We often talk about the highway between the gut and the brain, but it is probably more appropriate to think of the gut like a roundabout. If you live anywhere other than the UK, a roundabout is a road junction at which traffic moves in one direction around a central island to reach one of the roads converging onto it. In short, you have a number of roads branching off. We are learning more about the gut’s impact on the body every day, and along with a gut-immune axis, (one road off the roundabout), the gut-brain axis (another road off the roundabout), we also have a gut-skin axis. The gut-skin axis is becoming intertwined in a range of inflammatory skin issues in humans, and as our dogs also sadly suffer with many inflammatory skin issues, here at My Pet Nutritionist, we think the Gut-Skin Axis is worth exploring. So, let’s get cracking. The Skin The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this in the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the elements. This is the often-forgotten role of the skin – that it forms part of the immune system. It is this role that largely establishes the connection between the gut and skin. The Gut The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is one of the largest interfaces between the host and its environment, you only have to think of the sheer volume of food and (and other items) that pass through your dog’s GIT in their lifetime. For this reason, it must posses a strong barrier to prevent pathogens reaching the inner workings of the body. Skin Vs. Gut Barrier The gut and skin barrier share surprisingly many features. Both organs are highly innervated and vascularized, as they are both essential for immune and neuroendocrine function. The inner surface of the gut and the outer surface of the skin are both covered by epithelial cells (ECs) which have direct contact with the exogenous environment. This way, the immune system is continuously primed to distinguish between harmful and beneficial compounds. Immune cell priming starts early on in life and forms the basis of tolerance. Your Pet’s Immune System But, both the skin and gut also posses a microbiome and it is this, along with the interplay between them that influences their health. How Does The Gut Affect The Skin? We have largely established the impact the gut has on skin through bacterial supplementation. Study One Mice who received Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation experienced increased dermal thickness, enhanced folliculogenesis, and increased sebocyte production which manifested as thicker, shinier fur. Findings Here Study Two Oral supplementation of Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803 in rats demonstrated a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss, which is a marker of skin barrier function. This was also replicated in humans. Findings Here Study Three Volunteers who took Lactobacillus paracasei NCC2461 supplements for 2 months had decreased skin sensitivity. Findings Here Study Four Another study evaluated the impact of Bifidobacterium breve M-16V and Bifidobacterium longum BB536 administration over the time period of 1 month prenatally, 6 months during infancy, and a period of 18 months follow up on the management of allergic diseases in humans. The study concluded that the incidence of atopic dermatitis was lower in the probiotic administered cases, compared to controls. Findings Here Whilst these studies are promising, there are equally studies which conclude no significant effect on inflammatory skin disease when supplementing probiotics. More and more data is appearing suggesting that clinical significance is largely strain specific, and some studies simply researched the wrong strain. Equally, we understand that inflammatory conditions are multifactorial, and there is no silver bullet. But what these studies do show us is that what goes on in the gut, can influence skin health. We have found that the metabolites found in the gut (those produced from the fermentation of fibre for example) have effects on the gut and the skin. SCFA’s are seen to have anti-inflammatory effects in the gut and in the skin. GABA metabolites modulate neurotransmitter function but also restrict itching in the skin. Dopamine modulates neurotransmitter function but also inhibits hair growth in the skin. Acetylcholine also modulates neurotransmitter function but also influences barrier function in the skin. This is also demonstrated when we look at dietary implications in skin conditions, for example, in cases of atopic dermatitis, diets are frequently low in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids and high in omega-6 fatty acids. Findings Here But when we see the comorbidity of skin and gut issues, it’s easy to wonder which came first and what’s super interesting is that we see a bidirectionality. Studies have demonstrated that food allergies may result from an impaired skin barrier: atopic dermatitis sensitizes to peanut allergy due to epicutaneous peanut protein exposure in household dust, leading ultimately to immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated mast cell expansion in the gut. Findings Here Whether the gut or skin comes first, what is clear is that we need to support the health of both. The intestinal and epidermal barriers are connected through systemic circulation (blood and lymph), so healthy circulation is important. This is where appropriate exercise comes in. But avoid over-exercising as this ramps up the stress response in our pets and can be detrimental to the
It’s a sad realisation when we notice our dog getting a little stiffer or moving a little slower. Of course, we take it upon ourselves to make them as comfortable as possible. Joint degradation is a normal part of life, but as we know, certain things can speed it up. Alongside this, there are things we can do to potentially limit some of the damage, and food, nutrients and herbs that can help modulate the inflammatory process. We have compiled 5 of our favourite herbs for joint care in the dog. Joint Degradation Joint degradation is characterised by inadequate production of compounds necessary to its structure, along with reduced collagen synthesis. This can be a result of physical stress, trauma, autoimmunity, or aging. Here, inflammation is upregulated, creating further breakdown. It results in weak, damaged, or inflamed tissue with restricted or painful movement. Tissues are in the firing line when carrying out any physical activity and they may be susceptible to physical stress, strain, or trauma. Unexpected force or sudden changes in direction or speed are also more likely to cause issues (read: overweight dogs and those who chase balls regularly). This can be a particular risk during the winter, when walking in snowy, icy, or even muddy conditions. Tendons and ligaments are dependent on physical activity to develop, but it must be in moderation and appropriate. Joint degradation therefore has a number of risk factors: Nutritional insufficiency Physical stress or trauma Overuse – aging, Excess weight Autoimmunity The main concern in joint degradation is inflammation and the associated pain. And this is where our wonderful herbs can come in. 1) Horsetail Horsetail is a popular fern that has been used as an herbal remedy since the times of the Greek and Roman Empires. It grows wildly in Northern Europe and America, as well as in other moist places with temperate climates. It has a long, green, and densely branched stem that grows from spring to autumn. This plant contains a range of beneficial compounds, but we are most interested in its silica content and also its ability to function as an antioxidant. Silica, which is also present in bones, improves the formation, density, and consistency of bone and cartilage tissue by enhancing collagen synthesis and improving the absorption and use of calcium. Horsetail is rich in phenolic compounds which as we know are a group of antioxidants inhibiting oxidative damage. Not only this, but studies into rheumatoid arthritis have shown that horsetail has a down-regulatory effect on pro-inflammatory factors. It is often described as a great regulator of inflammation. Findings Here 2) Turmeric Turmeric is a flowering plant, but it’s the root we’re most interested in. Part of the ginger family, it