Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we consult with dogs and cats with a huge variety of health concerns, from digestive problems to dental problems, and everything in between! One of the dental concerns we see, affects both cats and dogs – tooth resorption. It is estimated that around 60% of cats (pure-bred cats seem to suffer the most), and 40% of dogs will be affected by Tooth Resorption by the time they turn 6 years old! There are various layers to the tooth, starting from the outer surface to the very inside of the tooth, the layers are: Enamel: a thin, white, hard layer which protects the sensitive insides of the tooth Dentin: a tick, softer layer of tissues beneath the enamel, containing microscopic tubules which lead to the nerves in the tooth. Pulp chamber: the powerhouse of the tooth. The pulp creates dentin, and also provides the dentin with nutrients to keep it healthy. This chamber is commonly known as the ‘root canal’ as it extends to the root of the tooth. Cementum: a hard surface anchoring the tooth to the gum. The gum also has multiple layers. Starting from the outer surface visible to the eye to the inside of the gum, the layers are: Gingival Margin: this part keeps the teeth securely in place. Gingival Sulcus: attaches the gum to the tooth. Cemento Enamel Junction: the area where the tooth meets the gum. Periodontal Ligament: attaches the tooth to the jaw. Pets with Tooth Resorption suffer from erosion of their dentin, which ultimately becomes destroyed. This process cannot be reversed! Gradually, more and more of the tooth is affected, becoming destroyed, and appearing to absorb into the gum. Findings Here Findings Here There are many types of Tooth Resorption in both cats, and dogs. Types in cats Type 1: Normal density is maintained, and Periodontal Ligament is unchanged. Resorption is in the Cemento Enamel Junction. Destruction occurs toward the root, or in a side to side direction. Type 2: Narrowing at the Periodontal Ligament area, and the tooth root becomes as dense as the surrounding bone. Type 3: a combination of Types 1 and 2 – teeth also become multicoloured. Types in Dogs External Replacement Resorption: most common form in dogs. The ligament space and root of the tooth change dramatically. External Inflammatory Resorption: the tooth roots are very inflamed. External Cervical Root Surface Resorption: lesions are present around the Cemento enamel junction. External Surface Resorption: the very edges of the tooth root may show on x-rays to be slightly uneven. No other clinical symptoms show. Internal Inflammatory Resorption: oval shaped swellings grow in the root of the tooth. Often caused by dental disease. Internal Surface Resorption: oval shaped swellings form further up the tooth root. May be caused by trauma, but are extremely rare. Internal Replacement Resorption: incredibly rare in pets. Progressive condition. Tunnel-like areas form as a result of tooth root fractures. Findings Here Findings Here Symptoms and Causes Outward symptoms are rarely noticeable in most cases of tooth resorption, making diagnosis often difficult. As pet owners, we need to be really vigilant when it comes to oral health. Regular teeth cleaning is important; and as part of your regular husbandry regime, practicing touching your dog or cat’s tooth may be more important than you may think! One of the few signs that your pet may be suffering with tooth resorption, is pain when the tooth is touched. Other signs include: Increase in drooling Head shaking Reduction of appetite (due to pain when eating) Gingivitis/bleeding from the mouth Face rubbing Gagging Frequent sneezing In progressed cases, tooth fractures are possible – this is largely down to potential damage to the crown of the tooth due to loss of structural tissues. As a result of tooth resorption, your pet may suffer with oral infections – this is due to lesions forming on the tooth crown making the inner tooth accessible by bad bacteria. Very little is known about causes of tooth resorption. While many studies have been carried out, no specific cause has been pinpointed. During these studies, it was found that cells known as ‘odontoclasts’ are responsible for breaking down the hard tooth tissues. Findings Here Findings Here Diagnosis The process of diagnosis is usually simple when a dog shows signs of tooth resorption. Firstly , your veterinarian will discuss your dog’s symptoms, and run a physical examination of your dog’s mouth/teeth. Some veterinarians will run an additional examination under general anaesthetic to be able to get a more thorough look/feel of your dog’s teeth and gums. Next, they will take X-rays of your dog’s teeth. The X-rays will enable them to tell if your dog does have tooth resorption, and how severe the individual’s case is. Conventional Treatment Once your cat or dog has received their diagnoses of Tooth Resorption, treatment must be prompt due to this condition being particularly painful. The treatment offered by your veterinarian will depend on the type of resorption your pet has, and also the severity. Some pets may be referred to a veterinary dentist for treatment. In the event that the condition has progressed rapidly, or too far for the tooth to remain stable, the affected unstable tooth/teeth will be removed. This is a surgical procedure carried out under anaesthetic. In some cases, only part of a tooth is removed, if the veterinary dentist, or veterinary surgeon feels this is in the pet’s best interest. If your pet’s condition is not so advanced, and their teeth are still stable in the gum, treatment mostly involves frequent oral health check ups to check if any intervention is needed yet. Another treatment offered in select cases whereby the tooth is saveable, is root canal treatment. Again, this is a procedure carried out under anaesthetic. During root canal treatment, pulp is removed from the root canal, which is then cleaned, and filled with dental material. The aim of this treatment is to slow the progression of tooth resorption. As this
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we tend to see quite a few cases of Cushing’s disease. Some cases seem to occur as a result of corticosteroid treatment and others tend to come with a plethora of other symptoms and disease. Here we can cover all we understand about this disease from a conventional perspective, and then we can delve deeper into the natural support we tend to offer. Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition in dogs where the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol; a hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress. There are two primary forms of Cushing’s disease in dogs as we currently understand, but various other forms which are perhaps less common. Let’s take a look at these, starting with the two primary forms. Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s Disease (PDH): This is the most common form, accounting for about 85% of cases. It’s caused by a benign tumour in the pituitary gland (a small gland at the base of the brain) that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol. Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s Disease (ADH): This form is less common and results from a tumour in one of the adrenal glands themselves. This tumour produces excess cortisol independently of the pituitary gland. Iatrogenic Cushing’s Disease: This form of Cushing’s Disease is caused by the administration of corticosteroid medications (e.g., prednisone) for other medical conditions. Long-term or high-dose use of these medications can lead to symptoms similar to Cushing’s Disease. This is not a true form of Cushing’s Disease but rather a drug-induced condition, meaning it can be ‘reversed’. Once the corticosteroid medication is reduced or stopped, the symptoms usually resolve, though it’s important to do so under veterinary guidance. Primary Adrenal Hyperplasia: In rare cases, a dog may develop Cushing’s Disease due to non-tumour-related hyperplasia (enlargement) of the adrenal glands, which leads to excessive cortisol production. This is less common compared to pituitary or adrenal tumours, and may occur due to chronic inflammation or trauma. ACTH-Secreting Tumours Elsewhere: While the pituitary gland is the most common source of excessive adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) production leading to Cushing’s Disease, there are rare cases where tumours in other parts of the body (such as the pancreas) can produce ACTH or ACTH-like substances, leading to Cushing’s- like symptoms. Genetic or Congenital Causes: Although rare, some genetic or congenital conditions could potentially lead to Cushing’s Disease by causing the adrenal glands to produce excessive cortisol. However, this is not well-documented and is less commonly recognised or understood. In summary, while tumours in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are the most common causes of Cushing’s Disease in dogs, other less common scenarios, such as iatrogenic effects or rare forms of hyperplasia, can also lead to similar symptoms. Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease The symptoms of Cushing’s Disease can vary, but common signs include: Increased thirst and urination. Dogs may drink more water (polydipsia) and urinate (polyuria) more frequently. Increased appetite Excessive Panting Abdominal swelling: A “pot-bellied” appearance due to abdominal distension. The weight is usually carried differently to those who are simply obese. Hair loss: The coat may become thin or brittle, and dogs may experience symmetrical hair loss, sometimes all over! Skin changes: The skin may become thin and prone to bruising/discolouration or infections. Those with hair loss caused by Cushing’s Disease often have a black, scaly look about them. Lethargy and fatigue Muscle wastage, especially in the hind limbs Behavioural change, including increased irritability or changes in mood. If you suspect your dog has Cushing’s Disease, your first step as a responsible pet owner is to seek veterinary assistance, where your dog’s symptoms can be investigated, and an appropriate diagnosis made. It is important to work with your veterinarian to build a suitable treatment plan for your pet. It is also important to note that some of these symptoms can also commonly be seen in other disease, hence the importance of a veterinary consultation. Causes and Risk Factors The exact cause of Cushing’s Disease isn’t always clear, but several factors can contribute: Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to developing Cushing’s Disease, including most commonly Dachshunds, Poodles, Boxers, and Beagles. Age: Cushing’s Disease is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs, typically between 6 to 12 years of age. Tumours: Tumours in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are the primary cause of Cushing’s Disease. These tumours are usually benign but can lead to significant health issues due to the impact on hormonal production and the overproduction of cortisol. Gut Health: Gut health has a huge impact on Cushing’s Disease for many reasons. Gut dysbiosis (which occurs when there is an imbalance in the gut microbiome) can come hand-in-hand with Cushing’s Disease due to the fact that some types of bacteria found in the gut cause Cortisol degradation. In those with Gut Dysbiosis, the microbiome may lack enough of this bacteria, causing elevated Cortisol levels. Inflammation: any inflammation in the body is a risk factor of Cushing’s Disease. Cortisol is known to reduce inflammation, however levels are often so high in those with Cushing’s Disease, the body often enters a state of low-grade systemic inflammation. This generalised inflammation can lead to a host of other diseases including cardiovascular (heart) disease, diabetes, and bone mass issues such as osteoarthritis. Toxin Exposure: When we really look into the nitty gritty of toxin exposure, both internally and externally, we can see worrying factors that can cause Cushing’s Disease, and other endocrine diseases. Unfortunately, some toxins our pets (and their humans!) often come into frequent contact with, are known endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors interfere with the balance of hormones in the HPA Axis, which can cause overproduction of the cortisol hormone, and also commonly presents as skin issues. You can read more about the HPA axis here. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diagnosis Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease involves a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and diagnostic imaging (usually ultrasound or CT scans) to check for tumours and assess
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
If there’s one thing us dog owners and carers see and handle a lot, its poop! It comes in all different colours, shapes, sizes and textures, but do you know if your dog’s poop is ‘good’, or ‘bad’? At My Pet Nutritionist, we often hear from panicked pet parents regarding their pet’s faeces, and if it looks how it should! This handy guide looks at everything ‘dog poop’, including some troubleshooting tips along the way! Pooh Colours When it comes to colour, dog pooh can vary massively! Different colours can indicate different things, so let’s have a look at common dog pooh colours, and what they might mean! Brown is typically associated with poop. Brown can come in any shade, from very light brown, to very dark brown. Brown is a very ‘normal’ colour for faeces. If you feed fresh food, you may notice your dog’s pooh is darker on darker proteins such as lamb, duck or beef, and lighter, almost cream in colour, on lighter proteins like turkey, chicken or white fish. White pooh is commonly seen for two reasons. If it is an older pooh which has been laying around in the garden, it may be simply that it has dried out or been ‘sun bleached’ – especially if your dog is raw fed. If your dog is producing fresh white coloured pooh, and is raw fed, this can be a sign that your dog is not tolerating bone well. In these instances, you may need to switch to a cooked food using one of our recipes, or look at using a bone substitute. Mixed coloured pooh is a common occurrence in fresh fed dogs, and sends a lot of pet owners into panic-mode! Mixed coloured pooh when feeding a fresh food diet is completely normal! You may observe light and dark brown parts withing your dog’s faeces, which is due to your dog having eaten a variety of different proteins. If your dog has eaten a mixture of light and dark proteins in the last day or so, it’s likely their poop will be multi-coloured! Black pooh is something we don’t want to see, particularly if it is loose in texture too! Tarry stools are caused by the presence of Melena (blood) in the faeces, which can be secondary to a number of digestive issues, parasite burdens, liver or kidney disease/cancer. Black, but solid stools can also denote health concerns such as internal bleeding. Some supplements may darken the stool to an almost-black colour, including some soil based probiotic blends. Yellow/orange stools can also be of concern for your dog. Yellow or orange pooh is often