is not exhaustive, but it is a place to start. This mechanism also applies to vaccines. There is increasing evidence that over-vaccination is associated with the development or aggravation of immune-mediated disorders and chronic diseases in individual pets that are genetically predisposed. The primary role of the immune system in dogs is to protect against foreign invaders, or abnormal cells that invade or attack. The immune system must distinguish between self and non-self. Substances that stimulate a response are antigens. These can be contained within bacteria, viruses or microorganisms or cancer cells. They may also exist on their own, like pollen or food particles. There are three lines of defence, physical barriers, nonspecific immunity, and specific immunity. But the immune system does not always function properly, it can be underactive and overactive. An underactive system puts the animal at risk of infection, but an overactive immune system can attack parts of its body that it misidentifies as being foreign. This is what happens in autoimmune conditions. The immune system can also overreact
If you’ve been following us here at My Pet Nutritionist for a while then you will likely have come across the concept of the gut barrier, and how when it gets compromised, things can start to go a little awry. Whilst leaky gut is being blamed for all sorts, we’re here to sort fact from fiction and we’ll start with the basics. What is the Gut Barrier? The gut barrier in effect, forms the lining of the gut and it has two main features: the physical barrier and the chemical barrier The physical barrier consists of tight junctions which form a selective permeable seal between adjacent epithelial cells. This “seal” is dynamically regulated by various extracellular stimuli and is closely associated with both health and disease. TJs contribute to the function of the physical intestinal barrier by regulating the paracellular movement of ions, solutes, and water across the intestinal epithelium. It also protects against pathogens and large, harmful molecules. The regulation of these TJs is therefore crucial to a healthy barrier and there are a number of things that can influence this. Immune mediated TJ function is well documented; cytokines play a key role in the integrity of the gut barrier. Tumor necrosis factor-α Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced mainly by activated T cells and macrophages (cells of the immune system). TNF-α is known to induce cell death and inflammatory response in intestinal epithelial cells and recent studies have also demonstrated that it impairs the intestinal TJ barrier. Findings Here Interleukin-1β Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), another inflammatory cytokine is markedly elevated in intestinal mucosa under inflammatory conditions. In addition, recent studies show that IL-1β causes increased intestinal TJ permeability. Findings Here On the other hand, Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is regarded as an anti-inflammatory cytokine. In vitro studies have demonstrated that IL-10 opposes the cellular functions induced by TNF-α and IFN-γ. It is suggested that IL-10 has a role in the protection of the intestinal barrier by regulation of TJ proteins. Findings Here Pathogenic Bacteria and Lipopolysaccharides It is well established that pathogenic bacteria also alter the intestinal epithelial TJ barrier. The most commonly referenced are Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Salmonella which lead to intestinal inflammation. In addition, lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also called endotoxins, a component of the outer walls of gram-negative bacteria also alter TJ protein assembly. In studies, LPS treatment is seen to increase TJ permeability and induce epithelial cell death. The other part of the barrier is the mucosal layer. Mucous Layer The mucus layer is the very first line of defence that external molecules encounter when they arrive in the gut, it prevents bacteria from directly contacting the epithelial cells, along with toxic substances and digestive enzymes. The main building blocks of the mucus layer are mucin proteins that form a gel-like sieve structure overlying the intestinal epithelium. In the small and large intestine, mucin 2 (MUC2) is the most abundant mucus protein secreted by goblet cells. MUC2 expression is critical in protection against disease, as Muc2 knock-out mice will often develop colitis. Findings Here The ability of mucins to bind water offers another protective element – they moisturise and lubricate, protecting the epithelial cells from dehydration and mechanical stress during the passage of food. Immune regulators are also found in the mucosal layer, which highlights its collaboration with the immune system. Mucous Turnover and Degradation The turnover of the intestinal mucous layer includes mucous synthesis, secretion, and degradation. It is a complex process that needs to be regulated and balanced to ensure optimal protective function. Mucin degradation has been recognized as a normal process of mucus turn-over in the GI tract, starting a few months after birth. Selective intestinal bacteria can degrade mucous glycans as an energy source, suggesting that there is a relationship between the microbiota and the mucosal layer. This is of concern in low fibre diets because in the absence of fibre as a fuel source, the microbiota will switch to mucosal glycans. It has been well established that low fibre diets are associated with a thinner colonic mucosa. Findings Here The rate of mucin turn-over can be modified by bacterial colonization, for example, the intestinal mucous requires the presence of bacteria to develop its full functionality; analysis has shown thin or even absent mucous layer in the colon of germ-free rats. Findings Here In addition, short chain fatty acids can stimulate mucous production. SCFA’s are the end products of microbial fermentation of undigestible carbohydrates with acetate, propionate and butyrate being the most common in the intestinal lumen. Starvation also influences mucin turnover. The mechanism during times of starvation is much the same as on low fibre diets, diverse bacterial species will switch to mucin as an energy source during nutrient deprivation. This poses food for thought in fasting. To