We love our dogs and want them to experience the joy of moving freely without pain. Dogs love being active which inevitably leads to injuries and also to “wear and tear” despite the best care and intentions.
As our dogs age, inflammation and arthritis are common, and so are discomfort, decline in mobility, and quality of life.
It is natural to worry about our dogs and to try to protect them from pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, these issues are often managed with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can lead to frequent side effects such as stomach upset, gastrointestinal bleeding, damage to the liver and kidneys, and interference with the body’s own healing response.
Fortunately, the answer to finding harmless and effective mobility enhancing foods and herbs exists in nature. These nutrients can deliver a synergy of benefits for healing and prevention, especially when combined in proper amounts and prepared for maximum absorption and efficacy.
The most commonly used therapies for canine joint health only focus on rebuilding collagen by using glucosamine and chondroitin. However, managing mobility issues in dogs requires a more complete solution that addresses muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, synovial fluid, and the inflammation and pain that is associated.
For thousands of years, traditional medicine has turned to nature for remedies and chosen spices for their many healing properties. This ancient wisdom, supported by modern science, continues to highlight the significance of spices as the powerhouses of natural healing.
You may have already heard of golden paste, a home remedy commonly used by dog lovers to reduce inflammation, help arthritis and heal injuries. You may also know that the primary ingredient in golden paste is turmeric, a spice used for thousands of years in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory and natural pain relief remedy.
Based on the growing body of research, several studies have now confirmed that turmeric is beneficial in managing arthritis and inflammation in dogs, much like in humans.
Here are several key reasons why turmeric is a canine mobility support superstar:
Cartilage Support: Turmeric can protect cartilage by inhibiting enzymes that contribute to cartilage degradation. This is very important in conditions like arthritis, where the preservation of cartilage is crucial for maintaining joint health and mobility. [7]
Pain Management: Clinical studies have demonstrated that turmeric is effective in relieving pain and improving mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. Dogs supplemented with a diet containing turmeric showed improved ability to rise from a sitting or lying position, indicating pain relief and enhanced joint function. [4]
Arthritis Support: Research has demonstrated that turmeric is highly effective in improving osteoarthritis in canines. [12]
You can also read more about the benefits and science in my blog Turmeric for Dogs.
While turmeric is an amazing superfood with numerous benefits, its use comes with several challenges when given on its own. [8]:
Curcumin is metabolized quickly, which reduces the concentration of bioavailable curcumin and its therapeutic effects. [8]
Curcumin is swiftly eliminated from the body, further reducing its concentration to provide sustained benefits. [8]
Curcumin is not easily dissolved in water, which decreases its intestinal absorption and bioavailability. [8]
Is there a way of getting all the healing benefits that turmeric has to offer?
The answer is YES!
Are you wondering how these two spices work together?
Imagine turmeric and black pepper as two happy dogs playing in the field of health and wellness. Turmeric is like a golden retriever – vibrant, full of life, and known for its loyalty in supporting the body's well-being with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. It's eager to fetch the benefits of health and bring them back to its owner, but sometimes, it runs too fast blowing away most of the turmeric on the way, barely bringing anything to the final destination.
Black pepper, is like a border collie, focused and smart, ensuring that everything is lined up to deliver the most turmeric to the final destination.
In fact, black pepper contains piperine, a compound that “herds” or delivers turmeric to the body’s muscles, joints and inflamed tissues. Piperine also slows down the metabolism of turmeric’s active compounds, which effectively increases the concentration to achieve the greatest medicinal effect.
Together, turmeric and black pepper make perfect partners. Where turmeric might struggle on its own, black pepper is right there to help, ensuring that the turmeric’s healing effects are not in vain.
Piperine, a major active component of black pepper, has been shown to increase the bioavailability of curcumin by inhibiting its metabolism, allowing higher concentrations of curcumin to remain in the body for longer periods. [8] [13]
Combining curcumin with piperine can enhance curcumin's absorption by up to 2000% in both animals and humans with no adverse effects. [9]
Pain and Inflammation Support: The compound piperine plays a direct role in mitigating inflammation in animals and has been tested as a natural pain reliever in studies, suggesting a promising area for future research in pain management. [1] [3]
Other “side benefits”: Research also shows black pepper's potential to promote gut health and may enhance the proliferation of beneficial gut bacteria which is important for immune function, mood regulation, and the prevention of chronic diseases. [2]
How we prepare ingredients matters as it has a direct effect on their efficacy and bio-availability.
Using Whole Spice: We start with whole turmeric and whole black pepper and do not fractionate and damage them by trying to isolate out the curcumin or the piperine. There are hundreds of other compounds (that also work synergistically within spices and plants). When you fractionate the isolated compounds, they behave more like drugs and cause side effects. We believe in the wisdom of nature and the harmony of medicinal plants and superfoods.
We use Fermentation, an ancient method blended with precise modern technology to enhance the bio-availability of ingredients and cultivate a wide spectrum of bioactive compounds that support digestion and nutrient absorption. This proprietary dual stage fermentation process enhances the effectiveness of turmeric and black pepper in JointButter, an advanced joint and mobility supplement for dogs.
Curcumin is fat-soluble, so adding lipids or fat-based “carriers” such as coconut oil further improves its solubility and absorption.
However, coconut oil is more than just a carrier for the other active ingredients.
Research has shown that combining turmeric, black pepper and coconut oil is much more potent than the sum of their parts. Together they not only address inflammation and pain but also support nutritional absorption and gut health. [8]
You can find these super spices in our JointButter® formula, in combination with 11 other ingredients designed to support a comprehensive approach to canine mobility.
We can’t wait to hear about the transformations you will witness with your dog.
1) Arthritis Res Ther. 2009;11(2):R49. doi: 10.1186/ar2662. Epub 2009 Mar 30. Anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic effects of piperine in human interleukin 1beta-stimulated fibroblast-like synoviocytes and in rat arthritis models. Bang JS, Oh DH,Choi HM, Sur BJ, Lim SJ, Kim JY, Yang HI, Yoo MC, Hahm DH, Kim KS.
2) Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2013;53(9):875-86. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2011.571799 Black pepper and health claims: a comprehensive treatise Masood Sadiq Butt, Imran Pasha, Muhammad Tauseef Sultan, Muhammad Atif Randhawa, Farhan Saeed, Waqas Ahmed
3) Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2014 Sep:7S1:S461-8. doi: 10.1016 S1995-7645(14)60275-3 Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Piper nigrum L Farhana Tasleem, Iqbal Azhar, Syed Nawazish Ali, Shaista Perveen, Zafar Alam Mahmood
4) BMC Vet Res. 2017 Dec 20;13(1):395. doi: 10.1186/s12917-017-1317-8. A randomized, double-blind, prospective, placebo-controlled study of the efficacy of a diet supplemented with curcuminoids extract, hydrolyzed collagen and green tea extract in owner's dogs with osteoarthritis. Fanny Comblain,Nicolas Barthélémy, Michael Lefèbvre, Cédric Schwartz, Isabelle Lesponne, Samuel Serisier, Alexandre Feugier, Marc Balligand, Yves Henrotin
5) Clin Interv Aging. 2014 Mar 20:9:451-8. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S58535. eCollection 2014.Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter study Vilai Kuptniratsaikul, Piyapat Dajpratham, Wirat Taechaarpornkul, Montana Buntragulpoontawee, Pranee Lukkanapichonchut, Chirawan Chootip, Jittima Saengsuwan, Kesthamrong Tantayakom, Supphalak Laongpech
6) Curr Org Synth. 2023 Jun 7. doi:0.2174/1570179420666230607124949The Golden Spice for Life: Turmeric with the Pharmacological Benefits of Curcuminoids Components, including Curcumin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, and Demethoxycurcumin Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian, Wenli Sun
7) Inflamm Res. 2009 Dec;58(12):899-908. doi: 10.1007/s00011-009-0063-1. Epub 2009 Jul 5.Curcumin inhibits pro-inflammatory mediators and metalloproteinase-3 production by chondrocytes M Mathy-Hartert, I Jacquemond-Collet, F Priem, C Sanchez, C Lambert, Y Henrotin
8) Cancer Res Treat.2014 Jan; 46(1): 2–18.doi:10.4143/crt.2014.46.1.2 Recent Developments in Delivery, Bioavailability, Absorption and Metabolism of Curcumin: the Golden Pigment from Golden Spice Sahdeo Prasad, PhD, Amit K. Tyagi, PhD, and Bharat B. Aggarwal, PhD
9) Planta Med. 1998 May;64(4):353-6. doi: 10.1055/s-2006-957450. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers G Shoba 1 , D Joy, T Joseph, M Majeed, R Rajendran, P S Srinivas
10) Drug Des Devel Ther. 2021; 15: 4503–4525. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S327378 Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Curcumin in the Inflammatory Diseases: Status, Limitations and Countermeasures Ying Peng, Mingyue Ao, Baohua Dong, Yunxiu Jiang, Lingying Yu, Zhimin Chen, Changjiang Hu, and Runchun Xu
11) Vet Med Sci. 2022 May; 8(3): 1025–1035. doi:10.1002/vms3.779. The efficacy of a nutritional supplement containing green‐lipped mussel, curcumin and blackcurrant leaf extract in dogs and cats with osteoarthritis Ronald Jan Corbee
12 Am J Trad Chin Vet Med 2022; 17(1):3-12. Efficacy of turmeric for treatment of osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental animal model studies. Sheahan S
13 Journal of Experimental Pharmacology. 30 January 2024 Volume 2024:16 doi.org/10.2147/JEP.S427818 Investigating Bioavailability of Curcumin and Piperine Combination in Comparison to Turmeric Rhizomes Pratti VL, Thomas M, Bhoite R, Satyavrat V
]]>
From now until February 14th
every 10th order is on us
yes, you read that right…
your order could be FREE!
