Finding the ideal behaviourist for you and your dog can seem like a very daunting task with so many new training and behaviour companies opening in recent years. While it’s great that more people are becoming interested in training, unfortunately not all dog behaviour professionals are equal; and not all are adequately qualified, regardless of the size of their social media platforms. We often have customers asking us here at My Pet Nutritionist, for our recommendations on trainers and behaviourists for their precious pooch, and we understand the importance of a great trainer with ethical methods for not only mental health, but general wellbeing too! Read on to learn about the ins and outs of finding the right behaviourist for you and your dog, with long lasting behavioural results without long lasting negative impacts on mental wellbeing. Behaviourist Vs Trainer – Which Do I Need? The first step in finding the correct behaviour professional for you and your dog, is working out which type you will need! Trainer? Behaviourist? Clinical Behaviourist? Here’s the difference between the three, and why you might need each one! Dog Trainer: dog trainers are typically those who will cover the basic bits. Etiquette, body language, tricks, pulling on the lead/general obedience, dog sports coaching etc. Puppy training classes, puppy socialisation classes and adolescent classes, and 1-2-1 loose lead training sessions are the most commonly used services provided by dog trainers. If your dog has a basic training need, or you want a training service ‘just for fun’ (trick training classes are becoming increasingly popular, agility or flyball for example) then a good dog trainer is what you are aiming for! Behaviourist: behaviourists are more highly qualified than trainers. These professionals will take on more challenging cases where more dangerous, more heavily set, or more complex behaviours are at play. Resource guarding and dog or human reactivity are the most commonly used services provided by these professionals. Many (but not all) behaviourists will look at diet, lifestyle and pain as part of their programme; we will look more into this (and why it’s beneficial) later. Clinical Behaviourist: your clinical behaviourists are those with veterinary behaviour qualifications. These professionals will take on the severely complex cases, often where severe pain or neurological defects are associated with the behavioural issue. Clinical behaviourists play an important role in the industry, as they are able to prescribe temporary behavioural medication to those most in need. Training Methods There are so many different training types/methods, but not all are the ones we want to go for! Some will be long lasting, others will sadly impact your dog’s mental wellbeing and affect your bond with your dog. Remembering that dogs learn through repetition and reward, let’s take a look at the nitty gritty of dog training methods! The four quadrants of Operant Conditioning are the basis of basic behavioural adjustment methods. When relating to operant conditioning, ‘positive’ means ‘adding to’, and ‘negative’ means ‘taking away’. Let’s take a closer look at the four quadrants: Positive Reinforcement (R+): during positive reinforcement we are adding something good in order to encourage repetition of a good behaviour. Do something good, get rewarded for it. Dogs quickly learn through repeated exercises of good behaviour and reward, and that good behaviour then becomes deeply ingrained! Example: the dog lays down when the handler says ‘down’, and the dog is rewarded with a treat. Think Pavlov’s Dog – in Pavlov’s experiment, the dog was rewarded with food every time he heard a bell ringing. Because for a short while the dog was given food each time the bell rung, the dog then associated the bell sound with being given food. Every time the bell rung, the dog would salivate in readiness of his food. This is how positive reinforcement works! Positive Punishment (P+): this is the addition of something aversive (pain, discomfort, fear) in response to a dog doing something the handler deems undesirable in order to discourage the dog from repeating this behaviour. Dogs will often end up associating the handler with aversion, which weakens their bond, and causes social anxiety. Example: the dog pulls on the lead, so the handler gives the lead a sharp pull. Those recommending the use of shock collars, prong collars and spray bottles are using positive punishment, and will often be missing basic body language signs of discomfort in the dog. Negative Reinforcement: when something aversive is removed from a situation in response to a behaviour the handler deems desirable, in order to encourage the behaviour. Example: the dog stops pulling on the lead, so pressure is released. This often follows an act of positive punishment; the dog pulls on the lead, so pressure is applied, then when the dog stops pulling on the lead (due to the discomfort caused), the lead pressure is reduced. Negative Punishment: negative punishment occurs when something the dog likes/enjoys is removed in response to the behaviour being carried out by the dog being undesirable to the handler. Example: a dog who is kept on a house-line lead is sitting on the sofa and resource guarding it, is gently removed from the sofa using the lead attached to it. This takes away the thing the dog liked (the sofa). We would always recommend using a positive reinforcement approach as it is most efficient, and has the least mental impact on the dog, however sometimes using a little negative punishment is required in severe resource guarding cases where there is an endangerment to human life. Using positive reinforcement is suitable for almost every dog, but it requires repetition, patience and time; all things that should be sacrificed for your dog’s health and wellbeing. Using other ‘quick fix’ methods will not instil long lasting behaviours, and will impact the bond between you and your pet, and depending on the behaviours at hand, may also become a danger to the wider public through fear. So, when you search for a local trainer or behaviourist, you will notice a
At My Pet Nutritionist, we work with a holistic approach – as part of this, we look at the links between behaviour and nutrition. We have a multitude of fantastic professionals on our team, including those specialising in behaviour. One of the most common behavioural questions we get asked is ‘could my dog have dementia?’ – so, do dogs get dementia? Read on to find out about ageing dogs, and changes to cognitive abilities! Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Many pet owners may refer to their dogs having ‘dementia’ – these dogs will be displaying some unusual behaviours typical of those you may notice in humans with the condition. In dogs, these neurological changes are diagnosed as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD). CCD is mostly found in older individuals, however there are some cases in slightly younger dogs. The risk of CCD increases with age as it is an age-related disease. It is a progressive disease which means as time goes on, symptoms appear to worsen. This disease is sadly incurable, but can be managed to slow progression down in most individuals. There are also other diseases with similar symptoms that your veterinarian may wish to rule out before diagnosing CCD. Younger dogs with symptoms of CCD may have a metabolic disorder. Tumours and infections may also present with the same, or very similar clinical symptoms in dogs of any age. It is thought that around 14% of elderly dogs suffer from CCD, however potentially only 2% of those with the disease are formally diagnosed! Findings Here Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis There are a variety of unusual symptoms you may see in your dog including: Memory loss: dogs displaying memory loss may struggle to recognise people they know, places they frequent regularly, or even forget how to carry out learnt behaviours such as basic trick training, boundary/place training etc. Disorientation: many dogs displaying signs of CCD will become disorientated in places they know well, including their own home. The dog may stand in unusual places like in a corner, facing the wall. Confusion: those with CCD can often become confused. They may respond slowly to cues, pace and aimlessly wander. Unusual social behaviours: dogs who were previously friendly may begin to show a different dynamic in the presence of other dogs. They may become reactive, or just disinterested in dogs they previously played with. Increased irritability in dogs with CCD is very common! Anxiety: even previously confident dogs can show signs of stress and anxiety both in their familiar environments, and elsewhere. Difficulty learning new skills: many with CCD struggle to learn new tricks or cues. Reversal of house-training: urinating and defecating inside the house may occur, much like most puppies! You will need to take your dog outside for bathroom breaks more frequently once diagnosed with CCD. Circadian Rhythm Disturbances: your dog’s circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) may become disturbed. Owners of dogs with CCD can expect their dogs to become more vocal at night, and sleep more during the day. Age is the biggest cause of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. As previously mentioned, it is an age-related disease, which means it progresses as the dog ages; it is as a result of typical cognitive decline in ageing dogs. The natural changes to a dog’s brain which can be attributed to the onset and progression of CCD include: Beta-amyloid protein accumulation: as the brain ages, a build up of the beta-amyloid protein occurs. This build up toxifies the brain, which makes it a poor environment for neurons to live healthily, contributing to their decline. Loss/damage of neurons: partly due to the above accumulation of beta-amyloids, neurons can become damaged, or lose function completely. Neurons are the cells in the brain responsible for transmitting information across the body, so naturally, if these are damaged, information isn’t able to reach the intended destination within the body! Reduced blood flow: as dogs age, blood flow to the brain can decrease, which means the oxygen and nutrient rich blood is unable to benefit the neurons, causing further damage. Oxidative stress: free radicals are unstable molecules (in this case, of oxygen), which cause damage to various parts of the body, including the brain. Free radicals are known to damage brain cell membranes, which reduces cognitive function. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here There is no specific diagnosis techniques for CCD, however other conditions like tumours, infection and metabolic disorders are ruled out, and behavioural symptoms are taken into consideration, and a diagnosis is made based on these. Promoting Healthy Brain Ageing As there is no cure for Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, it is important to correctly and effectively manage the condition of the brain, and in those without CCD, it is important to encourage healthy brain ageing as best we can! So how do we promote health in the ageing brain? Here’s our top tricks and tips, from an holistic perspective! Cut out flea and tick treatments: flea and tick treatments have an enormous impact on brain health due to the neurotoxins they contain. It is essential to cut these out of your dog’s regime if they are given them! Don’t over-vaccinate: toxins in the adjuvants of vaccines can reduce brain function due to their content of heavy metals. You may wish to titre test instead of vaccinating! Eliminate environmental toxins in the home: many household laundry, fragrance and cleaning products are a threat to the brain health of our dogs. Try to eliminate these, and switch to natural methods/products where able. Bicarbonate of Soda and White Vinegar makes for an excellent non-toxic cleaning substance, and popping your favourite herbs and fruit peels in a pan of water on the stove is an excellent way to safely add fragrance to your home! Control exposure to environmental toxins outside: as the world around us is so toxic outside, it can be tricky to completely avoid toxins, however you can wash your dog’s paws after a walk, try to stick to forested areas (where councils won’t kill weeds with weed killer!),
Homeopathy – what is it? Does it really work? This is a hugely debated question within the pet industry as well as the human medical space. With little scientific evidence in the past, surprisingly, more and more evidence is being released in more recent years to suggest that homeopathy is in fact beneficial! Here at MPN, we aim for a holistic approach throughout our consultations; and as part of that, we may suggest speaking to a qualified homeopath alongside our help for your pet! Read on to learn more about homeopathy! How Are Homeopathic Remedies Made? Homeopathic remedies are totally natural, and are based on extraordinarily diluted extracts from plant, mineral and animal with medicinal properties when used in such weak dilutions. Due to the nature of some of the plants from which these remedies are based on being toxins as a whole plant, it is imperative that you purchase your homeopathic remedies from a licensed homeopathic pharmacy. Our favourites are Helios Homeopathy, and Ainsworths Homeopathic Pharmacy. Remedies used in pets, typically come in the form of pillules – these are small balls made of sugar, coated in the remedy. Other forms remedies are available in include tinctures (also popular for pets, especially those from the brands ‘PhytoPet’, and ‘Dorwest Herbs’), granules, powders, larger pills, and creams/ointments. The vast majority of remedies are made through repeated levels of dilution. Whichever plant or animal the remedy is based on, will be cut down to extract only the relevant part of the plant (for example, the remedy Fragaria, often used for pets to aid dental health, is based on the ripe fruit of the wild strawberry, so the leaves will be removed from the plant to begin with). This raw material will then be crushed and dissolved in either water or alcohol, depending on the nature of the raw material. A process called ‘succession’ is then used to dilute the dissolved material – during this process, it is shaken vigorously with water or alcohol. This process is repeated a large number of times until the intended level of dilution is reached. Once the desired dilution is reached, the product left is the active ingredient in the homeopathic remedy, and is used to further create the remedy sold to the consumer, in the desired presentation. The remedies each come in a variety of strengths. The strength required for an individual depends on the symptom it is aiming to support. Typically, in the UK, you will notice remedies using the centesimal scale in terms of strength; so your remedies will usually be ‘6C’, ‘30C’ or ‘200C’, though you may also see the decimal scale used which would be displayed as ‘6X’ or ‘30X’, as examples. Those using the centesimal scale are more potent than those using the decimal scale. As an example, let’s look at the difference between a remedy that is 30C, and one that is 30X. The 30C remedy would be more dilute than the 30X remedy because the 30C remedy has been diluted in a ratio of 1:100 (1 part substance containing the raw material, 100 parts water/alcohol) 30 times, whereas the 30X remedy would have been diluted in a ratio of 1:10 (1 part substance containing the raw material, 10 parts water/alcohol) 30 times, meaning the 30C remedy is much more dilute than the 30X remedy. The usual ‘go to’ for pets is a 30C potency. 