looks very similar, but it’s the smell that helps you differentiate. Turmeric is frequently used in humans, to help with a range of diseases and conditions including skin, pulmonary, aches, pains, sprains, liver issues and cancer. Curcumin specifically is argued to be anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-tumour and helpful in wound healing. Used in Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine for centuries, it is now finding a place in Western Medicine. Many joint issues feature chronic inflammation, and in supporting our dogs, we aim to reduce pain and inflammation. So here comes turmeric with its anti-inflammatory properties! Several studies have shown that when supplemented with turmeric, arthritic dogs show a marked improvement in their daily life activity without any side effects! Findings Here 3) Ginger A University of Miami study concluded that ginger extract could be a substitute to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The study compared the effects of a highly concentrated ginger extract to placebo in 247 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The ginger reduced pain and stiffness in knee joints by 40 percent over the placebo. Research shows that ginger affects certain inflammatory processes at a cellular level, and as we know, many pathologies involving the joints have inflammation as the key player. There are more than 1300 types of ginger plant, and they contain a wide range of nutrients, including: vitamin C vitamin B6 the minerals magnesium, potassium, and copper gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and other phytonutrients and polyphenols Gingerol, shogaol, and paradols all have antioxidant properties, and gingerol and paradols are also anti-inflammatory. 4) Boswellia Serrata Boswellia resin can inhibit a branch of the arachidonic acid cascade related to leukotriene synthesis seemingly without affecting prostaglandin synthesis. It is considered that the excessive formation of leukotrienes is responsible for chronic inflammation. In 2004, researchers investigated the role of boswellia in inflammatory joint disease. After two weeks of treatment, an overall efficacy of the dietary supplement was evident in 71% of 24 eligible dogs. A statistically significant reduction of severity and resolution of typical clinical signs in individual animals, such as intermittent lameness, local pain and stiff gait, were reported after 6 weeks. Effects of external factors that aggravate lameness, such as “lameness when moving” and “lameness after a long rest” diminished gradually. They therefore concluded that boswellia herbal dietary supplement provided symptomatic support in canine osteoarthritic disease. Findings Here 5) Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine. We most commonly use it for its calming effect on anxiety symptoms along with building stress resilience, so it can help modulate any mood disturbances alongside chronic pain. But this wonderful herb may also act as a pain reliever, preventing signals from travelling along the central nervous system. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. One hundred and twenty-five patients with joint pain were screened at an Ayurvedic hospital in New Delhi, India. They ingested ashwagandha powder daily for three weeks to establish any symptomatic improvement. A significant change in post-treatment scores of tender joint counts, swollen joint counts, physician global assessment score, patient global assessment score, pain assessment score and patient self-assessed disability index score were reported. The researchers concluded that ashwagandha has a potential role
When we talk about nutrition we tend to focus on the protein and fat requirements of our pets (the carbohydrate requirement gets us all a little hot under the collar) and it stands to reason because they are macronutrients. What this means is that they are required in larger quantities for optimal bodily function. But we also have micronutrients, and despite them being required in lower quantities, they are still critical to health. Under the umbrella of micronutrients, we have vitamins and minerals. We have some helpful blogs on minerals here: Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part One Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part Two But, as vitamins are just as important, here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d pop together a blog on why our dogs need them too! What Are Vitamins? Vitamins are defined by their physical and physiological characteristics. Vitamins are needed in minute quantities to function as essential enzymes, enzyme precursors of coenzymes in many of the body’s metabolic processes. Generally, vitamins are not synthesised by the body and must therefore be provided by food (but our canine companions have a trick up their sleeve with vitamin C for example). Fat vs. Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamins are split into fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins. In this blog, we will focus on the water-soluble vitamins. If you would like to learn more about the fat-soluble vitamins, then check out our blog here: Why Does My Dog Need Vitamins? Part One – The Fat-Soluble Vitamins The Water-Soluble Vitamins Water soluble vitamins are depleted at a faster rate because of limited storage and are less likely to cause toxicity but more likely to become deficient. Water soluble vitamins are absorbed by way of active transport, some vitamins require a carrier protein, like with B12 cobalamin (intrinsic factor), where others require a sodium dependent, carrier-mediated absorption pump. The B Vitamins The B complex vitamins are all water-soluble vitamins that were originally grouped together because of similar metabolic functions and occurrence in foods. These nine vitamins act as coenzymes for specific cellular enzymes that are involved in energy metabolism and tissue synthesis. Coenzymes are small organic molecules that must be present with an enzyme for a specific reaction to occur, like a key being required for a lock to engage. The following vitamins are all involved in the conversion of food to energy: thiamine riboflavin niacin pyridoxine pantothenic acid biotin The following are all important for cell growth and maintenance and/or blood cell synthesis: folate B12 cobalamin choline (it’s not actually a vitamin, but its often grouped with the B vitamins due to their similarities) Spotlight On… Biotin: Known as Vitamin H, for Haar and Haut (hair and skin), we know it more commonly as vitamin B7, or Biotin. One of the B vitamins, Biotin, helps the body convert food into energy. Specifically, biotin is involved in gluconeogenesis, which as we know is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Biotin is involved in fatty acid synthesis, which as we know, is key in skin health. Biotin is also involved in amino acid breakdown. Deficiency of biotin has been associated with immune depression and reduced collagen synthesis, another key consideration in structural health. Biotin deficiency is rare in those who ingest a varied diet, but symptoms in the dog include alopecia, dull coat, brittle hair and scaly skin. The use of antibiotics in the dog decreases the bacterial population of the large intestine which increases the dietary requirement for biotin. Rancid fats also inactive biotin, along with feed rancidity (storage conditions and length). Chlorine inactivates biotin, so this is of concern if dogs are offered chlorinated drinking water. Findings Here Many foods contain biotin, so opt for organ meats, eggs, fish, meat, seeds, and nuts. Fruits like raspberries also contain biotin, and vegetables like sweet potato. There are however some concerns that egg whites contain avidin which binds to biotin, making it unavailable for intestinal absorption. Deficiency has only occurred when over 30% of the diet consists of raw eggs. So, like all things, moderation is key. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is critical for a range of functions in the body. A common deficiency in human vegetarians, disorders of cobalamin metabolism are seemingly increasing in small animal medicine. The causes of deficiency range from chronic gastrointestinal disease to hereditary disease, but what is clear is the health impact of low levels. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA and RNA synthesis and for cellular energy production. All cells in all bodies need to know what they are doing, and they need energy to do them! There are no known naturally occurring bioactive forms of B12 in plant sources. This is because B12 is synthesised by the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, and then absorbed by the host animals. B12 is concentrated in their tissues, which is then eaten by other animals. Sources of B12 include red meat, fish, dairy and eggs. B12 can be depleted in times of stress. This occurs from a range of mechanisms. Stress is a physiological response; in the presence of a threat, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in for fight or flight. Energy is diverted to the brain and muscles as these are the parts of the body needed to escape. Once the threat has been resolved, the parasympathetic nervous system kicks in, returning energy to other bodily functions, which is why it is known as the rest and digest phase. In times of chronic stress, digestive functions can be significantly altered, which can result in malabsorption of nutrients, in this case B12. There are also suggestions that gastric acid can vary during times of stress, increasing or decreasing depending on the personality of the host. Changes in stomach acid secretion can also affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System? The last mechanism by which B12 levels are affected during times of stress is due to its role
When we talk about nutrition we tend to focus on the protein and fat requirements of our pets (the carbohydrate requirement gets us all a little hot under the collar) and it stands to reason because they are macronutrients. What this means is that they are required in larger quantities for optimal bodily function. But we also have micronutrients, and despite them being required in lower quantities, they are still critical to health. Under the umbrella of micronutrients, we have vitamins and minerals. We have some helpful blogs on minerals here: Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part One Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part Two But, as vitamins are just as important, here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d pop together a blog on why our dogs need them too! What Are Vitamins? Vitamins are defined by their physical and physiological characteristics. Vitamins are needed in minute quantities to function as essential enzymes, enzyme precursors or coenzymes in many of the bodies metabolic processes. Generally, vitamins are not synthesised by the body and must therefore be provided by food (but our canine companions have a trick up their sleeve with vitamin C for example). Fat vs. Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamins are split into fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins. In this blog, we will focus on the fat-soluble vitamins, with the water-soluble vitamins to follow. Fat soluble vitamins can be stored in the body’s lipid deposits, making them more resistant to deficiency but also more likely to result in toxicity. Fat soluble vitamins require bile salts and fat to form micelles for absorption. They are then passively absorbed through the lacteals (the lymphatic vessels of the small intestine which absorb digested fats), usually in the duodenum and ileum and transported with chylomicrons to the liver via the lymphatic system. Synthetic and naturally made vitamins are used in the body in the same way but they do have different availabilities. The Fat-Soluble Vitamins Vitamin A Vitamin A is the term which describes several compounds which biologically, have the activity of the parent compound retinol. This form of the vitamin and its derivatives are found only in animal tissues, whereas plants contain precursors in the form of the carotenoids. These are the yellow/orange pigments found in carrots and many other vegetables. The most widely abundant precursor of vitamin A is carotene, and most animals can convert this into the vitamin itself. The well-known function of vitamin A is its role in vision. Vitamin A is a precursor of rhodopsin, the photopigment found in rods within the retina of the eye that helps us and our pets to see at night. One manifestation of vitamin A deficiency is slow, dark adaptation progressing to night blindness. Vitamin A is also part of the bone formation and bone resorption equation. It influences both osteoblast and osteoclast function. Much data is now suggesting higher vitamin A levels are associated with lower bone density so balancing levels is essential. Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining healthy endothelial cells which are those lining the body’s interior surfaces. As we know, in the gut, they play a role controlling the passage of antigens and commensal gut microbiota from the intestine into the bloodstream. Another key role of Vitamin A is supporting immune function. It helps make white blood cells which circulate in the body, searching for foreign invaders and cell irregularities. Sources of Vitamin A: Carotenoids: sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, yellow/orange/red fruits/vegetables. Retinoids: animal meat; liver, fish oil. Vitamin D Vitamin D is actually a hormone that promotes calcium absorption. In human health, you will have heard it referenced as the sunshine vitamin as it is produced in the skin in response to sunlight (UV) exposure. Unlike herbivores and omnivores, cats and dogs are unable to synthesize Vitamin D adequately in the skin. There is no seasonal change in concentrations and studies have shown that when fed a diet deficient in Vitamin D, puppies develop rickets which could not be prevented by exposure to UVB light. Findings Here This means that cats and dogs are dependent on dietary sources of Vitamin D. There are two forms of Vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol which occurs in plants and Vitamin D3, known as cholecalciferol, is created in the skin during exposure to UV light and occurs in animals. Cholecalciferol (D3) is of greatest nutritional importance to both cats and dogs and luckily it can be obtained from the consumption of animal products that contain it. Once vitamin D3 is formed in the skin (of animals who can do so), it binds and is then either stored or transported to the liver. Both D2 and D3 are biologically inactive and must undergo two more steps to be activated. This involves both the liver and the kidneys. Vitamin D plays an indirect role in bone health by managing calcium levels in the body. It controls absorption of calcium in the intestine and the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. If Vitamin D levels are low, then the intestines struggle to absorb calcium. Vitamin D is also vital in immune function. We find vitamin D receptors on a range of immune cells, meaning there needs to be sufficient levels of it in the body for the cells to do their job. Vitamin D can help modulate inflammatory responses and is also required to produce natural killer cells which are known for killing virally infective cells. Findings Here The Importance of Vitamin D for Cats and Dogs Vitamin E Vitamin E includes several compounds, of which the most biologically active and widely distributed is alpha tocopherol. Vitamin E functions as an important antioxidant within cells, protecting lipids, particularly the polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes against oxidative damage caused by free radicals and active forms of oxygen that may be generated during metabolic processes. The dietary requirement for vitamin E is influenced by the intake of selenium because of its role in glutathione