How to Participate:
Who wouldn't want that?
Discover how simple exercises, carefully chosen therapies, and a holistic approach can significantly enhance your dog’s mobility, vitality, and overall quality of life. Whether you're dealing with a sprightly puppy or a wise senior dog, Dr. McCauley shares a wealth of knowledge for every dog lover seeking to improve their pet's well-being and long-lasting health and mobility
]]>This article likely caught your eye because you understand how difficult it is to see our dogs injured or their mobility decline as they age.
It is hard to witness our dogs getting older and less mobile, but it also feels great to see that there are ways to help our beloved dogs age slower, move better, and remain free from inflammation and pain for longer.
Today, I am bringing you a very interesting and inspiring interview with Dr. Laurie McCauley, who is a true trailblazer and pioneer in the field of veterinary rehabilitation, injury treatment, and prevention.
Dr. Laurie opened the first veterinary rehabilitation clinic in 1998, where she designed the first underwater treadmill for dogs, a piece of equipment that has improved the mobility and quality of life for millions of dogs globally. Dr. McCauley is also the founder of Optimum Pet Vitality, an online learning platform that empowers dog guardians around the world to help their dogs live long, healthy, and injury-free lives.
The following blog presents the key insights from my interview with Dr. Laurie McCauley. If you want to listen to our full discussion on how to exercise your dog, maintain mobility, prevent injuries and address age-related issues like arthritis, back pain and progressive weakness, you can watch the full interview below.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Your journey of going through veterinary school and then deciding to pioneer veterinary rehabilitation is captivating. Was there a defining moment that shifted your focus to rehabilitation?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: I was in general medicine for six years, and I hate to say it, but I got bored — another cat with diarrhea, another dog that's vomiting, anal glands, spays, neuters, all that stuff. I did what I did. I loved it and loved my patients.
One day, I fell down the stairs at three in the morning, taking my dogs out, and hurt my back. I went to my chiropractor, and he couldn't fix me. So I went to an orthopedic doctor, who sent me to a physical therapist and I discovered that you could get rid of pain and prevent further injuries by getting stronger. It dawned on me that I could use the same approach with my patients.
Unfortunately, there were no courses available but just around that time I was asked to help some police dogs that had mobility issues. So, I called up Robert Taylor, who used to be on the TV show Emergency Vets, because I knew he had a PT on staff and I asked if I could come to work with him to do some research together.
Soon after, I designed the first underwater treadmill by looking at dogs to create a low-impact exercise option. I called the zoo and asked what kind of glass they used in their aquariums because I needed that for my pool. I hooked up a home security system, so I had a camera and a monitor hanging from the ceiling to watch their gait as they were in the water.
I also studied acupuncture and chiropractic, and also build a 4,000-square-foot facility where all we did was rehab. We had four full-time veterinarians and four full-time technicians..
When I brought the information about the underwater treadmill to the first international sports medicine and rehab symposium, I was immediately asked to teach the certification course.
When I started teaching for the Canine Rehab Institute and it was amazing to work students from 17 different countries. I learned from every single one of them.
Dr. Peter Dobias: You are an acupuncturist and also a chiropractor. I know that some colleagues and clients are skeptical about these disciplines. How did you navigate the perceptions of those thinking that what you're doing is not important or necessary or it doesn't work?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: Yes, I am certified in acupuncture and get really good results. I can feel where the energy is stagnant or deficient and move it.
I'm also certified in chiropractic which gives me legitimacy, but again, a lot of knowledge has come to me intuitively. I do sacral occipital technique, craniosacral, myofascial work, listening, Bowen, osteopathy and ANTs (animal normalization techniques). I use a tuning fork to release the fascia.
So many things go into that, but you can't say all that to a client. You can say I'm going to do chiropractic — it's not exactly what you expect; it's manual therapy and manipulation, and we're going to get amazing results. When they see amazing results, they don't care what it's called.
Dr. Peter Dobias: A few years ago, you were recognized as the Holistic Practitioner of the Year by the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, which speaks to your impact on our profession. How does such recognition shape or influence your work?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: To me, it's not about an award. It's about what I can learn to help fix the dog, what I can learn to help the dog and then help others help dogs. My big thing is the ripple effect. Literally, my tagline is ‘Empowering people, Optimizing pets.’
I want to help people help pets because if I work one day, I can help ten dogs. If I can teach ten people to do what I do, that's a hundred dogs a day. The fact that I have lectured to thousands, or maybe a hundred thousand by this time, is so heartwarming.
I was just at an ACVSMR meeting. I'm board-certified in sports medicine and rehabilitation, and we just had our first meeting, which was great. I had somebody who was an intern from Poland 20-something years ago come to me and say, ‘Oh my God, Laura, you changed my life!’
When I hear that, to me, it’s not I did anything; it’s that my influence is now helping dogs in Poland. I think it’s cool that I have dogs in Taiwan, Korea, and China and all these places that are getting help because of something small I did so long ago. It's such a blessing.
Dr. Peter Dobias: With the aging dog population and increasing concerns about mobility and arthritis, what do you see as the most pressing challenge and how does your work address it?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: So the typical thing we see in people is my dog is getting older. They're lying around more, they're less active, they atrophy, or their muscles get smaller and weaker, and their joints are more unstable, so they hurt more. If they're less active, it spirals down until Fluffy can't get up anymore, and you have to say goodbye.
I have been so blessed to be able to take the downward spiral and turn it upside down. Getting rid of the pain and then strengthening with both endurance and targeted exercises takes that spiral and spirals it up.
Although I work with a lot of geriatric dogs and have to say goodbye at some point, I received many calls and letters from people saying: “Laurie, you gave me two more years with my dog!” It’s so heartwarming.
I have some clients that come in, and their dog is very weak and frail. I tell them to get up and go to the mailbox five times a day. Set up a timer on your phone so you know you're going to get up at these times. You may just walk around the house. You may go outside and walk around the outside of the house.