3C or much higher potencies may be advised by a homeopath in certain circumstances. How Does Homeopathy Work? When we look at the mechanism of how homeopathy works, we can’t just say ‘your dog has this problem, this is the remedy for that problem’ like your vet may with pharmaceuticals, we have to look more into the pet as a whole; their symptoms, diagnosis, and emotions all partly determine which remedy you may need to consider for your pet. Speaking with a homeopath is incredibly important as getting the correct remedy is important, especially when there are two or more which may fit your dog’s symptoms! In homeopathy, the remedy advised by a homeopath would depend on the ‘Law of Similars’; whereby ‘like cures like’. The pattern of symptoms caused by the original source a homeopathic remedy is diluted from, makes it the best remedy to treat the symptoms your pet is displaying. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here What Conditions Can Be Supported With Homeopathy? There’s definitely no specific number we can answer this question with! The list of symptoms you can support with homeopathy is endless; we’d be here all year if we were to list them all! Almost every aspect of emotional and physical wellbeing can be supported through the use of homeopathy. Using the Homeopathic Materia Medica, you will be able to match symptoms to a remedy. The Materia Medica. The Materia Medica is a book describing the history of homeopathic remedies, and gives a detailed list of remedies, and which remedies match with which symptoms. The Helios Homeopathy Pet Kit includes it’s own Materia Medica which explains how to use the remedies, and lists possible uses for each remedy that you may encounter a need to use. An online complete Media Medica, written by homeopathic physician William Boericke in 1901 is available here. Popular Remedies in Pet Healthcare There are thousands of homeopathic remedies available, but there are some more commonly used in pet care. Here are six of the most popular remedies used in pets: Arnica: this is a very popular, and useful remedy, often given to those following an injury or operation, as it is often prescribed for bruising, sprains and strains, and arthritis. Studies suggest effects of Arnica can be comparable to those of anti-inflammatories. Findings Here Findings Here Pulsatilla: this remedy is typically used to reduce the symptoms associated with phantom pregnancy in pets. It can also be used to aid tender gums, throat and mouth. One study shows the use or pulsatilla in 4 dogs with eye issues and separation anxiety was paramount
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we know that a healthy gut microbiome is the most important aspect to keeping your dog healthy all round! There is so much to learn about the gut microbiome – what it really is, what it consists of, what other parts of the body it interacts with, and what happens when it’s not in tip top condition. Many of our readers will notice that most of our blogs mention the microbiome, so this blog post is a full round up of everything gut microbiome related, in one easy read! What is the Gut Microbiome? Every dog has a gut microbiome. It’s one of the most important parts of your dog in terms of digestion and overall health, from joints to skin, to the brain and immunity. The microbiome is a community of microbes, including good and bad bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The gut microbiome is very carefully balanced. Some of the microbes found in a healthy gut microbiome are ones we would typically class as ‘bad’ which have health conditions associated with them, including bad bacteria such as Salmonella, and Clostridia. Viruses and Fungi are typically classed as ‘bad’ microbes too, but are still part of a healthy microbiome. Good bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus are all found in abundance in the healthy canine gut microbiome – these beneficial bacteria are found in high enough numbers to outweigh the negative impact of the bad microbes found in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome means the ‘good guys’ outweigh the ‘bad guys’. Health problems begin to emerge when the gut microbiome is knocked out of balance, allowing for gut dysbiosis to occur. Gut dysbiosis can lead to a host of health problems including reduced skin and joint health, increased digestive issues, and prominent or mild negative behavioural changes. Findings Here Findings Here Interactions Between the Gut Microbiome and the Rest of the Body The health of the gut microbiome is a huge part of overall health – but why is this? You may be wondering how gut health could impact so many other parts of the body, so let’s take a closer look at these! We can look at the gut as a ‘roundabout’. Roundabouts have multiple exits – these ‘exits’ stemming from the gut are collectively called Axes; and these link to other parts of the body to form a two-way pathway/link from the gut. The main axes are: The Gut-Skin Axis: this pathway connects the gut to the skin, and the skin to the gut. If we start at the gut and work our way to the skin, we can see that poor gut health can cause or exacerbate skin conditions. Going to other way; from skin to gut, we unfortunately have the risk of gut microbiome damage caused by external exposure to toxins, whether they’re from laundry detergents, household cleaning products, external flea and tick medications, or other environmental toxins. The Gut-Joint Axis: this pathway connects the gut to the musculoskeletal system, and the musculoskeletal system to the gut. An imbalance in the gut microbiome can be connected to poor joint health, especially in cases of osteoarthritis due to the increase in inflammation around the joints. In a poorly balanced gut, there is often an increased risk of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory metabolites being produced, which are the main cause of poor joint health in dogs. The Gut-Brain Axis: this is the bidirectional pathway between the brain and the gut. This pathway has connections both physically, and chemically. In terms of physical connections, the Vagus Nerve is the main avenue for carrying signals between the two locations. Chemically, the healthy gut produces neurotransmitters and hormones, which move between the brain and gut. Mood, response to stress, and digestion are three of the main roles of the gut-brain axis. It is also important to note that around 70-80% of the immune system is found in the gut! Keeping the gut microbiome healthy, and perfectly balanced means the immune system, and therefore overall health of an individual remains stable. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here What Happens When the Gut Microbiome is Unhealthy? When the Gut Microbiome is unhealthy, a host of health conditions can occur. As previously mentioned, an unhealthy gut microbiome is unbalanced; and this condition is called Gut Dysbiosis. Gut Dysbiosis occurs when the ‘bad microbes’ outweigh the ‘good microbes’. Here’s some health concerns that we see a lot in those with an unhealthy gut microbiome: Food sensitivities: when the gut microbiome is unbalanced, food sensitivities are common due to increased gut permeability; known as Leaky Gut. When the gut integrity is poor, food particles leak into the bloodstream which encourages the body to create an immune response, presenting as food sensitivities. Yeast: yeast cells are naturally present in the gut; they’re called Candida. When Candida is present, and there’s not enough of the good microbes to keep these in check, a yeast infection will often occur. Symptoms include rust coloured paws, ears and groin, cheesy smelling feet, and itching among others. Digestive problems: digestive upset including diarrhoea and vomiting is common in those with an unhealthy gut microbiome, due to the abundance of ‘bad’ microbes and a lack of ‘good’ ones to keep the effects of the bad ones at bay. Many dogs also suffer with Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) which contributes to these symptoms. Bad breath: a lot of owners assume their dog’s bad breath is caused by poor dental hygiene, however this is often not the case. Bad breath can emanate from the gut, in those with poor gut health. When the gut microbiome is unbalanced, the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut results in the production of VSCs; Volatile Sulphur Compounds, which cause bad breath. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): when the gut microbiome is unbalanced, inflammation occurs as a result. This inflammation often leads to chronic inflammatory conditions such as IBD. Other gastrointestinal conditions occur due to this too, however IBD
We love our feline friends here at My Pet Nutritionist, and one of the most commonly asked questions we get from concerned cat owners, is ‘does my indoor cat need different nutrition to cats who free-roam outside?’. Many cat owners keep their cats indoors for many reasons, from expensive pedigree breeds, to moggies. Some cats may live indoors for their own safety away from main roads, some may live indoors to help control medical needs, and some may live indoors, simply down to their breed. So, are there any different needs for these cats, versus the ones you may encounter when out and about? We will discuss this in this blog post, and help to put your mind at ease! Nutritional Needs Cats Are Carnivores Our kitty companions are what we call ‘obligate carnivores’. There are two types of carnivore (meat eaters); facultative, and obligate. Facultative carnivores (the likes of dogs and other canids) eat primarily meat, but may benefit from a little plant matter. Obligate carnivores are meat eaters that eat, and thrive on a purely meat diet with no plant matter at all. Our cats do not need vegetables or fruits to thrive. This is very much the same for indoor and outdoor cats – those with outdoor cats may often find their cats will even catch their own prey; some may even eat it, but many will bring their owner a ‘gift’ – how kind of them! Calorie Content While indoor and outdoor cats require the same nutrients, many indoor cat owners may notice their pets need a smaller portion of food vs their outdoor counterparts. Outdoor cats often tend to be more active than those with a purely indoor lifestyle, which of course burns more calories, meaning outdoor cats, particularly those who are more active and enjoy hunting or walking longer distances, may need larger meals than those who live a more sedentary lifestyle in the home. Protein Both indoor and outdoor cats need a high protein diet. Protein is incredibly important in the diet of cats, as it is one of the main energy sources used to maintain blood glucose levels due to metabolic adaptations carried by the cat. Protein is not only used to maintain blood glucose levels, but for general energy too; even in those who are fed a diet lacking in protein, resulting in rapid weight loss. This is seen very frequently in older cats fed a commercial dry food diet, as these are very high in carbs, and lack quality meat proteins. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and there are 11 amino acids that are absolutely essential for cats; but there is one of particular importance, and that is Taurine. Taurine is used throughout the feline body to maintain healthy vision, aid cardiac muscle strength and contractions, maintain a healthy reproductive system, and keep the immune system in tip top condition. The protein content of your cat’s diet should remain the same regardless of being an indoor, or an outdoor cat, the source of the protein may need to be tweaked though, depending on activity levels, due to different amounts of fat per protein, which brings us nicely onto fats in the diet of indoor vs outdoor cats. Fat Now, fat is one of the most important nutrients in your cat’s diet! Fat is the main energy source for general activity in cats. When seeking out a meat suitable for your cat, it is important to consider your pet’s lifestyle, age and activity levels. A more sedentary indoor cat, will need a protein lower in fat than an active outdoor cat, as feeding a cat that is not very active, a meat with a high fat content will result in the energy creates not being used, and your pet could end up overweight. Chicken, turkey or white fish may be a better option than beef, as an example, for those with a less active lifestyle. Regardless of your cat being and inside, or outside cat, omega 3 fatty acids are a very important part of your cat’s diet! With cats eating meat, and lots of it, their natural intake of pro-inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids will be high. We need to balanced this out with added anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids, in order to reduce inflammation in the body. You can read more about choosing an ideal omega 3 for your cat here! Furball Control Due to being indoors, and away from environmental temperature changes that naturally occur throughout the year, indoor cats tend to shed noticeably more than outdoor cats, and all year around, too! This bring the higher chance of furballs – with the telltale retching noise our furry friends do when they have consumed too much fur through regular grooming! In order to help these furballs pass easily through the gut, indoor cats often require a diet higher in fibre than those who roam freely outside. Supplements high in insoluble fibre can be included in the diet of indoor cats, or outdoor cats prone to furballs, in order to help them pass through the digestive tract with ease, and reduce the risk of intestinal blockage. Although indoor cats are obligate carnivores, insoluble fibre can be sought through feeding a very small amount of plant matter, or a cellulose (the fibrous substance making the cell wall of plant cells) supplement. Stress In Indoor Cats It is thought that indoor cats may also be subject to stress, particularly when their owner leaves them. Indoor cats can be very loyal, and very much attached to their owner, leaving them with the chance of separation anxiety. While this concept isn’t set in stone, and more research is needed to confirm it, it certainly is a possibility. Outdoor cats may also come into stressful situations when they meet other cats, or environmental challenges. There are nutrients we can include in our cat’s diet to help reduce stress, such as: Vitamin B6 which helps the body create red blood cells