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we describe the liver as the powerhouse, simply because it has so many jobs. For this reason, when it’s feeling a little under the weather, the ramifications can be widespread. What is it they say, prevention is better than cure? With this in mind, are there foods we can include in our pet’s diet that can support liver health? Of course! Certain wholefoods contain a range of nutrients which can support our dog’s whole health, so here are a few of our favourite foods to support liver health. 1) Blueberries Almost all chronic liver disease is under the background of elevated oxidative stress. This occurs when the number of free radicals found in the body outweighs its ability to cope with them. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals. This versatile berry contains anthocyanins which function as antioxidants which been seen to protect the liver from oxidative stress. Studies have found that in the livers of rats, such protective compounds found in fruits like blueberries slowed the development of scar tissue and may be useful in the prevention of hepatic fibrosis. Other fruits rich in antioxidants include: Cranberries Raspberries Strawberries Mango, Watermelon Blackberries 2) Leafy Green Vegetables (kale, spinach etc.) Not only does this family of vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits, but they also have the added ability of increasing the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes. Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. Detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our dog’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phases I and II are particularly nutrient demanding, and it goes without saying that the higher the burden on the phases (the more toxins our dogs are exposed to), the higher the nutrient requirement again. Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential and this is where our trusty greens come in. In leafy greens you get substantial amounts of vitamins such as A, C, K, and many of the B’s including folate (B9), plus minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. You’ll also find lots of fibre made up of complex carbohydrates, and antioxidant phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. 3) Fatty Fish (mackerel, tuna, sardines etc.) Consuming fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly can help modulate inflammation and it is this mechanism that is crucial to so many health issues in both us and our dogs. Inflammation is a normal response of the body to protect tissues from infection, injury, or disease. The inflammatory response begins with the production and release of chemical agents by cells in the infected, injured, or diseased tissue. These agents cause redness, swelling, pain, heat, and loss of function. Inflamed tissues generate additional signals that recruit leukocytes to the site of inflammation. Leukocytes destroy any infective or injurious agent and remove cellular debris from damaged tissue. This inflammatory response usually promotes healing but, if uncontrolled, may become harmful. Acute inflammation typically lasts only a few days. If a wound gets hot, turns red, hurts, and swells, we recognize that inflammation is at work. In this instance, inflammation is a beneficial process, serving to immobilize the area of injury as the rest of the immune system mobilizes to heal. In contrast, chronic inflammation lasts weeks, months or even indefinitely and causes tissue damage, and this too can occur in the liver. In chronic inflammation, the inflammation becomes the problem rather than the solution. Chronically inflamed tissues continue to generate signals that request help from leukocytes in the bloodstream. When leukocytes reach the tissue, they bring inflammation to the party. This chronic inflammatory response can break down healthy tissue in a misdirected attempt at repair and healing. Inflammation and Fatty Acids Arachidonic acid is an omega-6 acid that is involved in the synthesis of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids play an important role in the body, they modulate many processes including reproduction, blood pressure, haemostasis and of course inflammation. The issue occurs when there are too many. This is why we are particularly interested in balancing out our omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Many commercial foods come in higher on the omega 6 front, and so we really need to be adding some wonderful omega 3’s to the bowl (in the form of oily fish). Not only this, but omega-3 fatty acids inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces the prostaglandin hormones that spark inflammation. The action is similar to what happens when NSAIDs are ingested which also disrupts the COX-2 signalling pathway, reducing inflammation. The inclusion of omega 3’s in your dog’s diets is beneficial to whole body health, not just liver health. Essential Fats for My Dog’s Diet 4) Eggs Eggs are sources of choline, and this nutrient is particularly useful to the liver. Most choline is metabolized in the liver where it is converted into phosphatidylcholine, which assists in building fat-carrying proteins and breaking down cholesterol. True choline deficiencies have regularly been linked to liver disease. Whilst eggs are a good source, you will also find choline in beef, beef liver, chicken, fish, shiitake mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts. If you would like to learn more about the nutrients to support liver health in your dog, check out our blog here: Foods to Feed in Liver Disease And if you would like to learn more about conditions that can affect your dog’s liver, check out our blog here: Natural Guide to Liver Disease If you are concerned about your dog’s health and would like to speak with us, then please check out our services. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
The 3rd of January is known as the Festival of Sleep, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d look into sleep in a little more detail. We often forget how important sleep is to overall health, for both ourselves and our pets. So let’s get to grips with why our dogs need it and some top tips for improving its quality, including whether there are nutrients that can help too! Sleep is widely studied for its evolutionary benefits. It is crucial for most daily functions. It is clear in humans, that when suffering sleep restriction, they have attention lapses, slowed working memory, reduced cognition, and depressed thought. Studies have also shown a significant reduction inactivity in dogs experiencing sleep restriction. Sleep can also mean the difference between life and death. Let’s take a trip back to the late 1800s. Whilst Coca Cola was sold in bottles for the first time in 1894, we still hadn’t made that much progress with animal testing. Marie De Manaceine was fascinated with sleep deprivation. She had established that mental disturbance resulted from partial insomnia, but she wanted to know more. So, in her Lab, she recruited puppies. 10 to be specific; aged 2, 3 or 4 months old. Whilst they continued to be fed by their mother, she kept them in constant activity. In short, she deprived them totally of sleep. After 96-120 hours, the puppies were irreparably lost. What is interesting (despite it being macabre), is that when puppies were starved, they could be saved after 20-25 days. This wasn’t possible when they were sleep deprived. Marie found that sleep deprivation significantly affected the puppy’s brains. When they were starved, the brain was left almost spared. But, in the absence of sleep, fat degeneration, blood vessel abnormalities and haemorrhaging occurred. In short, when the rest of the body is negatively affected by malnutrition, to an extent it can be saved. However, when the brain is affected, it is fatal. Sleep and The Brain The brain is the command centre for the nervous system. It is divided into three main sections; the brain stem which controls basic life functions, the cerebrum, which is the responsible for decision making and the cerebellum which controls movement. We know how a diet limited in lipids can detrimentally affect the brain and contribute to neurological disease, but sleep deprivation still had a worst impact in these puppies. Findings Here Many studies since Marie’s, have demonstrated that sleep loss (not deprivation) during development can result in reduced brain mass, neuronal death and subsequent behavioural problems. On the subject of the brain, it is pertinent to mention the glymphatic system. As we know, the body possesses its own sewerage system – the lymphatic system – but the brain has its own independent waste disposal system known as the glymphatic system. This system is gaining traction and being implicated in neurodegenerative disease. Researchers suggest that the