You're going to slowly build your dog up inside their comfort zone so they don't get hurt. Yet that's working on their muscles, tendons, ligaments, and brain. I think exercise and diet are so important for all of our patients.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What do you think is the most overlooked factor in preventing arthritis in dogs?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: The first thing would be being overweight. We know now that white fat makes leptin and other chemicals that can create inflammation. Our scale of dogs that were lean to overweight was a one to five, and they had to make it a one to nine because what we see as normal today was obese 20 or 30 years ago.
I have clients who are like, ‘Laurie, my vet is telling me that my dog is too skinny.’ I'm like, no, they're an athlete, they're lean. They're going to live longer and have fewer metabolic issues, allergy issues and all kinds of other things because they don't have that inflammation.
The other thing would be exercise, which is so important for both the brain and the body and longevity.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Can you give me a story where you've been able to detect early signs of arthritis and inflammation and it truly changed the dog's life?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: 80% of orthopedic surgeries in dogs are for cruciate injuries. When I graduated veterinary school in ‘92, we saw maybe one cruciate injury a month in a six-doctor practice. The same practice sees multiple a day now.
Dogs used to jump to catch a frisbee and come down wrong and tear their cruciate. Now they're running across the yard, they scream, and they lift up a leg. We know it's not from trauma; it's from gradual inflammation and degeneration.
The cruciate ligaments are inside the knee, and inflammation causes the little tendrils to tear. A dog can’t even feel that until enough of those tendrils pop.
I've come up with a simple way to find it to prevent this from happening. If I traction the joint, I'm not going to find anything but if I compress the joint and then put it in motion and there's grinding, I know there is a problem and the joint fluid has thinned.
Thick, healthy joint fluid is like motor oil; it smooths everything. When it thins, it allows that cartilage to grind, which creates trauma and inflammation, which can lead to a cruciate injury.
Even pet parents could do this. Put the palm of your hand against the patella and bend and extend, straighten and bend, and if you feel any kind of grinding, there's inflammation.
In such cases, we need to get them on a joint and mobility support, a chrondroprotectant, the right supplements, Omega-3s, and a supplement with glucosamine or perna mussles, and boswellia so we can stop the degenerative process, rebuild cartilage and strengthen ligaments and prevent tears.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What do we do when we recognize joint inflammation? What do you do on the physical therapy level?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: My rule of thumb is if I find inflammation or if I feel that grind, we make sure the dog’s on a chondroprotectant, a cartilage protector. If that's not enough, if 12 weeks later, it's not all better, then we put them on a polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (Adequan).
Note: GAG’s (glycosaminoglycans) are represented in Perna Mussel (Green Lipped Mussel)
If that doesn't make them better, then we start a laser program, something we know is going to decrease inflammation and at the same time, we start exercises.
The job of the cruciate is to resist sheer and rotation forces. So if we can strengthen everything to help decrease the sheer force and the rotation, we're helping the cruciate ligament to heal in a safe, well lubricated environment rather than continue to be in an environment that is putting pressure on it. So, simple exercises can help stabilize it tremendously.
Something so simple that anybody can do is pick up one leg when your dog is standing up, so they have to stabilize on the other three legs. Then put that one down and pick up the next one, and then you pick up the front one, and then you pick up the other one, and you go around a couple of times.
This strengthens all the muscles without sheer rotation or compression force. You can do that with a 16-week-old puppy or a 16 or 18-year-old dog, and it will help them.
Dr. Peter Dobias: How can dog lovers best prepare mentally and emotionally for the mobility challenges their dogs may face?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: Exercise. Studies in mice show that when mice are in a box, in their little cage, versus in an enriched environment where they have things to do, they live longer.
They did a study where they took older mice for 45 days and put them in an enriched environment, and the size of their hippocampus, the memory and learning centre, increased by 15% by over 40,000 more neurons.
When these mice had a wheel where they could walk and do things, their hippocampus was five times bigger than the mice in a box.
Exercises like walking and swimming increased the number of neurons in their brain, and learning things and targeted exercise, increased the life expectancy of each neuron.
Besides what happens in the brain, we know that as we age, we lose type II muscle fibres just by getting older, but we lose type I muscles by inactivity. Type I is your posture and your endurance.
We lose type II muscle fibres just from getting older, but we can increase our type I muscle fibres because that's not affected by age. Also, if you use your type I muscle fibres like type II, they can transform into type II, or vice versa. By doing our endurance work and targeted exercises, we're strengthening everything so that we're more stable and lose muscle more slowly.
Everyone has sarcopenia, where the muscle gets smaller as we age. The lost muscle gets replaced by fat, so we don't see a change in circumference, but change in strength.
There are studies that show that if you start exercising when you're younger, you can maintain strength much longer than if you start when you're older.
So, although I have exercises that are great for older dogs, I recommend them for puppies. Let's get them strong now so they have more muscle. If you're going to lose 25% of 25 versus 25% of a hundred, you're much better if you start with a hundred.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Are there any subtle behavioural or physical signs that most pet parents miss when it comes to aging?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: There's always the cognitive dysfunction, with symptoms like increased anxiety, not sleeping as well, more pacing, more vocalizing, decreased activity and apathy. It can progress to going to the wrong side of the door or not recognizing people.
I have a Boxer Mastiff mix that can literally put his front feet up on a ball and walk it 40 feet and then 40 feet back. He can sit up and do high fives. People say I have an almost 14-year-old dog who's a 95-pound dog, which is almost unheard of. It's because when we find things, we fix them. So it's looking for things and strengthening to help their brain and body function better.|
Dr. Peter Dobias: What house modification do you recommend when dogs start aging or when it comes to car travel?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: Stairs going up onto the bed. Some of my clients take their beds off the stand, so it's just their mattress or the box spring and mattress so the dogs can still get in the bed.
If you need to, use a ramp outside; you can have a ramp going into your car to help them get into the car. There's a product called a Help ‘Em Up, which is a front harness and a back harness that connects and has a handle on each so that if you need to help, you've got that.
There are things that, if they're sliding, you can spray on their feet, like Show Foo or PawFriction. There are also socks, so they're not sliding. Instead of doing that, you can do that to get them through it, but you can also do something as simple as side steps because most older dogs fall with either their front or back out to the side.
So rather than just putting something grippy on their feet, if you strengthen the muscles that hold their legs in, they don't have that problem.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Have you noticed any misconceptions or mistakes people are making when it comes to exercise?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: One of the mistakes people make is what I call the ‘weekend warrior syndrome’ — I work all day, I come home, my dog's there, I ignore him, I feed him, he goes out, and that's it. Then the weekend comes, and we're going to run a marathon. If the dog is not getting any exercise all week, and then on the weekends, you're pushing him, he's much more likely to get injured. So it's much better to have a little bit of exercise.
My recommendation is to walk your dog for at least 25 minutes five days a week, and that can include the weekend. There are lots of studies that show that kind of weekend warrior syndrome significantly increases injuries.
The other thing is to warm up and cool down. A muscle is much less likely to get injured if it's warmed up, so the blood flow is brought in, the fat, the things that it needs to be able to lengthen and contract. A muscle’s ability to work increases as that blood flow increases.
Spending even two to five minutes before something strenuous and then two to five minutes at the end to get rid of the pyruvate is important. Humans build lactic acid, and dogs build pyruvate, a different chemical, but it still can increase the chance of injury.
Having the warm-up and that cool-down period is huge. If you think about an athlete, they're always going to warm up before they push to the limit, so their muscles aren't cold, and they're not as likely to get injured.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What do you recommend to people who have dogs and live in colder climates, and their dogs don't get out as often?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: Just like in humans, if you want to do your endurance exercises, there are places where you can go swimming and also places where you have an in-house treadmill. Some of my clients will have that to run their dogs in the winter.
Then, you have targeted exercises that work the brain and the body all throughout the winter. You don't need a lot of space to be able to have a great exercise program. You don't need a lot of expensive equipment either.
I tell people to take the couch cushion off the couch and have their dog spin and twirl on the couch cushion. This exercise helps them work on their proprioception, like where are my feet so I'm not stepping off, and then I'm spinning my body, and I'm using all the muscles in my whole spine, and I have to work on my balance. There are all kinds of things you can do in your house, even without a gym.