The brain; that all important organ each and every one of us, and our pets, has! It controls everything in the body, whether it’s thoughts, memory, touch sensitivity, emotions, coordination, temperature regulation, endocrine (hormone) regulation, or any other process in the body. The brain is so important, and keeping it healthy should be every pet owner’s mission! But how do we do that? Find out in this blog post, how to keep the brain healthy! Changes Through Life Stages From teeny puppy, to elderly senior dog, your dog’s brain goes through many changes! As a newborn, your puppy will immediately know what to do when it comes to feeding – this is because the behaviour is instinctive – meaning they’re born automatically knowing how to feed, breathe, move, vocalise etc. Their eyes and ears are completely shut for the first two to three weeks, so instinct goes a long way! A puppy’s brain is not fully developed until the age of 2 years! As your puppy reaches 4 to 5 weeks, the next 8 or so weeks are absolutely crucial in socialisation and cognitive development. Many reputable breeders use a socialisation scheme called Puppy Culture, which is a socialisation structure to ensure your puppy gets the best socialisation and is comfortable in all new experiences they may come across in life! This cognitive stage is one of the most important times to focus on brain health. As your puppy reaches 6-12 months, hormones start to come into play. The brain is a huge producer of many hormones, so brain health during this stage, called ‘adolescence’, is extremely important. During this stage, you may find your puppy’s behaviour relapses a little, and you may find they become anxious in some situations. It is important to feed and supplement to aid brain health during these stages, and also take your training regime back to puppy basics. Keep reading to find out about diet and supplements for brain health! During adulthood, your dog’s brain health can massively dictate it’s typical mental state, how full his or her ‘anxiety bucket’ is, and how low the baseline of that bucket is – ie, their threshold of tolerance in some situations. The ‘anxiety bucket’ is a great way to look at a dog’s brain when it comes to tolerance – those with poorer brain health will have a higher baseline – think of a bucket. An empty bucket is a good sign – it means the dog is level headed, calm and happy. The bucket of a dog with poor brain health, will have material in the bottom of it, making less space for emotions to fit in it. Every trigger, or negative stimuli the dog experiences, adds into the bucket – when the bucket is full, the dog reacts. This is called Trigger Stacking. Those with poor brain health will fill their bucket quicker than those with good brain health (and more room in the bucket to start with!). As your dog reaches his or her senior years, and progresses through them, the brain health can begin to decline, just as it can in humans. As the dog ages, the body often starts to produce proteins known as Beta-Amyloids, which leave deposits on the brain. These deposits left on the brain cause nerve destruction, and leaves plaque in the brain, which hinders cognitive health. Plaque being present in the brain reduces the production of the all important neurotransmitters, which are the ‘messengers’ involved in almost every bodily process. As you can see, brain health should be a focus of all pet owners, throughout their pet’s life. What Causes Poor Brain Health? There are a number of reasons a dog may have poor brain health, so let’s take a look at them! Genetics can have a huge affect on brain health. If brain health is poor due to medical reasons along the breeding line. A genetically poor brain, will pass down through generations. Stress levels during welp can have an enormous impact on brain health in puppies. If a mother dog in welp is stressed, sadly this can have an affect on the puppies’ brain health. If we think back to our bucket analogy, puppies from stressed mothers will naturally have a lower threshold for tolerance, or a higher baseline in their bucket! Socialisation in the first 12 weeks of age can impact a puppy’s mental capabilities. If properly done, the puppy will be set up for a higher chance of success as it ages, if not done correctly, a lack of socialisation (new smells, sights, sounds, objects, ages of people, races in humans, transport methods, textures, and finally other dogs) can lead to poor brain health from an early age. Free Radicals are oxygen atoms in the body, containing an unpaired electron in their orbit, making the molecule unstable and reactive. These unstable oxygen atoms lead to oxidative stress, which opens the body, and especially brain, up to some serious health conditions, including cancer, a rapid cognitive decline and other issues. These are most commonly found in dogs fed diets lacking antioxidants, and also in ageing dogs. Inflammation in the body, especially common in those lacking omega 3 in the diet, causes inflammation on the brain, which can lead to brain disease, affecting hormone release, and production of neurotransmitters. Poor gut health is another common reason a dog may have poor brain health. This may seem quite disconnected, given the gut and the brain are at complete opposite ends of the body, but the two are connected by a pathway known as the gut-brain axis. The gut is much like a roundabout, and connects to many different parts of the body, which are the roundabout ‘exits’ – one of these exits heads to the brain, and the brain back to the gut. Poor gut health affects the brain, and poor brain health affects the gut. Neurotoxins in or around the pet are sadly something we see all too often in our initial consultations. Neurotoxins
Those with female dogs will most likely deal with seasons at some point in their dog’s earlier years – the recommended time for spaying is between 2 and 4 years of age, unless medically necessary prior to this age. With seasons, comes the risk of phantom pregnancy! This can be quite a trying time for both us and our perfect pooches, so we bring to you, the My Pet Nutritionist guide to phantom pregnancies in dogs! What is a Phantom Pregnancy, When, and Why Do They Happen? Phantom pregnancy in dogs is fairly common other terms you may see are ‘false pregnancy’ or ‘psuedopregnancy’. Phantom pregnancy is a term used to describe behavioural and physiological tendencies similar to those displayed in a pregnant female dog, even though the dog experiencing these changes is not pregnant. They can occur at any age, following an oestrus cycle (commonly known as a ‘season’ or ‘heat’) in an unspayed female. When your dog has a phantom pregnancy following their season, she may have another after the next season, but this isn’t definite – they can occur after every season, or just intermittently. We’ve covered the what and the when, but now onto the why! At the end of your dog’s season, her ovaries begin to produce the hormones necessary for preparing the uterus for implantation of foetuses and pregnancy maintenance. Now, if your dog has been mated, and is pregnant, these hormones are very important, and well utilised. The problem arises when your dog is not pregnant, so these hormones are not required. It takes around 4 to 6 weeks for these hormones to reduce, and for symptoms to reduce, if the dog displays behaviours as if she were pregnant. When these hormones are present without a pregnancy, changes in the body occur, which show as actions mimicking pregnancy. As the dog gets closer to the 4 to 6 weeks after the end of the season, as the levels of hormones start