In most cases, a liver shunt is caused by a birth defect. This is known as a congenital portosystemic shunt. But acquired shunts can also occur – this is usually linked to primary liver disease, or a disease involving the normal blood vessels into the liver. We describe the liver as the powerhouse of the body, quite simply because it carries out so many functions, so, is there anything we can do to support it when it’s function isn’t quite up to par? Let’s take a look at whether we can support a dog with a liver shunt. What Does The Liver Do? The liver processes blood and the substances found within it. In a healthy animal, blood draining from the intestines passes immediately through the liver for nutrients to be processed and for toxic compounds to be removed. The blood then re-enters main circulation. What is a Liver Shunt? In an animal with a portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), a significant volume of blood bypasses the liver, enters main circulation and heads to the heart where it can be pumped around the body. As the blood being pumped around the body is technically unfiltered, toxic compounds can build up. In addition, the liver is unable to break down nutrients or regulate the body’s energy balance. Signs and Symptoms of a Liver Shunt: Stunted growth Poor muscle development Abnormal neurological behaviour – disorientation, staring into space, circling or head pressing, seizures Drinking/urinating too much Vomiting Diarrhoea Lethargy In both cases of congenital and acquired, reduced blood flow to the liver also results in atrophy which subsequently affects function. But the liver is a rather unique organ, it is the only one that can regenerate, therefore appropriate intervention and management is essential. Liver Guard Considerations to make for the dog with a liver shunt: Diet The conventional concern with many liver issues is protein intake. When protein is broken down in the body, left behind is ammonia. The liver plays a key role in metabolising ammonia ready for it to be excreted by the kidneys into urine, but when blood flow bypasses the liver, ammonia builds up in the blood and enters systemic circulation – this is what leads to many neurological issues alongside poor liver function. Traditionally, dietary management has included protein restriction to reduce ammonia absorption from the colon, but more recently it is considered that colonic absorption is only significant in those fed poor-quality diets that contain poorly digestible protein. In addition, it has been established that those with chronic liver disease may develop muscle wasting from being in a long-term catabolic state – with low protein diets leading to increased muscle protein catabolism. Findings Here We would advocate a fresh-food diet, with highly digestible protein sources. The general school of thought is 2g of protein per kg of body weight. Beneficial proteins to feed in liver disease include eggs for the most bioavailable protein and choline content, poultry and a little fish such as sardines, salmon and cod. Fats such as omega-6 and omega-3 in 4:1 ratio are important in liver conditions. Moderate amounts of hemp oil, phytoplankton (offering DHA and EPA) and fish, both whole and in pure oil source may help to protect the liver and reduce systemic inflammation and inflammation in the liver. Detoxification The liver neutralises a range of toxic chemicals, both those produced internally (waste from used hormones or neurotransmitters for example) and those from the environment, like air pollution, pesticides and food additives. It does this by filtering the blood to remove large toxins, synthesising, and secreting bile and lastly enzymatically disassembling unwanted chemicals found in the body. If its function isn’t up to par, toxins can start to build up. Enzymatic Detoxification This enzymatical detoxification occurs in three phases. Phase I directly neutralises chemicals and changes them into new metabolites. These are then processed by phase II enzymes. This is known as the conjugation phase, which in short, liver enzymes attach small chemicals to the toxin. There are many ways in which this is done, it all depends on the type of chemical the liver is trying to manage. Phase I results in high levels of reactive oxygen species so antioxidant levels are key in modulating potential damage. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants? Liver Guard Beneficial Additions: Broccoli contains glucobrassicin, the glucosinolate precursor of indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and subsequently Diindolylmethane (DIM) which is attributed to supporting phase one of the liver detoxification. Berries and cranberries whole and in extract contain anthocyanins that demonstrate hepato-protective abilities. An experiment found that antioxidants commonly found in berries slowed the development of lesions and fibrosis, the development of scar tissue, in the livers of rats. Phase II is nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron are essential. There has also been data to suggest dandelion amongst others can support the enzymatic detoxification pathway too. Phase III is the elimination phase. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. It’s important to include a range of functional ingredients in your dog’s diet that can lubricate the digestive tract, promote regular motility, aid elimination and support the microbiome. Prevention of absorption through trapping of potential toxins is also an effective way of mitigating toxin exposure and this is a key feature of many clay products. 7 Reasons to Use Clay In addition, some fibre helps to speed up colonic transit and prevent constipation. This reduces the amount of toxins absorbed from the colon and circulated into the system for the liver to deal with. 7 Foods To Add Fibre To Your Dog’s Diet The most important thing to do to support detoxification is to avoid exposure in the first place, so consider how much you and your dog are exposed to: Pesticides Heavy smoke Phthalates Mould Medications like steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers Heavy metals Cleaning
Whilst we get skin issues across the board in dogs; we can’t deny that certain breeds are more predisposed than others. But if we have a list in our mind of those dogs who we think are more likely to suffer, have we even considered that their coat type may play a role? We’re going to take a look at those double coated breeds specifically, and why they may suffer with skin challenges. The Canine Coat When we are discussing the canine coat, we include both the skin and hair/fur. Both have their own individual functions, and both are crucial to your dog’s ability to thrive. The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this is the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the elements. The hair sprouting from the follicles in the skin, known as hair or fur, also protects against harsh weathers, temperatures, and ultraviolet light damage. Double coats are generally termed fur and single coats are generally termed hair. Although, most owners, and groomers for that matter, use the phrases interchangeably. Double Coats vs. Single Coats Dogs can have primary and secondary hairs. Primary hairs are single hairs that grow from a follicle. If present, secondary hairs exit from the same follicle and you can have anywhere from 3-15 of them exiting alongside a primary hair from the same follicle. Primary hairs are often referred to as guard hairs or the outer coat and secondary hairs are referred to as the undercoat. Double coated breeds have both primary and secondary hairs, like the German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, Husky and Akita whereas single coated breeds simply have primary hairs, which include breeds like the Poodle or Bichon Frise. In double coated breeds, hair growth and the thickness of the undercoat is largely responsive to the environment. Cold months call for a thick undercoat where air can be trapped right next to the outer layer of the skin. Think of it like a wetsuit. A wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between your body and the suit. This layer of water is then warmed by your body and water is a great conductor of heat! On the other side of this scale, warm months call for a thinner undercoat that is well-brushed and not impacted. This allows air to circulate, drawing cool air over the skin. A regular issue in double-coated breeds is an impacted undercoat. This is where the secondary hairs become matted. Air is unable to circulate, meaning it gets trapped and warmed up from the heat of the body. The issue is further compounded if you have a damp coat from rainy walks, dips in the pond or after the regular hydrotherapy session and in this scenario, skin