I believe that we're going to see more and more dog gyms as we see more and more people treating their pets as their kids. They are going to take better care of their pets and hopefully take better care of themselves.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Your eBook, "The Top 5 Exercises for Your Geriatric Dog," is a resource many pet owners have found invaluable. Where can people find it, and what is it about?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: People can text us at (+1 for those outside the US) 866-949-0068, with the word ‘ebook,’ no space. Then it will ask for your email address, and then we send it to your email box. The eBook is a 25-26 page book that goes through things to look for, five exercises, how to do them, and some different options.
Dr. Peter Dobias: You also have an exercise course for dogs, what’s that about?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: I do. So remember I said I have my dog, Sted, who is amazing. When I got him, he was 11 months old, and I said, you have straight knees, so that's a cruciate risk; you have a long back, so that's a back injury risk. He has straight shoulders. He runs like the wind; so that predisposes him to iliopsoas injury. I am in love with my dog, but not with way he is put together.
The number one injury is shoulder injuries in active dogs. I knew I needed to do something so I started doing exercises early, and also shared them with people.
We did an ultimate exercise challenge with one of my clients who’s in Chicago. I said, I'm going to show you, I'm going to take videos, and you're going to do those exercises with Sophia; who was an agility dog. She was 10 when she started. At 11 and a half, she was the seventh fastest in Bad Dog Agility. Everyone else was like four or five years old!
That’s when I realized we needed to teach more people how to do this, so we put together Core & More: Foundational Exercises for Your Dog. This course has everything to help stabilize the joint, strengthen muscles, increase balance and proprioception, and stimulate the brain. The exercises are safe for a 16-week-old puppy or a 16-year-old dog.
The course is a progression, so you can't start at the hardest exercise and hurt your dog. You learn the basics first — what warm-up and cool-down are, what overheating looks like, what their posture and stance and walk should look like.
I put my heart into all my courses, it's everything you need to know to set you up for success. Every two weeks, you get four exercises, and you can take your dog through the progression so that they can get stronger and stronger.
Even with athletes, it's not just in this exercise you're going to do sit to stands. If this is easy, here's how to make it harder, when to stop, if there's a problem, we need to go to the vet, or if this is too hard or very easy for you, how we progress. So, I have start points and stop points.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What is your vision for the future when it comes to dog health, mobility, aging, and veterinary rehabilitation?
Dr. Laurie McCauley: 30 years ago, doggie daycare was used to board your dog if you go out of town and he's in a cage for two weeks. Now, I go to work so my dog can go to doggie daycare and get to play with other dogs. That’s big. I foresee that becoming bigger; just like you take your kids to school, you take your dog to places where they can have enrichment.
One of the things I'm working on right now is putting together a laser course for pet parents because I foresee that many of them will be able to do that at home. Laser is huge, and it's an amazing tool if you know how to do it. 70% of my clients have their own laser. When they got it, they had no clue what to do with it. They're willing to spend the money but don't have the means to learn how to use it, even if they know it's a good tool.
Anything we can do to help pets at home and decrease the wait time to get to the vet is beneficial. I foresee people taking better care of their dogs, understanding more about nutrition, and giving supplements in the same way they would do the right things for their children.
Many thanks to Dr. Laurie McCauley for her invaluable insights and actionable tips on how to exercise your dog and what you can do to prevent injuries, and I hope our discussion will help you create a healthy, long, and active life for your beloved dog. If you’re interested in reading more about the courses Dr. McCauley offers on her website, you can go to optimumpetvitality.com.
A Notice to the community: In February 2024, we will be launching the worlds first fermented, whole food based mobility, arthritis and joint support for dogs. If you would like to be notified, please enter your information below.
Osteoporosis, a condition marked by thin, brittle and fragile bones, is a significant public health concern affecting millions worldwide. While more common in women 50 years and older, it can also affect men and younger individuals.
This comprehensive guide touches on the main causes of osteoporosis, emphasizing the impact of genetics, diet, medical, and lifestyle factors on bone health and reveals the benefits of plant-based calcium supplements and exercise when it comes to increasing bone density and preventing bone disorders.
Bone health is foundational to overall well-being. Bones, beyond providing structure, serve as reserves for minerals that are critical for various organ and tissue functions and electrolyte management.
Maintaining good bone health from the early stages of life can help prevent bone and joint deformities, organ disease, skeletal and cardiac muscle weakness, and complications like osteopenia (bone thinning) and osteoporosis.
Bone density, a critical factor in overall bone health, is influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits.[1]
Contrasting the genetic component, lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity are controllable elements that can significantly impact your bone health. Even small changes can lead to substantial improvements in bone strength, health and resilience.
Genetics not only dictate the peak bone mass an individual can achieve, they also influence bone structure, rate of bone loss, and the skeleton's responsiveness to environmental factors such as diet and physical activity.
The average American diet falls short in calcium. The insufficiency of calcium intake is a public health concern, given its critical role in bone and overall health.
Similarly, vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption and utilization, is often deficient, particularly in populations with limited sun exposure or in institutional settings like nursing homes.
Maintaining a healthy body weight is vital throughout life. Being undernourished and underweight increases the risk of fractures and bone loss.
Weight loss, particularly in the elderly, must be managed carefully to prevent associated bone loss.
Regular physical activity is fundamental for bone health at every life stage. It aids in increasing or preserving bone mass and reduces the risk of falls. That's why people who spend a lot of time sitting rather than being active have a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Lifestyle choices like smoking and heavy alcohol use can also reduce bone mass and increase the risk of fractures. Smoking directly affects bone cells[2], while heavy alcohol consumption disrupts the balance of bone remodelling[3].
Reproductive health may, in some cases, impact bone density in women. Pregnancy and lactation generally do not harm an adult woman's skeleton. Menopausal women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to hormonal changes affecting bone density.
Regular monitoring through DEXA scans and proactive lifestyle adjustments are excellent steps to prevent osteoporosis.
Several medical conditions and medications can adversely affect bone health. Notably, corticosteroids, which are unfortunately widely used for various conditions.
Besides suppressing the immune response and negatively affecting tissue healing and hormonal health, corticosteroids are also known for their detrimental effects on bone health.
Conditions like hyperthyroidism or diseases requiring hormone production suppression therapy also impact bone density. It's essential for individuals with such medical backgrounds to undergo regular bone health assessments.
The effectiveness of calcium supplements, particularly plant-based options like Alga Calcarea, is gaining attention.
This mineral-rich algae is known for its high bioavailability of calcium and other minerals. In a seven-year study, Alga Calcarea's effectiveness has been shown to improve bone density by more than 7%. [4].
This is one of the reasons Alga Calcarea is an ingredient in our all-natural mineral and amino-acid supplement, GreenMin H+.
Contrary to popular belief, osteoporosis isn't an inevitable part of aging. Balanced nutrition, adequate exercise, and proper supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
It's also essential to understand that bone health goes beyond just calcium; a holistic approach considering all essential nutrients is key.
Many people still live under the impression that food alone is sufficient to provide the body with all it needs. Unfortunately, soil depletion, food processing, and an increase in environmental toxicity have a negative toll on our health.
Supplementing your diet with essential nutrients is an effective way to treat any imbalances. When searching for the best nutritional supplements, look for fermented supplements which are known to have increased bioavailability and efficacy.
Also try to ensure your chosen products are ethically sourced, certified organic when possible, packaged in glass, and shipped without plastic.
Prioritizing bone health from a young age can set the foundation for stronger bones later in life.
A balanced diet rich in minerals and vegetables, essential supplements, minimal sugar consumption and regular physical activity are all play a part in osteoporosis prevention,
When it comes to exercises that help sustain and improve bone density, weight-bearing and high-impact exercises are a great choice. Activities like running, hiking, and strength training also help stimulate bone remodelling, a vital process for bone health.