soft in texture, and can be due to a number of health conditions. Those suffering with campylobacter often have yellow faeces. Another common reason a dog may have yellow or orange faeces is an issue with the liver, or bile production. Some intolerances present with yellow or orange pooh too, so an elimination diet may be useful. If your dog has yellow or orange stools, further investigation is required by your veterinarian. Pooh Textures Our dogs’ pooh comes in many textures, from so solid it crumbles, to completely watery. Each different pooh formation tells a different story, so it is important to learn what each type means! When your dog’s poop is extremely hard and/or crumbly, it is often shaped in multiple small pieces, and quite often white in colour. ‘Crumbly’ can also be described as the poop turning to dust upon landing on the ground, or when being picked up. Poops like this, are not desirable! These poops show the digestive tract is unable to cope with the recommended amount of bone in a fresh food diet, or that there is too much bone in the fresh diet you are feeding. If this is the case for your dog, you may need to dilute the bone content in the food you are feeding, by replacing 20g of the complete diet per 10kg bodyweight, with the same amount of boneless mince. Some owners prefer to switch to a bone alternative if their dog struggles to digest the bone content of balanced meals, to ensure they’re still getting the calcium they need, but in a form the dog tolerates better. You may also need to give a gut support supplement such as our supplement, Gut Guardian, which you can purchase here! Additional fibre may also be required in the diet. A hard but not crumbly poop is what we are aiming for! The pooh should be a log-like shape, and should be firm to touch (with a poop bag, of course!), but should not easily break apart. This is a great sign that your dog’s digestive tract is functioning well, and their diet is suiting them perfectly! Keep up with the good stuff! Sometimes you may spot a formed, but soft poop laying around, reminding you of the typical cartoon dog poop! These tend to be produced by those on a higher carbohydrate, more processed food (though not all dogs fed these diets will have this type of pooh!), or by a dog with a little digestive upset, be it an intolerance, or gut damage. A small parasitic burden could also result in this type of faeces. In this instance, you may wish to run a wormcount (order a kit from a reputable company, send off your sample, and await results) to check for intestinal parasites, look at running an elimination diet if your dog is already on fresh food, add in some gut support, some more fibre, and perhaps some extra bone. If your dog is fed a dry. Processed diet, switch to a fresh food diet. If you are unable to feed fresh, switching to a food with higher meat content, or a high quality wet food may help you out! If your dog produces a soft and unformed pooh, this should be investigated as it is a clear sign of some digestive upset, or lack of tolerance for
Here as My Pet Nutritionist, we see customers with pets with a host of different diagnoses. Diet and lifestyle play a huge role in the management of such conditions, and this is no different when your pet has been diagnosed with Hypokalaemia. Find out more about this condition in this blog post, where you can learn what it is, how to spot symptoms, conventional treatments available, and how you can help your dog by tweaking their diet and lifestyle. What is Hypokalaemia? Hypokalaemia is a deficiency of potassium in the bloodstream. We can break the word down into three parts; ‘hypo’ meaning there is not enough of something, ‘kal’ being related to the chemical formula of potassium, and ‘aemia’ meaning in relation to the blood. Potassium is an electrolyte, and is an essential mineral, stored mostly inside cells. It plays a huge role in the body, including keeping nerve function healthy, ensuring the muscles and heart function correctly, and aiding the transport of both nutrients, and waste around the body. Those with hypokalaemia are deficient in potassium, which plays havoc on nerve, muscle and heart function as the change in concentration of potassium disrupts electrical charges and cell signals from passing through the cells properly. Nutrient absorption and waste remove may also reduce. Hypokalaemia mostly affects the nervous system, the cardiovascular system (which is as a result of hypokalaemia of the nervous system, as the lack of electric signalling from the brain to the heart causes irregular heartbeat which can ultimately lead to death), and the musculoskeletal system. This condition can happen in both dogs and cats, but is more common in dogs than it is in cats. Symptoms of Hypokalaemia There are a variety of symptoms you may see in your pet prior to diagnosis, however milder cases may be symptom-free until the deficiency is severe, when symptoms start to show. These symptoms can include: Lethargy/fatigue Vomiting Severe constipation Increased thirst Increased urination Weight loss Muscle wastage Changes to gait (stiffness, posture/head position, and walking on the back of their feet, not the sole) Irregular heartbeat If your pet is showing any number of these symptoms, it is important you seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Causes of Hypokalaemia So what causes hypokalaemia? This certainly isn’t a straight forward, one answer fits all situation, so let’s take a look at the potential causes of hypokalaemia in pets. In the event that too much potassium is lost from the body due to polyurea (excessively urinating), excessive defecating, vomiting or other bodily fluid loss, Hypokalaemia is a risk. This is often seen as a secondary health complication to chronic kidney disease (CKD), cardiac issues, or cancer, but most commonly with CKD. Those with CKD, cardiac issues or cancer may notice symptoms after some time, as the damage caused on cells in the body causes potassium loss, which is often not replaced in the diet. Findings Here As potassium can only be sourced through the diet, the lack of a properly balanced diet, low food intake (such as those with anorexia), or reductions in the amount of food eaten by the individual each day either due to illness, or weight loss where daily food allowances have been reduced too quickly, can all lead to Hypokalaemia. The recommended amount of potassium per day for a dog is 1g per 15kg (33lbs) bodyweight. For a cat, the recommended daily amount of potassium is 0.33g per 4kg (9lbs) bodyweight. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Dogs and cats with metabolic conditions may also be at risk of developing hypokalaemia. Those with diabetes mellitus are among the more common to experience a lack of potassium in the bloodstream. Findings Here The use of some medications such as most cardiac medications which are diuretics can lead to hypokalaemia too, however this is a tricky problem to solve, as the medications with the potential to cause hypokalaemia, are often life saving, and required. Findings Here Diagnosing Hypokalaemia As hypokalaemia is very often associated with other diseases, most commonly CKD, your veterinarian will run a urinalysis – this is where you take a sample of your dog or cat’s urine, which is then analysed in a lab to check your pet’s kidney function. abnormal function of the kidneys could point to hypokalaemia being the reason for your pet’s stiff gait, muscle wastage, or other symptoms commonly displayed by pets with the condition. Alongside a urinalysis, your veterinarian will take a sample of your pet’s blood, which will be analysed in a lab to determine current concentrations of potassium in the blood serum. Abnormal levels of potassium will be easily identified via this blood test. As cardiac issues often come hand in hand with hypokalaemia, due to the lack of ability to send electric signals to the muscle to encourage it to work, many veterinarians will also run an ECG on your pet to ensure their heart is in good working order. This is often carried out following diagnosis of hypokalaemia. Auscultation (listening to parts of the body with a stethoscope) will be carried out, as it should be with any veterinary appointment, regardless of reason. This will quickly check for any signs of arrhythmia, from where the veterinarian may proceed to using an ECG. Findings Here Conventional Treatment Options When treating, or managing hypokalaemia, the ‘conventional’ treatments are very much similar to the natural support you can provide your cat or dog. The ultimate goal, is to raise potassium levels! In the more severe cases, where the pet is extremely unwell, unable to walk, constantly vomiting, defecating and urinating, the pet will be given a potassium rich mixture via intravenous drip. Depending on the condition, and medical history of the pet in question, the veterinarian will be able to determine how fast the potassium drip should be administered – too fast, and the heart may be affected by an irregular heartbeat! Your veterinarian may recommend a specific diet, and will also recommend giving your dog daily potassium
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we help customers tackle a host of different health conditions and concerns. Some diseases our customers’ dogs come to us with are common, and simple, others are not so common, and more complex. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency is one of the not-so-common examples of health concerns we have helped customers with. While it is rare, and not tested for as standard, we are beginning to see more and more cases of EPI, so this blog post will be a great educational tool for those who want to learn more about EPI, as well as those who’s pet has been diagnosed with it. What is EPI? EPI, as its commonly called, is shortened from Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. ‘Exocrine’ is the system to do with the body’s enzymes. The pancreas is an important part of the digestive system, and also an important part of the exocrine and endocrine systems. The pancreas is an organ, located in the right side of the abdomen, close to your dog’s stomach. There are two parts to the pancreas – the exocrine pancreas and the endocrine pancreas. The endocrine pancreas releases the hormone, Insulin, which controls blood sugar levels. The exocrine pancreas releases enzymes responsible for food digestion, particularly the macronutrient, protein. In those suffering with EPI, the pancreas is unable to produce enough of these enzymes, which leads to major malnutrition, unless treated daily. EPI is an incurable disease, and requires daily management to keep symptoms at bay. Findings Here Symptoms of EPI There are a number of symptoms associated with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. Many of these symptoms are common symptoms of other health conditions, which makes diagnosis of EPI quite tricky, but the symptoms can be severe, and in some cases life threatening. Here’s some of the main symptoms you could expect from a dog suffering with EPI include: Rapid weight loss Lack of ability to put weight on Insatiable appetite Chronic diarrhoea Mucus in the stool Vomiting Lethargy/fatigue If your dog has a number of these symptoms, it is extremely important you have your dog assessed by a veterinarian, as EPI dogs can go downhill very quickly. Findings Here Diagnosis of EPI Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency is rarely routinely tested for upon first signs of symptoms, and is regularly misdiagnosed. As the disease is quite rare, and little is taught about it in initial veterinary qualifications, dog owners who suspect this disease often have to specifically request for testing for EPI in their initial consultations. So how is EPI diagnosed? There are two tests carried out in those with suspected EPI. A fasted blood test, and a faecal test. Once the sample has been taken, the test used is called a Canine Trypsinogen-like Immunoassay (or cTLI for short!). For this test, pets must be starved for a minimum of 6 hours – this is usually best done overnight. Trypsinogen is a non-activated enzyme; known as a proenzyme. The pancreas of healthy individuals secretes Trypsinogen into the small intestine with other enzymes in the mix, where it converts to Trypsin – the activated form, which is used to digest proteins. It is very much normal for Trypsinogen to be detected in blood tests of healthy animals, because a little Trypsinogen leaks into the blood stream where it is circulated around the body. How do cTLI results differ for those with EPI? The results from a cTLI of a dog with EPI will show as low to no Trypsinogen when analysed. This is because those suffering with EPI have a reduced functionality of the pancreatic tissues, resulting in less Trypsinogen being secreted into the intestine, and therefore less leaking into the bloodstream, if any. Findings Here Another blood test is usually carried out in cases where EPI is suspected, to test for levels of Vitamin B9 (Folate) and Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin). While these vitamins aren’t directly related to the pancreas, they can easily be affected by a poorly functioning pancreas due to the affect EPI has on the microbiome of the gut. Blood serum analysis for Vitamin B12 will be low, as EPI can lead to B12 deficiency, whereas serum analyses for Folate will usually come back in excess. You can read more about high Folate and it’s relationship with low Vitamin B12, and how these are affected by the pancreas in our blog here. Findings Here Let’s move onto the faecal testing side of EPI diagnosis. The test carried out is called a Faecal Elastase Test. This test is for another of the pancreatic enzymes used during digestion, called Elastase. As with all enzymes, Elastase performs a specific job – it’s role in digestion is to help break down fats, carbohydrates and proteins, for use by the body for energy, growth, and cell maintenance. Healthy individuals with a well functioning pancreas will have elastase in their stools, however those with EPI will not produce as much elastase due to damaged pancreatic tissues, so elastase would be lacking in faecal samples. Findings Here Causes of EPI There are various reasons a dog may have EPI – it can be congenital (present from birth), hereditary (genetically inherited), or acquired (through trauma or disease). Congenital and hereditary causes are self-explanatory – it’s important to source puppies from health tested breeding pairs, with no history of EPI in their immediate or extended genetic lines. If you are opening up your heart and home to a rescue dog, there is a small chance of congenital or hereditary EPI, as you don’t know the history of the dog’s genetic lineage, however it is a rare disease, so it wouldn’t be on the forefront of our minds when considering a rescue dog. Should you experience the symptoms listed in this blog post, hopefully our guide will help you and your rescue dog should the need arise. As with many diseases we write about here at My Pet Nutritionist, there are some breeds which are genetically predisposed to EPI, including: West Highland White Terriers German Shepherds Akitas Border