health can be compromised. The Canine Skin Not only does the skin provide a barrier to the elements, but its very composition also provides an immunological and microbial barrier because of its bacterial community. This is known as its microbiome. The skin microbiome is made up of a range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They usually function symbiotically; helpful microorganisms keep potentially harmful microorganisms in check. The issue is when there is an imbalance; we know this as dysbiosis. It has been established time and time again, when dogs and humans are suffering with red and itchy skin, there have been alterations in the skin microbiome. Generally, some bacteria have grown in numbers and others have reduced. A healthy skin microbiome is necessary for the correct function of mast cells founds in the dermis and mast cells mediate inflammatory responses like hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. Subsequently, those dogs suffering with atopic dermatitis are then more sensitive to environmental allergens. It is rather easy to see how skin issues can become so complex. Unfortunately, there are a range of things that can affect the composition of the skin microbiome: – Genes – Lifestyle, including nutrition – Environment – Family make up (other pets) – Personal and home hygiene In healthy dogs the most common bacteria are proteobacteria, closely followed by firmicutes, actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and cyanobacteria. Interestingly, healthy dogs have a higher community of beta proteobacteria ralstonia spp. than those dogs suffering with allergies. The type of bacteria also varies depending on the site of the body, for example, there will be different bacteria found between toe digits to that found in the groin area. Findings Here This is because all bacteria have their own needs to survive. They need food, water and the correct environment which includes a specific temperature, to them. Some bacteria will thrive in cooler temperatures, some prefer warmer climates. This is why we need to pay attention to the coat condition of your double coated breed. Your dog will have their own community of bacteria on their skin. Some bacteria will outnumber others. Which bacteria thrive will largely depend on your dog’s lifestyle, including nutrition. If your double coated breed has gotten wet on a rainy walk or loves swimming, they will get a damp coat. You may towel them off and allow them to dry off in front of the fire or radiator. Star fishing in a centrally heated home is quite far removed from the
There can be a number of reasons why your dog may be suffering with their ears. We’ve compiled some of the more common ones. The Link Between Sensitivities and Itchy Ears Itchy ears often go hand in hand with sensitivities – so you may notice digestive issues alongside itchy ears, paws and more. In order to optimise gut health, check out our blog here: 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health For Pets We can often look to bacterial overgrowth in fuelling those itchy ears, and yeast is often the culprit. Gut Guardian What is Yeast? Candida is an opportunistic fungal pathogen. It is a normal part of the gastrointestinal flora and genital tracts. Healthy systems are more than capable of keeping it in check with their beneficial bacteria, but issues arise when there aren’t enough good guys to keep the bad guys in check, this is what we know as dysbiosis and it can occur in the microbiome of the gut, but also the skin and more! Is Your Dog A Yeasty Beast? Factors that can contribute to dysbiosis: Chronic or excessive antibiotic use Stress Environmental toxins; bisphenol, phthalates, heavy metals, pesticides Poor gut integrity Nutrition Weakened immune function But there are a few other factors to consider when we are addressing our dog’s itchy ears… Why Is My Dog’s Ear Itchy? Anatomy or Breed Certain breeds with those long ears; the ones who end up dragging them in their food or water bowl can be more likely to suffer with bacterial overgrowth. We’re thinking spaniel or setters here. Those long ears provide a warm and moist environment for certain bacteria to thrive. It’s also a consideration for those breeds with greater amounts of hair inside their ear, those who your groomer recommends plucking out! We’re thinking poodles and alike. Whilst it may be a haven for certain bacteria having the hair there, if there is trauma through the act of plucking, we could inadvertently be opening the skin up to infection. In this scenario, it can often feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. Type of Food Fed Yeasts seem to like sugar as fuel, so diets high in grains, starches and other carbohydrates seem to contribute to an overgrowth. Generally, certain beneficial bacteria will metabolise these sugars, keeping candida in check by disrupting its food supply, but in the absence of good bacteria, candida is partying it down at the all-you-can-eat buffet! Whilst we advocate a fresh food diet, in cases of bacterial overgrowth it can be sensible to avoid certain fruits whilst getting a handle on the situation – fruit contains sugar too! Water Babies! Those dogs who love to swim or spend time at hydro can be more prone to ear issues. Again, it creates a perfect environment for certain bacteria to thrive when they are warm and damp. It’s always best to dry your dog’s ears after spending time in water. Especially with those warmer temperatures in hydro pools. Location of walks Where your dog walks or runs can mean exposure to certain grass seeds which can find their way into our dog’s ears. Not only are they initially painful and irritating, if not removed they can cause a whole host of further issues. Parasites Our dogs can be exposed to fleas, ticks or mites which can cause itching. If you would like to learn more about parasites and natural approaches to managing them, check out our blogs below: Parasites and What You Really Need To Know Natural Flea and Worming Treatments Ear Issues as a Report Card Ear issues, or rather itchy ears, can often seem like a never-ending battle, and this is largely because they’re seen as a symptomology to treat. Perhaps we need to see them as a report card. Of course, they could be telling us that our dog has been swimming and we forgot to dry their ears, or they could be telling us there’s a lodged grass seed which needs attention. There could also be a parasite burden. But they could also tell us that our dog’s immune system is a little out of whack; perhaps our dog never managed to rebalance that Th response. They could be telling us our companion’s microbial community isn’t harmonious. Our dog’s ears could be the sign our dog’s food isn’t suiting them and we need to find alternatives. Those ears could also be showing us that there is an excessive burden on detoxification pathways in the body. The reason ear issues often become chronic is because the root cause is rarely explored. We’d be looking to address immune balance and function: Do We Need To Boost Our Pet’s Immune System? We’d be supporting digestive health: Optimal Gut Health For Pets We’d be considering toxin burden: Does my Pet Need To Detox? Liver Guard And we may be considering an elimination diet: Elimination Diets For Dogs But these are only some pieces of the puzzle, we have decades of experience exploring the root cause of symptoms, so head on over to our services page to see how we can help your dog. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