Preventing falls is also crucial for protecting bone health, particularly in older adults. Strategies such as muscle strengthening, balance training, and a home hazard assessment can significantly reduce the risk of falls and subsequent fractures.
One of my favourite pieces of equipment is Tonal Fitness Wall, which has helped increase my strength by 75% within 4 months of using it. To date, this is the best fitness equipment I have found and everyone from my circle of friends and family seems to love it too.
Resources
[1] Office of the Surgeon General (US). Rockville (MD): Office of the Surgeon General (US); 2004 Determinants of Bone Health Linda G. Haddad, Michael Weaver, Xing Chengguo, Debra Lynch Kelly, and Saunjoo Yoon
[2] J Osteoporos. 2018; 2018: 1206235. Published online 2018 Dec 2. doi: 10.1155/2018/1206235 The Effect of Tobacco Smoking on Bone Mass: An Overview of Pathophysiologic Mechanisms
[3] Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Feb; 19(3): 1515. Published online 2022 Jan 28. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19031515 Alcohol Consumption, Bone Mineral Density, and Risk of Osteoporotic Fractures: A Dose–Response Meta-Analysis Justyna Godos, Francesca Giampieri, Emanuele Chisari, Agnieszka Micek, Nadia Paladino, Tamara Y. Forbes-Hernández, José L. Quiles, Maurizio Battino, Sandro La Vignera, Giuseppe Musumeci, and Giuseppe Grosso
[4] J Am Coll Nutr. 2016;35(2):91-9. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2015.1090357. Epub 2016 Feb 17. A 7-Year Longitudinal Trial of the Safety and Efficacy of a Vitamin/Mineral Enhanced Plant-Sourced Calcium Supplement. Gilbert R Kaats, Harry G Preuss, Sidney Stohs, Nicholas Perricone.
]]>If you've been looking for natural ways to improve your dog's mobility, there's a high chance you've come across green-lipped mussel, also known as Perna mussel, at least once. In this blog, you can dive deeper into the health benefits of green-lipped mussels for dogs and how it can help relieve symptoms in patients with osteoarthritis. The unique mix of glycosaminoglycans and Omega-3 fatty acids in Perna mussels is one of the reasons why I chose it as one of the main ingredients for our new joint and mobility supplement for dogs. Subscribe to our newsletter or join our SMS list to be the first to get notified when it launches in the Healing Store.
]]>Are you concerned about your dog's mobility and joint health? Dive into this blog to get a better understanding of the health benefits of green-lipped mussel for dogs and how it can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis and reduce the use of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Mobility is the key element in keeping our canine friends healthy and happy for many years to come. Thinking back to my first dog, Skai, I was so grateful he was able to go hiking with us in the mountains even at the age of 15.
But while he seemed unstoppable, eventually stiffness and aches started to set in. Seeing your dog slow down is tough for any pet parent as mobility is everything for them — it's joy, freedom, and life itself.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to support your dog's mobility and increase their lifespan, one of them being the Perna mussel or green-lipped mussel.
In 2009, a study called An evidence-based systematic review of green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus)(1) confirmed that New Zealand green-lipped mussel provides a clinically significant positive treatment effect on osteoarthritis (joint inflammation).
This study included a review of nine clinical trials, focusing on the effects of green-lipped mussels on OA pain and mobility, but also confirmed that green-lipped mussels improved gastrointestinal symptoms in OA patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) that are widely used in human and veterinary medicine. These drugs are known to cause gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver side effects, resulting in a deeper imbalance in the body.
But that's not all, what makes green-lipped mussels so beneficial for dogs and people lies in the powerful nutrients it contains.
A recent study conducted by a Japanese research team focused on the compounds behind the green-lipped mussel's positive effects on joint health, pain management, and mobility — the bioactive glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)(2).
Marine invertebrates such as mussels are a rich source of these highly sulfated and rare glycosaminoglycans. Perna canaliculus is one of the best sources produced on a large scale in New Zealand.
The glycosaminoglycans from the green-lipped mussel, primarily chondroitin sulfate (CS) and heparan sulfate (HS), exhibit several notable biological effects:
Encouraging nerve growth: Certain chondroitin sulfate chains, especially those with a specific type of sugar pairing (GlcA-GalNAc(4,6-O-disulfate)), have been found to help in the creation of connections between nerve cells. This discovery hints at possible uses in the fields of neurology and regenerative medicine, where promoting nerve growth and repair is needed.
Joint health and osteoarthritis treatment: Chondroitin sulfate is commonly used for its potential benefits in joint health, particularly in the treatment of osteoarthritis. It is believed to contribute to the maintenance and repair of cartilage, the connective tissue that lines and cushions joints.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Both chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate possess anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial in reducing inflammation in cases of arthritis.
Tissue homeostasis (stability) and cell proliferation (creation and growth): GAGs play critical roles in cellular phenomena like cell proliferation, cell adhesion, differentiation, and tissue homeostasis.
Another study, this time analysing the effects of a diet enriched with green-lipped mussel in dogs with osteoarthritis(3), observed that there was a significant increase in Omega-3 fatty acids levels in their blood after 60 days. The owners also reported improvements in their dogs' pain and activity levels after switching to this diet.
For those of you who have missed the latest news, JointButter, our new product and the world’s first fermented joint and mobility support supplement for dogs, will be soon added to our product line up.
I have researched countless nutrients, herbs, and superfoods for many years in order to come up with the best possible formula that would make a clear difference for our dogs' joint health and mobility.
That's how I came across the green-lipped mussel and its powerful anti-inflammatory and joint-repair properties. The glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from Perna mussels have a unique structure and bioactivity, making it a popular ingredient in canine and human mobility formulas.
While I've also added chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine to JointButter, the addition of a whole-food source of GAGs from Perna mussels significantly boosts the potency of the supplement and increases the spectrum of available glycosaminoglycans.
Produced exclusively in New Zealand, green-lipped mussel production involves several steps.
Seeds are first collected and planted in a hatchery. Once they hatch into larvae, they attach themselves to rocks, long ropes, and other hard surfaces.
Once attached, a transformation into juvenile and consecutively into adult mussels follows. Green-lipped mussels are ready to be harvested in 26 to 48 months.
When formulating JointButter, my team and I didn’t just focus on the quality and science-backed efficacy of the ingredients we selected; we also paid close attention to their environmental sustainability.
The regions where Perna mussels are harvested are under the stewardship of the producers in a successful collaboration with Mussel Reef Restoration Trust and Revive Our Gulf Foundation.
Sign up to get a notification when JointButter is available 👇
If you prefer to be notified via text message, sign up for SMS below
👇
Article references:
1. ”Green-lipped mussel review" by Catherine Ulbricht and team. PMID: 22435354 DOI: 10.1080/19390210802690191
2. "Bioactive glycosaminoglycans study" in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, Volume 612, 5 July 2022, Pages 50-56; Ayumu Mubuchi and team.
3. "Effect of a diet enriched with green-lipped mussel on pain behavior and functioning in dogs with clinical osteoarthritis" by Pascale Rialland, Sylvain Bichot and team. Can J Vet Res. 2013 Jan; 77(1): 66–74.
Does your dog have green eye discharge? Contrary to what you may find in most articles online, green eye discharge is not always a sign of eye infection. Explore our latest article to uncover the most common causes of green eye discharge in dogs and learn how to address this health issue safely without the use of antibiotics or steroids.
]]>Green eye discharge (or as some people say, “green eye boogers”) is a common problem in puppies and adult dogs.
Most people immediately jump to the conclusion that green or whitish discharge or mucus must mean there is an infection, but this is not always necessarily true.
The purpose of this article is to give you a better understanding of the most common causes of green eye discharge in dogs and how to address this common problem safely without unnecessary antibiotics, steroids, and other pharmaceuticals. You will also learn how to determine when it's time to see your veterinarian.
Contrary to what you may find in most online articles on this topic, green eye discharge can be caused by multiple factors:
Before we dive into learning the details of addressing eye discharge in dogs, it is important to emphasize that many of the above causes can be addressed by a few simple steps or applying the Healing Cycle, a universal healing system that can be used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions.