glymphatic system may also function to help distribute non-waste compounds like glucose, lipids, amino acids and neurotransmitters. This system functions mainly during sleep, being largely disengaged during times of wakefulness – this suggests that amongst its many functions, sleep provides a state of activity that enables the elimination of potentially neurotoxic waste products. Your Pet’s Lymphatic System Sleep and Immune Function Sleep supports the initiation of an adaptive immune response. Slow wave sleep, and the circadian system act in concert to generate a pro-inflammatory response as well as reduced levels of the anti-inflammatory stress hormone cortisol. The hormonal changes in turn support the early steps in the generation of an adaptive immune response in the lymph nodes. In addition, sleep specifically supports memory formation in the immune system. The implication of sleep on immune response is demonstrated in various studies of vaccination, for example sleep on the night after experimental vaccinations against hepatitis A produced a strong and persistent increase in the number of antigen-specific Th cells and antibody titres. Findings Here Sleep and Cognitive Function One of the main purposes of sleep is to consolidate memories or learning. This has also been found true in dogs. Learning affects sleep structure which ultimately decides whether you retain the information or not. Interestingly, in studies, those dogs allowed to sleep after learning a new command were more likely to retain the command at a later date than dogs allowed to walk or play. Findings Here How Much Should Dogs/Puppies Sleep? Adult dogs, in a laboratory setting, when left, will sleep on average for around 13 hours per day. They are diurnal, which means they are active during daylight hours. Rest occurs during dark periods with activity increasing the two hours before light. Dogs have a natural rest period around noon and then reduced activity during the afternoon. Findings Here Puppies can sleep anywhere between 18-20 hours per day. Again, you will notice higher activity in the morning and then rest, with reduced activity around noon and into the afternoon. Interestingly, the experiences that your dog has can affect the type and quality of sleep they experience though. Studies have found that after a negative experience, dogs will fall asleep more quickly. It is thought that this is a protective sleep, in response to stress. This should be a consideration for all dog owners. It’s all too easy to attribute an “exhausted” dog to the busyness of the day. Be mindful, their sleeping habits could be more indicative of their experience. Findings Here In humans, lack of sleep is classed as a major stressor. It wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to suggest similarly for our canine companions. Below average sleep quotas are linked with anxiety, aggression, decreased response to reward, lower frustration tolerance and low resilience. Sleep disturbances affect hormone levels; specifically stress hormone levels. Animals experiencing sleep disturbance demonstrated less grooming behaviour and opt for fewer enrichment activities, and we know how important these activities are for stress regulation in dogs. Findings Here Ideas To Help Your Puppy Sleep If your
Christmas can be a little chaotic at the best of times; some of our companions love the attention from all the visitors, but some can get a little overwhelmed. There are many strategies that we can employ for our furry friends to get through this time of year unscathed, but we can also support them nutritionally too! Here are our top nutritional tips for canines this Christmas. Max Out On Magnesium! 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. Offer your dog plenty of magnesium rich foods like leafy greens, nuts and seeds. Time for Tea! L-Theanine is seen to facilitate the generation of alpha waves which are indicative of a relaxed but awake and alert state. L-Theanine helps regulate the usual stress responses like increased blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol secretion and it’s found in our trusty tea! Green tea packs the highest content, so brew up a cup of decaf and share it with your pooch this Christmas. Dose up on D! Did you know that Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased anxiety scores? Whilst we know it plays a role in immune function, it also contributes to cognitive function along with mood and behaviour. Add plenty of fresh foods containing Vitamin D to your dog’s bowl, including: liver, fish and eggs! Mushrooms are a great source too, and if you keep them in the windowsill, you’ll get even more Vitamin D too! Always remember to saute mushrooms before feeding. Build Up Your B’s! B vitamins are heavily involved in the synthesis and breakdown of stress hormones. Whenever we or our dogs are stressed, we release a cascade of hormones that help us manage the threat in front of us. When the threat has passed, those hormones need to be broken down so our bodily functions can return to normal. It goes without saying, the more often our bodies have to do this, the higher the demand for B vitamins (and more). B vitamins are water-soluble, meaning they need to be replenished daily, and this is even without any stressors we may be facing. Offer your dog plenty of sources of B vitamins in their bowls like seafood, poultry, red meat, leafy greens and seeds! Our wonderful Calm Complex provides all of the above. br] br] Fill up on Ferments! This may not apply to all dogs; especially if you are tackling an itchy issue, but there is increasing data highlighting that poor microbial diversity in the gut is linked with increased scores of anxiety. A great way to support microbial diversity is to ensure the diet contains both pre and probiotic foods. Prebiotic sources include: mushrooms, dandelion greens, garlic, burdock root and more. Probiotic foods include fermented products like kefir. Aside from certain nutrients, we also know how important chewing is in engaging the parasympathetic nervous system – which is the rest and digest side of the stress response. This is why offering whole foods, which take some chewing, is great for your dog’s physical and emotional health. Why Dogs Need To Chew Other top (non-nutritional) tips for supporting your overwhelmed canine this Christmas: Set up a safe space – this can be a covered crate or simply a quiet spot somewhere in the house. Try to maintain as much of the routine as possible, Head out on walks when it’s quiet – when everyone is driving home for Christmas at the same time, it can get a little unnerving for your anxious pooch. If you would like any support with your pets, then please check out our services. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Whether you are a seasoned raw feeder or simply want to include raw meaty bones as a way to support dental hygiene for your dog, knowing which bones to feed can be a bit of a minefield. It’s a question we get asked here a lot at My Pet Nutritionist, so we thought we’d put together a handy guide on feeding bones to your dog. We’ll look at the do’s and don’ts and the why’s and wherefores. Why Feed Bones? Depending on the approach you have in feeding your dog, bones will either provide recreational enrichment and dental health support, or a solid 10% of their diet. Bones as Enrichment and Stress Relief Study after study have demonstrated that chewing can counter the effects of stress. Not only does it reduce stress hormone levels, but it also limits sensory processing of external stressors. In short, it keeps your dog’s attention off things it doesn’t need to be paying attention to. At the same time, chewing is known to improve alertness; it shortens reaction time and increases vigilance. This is thought to be due to the increase in heart rate during the chewing task which increases cerebral blood flow and brain activity. So, chewing for the dog can help them rebalance their stress levels and also improve their alertness, which may be of interest if you are preparing training sessions In rest and recovery, chewing opportunities need to be in a quiet space where rest can be encouraged. The increase in heart rate and blood flow, soon dissipates, and with the limited processing of external stressors, the dog is prepared to rest. At