The humble blueberry; small, sweet, juicy … and incredibly beneficial! Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we are big fans of feeding fresh, and adding beneficial, fresh ingredients to the dinner bowl. Blueberries are one of those tiny powerhouses we often recommend adding to your pet’s bowl. Find out all about the brilliant blueberry, and all it has to offer in this blog post. The Blueberry – Nutrition Let’s take a look at the nutrition, appearance, and texture of the blueberry. Blueberries are small, dark blue-purple coloured, round berries. They are very juicy, as they’re 85% water! The skin is soft, smooth and digestible, with a little crown on the top, where a stalk would have once attached them to the plant. They are quite sweet to taste, however some can be a little tart – generally speaking, the smaller the blueberry, the more tart it is, so if your dog prefers the sweeter fruits, aim for the larger berries! As well as being super high in moisture, blueberries are a great source of dietary fibre compared to other berries, high in Vitamin C, high in Vitamin K, and high in both Potassium and Manganese. Blueberries are 9% carbohydrates in the form of naturally occurring sugars, so it’s important to feed in moderation. All in all, the blueberry is a relatively low calorie fruit choice, with added benefits, which we will discuss next! What Benefits Does the Blueberry Bring? There are many health benefits to feeding blueberries – these go for us humans too, so why not share them with your dog?! Fantastic Antioxidants The biggest benefit to feeding blueberries, is their incredibly powerful antioxidant complex! Blueberries are one of the best antioxidant foods. To understand a little more about antioxidants, and why they’re important, we need to learn about Free Radicals. Free Radicals are unstable molecules found in the body – if you want the nitty gritty science stuff, a free radical is an atom, molecule or ion which has an unpaired electron in it’s orbital. Due to the lack of a paired electron, the molecule becomes extremely unstable and volatile, which in turn has major negative effects on the body. Free radicals cause damage to healthy cells through oxidisation, which leads to cancer, premature ageing and can be linked to many other diseases within the body. Now you know a bit about free radicals, you can probably see why it’s important to rid the body of them. This is the job of antioxidants! Findings Here Findings Here The term ‘antioxidants’ is actually quite broad. There are various types of antioxidants, but the one most prominent in blueberries, giving them their awesome properties, is the ‘flavonoid’ family. When looking at flavonoids in blueberries, we can be even more specific! The group of flavonoids in blueberries is the ‘anthocyanins’. Studies show that consumption of wild blueberries directly increases antioxidant levels in the body! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Anti-Aging and Anti-Cancer Properties Now we understand the general benefits of antioxidants, we can look at other parts of the body which need antioxidant action to stay healthy! Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which affects DNA health! Damaged DNA is bad news – this occurs naturally to nearly every cell in the body, all day, every day … it’s a part of ageing! Not only does DNA damage lead to general ageing, it also leaves the body more vulnerable to cancer. Here’s where our important antioxidants come in – we want to reduce the free radicals in the body, to reduce DNA damage, slow ageing, and reduce the risk of cancer. Findings Here Findings Here Heart Happy Berries – Cholesterol Protection Cholesterol in the body plays an important role, but high cholesterol, or oxidised low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can lead to heart disease. So how does protecting cholesterol help, when most of the body’s cholesterol is the ‘bad’ LDL type? Well, protecting it from damage makes it less of a risk! As oxidised LDL cholesterol is what leads to heart disease, and free radicals are what causes the oxidisation, providing a good quality antioxidant reduces the risk of damaged LDL cholesterol, and in turn reduces the risk of heart disease. Findings Here Findings Here While there is not many studies into the heart failure rate in dogs, with data on the reduction of heart attacks in those being fed anthocyanins, there is a human based study with quite staggering results! Study participants with a higher intake of anthocyanins had a 32% reduced risk of heart attacks! Cognitive Function You may have seen other My Pet Nutritionist articles regarding cognitive function, and the importance of omega 3 in the diet to aid this by reducing inflammation on the brain. This is incredibly important, however the destruction of free radicals is also incredibly important for brain health and cognitive function. As all cells in the body are affected by free radicals, and subsequent oxidation, brain cells are no exception! Different parts of the brain have different uses. Antioxidants tend to have the greatest affect in the health of areas associated with intelligence, and also act on ageing neurons, which causes greater general brain function as individuals age. Some studies show an improved memory too! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Muscle Recovery and Function The final part of the body commonly affected by oxidative stress through damage by free radicals, is the musculoskeletal system, specifically the muscles. During, and after strenuous exercise (for example after a long walk, or dog sport like agility or flyball), oxidative stress occurs in the muscles due to inflammation. This is how muscular soreness happens. Reducing oxidation of the muscular cells may help to reduce muscle fatigue, and stiffness post exercise. This is an area which still needs further research, and more studies, but one studies so far show positive data, supporting antioxidants being useful for muscle recovery post exercise! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Reduced Risk of Diabetes Those who own a dog
If you use social media, or dog health forums, you may have heard fellow pet parents mentioning ‘cool’, ‘warm’, ‘hot’ and ‘neutral’ foods. The recommendation for itchy dogs, tends to be to use ‘cool’ foods if we look at nutrigenomics and the principle of food energetics. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we wanted to dedicate a blog to ‘cool foods’, and feeding them to itchy dogs, so we hope this blog post answers any questions you may have! Yin-Yang Nutrition Yin-Yang Nutrition is a Traditional Chinese Medicine concept which categorises foods into four pillars – Cool, Neutral, Warm and Hot. Which category each protein is linked to, depends on that food’s characteristics. Balance is the basis of Yin-Yang Nutrition, and is what determines whether an individual should eat cool, neutral, warm or hot food sources. Lets take a look at the clinical symptoms of and abundance and deficiency of yin and yang. If your dog has an abundance of Yang…they have excessive heat as they’re unable to counteract warming properties. Heat needs to be removed, so cool foods are required. Clinical signs of dogs with an abundance of yang include: Acute onset, usually at a younger age Short course No general weakness High fever Hyperactivity Elevated heart rate Strong heartbeat Tongue discolouration – usually red or purple If your dog has a deficiency of Yang… the body lacks warming properties enough to