Read this article carefully before you reach the end, where I list recommendations on how to address your dog’s eye condition.
Your dog’s eye discharge can help you determine if your canine friend suffers from a serious eye disease or if other possible issues related to metabolism or the environment may be the reason behind it.
Small brownish crusts at the corner of your dog’s eyes that appear overnight and can be easily wiped away are the result of tears cleaning any dust or debris from the eyes. Sometimes, it can be a sign of inflammation (not an infection) that can be easily addressed by taking your dog through the Healing Cycle.
However, if you notice sticky crusts that glue the eyelids together and come with eye redness, inflammation, and discomfort, contact your veterinarian.
Watery eye discharge or excessive tearing in dogs are often the result of the eye being irritated by a grain of sand, a piece of plant material or similar but it can also be a sign that the tear ducts, which drain tears, are obstructed, damaged, or too narrow.
If your dog has watery eye discharge that lasts for more than two days, this can indicate a more serious health concern including allergies, corneal wounds, blocked tear ducts, or glaucoma.
White-gray eye discharge can be a sign of dry eye or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), an autoimmune condition where the tear glands' ability to produce tears is diminished or absent completely. The purpose of tears is to cleanse and lubricate the eye while their absence usually leads to inflammation, corneal ulcers, and secondary infections.
If your dog has white-gray mucus around their eyes and other symptoms such as redness, inflammation, and pain, you should see your veterinarian.
While green or yellow eye discharge may be associated with bacterial eye infections, it can also be the body’s attempt to cleanse toxins and heavy metals from the body. Green or yellow discharge is also one of the most common vaccination side effects that can persist for a long time. Dietary imbalances or allergies may also play a role.
Addressing the above by applying the Healing Cycle, using a simple saline wash, detoxing the body with LiverTune, and administering the homeopathic remedy Thuja 30C or 200C often resolves this issue. You can find out more about the natural eye clearing protocol at the end of this blog. If the problem isn’t resolved, please see your veterinarian.
The presence of bloody eye discharge in dogs can indicate trauma to the eye, severe inflammation, or an eye tumour and requires immediate veterinary attention.
There may also be a small growth on the eyelid, which can easily get scratched and start bleeding. Please see your veterinarian immediately if your dog has bloody eye discharge.
In a conventional veterinary practice, antibiotics with corticosteroids are generally overprescribed. This is undeniably done with good intentions but also the lack of understanding that eye discharge is often a mere signal that the body is toxic or out of balance.
In most cases, a prescription of steroids and antibiotics solves the problem temporarily, but it mostly recurs and becomes chronic if the underlying cause is not addressed.
As I mentioned above, one of the primary causes of green eye discharge in dogs is toxin buildup and vaccination side effects. This is very common, especially in young puppies that receive several multivalent (multi-disease) vaccines in a short span of several months.
For the body, it is no different than going through 20 to 30 infectious diseases in an extremely short period, which results in inflammation and immune system activation, eye discharge being a part of.
From a holistic point of view, your dog’s eye discharge may be infectious, or related to other eye conditions, but most commonly it's the body’s way of cleansing and getting rid of local impurities or toxins in the system. It may also be a sign of immune system activation due to excessive vaccination or allergies.
Sadly, by the time a puppy is three to four months old, they often receive their first prescription of steroid or antibiotic eye ointment. I'm especially concerned about steroids, which are absorbed into the body, affect the adrenal glands, and suppress the immune system and healing ability. This is often the start of the chain reaction of poor health in many young dogs.
Using steroids for your dog's eye discharge can be compared to a garbage bin that is packed in more every time it starts overflowing.
This is why it's so important for you not only to understand this negative impact on the body but also have an effective yet safer natural treatment alternative.
It may surprise you but true bacterial eye infections in dogs are very rare and cleansing discharge is often mistakenly diagnosed as an eye infection.
The eye has evolved to resist bacteria and if you see eye discharge with slight inflammation of the conjunctiva when you pull the eyelid down, there is usually no need to panic.
However, if your dog seems to be in discomfort or shows signs of eye redness or discharge that doesn’t go away within a few days, seeing your veterinarian is the safest option to rule out serious health problems. Always ask questions regarding medication and why it is used.
If your dog’s greenish eye discharge just started, or your vet didn’t find any serious problems such as glaucoma, uveitis or dry eye, I suggest you give the following protocol instead of using antibiotics and steroids immediately.
If you follow the above treatment protocol, your dog’s eyes should clear within a few days or a couple of weeks at most, depending on the severity of the condition.
If there is no improvement within a reasonable amount of time, take your dog to be examined by your veterinarian.
The best way to prevent eye discharge and infections in dogs is to gain a holistic view of your dog’s health. Eye problems are often a ‘red flag’ that there’s a deeper health concern causing an imbalance in the body.
Here are several simple ways to protect your dog’s eye health and boost overall health and longevity (some of them are similar to the treatment steps mentioned above):
Small amounts of light brown crusts may be normal if your dog’s eyelid anatomy predisposes them to tearing. However, it may also be a sign of a health problem, obstructed tear ducts or other issues.
If your dog has eye discharge that lasts for more than a few days and is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, inflammation, discomfort, pawing at or rubbing the eyes, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy, see your veterinarian.
Green eye discharge in dogs can be a sign of bacterial eye infection, but it can also indicate a deeper health concern caused by immune system agitation, the body's attempt to eliminate toxins or vaccination side effects.
Follow the protocol outlined above to help treat and prevent eye discharge in your dog.
Your dog's eye discharge may often be the body's way of cleansing impurities and toxins. Switching to a natural diet, detoxing the body, and minimizing vaccines and conventional drugs can help clear eye discharge in dogs, restore balance, and support optimal organ and immune system function.
Refer to the eye-clearing protocol above for a step-by-step guide to naturally treat and prevent eye discharge and infection in dogs.
Dog eye mucus is usually a sign there is inflammation, an eye infection or the activation of the body’s cleansing process. It can also happen when dust, pollen, and impurities irritate the eye and conjunctival sac.
However, mucus can also be a sign of a more serious problem such as but not limited to dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), glaucoma, eye trauma, corneal ulcer, or eyelid growths.
Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has an eye infection or other eye problem.
Eye mucus is generally not normal as it is a symptom of inflammation, irritation, infection or a deeper issue within the eye. Eye mucus and discharge may also be a sign that the eye’s defences have been on high alert. From the physical point of view, mucus helps to remove debris and foreign objects, for example, eyelashes and hair.
If you notice that the mucus persists it may also be a sign of dry eye condition, despite it not appearing dry. When it comes to any eye conditions that persist and do not stop after applying the simple eye protocol mentioned above, the safest option is to see your veterinarian.
]]>
Few dog parents can claim their canine companion hasn’t eaten something they shouldn’t have at least once in their life.
In my practice, I saw many dogs that had eaten the strangest things, including a fine china plate, ten golf balls, and a corn cob. So when a friend called me one day saying his dog Barkley had eaten a mango pit, I wasn’t surprised, but I knew it could become life-threatening if it led to a blockage.
This wasn’t the first time Barkley had eaten a mango pit, but this time it stayed in his stomach for more than a week and I learned about the situation when my friend’s local vet recommended surgery. Naturally, my friend wasn’t thrilled about the prospect of abdominal surgery, so he called me to see if there was anything else he could do to avoid it.
A mango pit is large and flat, which was good news, because it meant that it was unlikely for it to pass from the stomach further down into the small intestine. But I also knew that if we made Barkley throw up the mango pit could potentially get stuck in the esophagus. So, we needed to make the mango pit slippery enough to be brought back up without complication.
I told my friend to cook 2 cups of squash and make a puree of it, then add 1/3 cup of flaxseed steeped in an equal volume of hot water. The steeped flaxseed was the secret to making the whole mixture slimy and slippery enough to help the pit slide out.