If you are a current pet owner or have been in the past, there is a 99% chance your pet has had pain medication at some point in their life. Or they have at least had it prescribed or suggested for them. For us to fully weigh up what we are administering to our pets, it makes sense to start with the basics. So, how do pain medications work in pets? Pain medications come in different forms, but there are a few common ones: NSAIDs Opioids Paracetamol NSAIDs Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are exactly what they say on the tin – they are used to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is an immune response. When something becomes damaged or threatened in the body, compounds are released which kick start an immune response to help fight the threat or heal the trauma. A Guide to Inflammation in Pets NSAIDs are typically divided into groups based on their chemical structure and selectivity. They include: acetylated salicylates (aspirin) non-acetylated salicylates propionic acids (ibuprofen) acetic acids (diclofenac) enolic acids (meloxicam) anthranilic acids (meclofenamate) naphthylalanine (nabumetone) selective COX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib) The main mechanism of action of NSAIDs is the inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). Cyclooxygenase is required to convert arachidonic acid (a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid) into thromboxanes, prostaglandins, and prostacyclins (which are all inflammatory mediators). The therapeutic effects of NSAIDs are therefore attributed to the reduction of them. Many NSAIDs are not selective, meaning they take out all COX enzymes; this is beneficial if we are targeting inflammatory mediators, but COX enzymes also carry out other roles in the body. COX1 enzymes play a role in: protecting the gastrointestinal tract renal blood flow platelet aggregation This is why proton pump inhibitors are often administered alongside NSAIDs, the reduction in stomach acid secretion is thought to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. In addition, there is also evidence of long term NSAID use and chronic kidney disease. The administration of certain NSAIDs can also trigger hypersensitivity reactions. Non-selective NSAIDs exert effects by inhibiting COX-1 and subsequently shift arachidonic acid metabolism from prostaglandin (especially PGE2) synthesis toward pro-inflammatory cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTs) such as LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4. Overproduction of LTs leads to activation of mast cells and eosinophils, which can result in typical allergic symptoms like itching and hives, along with bronchoconstriction. This is worth noting if you have a particularly sensitive dog. Opioids Opioids function primarily in the nervous system; they inhibit neurotransmitter release. The Neuroscience of Pain Morphine is commonly considered to be the archetypal opioid analgesic and the agent to which all other painkillers are compared. There is evidence to suggest that as long ago as 3000 bc the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, was cultivated for its active ingredients. But, it wasn’t until morphine was isolated from opium in 1806 by Sertürner that modern opioid pharmacology was truly born. In 1847 the chemical formula for morphine was established and this, coupled with the invention of the hypodermic needle in 1853, led to the widespread clinical use of morphine. How Does It Work? Opioid receptors are distributed throughout the central nervous system and within peripheral tissue of neural and non-neural origin. Opioids reduce excitability of neurons, and decrease the release of nociceptive neurotransmitters like substance P. See our blog on The Neuroscience of Pain above to learn more about this. Because opioids work in the nervous system, in essence slowing everything down, the concern is that they may do it a little too well and knock everything a little out of whack. As we know the body likes balance, and it does everything in its power to keep it that way. To this end, behavioural side effects of opioids include panting, vocalisation, salivation, nausea, vomiting, defecation, and sedation or hyperactivity. Physiological side effects of opioids in dogs may include central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, bradycardia, usually accompanied with little to no change in cardiac output, ileus, and urinary retention. Findings Here Paracetamol It has been assumed that paracetamol probably acts through the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway. This is the pathway through which the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) act. Much investigation has focussed on paracetamol’s inhibition of the COX enzyme because its analgesic and antipyretic effects are similar to those of aspirin, the archetype NSAID. However, paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory activity, or does it inhibit production of the pro-clotting TXAs. In addition, paracetamol does not appear to have a major effect peripherally; its action appears to be mostly central. It seems reasonable to assume that although there may be some effect on COX enzymes, this effect is different from that seen with typical NSAIDs. Because of this, other mechanisms of action have been considered. It is thought that serotonin has a major role in modulating pain perception. Serotonergic drugs are used in the treatment of migraine headaches in humans and combined serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors have been used in chronic pain management. It has been considered that paracetamol, in effect, activates serotonin pathways to influence pain perception. Other data has indicated that when cannabinoid receptors are blocked, paracetamol loses its action, suggesting the endocannabinoid system may play a role in paracetamol’s actions too. Findings Here Whilst we may not know the full mechanism of action of paracetamol, it is possibly the widest used pain medication The side effects usually associated with paracetamol include: yellowing of white of eyes or gums (jaundice) reduction in appetite vomiting or diarrhoea blood in faeces Are There Any Other Pain Medications Worth Mentioning? There are a number of products on the market which target pain, but they could fill a book, so we’ll just take a look at two more. Librela Librela is an injectable which targets pain in cases of osteoarthritis. The active ingredient in librela is bedinvetmab which is a monoclonal antibody. This antibody (or protein) is trained to recognise and attach to a protein known as Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Once attached it prevents NGF from attaching to its own receptors on nerve cells and therefore
If you have ever come across some lectures with neuroscientists or psychologists on pain, you will likely hear the story of a man who fell on a nail. He understandably was in agony and had to be given strong painkillers on the way to the hospital. But, when arriving at the hospital, it was discovered that the nail had in fact gone through the gaps in his toes and not penetrated his foot at all. What on earth was going on here? You can’t say his pain wasn’t real, because to him it was sheer agony. But it was his perception of what had occurred which fuelled his response and need for strong painkillers. The brain had constructed a response based on cues from the environment; the pain signal was therefore appropriate to stop the man in his tracks and prevent the likelihood he would fall on another nail. Except the brain got it a little wrong. This example is great for showing us that pain is subjective and a perception; but we already knew this didn’t we? What may be painful for one person, may not even result in a wince from another. This is also true for our dogs. We joke that certain breeds are a little sensitive, and then we find other breeds completely stoic when suffering a chronic issue. If pain is crucial to our survival, quite literally, but it can be subjective, what on earth is it? Let’s take a look at the neuroscience of pain. The Neuroscience of Pain Pain is a sensation and as such is processed in the brain. It is a necessary function that warns the body of potential or actual injury. It occurs when nociceptor fibres detect painful stimulus on the skin or in an internal organ (peripheral nervous system). The detection signal is picked up by receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem and transmitted to various areas of the brain as sensory information. The facilitators of this are known as neurotransmitters and as we know these are in essence, chemical messengers. Some transmitters are excitatory, meaning they facilitate the transmission of the message, and some are inhibitory, meaning they impede transmission. Both types of messengers are important in the modulation of pain. For example, excitatory neurotransmitters acting without an inhibitory system results in pain. Several neurotransmitters are involved, but glutamate and substance P (SP) are the main ones involved in pain. Glutamate is usually involved in the rapid neurotransmission of acute pain, such as with mechanical stimuli or temperature stimuli producing quick, sharp pain. SP regulates smooth muscle contractility, epithelial ion transport, vascular permeability, and immune function in the gastrointestinal tract. SP transmits pain by secretion from nerves and inflammatory cells, and acts by binding to certain receptors on the spinal cord. SP is typically seen in chronic pain cases due to its slow excitatory connection. The success in treating pain with opiates, such as morphine, that block nociceptive transmission of pain within the spinal cord is perceived to be, in part, due to a decrease in the release of SP. Recent data has indicated a role for dopamine in pain too. Dopamine is already known to play important roles in thinking, memory, movement, and reward. However, researchers have shown that dopaminergic neurotransmission plays a central role in modulating pain perception