combat the normal level of Yin in the body, so warming foods are required. Clinical signs of dogs with a deficiency of Yang include: Chronic onset, usually at an older age Long course Low body temperature at the extremities Loose stools Urinary incontinence Swelling of the limbs due to trapped body fluids (Oedema) Chronic weakness and pain Generalised weakness Discolouration to the tongue – usually pale Weak heart rate Deep heart beat Infertility If your dog has an abundance of Yin… they have excessive coldness, and are unable to counteract cooling properties. Warmth needs to be gained, and cold removed, so hot foods should be given. Clinical signs of dogs with an abundance of Yin include: Acute onset, usually at a younger age Short course High pain levels No general weakness Swelling of the limbs due to fluid retention (Oedema) Loose stools Slow heart rate Strong heart beat Tongue discolouration – usually red or purple If your dog has a Yin deficiency… the body lacks cooling properties, enough to combat the normal levels of Yang, so cooling foods are required. Clinical signs of dogs with a deficiency of Yin include: Chronic onset, often at a younger age Long course Generalised weakness Fever, but not high fever Anxiety Increased thirst Seeks cool areas Tongue discolouration – usually red and dry Increased heart rate Findings Here Findings Here If your dog is in perfect balance, then the above clinical signs will not be apparent, and the dog will be healthy, with pink, moist tongue, normal activity levels, a formed stool, no pain, and normal heart rate and beat. When looking at the Yin-Yang theory, these dogs should eat a balance of ‘Cool’ and ‘Hot’ foods, and unlimited ‘Neutral’ foods. Findings Here You can learn more about general Traditional Chinese Medicine here. Which Foods are Cool? So, when we speak of ‘cool proteins/foods’, what do we actually mean? Which foods are cool? Protiens Duck Frog (perhaps not the easiest to source in most countries, but frog meat can be used as part of a balanced DIY raw diet) Rabbit Cod Scallops White fish Eggs Pork turkey Plants Broccoli Cauliflower Turnip Lettuce Cucumber Seaweed/kelp Dandelion Spirulina Swiss chard Wheat grass Button mushrooms Apple Banana Melon Supplements Flaxseed Sesame seeds Itchy Dogs and Cool Proteins Itchy dogs may benefit from being fed cool proteins, in some situations. It can very much depend on the reason the dog is itchy – food intolerances/allergies, or environmental allergies. The problem with food related itching, is that the immunological response to a protein can vary between sources, and isn’t necessarily down to heat in the body. In these situations, working on gut health is important, as is working out which proteins need to be eliminated from the diet. If the dog is suffering with environmental allergies however, the body’s response to an environmental allergen is inflammation, which can often be linked to imbalances in the Yin and Yang. Dogs with itching and allergies tend to have excess Yang. The main element of this, and what we will focus on in this blog, is seasonal allergies. When a dog presents with seasonal allergies, a number of conditions can occur, which can be down to heat invasions with damp elements. Conditions often coming hand in hand with seasonal allergies, as well as occurring independently include generalised itching, eczema, hot spots, interdigital furunculosis, dermatitis, and seasonal alopecia. Dryness during old age can also cause coat and skin changes which present as itching. For itchy dogs suffering with these conditions, feeding a cool diet may be hugely beneficial to getting on top of the itch. While alternative therapies are often frowned upon by the medical community, there are studies to prove the efficacy and safety of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other natural therapies. Findings Here Findings Here By looking at the dog’s clinical signs closely, you may see some of the less obvious signs of a Yin-Yang imbalance. Once an imbalance is detected, you can tailor the dog’s diet to include more cool proteins, and eliminate any warm or hot ones. As the cooling proteins have an anti-inflammatory effect for those with inflammation in and on the body, the reduction in inflammation will help reduce itching. Ultimately, the Yin-Yang balance will align, and the body will have equal amount of both Yin, And Yang. Theoretically, this will present as perfect health, and eliminated itching. It’s important to bear in mind, that itching could be caused by food sensitivities, which can require a more western approach, and a full elimination diet to be completed. Some evidence does suggest that pruritic dermatitis,
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we help pet owners with a host of different health conditions. One we see from time to time, is Spondylosis in dogs. Us humans can get Spondylosis too, but it tends to be more common in our canine companions than it does in their owners. This blog post aims to help you get a better understanding of Spondylosis in dogs, including what it is, how to spot the signs and symptoms, and how you can support the body naturally. What is Spondylosis? Spondylosis, called Spondylosis deformans in the veterinary world, affects the spine; more specifically, the vertebrae – the bones that make up the spine. It’s a degenerative condition, which means it gradually gets worse as the patient ages. Those with spondylosis have bony spurs growing on their vertebrae, known as osteophytes. But why are these growths bad news? The vertebrae protect the spinal chord – probably one of the most important parts of the body as it sends signals between the brain and the rest of the body, and vice versa, and ais also involved in reflexes and coordination. The body spurs growing on the underside of the vertebrae can rub on the spinal cord, causing damage, which then has a knock-on effect to the dog’s sensory capabilities, and ability to move freely. Spondylosis can be widespread, with bony spurs forming along the entire spine, or localised, where they only form in one or two spots. It is most commonly seen in the lower spine, AKA the Lumbar Region, as well as hips and tail. In particularly bad cases, bony spurs can fuse vertebrae together, making mobility tricky. Spondylosis is quite common in aging dogs, especially those who are heavier set, such as giant breeds, or breeds with cobby bodies, and short legs, but it can happen at any age and breed, depending on the cause, which we will look at shortly. The most commonly affected breed is the Boxer, where estimates suggest around 70% of elderly individuals over the age of 9, have been diagnosed with the disease. Findings Here Symptoms of Spondylosis The somewhat strange thing about symptoms when looking at a potential diagnosis of Spondylosis, is that there are very few clinical signs presented, especially not those specific to the condition. Some symptoms you may notice include: Spinal pain: hunching of spine, lameness, unwillingness to walk, difficulty laying down and standing up, general reduction of mobility Behavioural changes: your dog may become more reactive due to pain, and the fear of being hurt by another dog bumping them. Yelping when specific areas are manipulated Lethargy General weakness and stiffness Reduced appetite If your dog is displaying these signs, there could be a number of potential spinal issues, so it’s important to consult your veterinarian to grasp a better understanding of the exact issue your dog is having. Causes of Spondylosis So why does Spondylosis occur? It can be a