After feeding this mixture to Barkley, we also gave him some hydrogen peroxide. When peroxide reacts with stomach juices, it bubbles up, which makes most dogs throw up. (See detailed instructions further down in this article).
My friend was to call me when there was any news, and be ready to see his local vet in the unlikely case the pit got stuck. An hour later, I got a text message, “Peter, call me!"
“Oh no,” I thought, “Barkley may be in trouble!” I called right away, anxiously waiting for an answer. “Peter, we got the pit! ”,my friend proclaimed victoriously.
We were both ecstatic as Barkley didn’t need to go under the knife! Also, one squash, some flaxseed, and a little bit of peroxide are much less expensive than abdominal surgery!
Since I first shared Barkley’s story, many dog lovers in our community have shared with my team and I that the throw-up mix worked for their dogs too. This blog has helped save the lives of dozens of dogs who swallowed inedible objects and allowed their parents to avoid costly surgeries.
It’s important to remember that while prevention is the best for your dog’s health and safety, accidents can still happen, especially as dogs are natural scavengers.
So, if your dog has swallowed something they shouldn’t have, continue reading this article carefully to learn what symptoms you need to be aware of, how to safely induce vomiting in dogs, when you need to see the vet, and what you can do to prevent this from happening next time.
A foreign body in the stomach often doesn’t cause any obvious problems. Your dog may have a normal appetite with occasional vomiting.
However, intestinal obstructions cause more severe symptoms in dogs, including:
IMPORTANT: If your dog is restless, has vomited more than once, or has had diarrhea for more than 12-24 hours, see your veterinarian. Severe distress requires immediate medical care.
There are three instances when you should contact your vet/ local emergency vet clinic if your dog swallowed a foreign object:
Depending on the size of the object your dog swallowed, you may need to make them throw up or help them safely pass the object in their stool. To assess when to induce vomiting in dogs, refer to the situations presented below.
If the object your dog swallowed is larger than 1.5 inches in diameter, it’s unlikely to pass further into the small intestine. If your dog appears to be feeling fine and is calm, you can use the following protocol.
Easy steps to make a dog throw up:
If the foreign object your dog ate is smaller than 1.5 inches, they are not vomiting and aren’t showing any signs of distress or blockage, prepare and feed the following mixture:
50% meat of your choice (raw or cooked depending on your preference)
40% cooked squash puree
10% flaxseed steeped in enough hot water to make the whole mixture slimy
Feed this meal for 2-3 days in the same or greater amount as your dog’s regular meals. Many foreign bodies can pass without problem.
If your dog shows signs of digestive distress and is vomiting food or bile, see your veterinarian immediately.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If your veterinarian suggests surgery, do not give consent for exploratory surgery unless the foreign body has been confirmed by diagnostic evaluation. Barium radiographs, ultrasound or endoscopy are the first diagnostic steps that need to be taken. There are other causes of vomiting and digestive upset unrelated to a foreign body ingestion, so confirmation of a foreign body is important.
If a foreign object is confirmed, ask if it could be removed endoscopically to avoid surgical trauma and related risks. If your veterinarian suggests surgery when your dog appears to be fine and there is no vomiting or signs of distress, the wait-and-see approach is generally preferred.
If your veterinarian still recommends surgery, seek a second opinion. If endoscopic foreign body removal is an option but your vet is not equipped for the procedure, ask for a referral to a specialist.
If you have a dog that likes to chew on things or eat things that they shouldn’t, there are several ways to prevent foreign body ingestion:
Supervise your dog when they’re playing or chewing on their toys
Throw away toys that have started to break apart or are worn out
Watch your dog closely when they’re outside
Keep the laundry basket and the trash bin inaccessible or secure at all times
Keep dangerous items or substances out of reach
If you have young children in the house, make sure their toys are stored away
When you’re out of the house and you have a puppy, keep it confined in a crate or a pen until you are sure that your dog is not likely to eat indigestible objects
Keep toxic foods such as raisins and chocolate away from your dog, especially if they have a history of taking things off the table.
Surprising as it might sound, some dogs might also eat inedible objects due to undiagnosed nutrient imbalances. I often find that dogs are great at telling us that something is missing in their diet.
Soil depletion due to intensive agriculture often causes severe nutritional deficits that manifest in dogs as scavenging. The best way to prevent this is to feed a wholesome, non-processed raw or cooked diet and add essential natural supplements for dogs.
Disclaimer: Any information provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended to treat any medical condition or substitute veterinary or medical care.
Depending on the size of the plastic object your dog swallowed, it may pass through the intestines and be eliminated in the feces, or it may get stuck and cause an intestinal blockage.
If the object is still in the stomach and your dog is feeling fine, you can use natural ways to induce vomiting in dogs by using the protocol in this blog. The steps you choose depend on the size of the object, and your dog's symptoms.
See your veterinarian if your dog develops severe vomiting or diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain after ingesting a foreign object.
The most common symptoms of intestinal blockage in dogs include vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort, and lethargy. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian ASAP.
You can safely induce vomiting in dogs using undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide using a turkey baster or a syringe. The recommended dosage is 1 tsp per 5 lbs and should not exceed 9 tsp.
If your dog swallowed a whole toy, it could get lodged in the throat and cause choking or get stuck as it passes through the gut, leading to intestinal obstruction. If the toy ends up in the stomach, you can induce vomiting to retrieve the toy using the protocol presented above.
In general, you should induce vomiting as soon as possible after your dog swallows the item, ideally within 2-3 hours, but if the object is larger than 1.5 inches, inducing vomiting may help even days after the object is ingested if your dog otherwise appears to be fine.
If you’ve given your dog hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting, it can take up to 30 minutes for the dog to throw up the object. If your dog doesn’t throw up and doesn’t have any other symptoms, the objects may have passed into the small intestine. Use the protocol above to help your dog pass the object safely.
The amount of time it takes for a dog to pass a foreign object out in their feces can vary and depends on the size and type of object, your dog’s digestive system and whether or not the object can cause a blockage. Generally, objects should pass within 48 hours and there should not be any signs of vomiting or diarrhea. It is important to see your veterinarian if you observe such symptoms.
If your dog ate a foreign object and isn’t showing any signs of discomfort or blockage, you can help them pass the object using a mixture made up of 50 percent meat of your choice, 40% cooked squash puree, and 10% flaxseed steeped in hot water.
Not all swallowed objects can be safely passed through a dog’s digestive system, so waiting for the object to pass can sometimes be dangerous or even fatal. Immediately contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic if you suspect your dog has ingested something dangerous or toxic.
]]>For years now, I have felt uneasy about spaying and neutering dogs. My questioning of this practice started with spending more time in Europe, where spaying and neutering your dog is much less common. In contrast, in Canada, it was very rare for me to see a dog that wasn’t neutered, and I remember that society looked at those who didn’t spay or neuter their dogs as irresponsible.
I have always been against the early spaying and neutering that many major shelters and humane societies practice. It made no sense to me that young animals who needed hormones for their overall health and muscular, skeletal and brain development were being sterilized.
But I also started to see that even when we spay and neuter dogs later in life, they start losing muscle mass, their tendons and ligaments are more injury-prone, and there are significant changes in their behaviour — such as increased fearfulness, anxiety, and sometimes aggression.
When I decided to neuter my dog Pax two years ago, I didn’t have a full awareness of spaying and neutering. One of the requirements for Pax to become certified as a service dog for my sleepwalking was for him to be neutered.
Before he got neutered, he was solid, strong, playful, and ran super fast. It was about six months after his surgery when he injured his psoas muscle while running on the beach. I also noticed him becoming less interested in playing with other dogs. The fur around his neck got shorter and less thick, and I could see a change in his body shape and tone. Something that many people probably didn’t even notice.
This all prompted me to embark on the search for an expert who has researched the health effects of dog sterilization. That’s how I’ve found Linda Brent, PhD, MBA, an expert biologist who has dedicated the past ten years to research in this area through the Parsemus Foundation, a non-profit organization focusing on health-related research in animals and people, especially in areas neglected by conventional medical research entities.