and analgesia within certain parts of the brain including the insula, thalamus, basal ganglia, anterior cingulate cortex and periaqueductal grey. It is thought that low levels of dopamine could contribute to the perception of painful symptoms. Amino Acids and Pain Management The body’s three primary pain modulators appear to be the neurotransmitters endorphin, serotonin, and GABA (gamma amino butyric acid). Each of these pain fighters is produced from very specific nutrients called amino acids. Amino acids are required for the production and maintenance of almost every function and tissue in the body. Amino acids are found in abundance in protein rich foods, but you can also find them in supplement form. DLPA (DL-phenylalanine) is a natural amino acid that has been used to treat chronic pain. DLPA inhibits several enzymes that are responsible for the destruction of endorphins. Endorphins are pain-killing hormones and by inhibiting their destruction, pain relief is prolonged. It can also potentiate opiate analgesia and prolong the effects of acupuncture. Tryptophan (Trp) is an indispensable amino acid for domestic canines. Tryptophan, and ultimately the serotonergic system, has been shown to influence behaviours related to anxiety, stress, fear, and aggression which may play a role chronic pain, and its perception. Acute Vs Chronic Pain Acute pain, which serves as a warning signal of injury or illness, normally comes on quickly and lasts for a short time. If not treated properly, acute pain can develop into chronic pain in which the pain persists even after the initial injury or illness is healed. When this happens, considerable changes occur in both the peripheral and central nervous systems (CNS) as well as in the psychological profiles of sufferers. Some recent studies have found that information about the transition from acute pain to chronic pain could be documented by changes in brain structure and function. In general, where acute pain largely activates brain regions involved in nociceptive information processing, chronic pain is consistently and substantially encoded by brain regions related to emotional and motivational states of sufferers. This suggests that we should also consider how stressed or anxious our pets may be alongside their pain experiences. What is particularly interesting about this concept is that our pets can’t talk, so it can be particularly difficult to establish their emotional and motivational states. This is even more worrying when we consider veterinarian and public opinion of pain sensitivity in certain breeds of dogs. A study carried out in 2020 wanted to establish whether there is a breed difference in pain sensitivity in dogs. But, as pain is a perception and there are significant limitations in subjectivity scales, the researchers thought asking veterinarians and the general public would be an interesting
When faced with a sick pet, it can be hard to know where to start. It can sometimes feel like there is a never-ending list of things going wrong. We also have to manage our emotions; our pets are part of the family, and we hate to see them suffering. Sometimes it can help to have a structure when supporting digestive health and to this end, we take a systems approach. Let’s take a look at what this means. Taking A Top-Down Approach We could easily start at the bottom, but let’s start at the top! Neurological Health and Behaviour We can start thinking about any neurological issues our pet may be experiencing, but we can also keep track of their behaviour. Are they quieter than usual? Do they appear anxious or agitated? Are they a fussy eater? We know there is a highway between the gut and the brain, and so what goes on in the gut influences the brain and subsequent behaviour. We may notice sickness behaviour; being quieter than usual, or they may become more anxious. Studies in mice have demonstrated that when experimental colitis was induced, their amygdala became more active along with their fear response. In short, the experimental colitis made them more fearful. Findings Here Time and time again we see that inflammation or digestive discomfort can influence behaviour, so keep a note. Eye Health Moving down slightly, we can see a lot in our pet’s eyes. Not just key components in their body language, but if we have recurring tear staining, this can inform us of immune system health. Tear secretion is complex. It responds to the conditions faced by the eye, but also influenced by a range of hormones and cytokine balance. Cytokine is derived from two Greek words, cyto meaning cell and kinos meaning movement. Cytokines are cell signalling molecules that aid communication in immune responses. They stimulate the movement of cells towards sites of inflammation, infection, and trauma. Cytokines are agents that modulate or alter the immune system response. It makes absolute sense that when faced with an ocular threat, cytokine levels increase, presenting as the usual immune response; water and itchiness which is common with seasonal allergies or intolerances. But what is also interesting is that that the rest of the body can also influence tear production through this inflammatory response. The most considered is how chronic inflammatory diseases of the gut can cause various health issues; inflammatory bowel disease for example is caused by cytokine-driven inflammation of the gut. This leads us to why, no matter what you apply to your white dog’s face, you can’t get rid of those stains. If tear staining is an issue for your dog, then check out our blog here: Is Your Dog A Cry Baby? The Mouth From poor dental hygiene compromising eating habits to translocated bacteria throughout the body, oral health is a huge piece in the puzzle when supporting your dog’s health. Take a look; are there broken teeth? Is there evidence of periodontal disease? Is your dog able to chew? Do they have any abscesses or lesions on their tongue? Whilst it’s a little harder to establish, we can consider the state of the oral microbiota of our pet’s mouth too. Just like in the gut, the food eaten, along with any long term antibiotic or medication use can skew the community of microbes in the mouth. To learn more about oral health, and promoting dental hygiene, check out our blogs here: Your Puppy’s Microbiome Periodontal Disease in Dogs Ear Health Itchy or putrid smelling ears usually tell us things aren’t going as well as they should be. When warm and moist, the ears are perfect breeding grounds for certain bacteria to multiply. This leaves them at risk of infection and bacterial overgrowth. This is particularly common in those water dogs, or those who adore swimming. It can also be a consideration if your dog attends regular hydrotherapy sessions. Ear health is also something to pay attention to, if food sensitivities are prevalent. An elimination diet is often a good place to start. Elimination Diets For Dogs If you think your dog may struggle with yeast overgrowth, check out our blog here: Is Your Dog A Yeasty Beast? Now we’ll head into the digestive system. Stomach Are there any long-term medications that could compromise stomach acid secretion or production? Antihistamines for example? Or the administration of omeprazole alongside long term NSAIDs? As we know, digestion of food starts in the stomach with the help of hydrochloric acid; if there isn’t a good supply, food digestion can be compromised, leaving semi-digested particles to cause issues further down in the system. Gut Guardian Pancreas The pancreas releases a range of digestive enzymes to aid the digestion of food, so a similar principle applies; if the pancreas isn’t working as it should, food isn’t digested as well as it could be, leaving nutrients unavailable and undigested particles to causes issues. A Brief Guide to Our Pet’s Pancreas Liver We call the liver the powerhouse for a reason. It carries out a range of processes, from the assimilation of amino acids into new proteins to the detoxification of harmful compounds. It also produces bile which aids the digestion of fat. If there is an unusual burden for the liver to detoxify, it can get a little overwhelmed. This means that some other processes may be compromised and we may start to see poor protein assimilation, fat digestion issues and more. Liver Guard Gallbladder The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that sits just under the liver. Its function is to store and concentrate bile, a yellow-brown digestive juice produced by the liver. It is part of the biliary tract. Bile contains water, electrolytes and a battery of organic molecules including bile acids, cholesterol, phospholipids and bilirubin. Sadly, the build-up of these very compounds can lead to a number of problems in the gallbladder, they are known as canine gallbladder diseases.