to reduce, false labour is stimulated, alongside mammary gland swelling. Findings Here Symptoms of a Phantom Pregnancy There are a variety of symptoms of a phantom pregnancy in dogs, such as: Enlarged mammary glands (teats); milk may be present Clingy behaviour Lethargy and fatigue Fluid retention Potential vomiting Loss of appetite Nesting Pacing Carrying and guarding toys Symptoms will vary between individuals, as well as severity of symptoms. Findings Here Findings Here Conventional Treatments In severe or extreme cases of phantom pregnancy, your dog may require veterinary attention, where they may be given a hormone treatment. This treatment stops the production of pregnancy hormones, which heavily reduces symptoms, and stops milk production. Findings Here Supplements to Help Your Dog There are a few supplements that could help your dog through her phantom pregnancy. Let’s take a look at these! There’s also one frequently recommended, which we do not recommend, so we will look deeper into why! Homeopathy is a very popular choice when it comes to those in phantom pregnancy. If you choose to use homeopathy, speak to a homeopath or supplier of remedies. The commonly given options for a phantom pregnancy are Pulsatilla and Urtica. Other remedies may also be advised for mood if the dog is in a low mood. Dogs struggling with behavioural effects of phantom pregnancy, who are just not themselves, may require some calming supplements like Scullcap and Valerian. Another supplement that can help in the event of a phantom pregnancy by aiding in the regulation of hormones, is Borage/Starflower oil. This does come with a caveat though – it must be used with caution, and in small amounts as it can cause liver damage, and may also be carcinogenic. This is due to the content of chemicals known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Findings Here Findings Here Vitamin B is a great supplement for those in phantom pregnancy, specifically B6, as it helps regress phantom pregnancies in dogs. Magnesium is an essential mineral for our dogs, and it is great to increase in those with phantom pregnancy, as it encourages all round health within the body, keeping all systems running smoothly, and normally. Finally, Theanine helps control arousal levels in mammals. Keeping the arousal levels in check is important in a female with phantom pregnancy, so as to reduce symptoms and keep hormone levels steady. Evening Primrose Oil – Why Should You Avoid It? We mentioned that one popular supplement isn’t one we would recommend – this supplement is Evening Primrose Oil. It can certainly help a bitch in phantom, but why don’t we recommend it? Evening primrose oil is lower in the omega GLA than Borage oil, meaning it has less of an anti inflammatory effect. This isn’t the biggest problem with evening primrose oil though! The main issue is concerning Prostaglandins; a group of fats which have hormone-like effects in mammals. Prostaglandins stimulate the uterine muscles to shed the lining of the uterus which in turn causes increased pain and worsened associated symptoms. Evening primrose oil is what’s known as ‘oestrogenic’ – meaning it promotes oestrus, and makes symptoms more harsh. Evening Primrose Oil also poses a risk to potential epilepsy patients, as it can trigger seizures, so as a precaution, we recommend avoiding it’s use. Findings Here Other Tips to Help Your Dog As well as offering appropriate supplements to your dog, there are some other things you can do to help them through a phantom pregnancy. Lets have a look at some of these: Firstly, your dog will likely be feeling a little unusual, and sorry for herself. Her body is going through some big changes at this time, so the need for more attention and TLC is common. It is so important to be there for her – it can be a bit overwhelming with your dog clinging to you more than normal, but try to stay calm, and give her plenty of love and extra attention to comfort her. Another behavioural aid during this time, possibly one of the most important
There are so many aspects of health that we look at here at My Pet Nutritionist. Diet and lifestyle are considered, including vaccination schedules, chemical treatment exposure, the quality of water provided and the cleaning products/household products used in the pet’s environment. However there is another factor often overlooked when it comes to disease – stress! We often say disease is expressed according to how we interface with our environment. The main factors here being nutrition, toxins and stress. Stress can be mental, or physical. Mental stress and physical stress can also be linked. In this blog, we will look at the links between stress, and disease. What is Stress? We all know what stress feels like from time to time (and if you don’t, the rest of us are very jealous!), but how does it look from a biological standpoint? What actually happens in our and our pets’ bodies during stress? Stress responses start off in the part of the brain that deals with emotions; the Amygdala. The Amygdala sends a message to the ‘control centre of the body’; the Hypothalamus, the very centre of the brain. The Hypothalamus then interacts with the autonomic nervous system (the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions such as breathing, heartbeat, blood pressure etc) to make adjustments in the body, to cope with the stress. The autonomic nervous system is the main system involved in stress responses, and branches into the sympathetic, and parasympathetic nervous systems. These systems are what give the tell-tale signs of stress in your pets (and yourself!), and what help reduce the effects of the stress response. Let’s take a look at some of the common symptoms of stress, caused by the different systems: The sympathetic nervous system Inhibits saliva production Increases heartrate Dilutes pupils Relaxes urinary bladder Inhibits digestive capabilities (read on to find out more on this!) Dilates bronchia The parasympathetic nervous system Promotes saliva production Decreases heartrate Constricts pupils Constricts urinary bladder Stimulates digestive functions Constricts bronchia Stress isn’t always emotional – it’s important to remember this! Common stressors include: Emotional: fear, mental trauma, anxiety Physical: over-exertion, injury, pain Environmental: allergens, pollutants, radiation and rapid temperature changes Biological: bacteria, viruses, parasitic burdens Chemical: pesticides/herbicides, toxins, heavy metals Consumable: ultra-processed foods You can read more about the stress response here! Findings Here Findings Here Calm Complex The Gut-Brain Axis Gut health plays a role in mental health, which means the health of your pet’s gut, is incredibly important to look at if your pet is frequently stressed. The gut is very much linked to every system in the body, and the nervous system is no exception! Bidirectional (both ways) occurs between the gut and the brain, so having a stressed pet, can be a little like a vicious circle, in that emotional stressors can affect the gut, and poor gut health can affect the pet’s emotions. Located in the peripheral nervous system, the main nerve associated with this bidirectional signalling between the gut and the brain, is the Vagus Nerve. Unlike other cranial nerves, which signal between the head and neck areas, the Vagus Nerve reaches all the way through the body, to connect the brain to the gut. The Vagus Nerve is responsible for various bodily functions, including: Allowing for swallowing and vocalisation in the larynx and pharynx