Fast or Not To Fast? Finally, the consumption of a Western Style Diet (WSD) has been linked to the impairment of intestinal mucosal function. Animal studies have administered a WSD, high in fat, simple sugars and low in complex fibre and found that in just three days the mucosal layer was diminished. A reduction in MUC2 was found. However, when mice were transplanted with microbiota from a control diet, the mucosal dysfunction was prevented, despite being fed a WSD themselves. This suggests that in addition to dietary choices influencing the composition of the mucosal layer, so too does the microbiota. Your Puppy’s Microbiome What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis What Can Help Dysbiosis Furthermore, there seems to be a bidirectional relationship between stress and mucosal barrier function. Animal studies have demonstrated that early life stress impairs development of mucosal barrier function, becoming a predisposing factor to intestinal disorders in adult life. Findings Here Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System 6 Tips for Your Anxious Dog Why Dogs Need To Chew Top Tips to Support Gut Barrier Health: Offer a species appropriate diet Limit toxic exposure Support beneficial microbiome formation and maintenance Limit stress exposure Address existing inflammation If you would
Generally, when we talk about fasting in the human realms, we are talking about intermittent fasting, and the function is largely to lose weight. What this mechanism actually does is reduce overall caloric intake, so by definition, if you reduce calories, there may be a resultant weight loss (note, we say may, because weight loss isn’t always that simple). But, when we talk about fasting in dogs it’s not generally around weight loss, it’s for longevity and improved health outcomes. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, it’s a question we get asked a lot. Should we fast dogs, or not? Let’s look at the science behind it. What Is Fasting? Fasting is not the same as starvation. Starvation occurs when there are no reserves left in the body; with insufficient intake of nutrients resulting in the break down of vital tissues. Fasting is simply a form of reduced calorie intake. What is interesting is that complete or modified fasting is a natural part of the wild canine diet. Wolves, the closest living relative to the dog are a window into dog physiology. When we look at the behaviour and lifestyle of wolves reintroduced into Yellowstone National Park, they show us that they are well designed for feast or famine. When hunting is easy, they may kill every two to three days. Generally, they will first eat organ meats, then muscle. At the end of the two- or three-day period, they then eat the bones and hide, including the fur. In times of low food abundance, wolves have been seen to scavenge bone and hide for several weeks at a time. Findings Here What Happens During a Fast Digestion is an incredibly demanding task. When it occurs, all hands are on deck. When it isn’t required, hands can be diverted to other tasks. What Does the Science Say? Most of the data is looking at fasting in rats, mice, monkeys, and humans. But we do have some data from dogs. Fasting has been seen to decrease toxic load. With little competition from substances absorbed after a meal, the liver is able to fully process waste products and excrete them efficiently. In addition, it has been demonstrated that during fasting, mitochondria downregulate. As you’ll remember, the mitochondria are the power plants of the cell, where we get energy from. But through the process, a high volume of free radicals are produced. Therefore, with downregulation, fewer free radicals are produced, which reduces oxidative stress. Fasting has been seen to decrease inflammatory molecules in many cell types. As we know inflammation underlies many chronic diseases and so it’s easy to agree when we see data suggesting that fasting reduces the incidence of: Cancer Arthritis Cognitive decline Diabetes (prevention) Dermatitis Liver, kidney, and heart disease Findings Here Findings Here Furthermore, fasting has showed a lower rate of muscle loss with age, with no apparent loss of bone density. Findings Here Finally, fasting for 48 hours has been shown to protect normal cells, but not cancer cells, from the toxic effects of chemotherapy. This approach has been utilised in humans to mitigate side effects associated with chemotherapy. Findings Here So, we know that fasting has some great benefits, but is there anything we should be mindful of? Well, we shouldn’t fast cats, in it’s true definition. The feline liver doesn’t downregulate during fasting, hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) has been seen to occur in a cat fasted for as little as two days. But calorie restriction (to 70% of a standard diet) has been used in therapeutic approaches and favourably affected physical activity, lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Findings Here There’s also no place for fasting in puppies. Puppyhood is one of the most nutritionally demanding periods; to build a body, they need the component parts. The same goes for bitches in whelp; to build babies, they need the component parts. A note on diabetes… Diabetes is a disease that results from an absolute or relative lack of insulin. As we know, insulin helps get glucose into cells to be used as energy; it therefore maintains the amount of glucose found in the bloodstream. Fasting with diabetes can result in dangerously low blood sugar levels. The bottom line? Guidance from a qualified practitioner may be worthwhile if you are considering fasting with any pre-existing health concerns. It may not be appropriate at all. So How Do You Do It? Well, there are two ways really. The first is to fast for a whole day once a week. This was seemingly the accepted routine for farmers and gundogs in decades gone by. But it’s not about removing what your dog would usually eat on that day, you simply spread it out on the other days – some have spread it throughout the week, some load it the day before and the day after the fast. Ensure that the amount you are feeding is appropriate for the healthy weight your pet requires. The other way is just providing an eating window. You can feed one meal per day, or two but within a short eating window of each other (generally 6-8 hours of each other). For example, you feed breakfast at 9am and then supper at 4 or 5pm. During any fasting periods, dogs should always have access to fresh, filtered water. As you have noticed, there is a difference between fasting and calorie restriction – fasting is allowing periods of rest between food ingestion. Calorie restriction is reduction of calories. But both have great health benefits, depending on the pet and their current health status. If you are looking to tackle a weight issue in your pet check out our blogs here. Obesity in Pets – Part I Obesity in Pets – Part II Fasting or calorie restriction may not be appropriate for all pets, and so if you are wondering if any dietary changes may be of benefit to your pet, check out our services. Consultations Thanks for reading, MPN Team x