natural part of the ageing process – just through general wear and tear of an older dog. Another cause of the development of Spondylosis, is trauma to the spine from injury, whether it’s minor trauma, like a bump to the spine, a wobbly landing from a higher surface, or repeated over-use of the spine (often seen in sports dogs who do the same movement repetitively), to major trauma such as having been hit by a car, or having had surgery to correct IVDD. A third potential cause of Spondylosis, is genetic predisposition. There are not many predisposed breeds, but the most commonly seen tend to be Boxers, German Shepherds, and Flat Coat Retrievers. Spondylosis can also form as a secondary disease! Between the vertebrae of a healthy dog, lays soft tissue. This enables the discs to act as shock absorbers, and softens impact, keeping the vertebrae separate. There is a degenerative disc disease, previously mentioned in its abbreviated form, IVDD (Inter-Vertebral Disc Disease), in which the tissue between the vertebrae wears away, leaving bone to rub on bone, prompting the formation of bony spurs to re-stabilise the joint. Findings Here Diagnosing Spondylosis As there is usually a lack of obvious symptoms in cases of Spondylosis, it can be tricky to pinpoint a test for it. If your dog is experiences clear signs of back pain, or even just at the vet for their annual health check where the dog displays possible signs of pain, the vet will use your dog’s medical history records to look for potential missed signs. They will perform any neurological and orthopaedic examinations they feel are necessary, and go from there. Your vet will typically want to rule out any other potential health issues before testing further for Spondylosis. A canine physiotherapist may be able to give a better look into mobility and how your dog’s gait is affected through a video analysis. This may be done through referral; however many allow the owner to book directly in with them to discuss the video, and their findings. Once your veterinarian has ruled out the potential for other, perhaps more common health issues, he or she will book your dog in for an x-ray of the spine, which includes the chest and abdominal cavities, naturally. X-rays tend to give a definitive answer as to whether the dog has Spondylosis or not, due to the visibility of bony spurs on the vertebrae. Less commonly, a vet may recommend an MRI scan – these tend to show potential spinal cord damage as opposed to the bony spurs themselves, which can be an important part of recommending the correct treatment. This procedure is usually carried out on referral with a neurologist. Findings Here Conventional Treatments There is actually very little a veterinarian can do in the event of a dog having Spondylosis, as every individual is different. The treatment plan is heavily based on symptoms the individual’s dog is showing, now a generalised treatment plan, which would be the same for all sufferers. Pain medication is regularly prescribed for those suffering
Graves Disease is an autoimmune disease involving the endocrine (hormone) system, specifically the thyroid, which we see from time to time here at My Pet Nutritionist. It can be a worrisome diagnosis for any pet owner, and it’s important that owners of pets with Graves Disease understand what it is, and how they can tailor their pet’s diet and lifestyle to keep on top of symptoms; which ultimately extends their pet’s comfort. That’s where we come in, to provide you our Ultimate Guide to Graves Disease in Pets. What is Graves Disease? Graves Disease is the non-clinical, or common, name for autoimmune Hyperthyroidism. You may have heard about Hypothyroidism quite regularly on social media and other platforms where pet owners connect, particularly on dog based platforms; but you may not have seen much discussion on Hyperthyroidism. Graves Disease is rare, but possible, in dogs but tends to be more of a frequent trouble for our feline companions. It can be found in us humans, too! So what exactly is Graves Disease? What happens when your pet has it? If you want the short answer, the thyroid gland in your pet is overactive – it’s working over time! We feel it’s important to understand more about it though, so read on! Graves Disease is an autoimmune condition. Autoimmunity tends to occur due to a damaged immune system, or in individuals with a genetically compromised immune system. The body essentially attacks itself, as it recognises various proteins and other substances in the body, as foreign. The thyroid is a gland which produces various hormones, essential for a healthy life. The hormones produced and secreted by the thyroid are called triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) – these help regulate the body’s metabolic rate. When there is a deficiency in these hormones, important bodily processes slow down, which causes a host of health issues. Now, when these hormones are too abundant, effects on the body can be equally as disruptive. We will discuss symptoms next. Symptoms of Graves Disease There are various symptoms of Graves Disease which you may notice in your cat or dog. Let’s take a look at some of the main symptoms: Weight loss, often rapid Diarrhoea Nausea/vomiting Swelling of the neck and face Increased urination Increased drinking Increased appetite Difficulty swallowing Shortness of breath and increases heart rate Change in pitch of bark Reduced eyesight capabilities Behavioural changes, including anxiety depression, and/or hyperactivity. Causes of Graves Disease The cause of Graves Disease is very much unknown. There is very little research into the causes of Graves Disease. It is often describes as ‘idiopathic’, meaning there’s no known cause. Some studies suggest that one known cause of Graves Disease in dogs (though rare) is as a result of a rapidly spreading cancer, called thyroid carcinoma. In cats, some cases of Graves Disease are secondary to a non-cancerous tumour forming on the thyroid gland called Adenomas. Like in dogs, in rare occasions, malignant tumours known as adenocarcinomas can cause the development of Graves Disease by causing the over production of hormones. It is possible that deficiencies in the diet may contribute to onset of Hyperthyroidism, as well as exposure to chemicals and toxins absorbed by the body, including flea and tick products which are toxins, and end up in the bloodstream, which disrupts the normal functioning of the thyroid. Diagnosing Graves Disease The first step in a diagnosis of Graves Disease, is a physical examination of the neck area of your pet. The purpose of this, is to feel for an enlarged thyroid gland. Secondly, the vet will take a blood sample to test for hormone levels in the blood. If the reading comes back with a value higher than the ideal’ threshold for each hormone, it’s very likely your pet has Graves Disease. If the T3 readings are high, but the T4 readings are ideal, more tests may be required, which would be discussed with the vet. These tests may include further bloodwork, and a urinalysis, which will show potential secondary defects to the heart and kidneys. As the thyroid is involved hormonally with the vast majority of the body’s organs, imperfect bloodwork in relation to other organs, could help show a problem with the thyroid. Conventional Treatments As always, here at My Pet Nutritionist, we like owners to be able to make an informed choice with their dog’s health, and encourage the use of conventional treatments where necessary in life potentially endangering situations, and situations where quality of life