Parasympathetic supply to the heart in the thorax, which reduces the heart rate during stressful situations Regulates smooth muscle contraction in the intestine, to enable normal defecation The Vagus Nerve is essential to link the central nervous system to the enteric nervous system to enable healthy digestion. You can read more about the Gut-Brain Axis here! Findings Here Emotional Stress and its Effects on the Body Having an anxious pet can be heartbreaking for the owner – not to mention hard work (which is very much worth it!). Due to the gut-brain axis, we know that emotional stress, doesn’t just stay within the brain! It can cause disease throughout the body, purely down to the fact the Vagus Nerve is an important part of so many systems in the body. The endocrine (hormone) system, and enteric nervous system are both massively affected by poor brain health, and prolonged periods of emotional stress can lead to a host of hormone-related diseases, and disease within the digestive tract. Of course, not all dogs with endocrine or digestive issues are stressed, nor can it always be put down to stress, but stress responses and brain health are very often overlooked – so here is your reminder to check your pet’s mental wellbeing. Think about things you could improve in their life to give them a calmer, more level mental state if they are typically easily overwhelmed, or provide them with a more stimulating routine or space if your dog’s mental health is poor due to boredom. It works both ways! Read on to find out more on how to keep your pet’s stress levels to a minimum. Findings Here Calm Complex Physical/Environmental Stress and its Effects on the Body When our pets go through some form of physical stress, whether it’s injury, or illness, the pressure on the body’s systems (which are already working harder than normal, in order to fight disease or heal injuries) can once again, cause a vicious circle. The added pressure on the body’s systems, makes for the potential for disease to worsen due to stress. We need to help our pets recover in a timely manner with as little emotional stress as possible, in order to reduce stress. Physical and environmental stress can cause emotional stress, which we know can lead to endocrine and digestive upset. Gut damage can then lead to numerous other diseases because 70-80% of the immune system lays in the gut. Chemical/Consumable Stress and its Effects on the Body Chemicals used on the pet, and around the pet as well as what you feed your pet can cause stress on the body, which leads to disease. This is
Paw biting is probably one of the most common symptoms we see among our clients at My Pet Nutritionist. It’s daunting when your dog just wont stop! The noise of paw chewing, every owner of a paw biter knows… it can be draining! Our handy guide may help you understand why your dog is biting his paws, and what you could do to help alleviate it. Exposure to chemicals Exposure to chemicals in various aspects of life, can have a massive effect on your dog’s health – especially gut health, which can lead to symptoms such as itchy paws and undercarriage. Let’s discuss the effects flea and worm treatments, household cleaners, and environmental products can have on itchy paws! Flea and Worm Treatments Flea and worm treatments may seem rather an odd cause of paw biting, as flea and worm treatments are administered either orally, or on the skin. These products are so very damaging to the body, both internally, and externally. Not only can they cause chemical burns, and sore skin, as well as neurological problems, they can also damage the gut. A damaged gut can cause a histamine response in the body, which brings with it, symptoms such as excessive itching and licking, including paw biting. We would recommend switching to natural alternatives for flea and worm prevention. Household Cleaning Products It’s important to be mindful of the ingredients used in household cleaning and laundry products. An enormous amount of the ingredients in many laundry products and cleaning products are skin irritants. Try to use as natural products as possible – some natural pet companies stock natural laundry and cleaning products, probiotic laundry and cleaning products, or you can make your own! But my cleaning product states ‘pet friendly’?! Unfortunately, this simply means that it wont kill your pet. Great, but skin irritations are still very prevalent! Dogs make nearly constant contact between their feet, and the floor or soft furnishings, meaning they are more at risk of contact allergies on the feet, causing biting. Environmental Products Navigating around environmental toxins can be extremely tricky. The vast majority of councils in the UK tend to spray weed killer on the streets. These are just one of the environmental products which can contribute to paw biting. Others include patio cleaners, professional astroturf cleaners, grit/antifreeze, and many others. Washing paws after walks is a great idea to help reduce the risk of these toxins affecting the comfort of the dog’s paws. Yeast Yeast tends to have a very familiar symptom, along with the paw biting; a rusty colour on and around the toes. Yeast has two pathways – from the gut, and purely on the skin. Most yeast we see is down to an unhealthy gut, which allows for the overgrowth of candida, however, less commonly dogs may get Malassezia; which is a yeast infection on the skin. Candida Candida is a fungus which occurs naturally on the skin, and in the gut. When it is present in the correct amount, it’s a healthy part of a well-functioning microbiome. The issue comes when candida out competes good bacteria – this leads to a yeast infection. This predominantly occurs in the small intestine, and is aptly named Small Intestine Fungal Infection (SIFO). Overgrowths of candida can be down to exposure to the aforementioned toxins, poor gut health (and therefore a weakened immune system), allergies and intolerances, and antibiotics. As antibiotics not only attack bad bacteria, they also attack the good bacteria, which allows for the growth of fungi such as candida. As yeast thrives on sugar, its important to cut out any high carb, starchy, and sugary foods. Dry food can contain anywhere between 30 and 70% carbohydrates! This means that feeding a balanced fresh food would be the best option. It is also very important to keep on top of, or get to the bottom of allergies and intolerances; running an elimination diet, and healing the gut with mucilage herbs and probiotics is usually the winning combo when getting to the bottom of intolerances. Vaccines, some types of fish such as tuna, and even tap water are contaminated with heavy metals – yeast also thrives on heavy metal exposure, so it’s also important to not use such products, and use filtered water. Working on gut health is very important – you may find our Gut Guardian supplement useful! Findings Here Findings Here Malassezia Folliculitis Affecting only the skin, Malassezia Folliculitis is the skin-specific species of yeast fungus. Often called Fungal Acne, Malassezia causes acne-like pimples on the skin due to the yeast infecting hair follicles. Malassezia can be harder to treat than candida, but thankfully, rarely affects the paws. Findings Here Findings Here You can fund out more about yeast in our blog here! Allergies and Intolerances Unbeknownst to many, allergies and intolerances are very different from one another, and intolerances are often mistaken for allergies. Intolerances are the digestive inability to break down certain foods, specifically proteins. The inability to digest proteins properly, causes intolerances to develop. They can be worked on and improved through gut-work using mucilage herbs, and probiotics such as our Gut Guardian supplement. Allergies are much more severe, and are down to immune modulation – true allergies cannot really be improved. In some cases, allergies are life threatening. An interesting fact, is that in food reactivity cases, on average 10% are true allergies, whereas 90% are intolerances. Food Food allergies and intolerances can affect paw biting, due to poor gut integrity which causes a histamine response by the body. When the body reacts to a sudden influx of histamine, one of the most common symptoms is itching. Irritation can, and often does happen all over the body. Red sores, constant scratching, restlessness, and frustrated panting can all show your dog is itchy. Paw biting is one of these common symptoms too – this shows the dog’s paws are itching, as part of the immune response to foreign particles in the bloodstream. Contact Contact allergies