Would you be surprised to know that a study carried out in 1988 concluded there were no differences in allergens found on different breeds of dogs? In short, if you’re allergic to dogs, you’re allergic to all dogs? Findings Here Have we moved on significantly from 1988 and produced dogs that we’re no longer allergic to? We have artificial intelligence which can remind us of our daily schedule, but surely, a new type of dog, that’s pushing it? You’re correct. We’ve not produced a new type of dog (in that sense), if you’re allergic to dogs. You’re allergic to dogs. So, where does this notion of a hypoallergenic dog come from? They do exist, but in their true definition. Hypo means under or beneath according to the Greeks. Its synonyms include fewer, or less. Therefore, a hypoallergenic dog simply means a dog that is less likely to cause a reaction. It does not mean the dog is totally allergy safe. Where the confusion lies, is that many think allergy sufferers are allergic to the hair found on the dog. This is not the case. Generally, allergy sufferers are allergic to a protein found in the saliva and urine of the dog. As the dog grooms themselves, they spread the protein to their skin and coat. As new skin cells are produced, old ones are shed, which release into the environment (known as dander). This is why people are often told they are allergic to dog dander. As hair is shed into the environment, you are exposed to the protein covered hair. So, a hypoallergenic dog is generally one that sheds less (less hair for you to be exposed to), they often have curly coats (which traps hair and dander so less is shed into the environment) or have less hair (but these guys still lose dead skin cells which can cause a reaction). They are also more likely to be regularly groomed which removes the protein from the coat and skin more frequently. For many of us who have mild allergies, we tend to put up and shut up simply because we couldn’t imagine spending our lives without pets, so is there anything we can do to reduce our symptoms? You’ll know that here at My Pet Nutritionist we’re not a fan of long-term use of antihistamines, so let’s look at other options. 1) Find a new love for cleaning! Whilst it can often be the last thing you want to do at the end of a long day, getting into a habit of regularly whipping around your home will keep allergens in the environment at bay! If you don’t want to tackle the whole house as soon as you get in, create a to-do list at the beginning of the week. You may tackle your kitchen on Monday, your hall on Tuesday, your bedroom on Wednesday and so on. Rather than dusting, use a damp cloth or use the dusting attachment on your vacuum. You want to remove the allergens not just move them around or throw them back into the air that you are breathing. Set a timer on your phone or clock, spend 25 minutes a day cleaning. That’s 1.74% of your day. 2) Use a Vacuum with a HEPA filter! To keep allergens at bay, vacuum at least 2-3 times a week, if not daily. HEPA means high efficiency particulate air and its design traps microscopic particles keeping them from being thrown back into the environment. Most pet vacuums have an inbuilt HEPA filter but it’s worth checking the label if you’re in the market for a new one! 3) And an air purifier! It may be worthwhile investing in an air purifier in your home. Again, these are built with HEPA filters which trap dust and dirt. They can be a helpful addition to your home if you are struggling with your symptoms. 4) Pay attention to your bedding! If your dog sleeps with you, first decide whether this is great for your symptoms. If it doesn’t affect you too severely, ensure you wash your bedding at least weekly. Place blankets or throws on your bed so you can wash them even more regularly. Encase pillows and mattress with dust-proof covers as this helps keep particles from getting inside. Vacuum your mattress regularly. 5) Curtains! Be mindful of the curtains you are hanging in your home. Whilst you can purchase some beautiful fabrics, some are dry clean only. This isn’t ideal if you need to be washing them regularly – it’ll cost a fortune! Cotton curtains can often just be washed in the washing machine and hung to dry. Just like the response in our dogs, allergies result in a characteristic pattern of inflammation, so ensuring out own inflammatory responses are appropriate is just as important. Risk Factors in Human Allergies: Family history – predispositions to certain allergies, Microbiome disruption, Ultra-hygienic environment, Regular consumption of high-histamine foods, Nutrient deficiencies, Exposure to environmental toxins, Impaired methylation affects histamine clearance and more. Top Tips to Support Allergies in Humans: Live bacteria supplementation may support immune function, Consider histamine exposure in diet, Quercetin possesses anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, Nettle too functions as an antihistamine and blocks proinflammatory cytokines, Vitamin C supports histamine detoxification, Reduce stress! Gut Guardian A slightly different blog this time, but one we hope was useful, nonetheless. If your dog is sadly the one who suffers with sensitivities or allergies, then check out our blogs: 5 Basic Tips For Allergies Itchy Cats and Dogs Naturally Itching Has Become Such An Epidemic Does My Dog Need An Allergy Test In addition, allergies are one of our expert areas, so check out our services here: Consultations Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