becomes the biggest importance. This is of course, alongside as much natural support as possible, and feeding a fresh, therapeutic diet. More on this later – let’s take a look at the conventional treatments your veterinarian may offer. There are various approaches which may be taken. As carcinomas are one of the most common, treatable reasons a dog or cat may have Hyperthyroidism, most are based around treating the cancer. Radioactive Iodine Therapy Radioactive Iodine Therapy is fairly common in practices which offer it as a treatment. The radioactive iodine is injected into the bloodstream, which makes its way to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland takes the iodine up, causing radiation to be emitted. The emitted radiation then destroys any cancerous tissues around the thyroid, but does not cause any damage further afield. This treatment often results in normal levels of hormone production within mere weeks of the injection, making it extremely effective in curing hyperthyroidism. This treatment option has to be undertaken in a specialist veterinary hospital with licencing to carry and use radioactive substances. The pet must also be kept in the surgery until their levels of radiation are safe for handling. Findings Here Findings Here Medication Some drugs may be offered, to inhibit the production and release of hormones from the thyroid. As the thyroid is overactive, slowing it down is imperative to managing Graves Disease. This method will not cure, but can support the pet in reducing flare ups and secondary health implications. Being the
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
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see many dog owners worrying about the condition of their dog’s skin. The appearance of keratosis, and risk of secondary infection can be concerning, but there are things we can do to help those suffering with it. Keep reading to find out what it is, and how we can help those with it. What is Keratosis? Usually referred to as Hyperkeratosis, the condition presents as hardened, thickened, and often cracked and very dry skin. The term ‘keratosis’ stems from overgrowth of keratin in the skin. When too much keratin is produced, the skin becomes less supple. Unfortunately, hyperkeratosis often leads to secondary infection when it is not treated promptly. Those with keratosis will usually find it on the paw pads, and nose. While it can happen elsewhere on the body, these are the most common places it is found in our dogs. Many owners ask if keratosis is painful for their dog. Unfortunately keratosis can be very sore and uncomfortable for them, especially those with cracked skin, and secondary infection. The areas can become very inflamed too, which adds to the pain sensation. Causes of Keratosis There are various factors which can lead to your dog getting keratosis. Let’s have a look at some of these. Age is a huge factor in those with keratosis. It is commonly seen in older dogs, of any breed, but it is most commonly seen in elderly cocker spaniels, boxers, beagles, basset hounds, and various bull breeds. Findings Here Infectious Disease Survivors can be more prone to keratosis, specifically those who have had a systemic infection (an infection which affects the whole body), such as leishmaniasis and distemper. Internal upset in the body, very often presents externally as a skin reaction. The skin is very often an outward sign of inward stress. Findings Here Findings Here Systemic Autoimmune Disease such as systemic lupus and pemphigus foliaceus can also lead to keratosis, again, as an outward sign of inward stress. Findings Here Genetic predisposition is a very common cause of keratosis. It is incredibly important not to overlook lineages/parentage of your dog. This is obviously not easily achievable in most rescue dogs, but if you are planning on buying a puppy from a breeder, a history of skin related issues in the breeding stock is very worth asking for. Labradors are particularly prone to hereditary keratosis of the nose, and usually starts between the age of 6 and 12 months, with recurrent flare ups throughout the dog’s lifespan. A lot of healthy individuals who have no other visible reason for the onset of keratosis, will be diagnosed with having idiopathic (no identifiable cause) keratosis. Findings Here Inadequate Diet Type. The method of feeding being used can also affect the possibility of the dog getting keratosis. As always, we would recommend a fresh food diet, as these are minimally processed, and allow ingredients to provide unaltered nutrition. Zinc Deficiency can cause keratosis. Some breeds of dog, namely the husky and the malamute, cannot absorb zinc efficiently, by genetic predisposition. Many other breeds of dog who grow at a rapid rate, mostly giant breeds, may also struggle to absorb zinc efficiently. One of the main reasons we see in a variety of individuals of many breeds, large and small, is zinc deficiency, leading to keratosis – it is the second most common mineral deficiency, and can be tested for through hair analysis and blood testing at the same time. The lack of zinc can contribute to keratosis as it causes the abnormal production of keratin. Findings Here Findings Here Trauma, particularly to one particular area of the skin, keratosis is common. This is because the cells in the skin, called keratinocytes, react to the repeated trauma by producing excess keratin, with the aim of hardening the skin for protection. This is often why many dogs suffer with keratosis on their paw pads; from repeated walking on hard surfaces. Elderly or overweight dogs who sleep or lay frequently on hard floors often struggle with keratosis due to repeated pressure on certain parts of the body. Findings Here Supporting the Body Externally Recovery from keratosis is a two pronged attack, using internal, and external methods. So what can we do externally to help our dogs suffering with keratosis? As keratosis presents as dry skin, the most important thing to do, is moisturise it. Moisturising the area is imperative to healing keratosis. There are so many natural, and very effective products you can use to moisturise. Coconut oil is one of the most popular, and readily available on the market. Other products include an array of natural snout and paw balms from various companies. Look out for those which do not contain unnatural ingredients – look out for products made from one, or a mix of a couple natural oils such as seed oils and coconut oils, and often a combination of dog friendly essential oils and other seed oils. Apply your chosen moisturising product twice per day, and try to avoid letting your dog lick it off. Supporting the Body Internally The second prong of the two-pronged approach, is internal supplementation, and dietary changes. First we’ll look at diet. A fresh diet would be ideal – these give plenty of moisture, vs dry food which contains very little moisture. Fresh foods are also not ultra-processed, so are much more gut, and therefore skin friendly, as there are huge links with the gut and skin health when we look at the gut-skin axis, for which more information can be discovered in our blog. The vast majority of dry foods on the market have been shown to not meet minimum nutritional guidelines, so deficiencies linked to keratosis are very possible. Using balanced fresh food can be much easier to balance, as we know what is in it. Let’s take a look at supplements. In breeds with a zinc deficiency predisposition, it is important to supplement with zinc. Other breeds shouldn’t require this. The other