Like all the systems in the body, things can and do go a little awry with urinary health. We’ve compiled 3 things to consider if your pet is facing challenges in this system. What can go wrong with my pet’s urinary system? Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are different types of stone composed of different minerals and compounds. What Can I Do For My Dog’s Bladder Stones? Your pet can also suffer from bacterial infection in their urinary system, leading to discomfort in the lower urinary tract. Urinary incontinence, anatomic abnormalities and tumours are amongst other conditions that may affect the urinary tract in cats and dogs too. Female dogs and cats are more likely to suffer with UTI’s and stones often due to structure but also possible hormonal changes. This is also suggests that urinary issues may face those neutered dogs too. Signs of UTI’s, stones or other UT issues may include one or more of the following; Chronic diarrhoea, loose stools or constipation Difficult or painful urination Stooping as if to defecate Incomplete urination Urinary incontinence Darker colour urine and offensive odour Fresh blood spots in urine Bloated, tender abdomen Loss of appetite Lack of energy Crying out in pain (generally from stones) Panting Weight loss Possible Causes of UTI’s and Stones Poor commercial foods. We know fresher fed pets have a more biodiverse microbiota that creates metabolites that protect the mucosa and UT. Food allergies and sensitivities. Stress can cause digestive dysfunction, leading to inflammation of the entire body, including the UT. Hormonal changes and neutering of a cat or dog can make for concurrent issues. Endocrine issues and dysfunction tend to affect the UT. Looking at underlying issues is always helpful. Dysbiosis leads to increased intestinal permeability, loss of immune tolerance, aberrant immune responses, and specific microbiome shifts. SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), is commonly found and highly associated with concurrent UTI’s. Parasitic infections can take hold when the GI is not functioning well and immune function becomes compromised. The urinary tract may become a weakened system because of this. Poor immunity and gut immunity can cause over-reactivity and inflammation. This can arise from birth to not being weaned effectively and even include environmental exposures (or lack thereof). Anatomical structural issues where the urethra is close to the anus, collecting bacteria leading to infection. Genetics in rare occasions can predispose a cat or dog to urinary stones. Cystinuria is a rare inherited disease that results in the formation of stones made of an amino acid called cysteine. The known gene defects responsible for cystinuria affect the kidneys and cause the kidneys to improperly excrete too much cysteine into the urine. Consistent use of antibiotics can wipe out the beneficial bacteria that protect the mucosa of the gut and UT. Adverse drug reactions or over-medication and vaccination can create a hyperactive immune state and inflammation which are implicated in UT issues and infection. Things to consider in supporting UT Health: 1) Feed A Fresh Food Diet A fresh diet rich in easily digestible proteins, beneficial fats and vegetables (fibre) can help support gut microbiota, a healthy body and a healthy UT. Home prepared, cooked or raw is the very best in this instance. The balance of calcium and phosphorus in a dicalcium phosphate form or even better from bones or bone meal is essential. Reducing oxalic vegetables and keeping an eye on high magnesium content is helpful, but a fresher diet can often negate the impact and therefore proliferation of stones and infections. Processed foods and sugars can cause systemic inflammation triggering UT inflammation. Sugar is also the food of choice for many of the less than desirable bacteria. Certain foods can often elicit an unwanted immune response, so understanding what might be causing your pet to react is essential. Elimination Diets For Dogs 2) Consider Supplements Ashwaganda is a beautiful adaptogenic herb, which does what it says on the tin. It helps the body adapt. This is worth considering if there is any element of stress influencing your dog’s UT health. Slippery elm: a beautiful insoluble fibre that tends to help regardless of the cause. It has mucilage properties where it creates a film, soothes, protects and helps to heal the entire gastric system including there productive and UT system. Deglycyrrhised liquorice: this botanical and functional herb is a demulcent (or mucilaginous, the same as slippery elm). It enhances oesophageal and digestive mucosal protection and in powder or liquid form, can help soothe the oesophageal, digestive and UT lining. DGL has been shown to create extra mucus, acting as a barrier to acid in the stomach, oesophagus, and UT. This barrier may allow damaged tissue to heal. Probiotics: the gut microbiota allows for a healthy ecology and functioning of the gut. It helps support immunity, aids the digestion of food, may outcompete pathogenic bacteria and yeast and has shown promise in reducing inflammation. For a happy gut, we need a diverse gut, and this means that certain beneficial bacteria reign. It is proven in humans that a healthy microbiota creates the necessary metabolites within the UT that protect against pathogenic bacteria too, so optimising gut health, with consideration given to probiotic usage may be of benefit. Cranberry and D Mannose: bacterial adhesion has been found to be significantly reduced after culture with urine samples obtained at 30 and 60 days, compared with results for urine samples obtained before extract administration from 12 dogs in a study for UTI’s. Oral administration of
When we understand that that the microbiome has a direct relationship with every organ in the body, why wouldn’t we wonder whether it could play a role in our dog’s bladder stones? We are somewhat lagging in canine data, but let’s take a look at the current information around urinary health and the microbiome. The Urinary System As body cells carry out metabolic activities, they consume oxygen and nutrients. During this process, waste products are made. These waste products must be eliminated from the body because if they are left to accumulate, they can become toxic. As the respiratory system eliminates carbon dioxide, the urinary system picks up the remainder of the waste products. This system consists of: Two kidneys Two ureters One urinary bladder One urethra The kidneys filter the blood of wastes and excretes them into urine. Once formed, urine passes through the ureters and is stored in the urinary bladder. It is then excreted through the urethra. The Bladder and Urine Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections, and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are several different types of stones, and they are composed of different minerals and compounds: Struvite Calcium oxalate Urate Cystine The most common causes include: Bacteria in the urinary tract Urinary pH Minerals present in the urine Genetics Bladder inflammation Struvite Stones These stones form due to excess magnesium, ammonium, and phosphorus. Normal canine urine is slightly acidic and contains waste products from metabolism. Struvite is a normal compound found in canine urine and will remain dissolved if the urine is acidic and not too concentrated. When the urine become too concentrated or alkaline, struvite crystals form. These stones tend to form because of a urinary tract infection and involves an enzyme known as urease. Urease is produced by the pathogenic bacteria and breaks down urea, which is normally found in urine. In the process, excess ammonia is produced which causes the urine to become alkaline. Excess ammonia in the urine also results in bladder inflammation, contributing to the issue. These stones are generally more common in female dogs. Kidney disease, long term use of diuretic medication and PPI’s can also result in alkaline urine, predisposing the dog to struvite stones. Calcium Oxalate Stones The current line of thinking is that urine high in calcium, citrates, or oxalates and is acidic predisposes a dog to developing calcium oxalate urinary crystals and stones. Recent studies have shown diets that cause high urine acidity (urine pH less than 6.5) may predispose dogs