the other end of the scale, to promote alertness, offer a chewing opportunity 15-30 minutes before training. This will vary from dog to dog, so it may take some time to find the sweet spot. What is also interesting, is the rate of force needed when chewing, especially when we are encouraging dogs to rest and recover. A strong chewing force induces a greater reduction in stress levels. So, in this situation, larger bones may be more appropriate. Bones for Dental Health Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in the dog’s mouth forms to create a substance called plaque. The plaque sits on the surface of the teeth and with the help of saliva, it hardens to form tartar. Not only does it sit on the teeth, plaque and tartar seeps into gum lines which causes inflammation. Over a period of time, this inflammation and presence of bacteria causes damage to the structures surrounding the teeth; causing receding gum lines and eventually tooth loss. Not only is the mouth and teeth a concern, but the bacteria found in the mouth of your dog can be released into the circulatory system, which then travels through the body. It has been found to damage cardiac tissue causing endocarditis (infection and inflammation in the heart). Oral health is gaining more and more attention in the human realms for its implication in a range of diseases. Much of this we can transfer to our canine companions which means optimising their dental health is of paramount importance. There are a number of chews on the market promoting oral health, but it is actually the mechanism of chewing that helps to reduce build up. Chewing stimulates saliva which produces anti-bacterial agents, helping to keep the mouth clean. Not only this, but the abrasion that occurs during chewing helps scrape deposits off the teeth. So, what type of chew is best? Here’s what the data suggests: Raw bones reduced mouth bacteria by 79%, Daily brushing reduced it by 70% and, Marketed dental chews reduced it by 54-60%. Findings Here As you can see, raw bones lead the way in reducing bacteria and therefore optimising dental health in the dog. Bones as a Source of Nutrition Bone starts as a cartilage model which gets slowly replaced. Osteoblasts are the cells that form new bone and they secrete osteoids. Osteoid tissue is simply unmineralized bone tissue. Soon after the osteoid is laid down, inorganic salts, like calcium and phosphorus are deposited which forms the hardened material that we know as bone. As you can see, calcium and phosphorus make up a large part of the skeleton, and so when these compounds are ingested by another animal, they ingest calcium and phosphorus (amongst others). In other words, when our dogs eat the bones of other animals, they are ingesting what that animal is built of. Whilst calcium is the main structural component of skeleton and teeth, it also plays a role in blood clotting. In addition, it is involved in the intracellular messaging triggering the contraction of muscle fibres. Calcium also plays a role in fat oxidation, and it carries ATP (energy) with magnesium. Calcium’s role in muscle function also includes maintaining the action of the heart muscle. Calcium particles enter the heart muscle cells during each heartbeat and contribute to the electrical signal that coordinates its function, so it’s also vitally important to cardiovascular health. Why Does My Dog Need Calcium Phosphorus in mainly used for the growth and repair of body tissues – it is a component part of bones, teeth, RNA and DNA. In the form of phospholipids, phosphorus is also a component of cell membrane structure and of the body’s key energy source, ATP. Many proteins and sugars in the body are phosphorylated. In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage. As you can see, whilst they are important nutrients for skeletal health and integrity, both calcium and phosphorus also play other roles in the body. But bones are also a source of sodium and magnesium too! Why Does My Dog Need Minerals How To Feed Bones No cooked bones Feed the right size for the breed Avoid weight bearing bones Avoid hollow-marrow bones Weaning/Puppies Chicken necks, wings, feet, thighs Duck feet, necks Rabbit, cut Quail, cut
Sadly, anxiety is as common in dogs as it is in humans. Anxiety is the body’s normal response to stress; the problem is that our stress response hasn’t evolved with modern life and both us and our dogs often feel overwhelmed. A stressful situation can bring about a whole cascade of biological responses and it all starts in the brain. When someone confronts an oncoming danger, the eyes or ears, or both (and parts of the peripheral nervous system) send the information to the amygdala, which is the area of the brain that deals with emotions. The amygdala interprets the images and sounds and sends a message to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is like the command centre. It communicates with the rest of the body through the autonomic nervous system, which controls such involuntary body functions like breathing, blood pressure and heartbeat. It also controls the dilation or constriction of key blood vessels and small airways in the lungs called bronchioles. The autonomic nervous system is further split into two branches, the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system functions like a gas pedal in a car and it triggers the fight-or-flight response. The parasympathetic nervous system is like the brake pedal; it slows everything back down and returns the body to homeostasis, or as we know it, rest and digest. In cases of anxiety, the sympathetic nervous system remains activated, it’s a form of chronic stress. So, when tackling anxiety, we need to take the paw off the gas pedal, and firmly place it on the brake. It goes without saying that removing the trigger that causes the stress or anxiety is of paramount importance, but in many cases, like on bonfire night, we can’t remove it in its entirety. In cases of separation anxiety too, we often want to take the edge off the response in order to work through a behavioural programme. 1) Thunder Jackets These jackets work under the premise that applied pressure calms nervous system function and many owners report success. A study in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour explored a range of methods for managing firework fear in dogs with the following efficacy: Pressure jackets 44% Counterconditioning 70% Relaxation training 69% Noise CDs 55% 2) 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. 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. 3) Valerian 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; however, instead of binding to the gamma subunit like a benzodiazepine, it appears to bind to the beta subunit on the GABA-A receptor instead. Regardless, it has the same effect on chloride movement into the neuron when the major inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, binds to the GABA-A receptor, thereby causing a hyperpolarized state. In addition, valerian has also been shown to decrease the removal or metabolism of GABA, thereby allowing GABA to stay around longer and do it’s 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. 4) Skullcap Another herb used for insomnia in humans, it has a similar mechanism of action to Valerian. Skullcap too 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 generous 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. 5) St John’s Wort St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herbal medication that consists of anthraquinones, which have displayed anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. It has also been used as an antidepressant in humans. It derives from a flowering plant found in Europe and Asia. It is usually found in capsule, tea, or liquid extract. It is thought that St. John’s Wort acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. This works to reduce the uptake of serotonin at neuronal synapses, as well as dopamine and norepinephrine. One of the primary adverse effects is the risk of an increase in serotonin when combined with certain antidepressants and the inhibition of monoamine oxidase. Be cautious of signs including tachycardia, increased blood pressure and mydriasis. There may also be a fever. It is however, often used in dogs with fear-based or separation anxiety. A great product for anxiety is our Calming Complex Calm Complex The introduction of any new supplement or herb is always done best under the guidance of a practitioner. If your dog suffers with anxiety, it’s crucial to work within a behaviour programme to tackle key triggers. However, there can also be a multi-modal approach and our services may be of use. Please take a look under our “what we offer” tab! Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