At My Pet Nutritionist, we understand the importance of hormones in the body, and how the slightest imbalance can lead to both minor, and major health issues. This guide will help you understand the role of hormones within the body. What are hormones? Hormones are found in all living organisms, from mammals to plants. They are substances found in the body which regulate bodily functions, including mental development, physical development, reproduction, and metabolism. What is the Endocrine System? The Endocrine system is comprised of all the organs and glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream and into the tissues and organs which use them. Thyroid Hormones Thyroid stimulating hormone While Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is produced in the brain, by the Anterior Pituitary Gland, it is the most important hormone for thyroid function. TSH is the hormone which is needed to stimulate the production of other important hormones in the thyroid gland. Findings Here Dogs suffering from Hypothyroidism have been proven to have fluctuating amounts of TSH produced, which causes issues when trying to produce the relevant hormones in the thyroid itself, leading to Hypothyroidism. Findings Here Thyroxine Thyroxine, also known as T4, is the most important hormone produced in, and secreted by the thyroid gland. Tyroxine is essential for normal functioning of the heart and muscles, neurological development, digestion, metabolism and weight management, and bone repair/strengthening. Findings Here Findings Here Thyroxine supplements may help physical and cognitive abilities if used as a treatment for patients suffering with hypothyroidism. Findings Here Triiodothyronine Also known as T3, Triiodothyronine is another important hormone produced and secreted by the thyroid gland. It aids the control of metabolic rate, heart rate, neurological development, bone development, and digestion. It goes hand in hand with Thyroxine. Triiodothyronine is particularly important for skeletal development and function. Findings Here Calcitonin Calcitonin is the third important hormone produced by the thyroid, and is used in the regulation of calcium and phosphate levels in the blood. It also helps to protect the body against developing hypercalcaemia, by reducing the levels of calcium in the blood. Where the other thyroid hormones are stimulated by TSH, Calcitonin production is also stimulated by Gastrin; one of the gastric hormones, which aids muscle growth, and contributes to muscle health in aging individuals, as well as gut motility, and production of stomach acid. Findings Here Reproductive Hormones Oxytocin Oxytocin is produced in the brain, in the hypothalamus, and is released by the pituitary gland for use in the reproductive system. This is the hormone responsible for sexual arousal, and bonding between mother and infant. The uterus contracts when stimulated by Oxytocin, so it is an important hormone during labour too. Trust and recognition are also controlled by oxytocin, as well as the bond between the owner and pet. Findings Here Findings Here Progesterone Progesterone is responsible for the preparation of the uterus lining; the endometrium. Once fertilized, the eggs will embed themselves in the endometrium, where they will grow and mature. Relaxin Relaxin is utilised in both the musculoskeletal system, and the reproductive system. In the reproductive system, it aids the growth of the placenta, and also helps imbed the fertilized egg (embryo) into the endometrium. In the musculoskeletal system, Relaxin is involved in cartilage and tendon health, as well as bone and muscle repair Findings Here Findings Here Testosterone Testosterone is particularly important for males, however it is present in females too. In females it regulates breast tissue, and fertility. In males, testosterone not only aids sex drive, but also regulates distribution of body fat, bone density and muscle mass, and it also aids the production of Red Blood Cells, and sperm. When testosterone is taken away too early, through premature neutering, the risk of a huge variety of health problems can increase, including weight gain, arthritis, uneven bone growth, poor bone strength, various cancers, among other health issues. Findings Here Adrenal Gland Hormones Cortisol Cortisol has many functions in the body. It is produced in the Zona Fasciculata, which is in the very centre of the Adrenal Gland. It’s functions in the body include controlling the body’s intake and use of protein, fat and carbohydrates, increasing blood sugar levels, decreasing inflammation, and regulating blood pressure. Cortisol is also known as the ‘primary stress hormone’ – it’s the hormone which helps relax urges of stress or anger, and helps build the bond between owner and dog, alongside the aforementioned Oxytocin. Findings Here Adrenaline This one may be quite self-explanatory. When you think of what it feels like to have an adrenaline rush; this is the role of adrenaline! It causes an increase in blood pressure, expansion of passageways to and from the lungs, heightened pain threshold, more acute sensitivity to sounds and sights, and is also very important for distributing blood to muscles. Findings Here Findings Here Aldosterone Produced in the adrenal glands, Aldosterone is responsible for regulation of water to salt ratios in the body. The amount of salt to water in the body dictates blood pressure, so Aldosterone is essential in the regulation of normal, healthy blood pressure. Findings Here Noradrenaline Produced in the adrenal medulla, this is an important hormone used by the brain. It regulates cognitive function at all ages, and is also an important part of arousal and attention span. Findings Here Pancreatic Hormones Insulin This may be a hormone you most likely will have heard of. Insulin is a massive part of diabtetes. Why is this? The role of insulin is to lower blood glucose levels. Type 2 Diabetes is caused by a spike in blood glucose levels, where insulin is not present enough. This hormone is produced in the pancreas. Findings Here Glucagon Alongside Insulin, Glucagon is also produced in the pancreas, and also helps regulate glucose levels within the body. Glucagon regulates glucose homeostasis by stimulating the production of glucose form the liver. Findings Here Findings Here Somatostatin Produced in the pancreas, Somatostatin inhibits the secretion of insulin and glucagon, which is
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