to develop this type of bladder stone. But, like most things, there are likely other causes of calcium oxalate bladder stones too. For example, over-usage of antibiotics may reduce numbers of the intestinal bacteria Oxalobacter formigenes whose sole nutrient is oxalate. In dogs with low populations of Oxalobacter, excess oxalate is secreted in the urine, increasing the likelihood that calcium oxalate crystals and stones can form if the urine is highly concentrated or becomes acidic. Calcium oxalate uroliths are noted more commonly in male dogs and the breeds most diagnosed with both struvite and calcium oxalate bladder stones included Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Lhasa Apso, and Yorkshire Terrier. Urate Stones Urate stones are generally caused by a genetic condition in some dog breeds like Dalmatians, Jack Russel Terriers and Bulldogs. But they are also seen with liver disease, especially in dogs or cats with liver shunts. Urate stones are made from compounds called purines. Purines are one of the most common chemical compounds on the planet. There are both endogenous and exogenous. Exogenous purines are absorbed by the body through the foods eaten, and endogenous purines are made by the body itself. Purines and pyrimidines are the two families of nitrogenous base that make up nucleic acids – in short, they are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Purines have a number of functions in the body: Signalling molecule Provide energy Control cell growth Part of essential coenzymes Contribute to nervous system function (including neuronal development) As you can see, purines perform many important functions in the cell, and so the balance between its synthesis and degradation is essential. When purines are catabolised, the result is uric acid. In all other mammals, apart from humans and Dalmatians, uric acid is then converted to allantoin, which is a very soluble excretion product. For us humans and those unlucky dogs, we excrete uric acid through the kidneys (with some excreted through the gastrointestinal tract). Uric acid is suggested to behave as a potent antioxidant. It is also thought to maintain blood pressure under low salt conditions and has been seen to function as an anti-inflammatory in certain diseases, but when levels become too high, in a condition known as hyperuricemia, problems can ensue. In humans, this can result in diseases such as kidney stones and gout and may cause hypertension. In those unlucky dogs, high uric acid levels result in bladder stones. For this reason, a low purine diet is often suggested for those pets suffering urate stones. Uric Acid and The Microbiota It is thought that around 1/3 of uric acid excretion occurs via the intestinal pathway. When uric acid is excreted into the gut, it is then metabolised by resident bacteria. What is interesting is that when kidney function is impaired, uric acid will mainly be eliminated by the intestine as compensation. It’s not therefore entirely surprising that there is a correlation between efficient uric acid metabolism and certain strains of bacteria found in the gut. Human studies have found a significantly
It is thought there is over 300 recognised breeds of dogs around the World. The American Kennel Club recognise around 190 of them, and the UK Kennel Club recognise 221. For those of us who have a preference for a certain breed we may fondly discuss our love of the Labrador’s happy-go-lucky nature or the trainability of the poodle. It is clear there are breed differences, which suggests a genetic blueprint of certain traits and characteristic. We also know there are genetic predispositions to certain health issues in various breeds. But would you be surprised to learn that there may be breed differences in clinical measurements? A group of researchers, hoping to establish genetic differences in clinical measurements in humans decided that dogs most closely resemble human parameters and so set out to test eight different breeds for 40 clinical markers. Findings Here This is what they found. For the majority of clinical markers, the researchers couldn’t find any significant genetic variants, but for three, they did. Alanine transaminase: ALT ALT is one of the more commonly known liver enzymes. ALT level in blood is used for the diagnosis of liver disease and injury in human and veterinary medicine. Researchers found a variant (SNP) on the gene known as GPT which codes for ALT. A causal variant linked with this SNP could increase expression level of GPT, which would lead to the production of more ALT protein. Belgian Shepherds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Doberman, Finnish Lapphund, and Newfoundland were breeds identified with a significant variation on this gene compared to other tested breeds, suggesting they may have a higher-than-average ALT level as standard. Additional data has suggested that elevated ALT doesn’t lead to metabolic disease per se and in fact metabolic disease is what leads to elevated enzymes. Therefore, it’s essential to consider test results in context and alongside other results, signs, and symptoms. What Could Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes in My Dog? Fructosamine Fructosamine is a stable condensation product of glucose with serum proteins. It is used as a biomarker for diagnosing and managing diabetes because fructosamine reflects the average blood sugar concentration over the preceding 2 weeks. The researchers found variations in the gene which codes for this protein in the Finnish Lapphund, German Shepherd and Newfoundland. Again, it would be an important consideration to make when monitoring these test results over a period of time, in light of any correlating signs and symptoms. The last marker is one that is particularly interesting. Stress During Physical Exam The researchers identified an experimental-wide association with stress during physical examination at chromosome 1. Two breeds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Dachshunds were the most significant. Dogs with the A allele of BICF2P1232291 showed more stress during physical examination. Whilst genes are fixed, we can often influence their expression and in this case, we can also mitigate stress in our dog’s life to regulate that overarching response. If you are planning a visit where your dog will need a physical examination: Limit stress before the visit, Engage in calming and enriching activities to activate that parasympathetic nervous system, Consider the use of a thunder jacket or similar, Allow your dog to decompress after the examination – again offering activities to activate that parasympathetic nervous system (chewing, enrichment, sniffing etc.) What Does All This Mean? This data suggests genetic variations in three clinical markers in certain breeds. However, these researchers only tested eight breeds. It would be interesting to establish how the data may change when testing additional breeds, especially when there are so many around the world. We know there are genetic glitches which contribute to the development of certain health issues, like the filaggrin mutation in skin health, or glitches in zinc absorption in certain sled dogs, but this information further highlights how complex our pet’s health issues truly can be. Can Genes Result in Poor Skin Function? Why Zinc is Important for Your Dog If you feel overwhelmed by your dog’s health issues, then please check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