In 2017, 56% of dogs in the US were classed as being overweight or obese. This is a whopping 50.2 million dogs who are at risk of developing secondary conditions such as arthritis, certain cancers, kidney disease and an overall poorer quality of life with a reduced life expectancy. Yet in the same time frame, 58% of dog owners said they had tried to help their dog lose weight. The true obesity figures are hard to come by, but most practitioners that we speak with here at My Pet Nutritionist would say that obesity in pets is much higher. If we know that our pet is overweight and we are actively trying to help them lose weight, what’s going on? Most owners say it’s lack of time to exercise their dog, but exercise is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to weight loss. So, we’ve put together our top tips for helping our pets lose weight. 1) Find out if your pet is overweight. A dog in its range of ideal weight for its breed should have an hourglass figure from above. You should be able to see a definite waistline. If you feel their body, the ribs should be palpable, but you shouldn’t be able to see them. During exercise, they will pant but they won’t be winded. They should be enthusiastic about movement. If you notice heavy panting, respiratory distress, general lethargy or reluctance to move along with what appears to be excess weight you really should be thinking about a dog diet (if other health issues have been ruled out of course). 2) Know the why! The long-term impact of pet obesity includes: Heat intolerance Diabetes Liver disease Osteoarthritis Poor immune function CancerReduced life expectancy Understanding that those extra pounds are seriously impacting our pet’s quality of life can help keep us on track. 3) Find out exactly what you’re feeding. Studies have consistently shown that when fed the same number of calories, those dogs fed a low carb, but higher protein diet lost more body weight than those dogs fed a high carb, low protein diet. Findings Here This is why we would always advocate a whole food, fresh diet that is moderate in protein and fat. If you’re not quite there with a fresh diet, studies have shown that pets fed on a canned diet as opposed to the equivalent dry, lose more fat. Findings Here 4) Monitor Intake! Any human who has tried to lose weight will remember being bombarded with information of what club to join or which diet to follow. None are quite as effective as keeping a food diary. This is key to your dog lose weight too! 2 meals a day, or even 1, what more is there to record? What about that crust off your sandwich, or the scraps the kids feed under the table? Or the treat the neighbour gives him every day? Once you start noticing and logging his food intake, you’ll be surprised at how many extra bits he gets! 5) Measure! It may sound simple, but the most important part of helping your dog to lose weight is to measure their food. Despite us doing it for years, feeding by eye can sometimes deceive us. It may seem a lot of work, but it really is the only way to ensure we are keeping tabs on what our pets are actually eating! 6) It’s all in the mind! Most owners struggle with dog weight loss plans because they feel guilty! Those sad eyes looking up at you when they think you haven’t given them enough! Dogs are scavengers. It’s this trait that domesticated them from the ancient wolf. Findings Here Some breeds, like the Labrador also don’t seem to have a satiety switch. They also learn through reinforcement – they have probably learned that if they look at you long enough, you’ll give in and offer them extras! Findings Here If you feel guilty when you leave the house for a few hours, save some of their daily intake for when you’re leaving. Do they always scrounge at the table when you’re eating, and you can’t say no? Put them in a different room whilst you’re eating or offer them a long-lasting chew (incorporated into their caloric intake). 7) Get by with a little help from my friends! You’ve been in that situation, trying to cut back on certain foods, then your colleague brings cake in! Minus the cake, it is often other well-meaning friends and relatives that can sabotage your dog’s weight loss plan too. You may be monitoring his calories, cutting back and watching everything that goes into his mouth, but if the children are still giving him scraps, the neighbours throwing treats over the fence and your Aunt feeding him sandwiches when she pops in to let him out, you’re on to a loser! Let everyone know your plan. Explain why you need to cut back and the risks associated with being over-weight. If they adore him enough to treat him, they’ll soon support your plan. If you don’t want to stop the treats, you could work out some calorie allowance by reducing some of his meal intake. Work out how many treats this is and put them in a jar on the tabletop. Let friends and family know that they can treat him from this jar. If it’s empty – he’s had his lot for the day! 8) Feed animals separately! Whilst the plan so far seems easy, as soon as you throw other pets into the mix it becomes more difficult. If they are fed in the same room, they can swap bowls and finish each other’s meals. If you have cats, you can bet your life the dog is eating the cat food too! Part of your dog weight plan needs to make provision for feeding animals separately. Summary It is generally thought that the single best way to shed unwanted weight is a calorie-controlled
Kennel cough is a broad term covering any infectious or contagious condition of dogs where coughing is one of the main symptoms. It’s sadly a common occurrence in the dog population, so let’s take a look at what it actually is and our top tips for prevention and management. Did you know several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough, and often at the same time? They include (but are not limited to): Adenovirus type-2 (distinct from the adenovirus type 1 that causes infectious hepatitis), Parainfluenza virus Bordetella bronchiseptica. Canine Adenovirus Type 2 Infection CAV-2 infection is a common but transient contagious disease of the respiratory tract of dogs, it tends to cause mild fever, nasal discharge, coughing, and poor weight gain. Viral entry is generally by inhalation of infected particles followed by viral replication in the cells of the upper respiratory tract, mucous cells of the trachea and bronchi, bronchiolar epithelial cells, and others. Infection with CAV-2 is generally deemed mild unless complicated with a secondary bacterial infection or coinfections with other viruses like distemper virus. Experimental work suggests CAV-2 reinfection may lead to hyperreactive airways, which is a nonspecific condition where the bronchial mucosa becomes highly responsive to irritation caused by cold air, gases, or cigarette smoke. Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) This virus is a highly contagious ribonucleic acid virus that causes respiratory disease in dogs. Dogs with CPIV may exhibit no clinical signs or mild clinical signs of a dry, harsh cough for around and up to 7 days, with or without fever and nasal discharge. These signs are generally more severe in those dogs with viral or bacterial coinfections. CPIV suppresses the innate branch of the immune system, resulting in the loss of cilia and ciliated epithelium, making the host more favourable for coinfections. This is why it is of concern for immunocompromised dogs, along with puppies, or the senior dog. CPIV survives on nonporous surfaces for 4 to 12 days, but it is susceptible to a range of disinfectants. Bordetella bronchiseptica B bronchiseptica is a gram-negative, aerobic coccobacillus that is often implicated as a complicating factor in dogs with concurrent viral respiratory infections. After B bronchiseptica colonises the airways, it can evade the immune system by expressing various virulence factors that lead to: Direct cellular injury of respiratory epithelium Impaired immune recognition Disrupted immune clearance It seemingly manages to paralyze the mucociliary apparatus—a key component of the respiratory tract’s local defence mechanisms. The mucociliary apparatus moves inhaled debris and potentially harmful pathogens away from the lower respiratory tract, decreasing the risk of colonisation by these organisms. By doing this, B bronchiseptica not only improves its own virulence and chance for colonisation, but also paves the way for infections of the lower respiratory tract. In cases of infection, some dogs suffer mild disease including nasal discharge and intermittent coughing, whereas others develop severe pneumonia. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRD) The coinfection of these pathogens, among others, manifests as CIRD and they act synergistically to causes respiratory illness. This is why a multifaceted approach to prevention and subsequent management is crucial. Immune Function As you have likely noticed, CIRD is an attack on the immune system. The pathogens hijack many defences which results in the lingering symptoms. So, a well-functioning immune system is the first part of your dog’s defence against kennel cough. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which as you know if you read our guide to the immune system, they help protect the body against infection. Your Pet’s Immune System Vitamin A helps maintain structural and functional integrity of mucosal cells in innate barriers (skin, respiratory tract etc). It is also important for the functioning of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In the adaptive immune response, vitamin A is necessary for the functioning of T and B cells and therefore for the generation of antibody responses to an antigen. Vitamin A also supports the Th2 anti-inflammatory response. In the innate immune system, vitamin B6 helps regulate inflammation and has roles in cytokine production and natural killer cell activity. In the adaptive immunity system, vitamin B6 plays a role in the metabolism of amino acids, which are the building blocks of cytokines and antibodies. B6 is also involved in lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation and maturation and it maintains Th1 immune responses. Stock or broth made by boiling chicken bones is a great option and contains gelatin, chondroitin and other nutrients that are helpful in gut healing in immune function. Zinc is a particular powerhouse when it comes to immune function. It has antioxidant effects protecting against reactive oxygen species, it helps modulate cytokine release and also helps maintain skin and mucosal membrane integrity (that first line of defence). In the adaptive immune response, zinc has a central role in cellular growth and differentiation of immune cells. It plays a role in T cell development and activation and supports the Th1 response. We find vitamin D receptors throughout the immune system which demonstrates the role it plays in its function. Vitamin D stimulates immune cell proliferation and cytokine production, and it helps protect against infection caused by pathogens. It also demonstrates an inhibitory effect in adaptive immunity, suggesting that it is in fact an immune modulator. This is often why we notice increased cases of autoimmunity where there is low vitamin D. Further to this, we often note higher rates of infection (with a range of pathogens) when there are existing health issues that involve: The gut Thyroid Kidneys Liver function 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health Liver Health Kidney Disease Therefore, ensuring you take a holistic approach to your dog’s health is vital. But, we do have some tricks up our sleeves when it comes to dealing with kennel cough in dogs. Mushrooms Mushrooms are thought to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we work with pet guardians who would move heaven and earth for their cat or dog. Our pets become part of our family; it’s why we want to do the best for them. Do our dogs know this? Is that why we perceive them as being so loyal? Or is it just their nature? Is it quite as simple as us fulfilling their needs, or are there some feelings involved? To get to the bottom of this, it makes sense to go back to the beginning and look at how we actually ended up with these balls of fluff on our sofa. Our modern-day dog is a result of the domestication of wolves. We only have a ballpark figure as there is some confusion as to when this actually occurred. Somewhere between 14,000 -135,000 years ago gives us an idea though. What is clear, is that it happened based on mutual gain. Wolves would seek out food and realise that human camps were a great place to scavenge. Humans accepted the wolves for either protection or companionship. And so, it began. Wolves who were more accepting of humans would access more food and therefore stood a better chance of surviving. They would then produce off-spring who would follow in their parent’s footsteps and learn that humans = food. Humans would accept friendly wolves and likely kill aggressive wolves thereby also influencing which wolves would survive. So very early on, wolves learned that loyalty to humans equalled safety and food. We can almost suggest that we have selectively bred dogs who are dependent on us. Studies have shown that if you present a dog with an impossible task, they will attempt it, but soon look to their owner as if to ask for help. Cats on the other hand will continue to attempt the task in ignorance of their owner. Findings Here So, are dogs loyal because they have to be? Not necessarily. Studies have also shown, that when a dog is forbidden food, he will obey the wait command for as long as the commander has direct sight of the food. If the commander closes their eyes, the dog will disobey and take the food. Findings Here This could suggest that dogs are loyal because they think we want them to be. Dogs are incredibly good at reading human cues especially when we are upset. Dogs show more interest in a human when they are crying as opposed to simply humming or talking. Dogs will nuzzle, sniff and lick both their owners and complete strangers. Findings Here Of course, you could argue that dogs have simply learned to do this. Chances are, if you’ve been upset and your dog has come over to you and nuzzled you, you’ve perhaps smiled, or made a fuss of them. Dogs learn from the consequences of their behaviour, so they may have simply learned that by doing this, they get a happy response with a pat on the head. This isn’t a hard push when we learn that along with humans, when dogs are interacting with their owners, their oxytocin levels also increase. Oxytocin is released during pleasurable social experiences, often dubbed the love or cuddle hormone. So, it does go both ways. When we interact with each other, we both get an oxytocin surge which makes us both feel warm and fuzzy! Win win! It does therefore make sense that a dog’s loyalty is a way to keep us around – especially if it makes them feel good. A recent study has shown that dogs have evolved new muscles around their eyes which allows them to raise their eyebrows, so to speak. This is something wolves cannot do. It is suggested that this raising of the eyebrows triggers a nurturing response in humans because it makes the dog’s eyes seem bigger and look sad! It seems that dogs are still evolving to “need” us more, or at least keep in our good books! Findings Here So, it seems that dogs are loyal because it means they get what they need, like food and shelter. But they also feel just as warm and fuzzy when they interact with us. They’ve learned to read our behaviour and what they need to do to keep us around. What is particularly interesting is that they are still evolving to develop features which will keep us nurturing them. Could this suggest that their loyalty may only get stronger? The take home? Even if you have the most independent and aloof dog, they still depend on us to care for them. This is a huge responsibility, and one most of us don’t take lightly. If you would like any support with your dog’s health, then please check out our range of services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