We acknowledge the nutritional needs of puppies are quite different to the adult dog, but the adult dog in many of our eyes simple remains an adult dog. We know they are getting older, but we perhaps don’t know when to label them as senior and so often miss the opportunity to make supportive dietary changes. The technical definition of the senior dog is quite vague; it is thought to be when they hit around half of their lifespan and as we know, there are breed differences to consider here. To bring a little more clarity, we thought we’d take a systems approach. If we understand the changes that occur in our dog’s systems as they age, armed with this knowledge we can use nutrition as one of our tools to optimise our dog’s health where possible. System Changes For the Ageing Dog As we always talk about the role of the digestive system in health, we’ll start there. The ageing dog can suffer with dental disease, or its more technical term, periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease 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. These bacteria can also travel to other parts of the body, causing a range of additional health concerns. It has been found to damage cardiac tissue causing endocarditis (infection and inflammation in the heart). Studies have also shown that periodontal disease is linked to increased insulin resistance, kidney, and liver issues. Signs your dog has dental disease: Bad breath Pawing at his mouth Reluctance to eat Food or toys will have blood on them Smaller breeds are statistically more likely to suffer with periodontal disease, as are brachycephalic breeds. Their teeth are often closer together which means food and bacteria can more easily get stuck. What is also interesting is that it is generally accepted that the inflammation and resulting tissue damage is due to an improperly regulated immune response to bacterial infection, and not solely from the bacterial pathogens themselves. This suggests that if your dog already has immune mediated health concerns, then they may be at a higher risk of dental disease. To support the dental health of your dog, our top tips include: Avoid ultra-processed, refined foods, Offer opportunities to chew, Offer fibrous foods to gnaw on, Daily brushing if not feeding a species appropriate diet, To understand why we recommend this, check out our blog below: Periodontal Disease in Dogs Compromised Digestive Function Moving through the digestive system, get to the stomach and there can be a decline in stomach acid secretion with ageing. What this means, is that digestive function may be compromised for the senior dog, we may find that cooking food aids digestive function. In addition, digestive enzyme production also slows with age, so we may consider including supplemental enzymes under the guidance of a practitioner. Gastrointestinal Motility For the ageing dog, we may also notice decreased gastrointestinal motility. It’s important to support the health of the enteric nervous system responsible for this function, and we can think of the enteric nervous system like the second brain. We therefore need to provide plenty of nutrient dense foods that support nerve health. Potassium and Sodium Nerves send signals throughout the nervous system, and they heavily rely on potassium and sodium (and other nutrients) to do this. If there are low levels, nerves have a harder time carrying out this process. We often see low levels of sodium in some raw fed dogs. Check out our blog below: Are We Really That Good At Doing It Ourselves? B Vitamins B vitamins are crucial for nerve health, we often see deficiencies in B12 associated with neuropathy in humans. Why Your Dog needs Vitamin B12? Calcium Whilst we usually associate calcium with bone health, calcium also plays a role in nerve communication. Why Does My Dog Need Calcium? Essential Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids can support myelin sheath health which is the protective layer around nerves. It allows electrical impulses to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells. If myelin if damaged, these impulses slow down. This is what happens in cases of degenerative myelopathy; the myelin is damaged resulting in nerve damage. Obesity For the senior dog, they may become less active than they used to be, or with the onset of chronic musculoskeletal issues, we may not be able to exercise them as we used to. We know that the calorie in vs. calorie out model is limited when it comes to the complexities of obesity, but we must adjust food portions to suit not only nutrient needs but also levels of activity. Obesity in Pets – Part One Obesity in Pets – Part Two Urinary System The senior dog may experience decreased renal function, urinary bladder disease and more. To optimise urinary health, this is our checklist: A fresh and unadulterated fresh food diet Moderate in protein Omega fats and antioxidants Super tasty and easily delivered Treats that are part of the daily calorie intake Hydration should also be prioritised. The Importance of Water Musculoskeletal Health There are a number of degenerative conditions that our trusty canines can suffer with like osteoarthritis, and the reality is that it’s never too early to support musculoskeletal health. You don’t have to wait for changes to appear. Our checklist for musculoskeletal health includes: Species appropriate diet – read our range of blogs below for more information Avoid ball flinger activities Use rugs around the home to prevent slipping Regular and appropriate exercise Prioritising rest and recovery Size matched play dates Maintain lean body weight. Natural Arthritis Guide Nutrients
We are often told that the best time to learn a new language is when we are young and on the other side of the scale, that we will naturally lose some cognitive ability as we age. These concepts are true, but they also imply that we reach a plateau of learning or functioning, and we then must just wait for it to disappear. For the owner of an ageing dog, this is often a worry. The million-dollar question on many dog owner’s tongue – can we influence cognitive function as our pet ages, or do we just have to wait for it to “disappear?” It seems there is in fact some hope in the form of this concept known as neurogenesis. What is Neurogenesis? Neurogenesis is the process by which neurons are formed in the brain. Neurons are the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system; they transit information around the body, to other nerve cells, to muscles and even gland cells! Most neurons have a cell body, an axon, and dendrites. In a nutshell, they are crucial to coordinate all the necessary functions of life. Neurogenesis was thought to only occur in young, developing organisms like babies or puppies. But data is now suggesting that it can in fact continue throughout adult life and even into those senior years. Why is this important? Loss of neurons was thought to be irreversible – and the inability to generate replacement cells, quite simply affects functions necessary for life. For decades we saw how neuronal loss was implicated in neurological disease. One of the particularly interesting parts of the brain to be affected is the hippocampus. The hippocampus forms part of the emotional control centre known as the limbic system. It is so named due to its shape – it resembles a seahorse. The Greek for horse is hippos and kampos meaning sea-monster. The hippocampus also deals with memory – particularly short-term memory formation. It has a connection with the cortex, which deals with long-term memory and they have this system where the hippocampus transfers information to the cortex. Both are necessary for memory formation, and this is why if there is hippocampal damage, memory loss ensues. Its other connection is with the amygdala – this is why you may notice how much easier it is to remember things that are emotionally charged, or your dog always remembers that house with the yappy dog at the gate! The hippocampus therefore plays an important role in learning, whether our puppies and dogs are learning tricks or about the world around them. But the hippocampus is also involved in control of the HPA axis, which is a key element of the stress response. A well-functioning hippocampus is therefore vital for an appropriate and resilient stress response. Using Nutrition to Support The Stressed Dog Stress and the Hippocampus Unfortunately, there is data that links stress with reduced hippocampal volume. In short, stress results in a smaller brain. Stress suppresses neuronal proliferation. This smaller hippocampal volume can impede memory and learning, but also result in lower resilience to stress moving forward, and so the cycle continues. Luckily, there is evidence we can mitigate this damage. It seems there is a protein that can defend the hippocampus against shrinkage and support its regrowth and repair. It is known as BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor). One of two neurotrophins, BDNF promotes neuronal survival – it helps neurons grow, mature, and survive. It also increases energy efficiency in the brain. In humans, low levels of BDNF are linked with depression and in dogs, low levels of BDNF are associated with separation anxiety. But what’s really nifty is that there are a few things that can boost BDNF levels in the brain: Exercise: Study after study have demonstrated that voluntary exercise increases neurogenesis in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus. Regular walks are important for your dog’s well-being, cardiovascular and skeletal health, but they are also a great way to support their brain health. Interestingly, extreme exercise has been associated with impaired cognitive function due to the overload in reactive oxygen species causing oxidative stress – so balance is key! For that reason, rest is also essential to hippocampal health! The Importance of Sleep There is a diurnal rhythm of neurogenesis and as we know, dogs too are diurnal creatures (awake in the daylight and sleep largely at night). It is mainly at night that the hippocampus experiences growth due to the proteins that control the body clock. Enriched Environment Novel enrichment activities have been noted to increase BDNF levels in the brain – here we are looking for those new challenges for your dog; appropriately named, brain games. It may be puzzle games, learning new tricks, navigating a new trail or hunting a new treasure (food or toy). The key element here is novelty, whilst there are generalised benefits of prior exposure to a task, there are more significant improvements when it is a new experience. Boredom is regularly linked with low BDNF levels! Dog Brain Games Diet Last but not least, we are a nutrition page after all, but diet can influence BDNF levels too. Omega-3 Fatty Acids have been seen to normalise BDNF levels in the brain – they are also thought to be neuroprotective in that they protect neurons from death. Great sources of Omega-3 for the dog include fatty fish like sprats, sardines, mackerel, and salmon. Essential Fats For My Dog’s Diet Vitamin B12 When including both omega-3 and Vitamin B12 in the diet, higher levels of BDNF are found in the hippocampus and cortex. Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that keeps nerve and blood cells healthy. It is also involved in energy production and more! There are no plant-sources of B12, it is produced in the gut of vegetarian animals, then absorbed into their blood stream, and makes its way around their body. Their tissue then provides B12 to whoever eats it. For that reason, sources of B12 include meat,
Possibly one of the most common ailments that we find in the dog world – some dogs just seem to react to everything! But, if we know how allergies and sensitivities develop, is it something we can tackle? Let’s take a look and consider some top tips to support your dog’s health. What is a dog allergy? An allergy is an unnecessary immune response to an innocuous substance. True allergies are often fatal. More often than not we are faced with sensitivities – which are still an immune response. What is the immune system? The purpose of the immune system is to defend itself and keep microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi out of the body and then destroy any if they happen to get in. It has three lines of defence. The innate immune system provides the first line of defence; broadly divided into physical/chemical barriers. The physical barriers include the skin and the lining of the digestive and respiratory tract. You can think of the body like a sausage; the skin, keeps everything in, but also things out. Chemical barriers include tears and saliva along with gastric acid. But also, the microbiome – which is the community of microbes found in the mouth, lungs, gut and on the skin. We then have the innate immune system – which is for want of a better phrase a row of white blood cells (and other participants) that engulf and destroy invaders. The third defence is acquired or adaptive immunity – this is the memory bank. The cells involved in this response help the body remember antigens that it has encountered before – so it can mount a quicker response before the harmful pathogen causes any damage. The immune system is trained to recognise its own cells as self and leave them to do their jobs. It is trained to recognise anything that isn’t self and attack it. When it works, it works brilliantly and, well, us and our dogs survive. But, it can get a little too enthusiastic and start responding to things it doesn’t really need to. This is what we see as autoimmunity, but also allergies and sensitivities and there are a number of reasons for this. Allergies and Sensitivities First of all, we may be dealing with an immature immune system, and this all starts back in puppyhood. When we talk about immune responses, we tend to reference Th1 and Th2. They are both necessary responses, but a Th2 response is more commonly associated with allergy. During pregnancy, a strong Th2 response is present to reduce the risk of miscarriage. What this means is that puppies are born with a Th2 dominance. This then needs to be balanced and the way in which this occurs is through microbial exposure. This is what we know as immune tolerance – the immune systems develop through exposure to controlled challenge. The immune system is like a computer; it has software, but it needs data. The microbial ecosystem in various mucosal sites is important for the development of the immune system. The young gastrointestinal tract is colonised soon after birth by a variety of commensal bacteria that influence the development of the immune response both in the gut and systemically. The mucosal immune system in the gut must avoid adverse immune responses to dietary antigens and commensals in the new microbial ecosystem while remaining able to mount an effective response to pathogenic organisms. In an ideal world, our pets will develop a heathy immune system, and they will have sufficient immune tolerance but also eliminate threats when necessary. But we don’t always live in an ideal world. Gut Guardian br] So what else can cause issues with immune responses? Often allergies and sensitivities are associated with poor barrier function; so there may be damaged or broken skin, a poor microbiome, or damage to the integrity of the gut. Think of it like an army. If you have a row of soldiers who are standing shoulder to shoulder, you stand a good chance against the enemy. Once soldiers start falling, opportunities arise for the enemy to get through. When skin is damaged, antigens spot their opportunity and sneak in through the gaps. The same occurs in the gut. Cells sit tightly together, but when cell integrity fails, under digested food particles and pathogens see their opportunity and sneak out into circulation. The immune system spots these particles – realises they shouldn’t be there, so mounts a response. Inflammation is a key part of this response. The issue is when the barrier remains compromised, more particles sneak through and so you end up in a chronic state of inflammation. Barrier dysfunction can occur for a number of reasons: Genetic glitches Microbiome dysbiosis Long-term use of medication Toxins Environmental exposure Detoxification Pathways The more inflammatory compounds you have in the presence of a response, the more anti-inflammatory compounds you will need to counter this response. There will also be a heightened need for compounds that break down inflammatory molecules like histamine. Those suffering with allergic disease often have a higher baseline of histamine, and so clearance of this is important too. What this means is that detoxification pathways need to be running as smoothly as possible. Liver Guard Detoxification of dietary histamine normally occurs in intestinal epithelial cells via the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) as well as histamine-N-methyltransferase (HNMT) in the liver. What’s interesting is that there are polymorphisms in the genes that code for the DAO enzyme, but certain medications, including over the counter products are seen to inhibit the activity of DAO enzyme too. They include: Analgesics – morphine, NSAIDs Antiarrhythmics Antibiotics Antifungals Antimalarial Diuretics Motility agents Muscle relaxants Vitamins – ascorbic acid, thiamine In addition, detoxification pathways in general are nutrient demanding and they also produce a high number of free radicals. Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine are essential. Does My Pet Need To