The following blog presents the key insights from my interview with Dr. Linda Brent. If you want to listen to our full discussion on spaying and neutering and its impact on dogs’ health and wellness, you can watch the interview on my YouTube channel.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What challenges have you identified in conventional spaying and neutering methods? How do they impact pet health, specifically cats' and dogs’ health?
Dr. Linda Brent: The biggest issue is that people don't think about spaying and neutering as affecting their pet's hormones. You're removing the sex organs from the animal so it can no longer produce the kinds of hormones that any normal animal would have throughout most of its life.
However, in North America in general, it's become such a standard that people haven't come to grips with the idea that there might be health implications to doing this. If you were talking about humans, for example, a two-year-old kid who, for some reason, lost the ability to have a normal endocrine system or normal hormones, everyone would be alarmed and acknowledge the impact of such a deficit.
Every animal, including humans, needs the right kind of hormones to grow and develop and not have diseases. So it's funny when we think about our pets that we don't also consider that the same issues come into play.
If you take the natural hormones out of the dog, there are going to be some long-term health implications. The research is interesting because, in the US, we didn't start massive wide-scale spaying and neutering until the 60s to early 70s, when pet overpopulation became an issue. So it hasn't been all that long.
It was years before anybody even started doing a lot of research on this topic. We're honing in on some of the most problematic issues, like cancers and joint issues. These are debilitating, life-ending problems that happen much more commonly in dogs that are spayed and neutered than in intact dogs.
There's a significant impact depending on how large the dog is, what breed it is, and the overall genetic background.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Can you explain how the hormonal axis works, from the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland to the testes or ovaries and why we see these challenges when we remove the testicles/ovaries?
Dr. Linda Brent: While the testicles or ovaries are the organs that produce the hormones, there's a whole cascade of chemical reactions that have to happen to have that work — starting with the hypothalamus and that influences the pituitary gland and then that puts chemicals into the blood system that would tell the ovaries or the testes to produce estrogen or testosterone or not.
What happens when you take those organs away is that the system keeps going because there's no feedback from the hormones in the body to tell it to stop. One of the products of that is the luteinizing hormone (LH), which is one of the signalling chemicals that tells the organs what to do. This is called a feedback loop. When that feedback loop is disrupted because you've stopped the feedback of the normal hormones, it just grows and grows and grows.
One of the collaborators I've worked with very closely, Dr. Michelle Kutzler, has been at the forefront of understanding the mechanism of why spaying and neutering would have a negative effect (1). She has found that luteinizing hormones aren't just for sexual function. There's also a luteinizing hormone receptor. These receptors are in many tissues in the body. When you have something so out of balance, it can drive tissues to act abnormally.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Are early spaying and neutering in dogs more damaging?
Dr. Linda Brent: There's a recent study that Dr. Chris Zink published in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association in 2023 that looked at intact dogs, spayed and neutered dogs, and the outcome was that dogs who had access to normal hormones for longer had fewer health complications and lived longer (2).
Dr. Peter Dobias: You said there is a difference between small and large dogs in the effects of neutering and spaying. Have you seen larger dogs suffering more than smaller dogs?
Dr. Linda Brent: The data is pretty clear that larger dogs generally suffer more from spaying or neutering as they have a longer trajectory of growth. You end up with all sorts of joint disorders when you've put their whole hormone system out of balance.
Many breeders and veterinarians now say if you have a large dog breed, or especially a giant breed, you need to wait at least 18 months, if not two years, until their growth plates have closed on their bones. This way, dogs don't get this extreme elongation of bone structure, which is the cause of some of the joint disorders that they end up with later on.
The best advice I could give somebody who has a puppy and is wondering if they should spay or neuter their dog is to look at their dog and consider its genetic background and disease susceptibility. For example, if it’s a breed like golden retrievers that are more susceptible to cancer.
Also, you should look at the risks and benefits of the different methods that you might be able to choose. Some people probably wouldn't do any kind of sterilization. If you have a small dog and it stays in an apartment most of the time, or it's on a leash the rest of the time, maybe that's the easiest thing.
Dr. Peter Dobias: I'm originally from the Czech Republic, and I spend quite a bit of time there now. Most dogs are not neutered and get along in the park off-leash. I see such a massive difference in how these dogs behave and how they interact with each other. It breaks my heart to see how many dogs in North America have behavioural issues, such as fearfulness, anxiety, and aggression. Is this related to hormonal imbalances?
Dr. Linda Brent: Yes, many behaviour problems are more common in dogs that have been spayed or neutered.
I've had purebred dogs that I didn't spay or neuter until they were quite old. I’ve also had rescue dogs and one of my rescue dogs was probably neutered when he was just a couple of months old. He didn’t have health problems throughout his life, but he developed severe dementia when he was older, which is a behavioural symptom of being spayed or neutered, and we had to euthanize him because of that.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Could you explain the concept of hormone-preserving sterilization and its benefits over traditional methods? How can it be done and what do you recommend?
Dr. Linda Brent: Instead of removing the ovaries and the testicles, you can remove the ability to reproduce without messing up the hormones. We call it hormone-sparing sterilization. Some people, for female dogs, call it ovary-sparing spay or hysterectomy.
Without a uterus, a dog cannot reproduce, but you leave the ovaries intact. The entire uterus is removed, including the cervix, so there's no chance of pyometra, which can be a life-threatening disease. This is one of the reasons that veterinarians often say you should get your female spayed, but there is a way to sterilize your pet without removing the hormones and still protecting them from pyometra.
Dr. Peter Dobias: When it comes to the two sterilization options, whether you do tubal ligation or remove the uterus, has anyone done studies on the frequency rate of pyometra?
Dr. Linda Brent: I don't know that it would be any less with tubal ligation than with an intact dog. Pyometra can be life-threatening, and a lot of times, people don't realize that it doesn't have a lot of symptoms until it's serious.
We prefer to recommend the removal of the uterus or a hysterectomy rather than tubal ligation. In all of our conversations with veterinarians, it would be tough to find a veterinarian who would recommend tubal ligation instead.
Dr. Peter Dobias: When it comes to blood spotting in female dogs, does it happen when the uterus is removed?
Dr. Linda Brent: This is why it's important that the veterinarian has experience and understands that all of that tissue has to be removed. But if you're still having the problem later, and especially if the dog is showing spotting at regular intervals, as it would be in heat, then it would probably make sense that the dog would need to be looked at again to be sure that there are no tissues left there.
We have a lot of information on our website, including videos, discussions, and papers specifically for veterinarians if they're interested in learning the techniques if they haven't been familiar with them in the past.
We also have a number of veterinarians, through the Parsemus Foundation, willing to advise specifically to new vets who are interested in it. We give people a lot of support so they can move into this new area.
Dr. Peter Dobias: I know you've done a hormone therapy study. What were the key health improvements observed in the neutered male dogs? Are there any side effects?
Dr. Linda Brent: Just to be clear, for male dogs, prostate cancer is actually higher if they're neutered. But for male dogs that have already been castrated and have had hormone therapy, and their hormones have been restored to a more normal level, prostate cancer is still the main thing that you need to watch for.
My dog Toby has now been on testosterone therapy (3) for four years since he was four and a half years old. He’s eight and a half now and when I take him for his annual exam with the veterinarian, I make sure that he has at least a manual prostate exam.
As he gets older, when you would expect the prostate to grow as it does in humans and potentially cause problems, you can have an ultrasound or other diagnostics done just to double-check that there are no issues going on.
Dr. Peter Dobias: How has your dog aged after being on hormone replacement therapy? What changes are you seeing?
Dr. Linda Brent: He's perfectly fine. There have been no side effects from the testosterone therapy. He's on a weekly injection with an insulin-sized needle. So it's an incredibly tiny amount. He has also been on a GnRH agonist because even with supplementing testosterone, the LH was still very high.
Originally, his LH was in the 80s, while the normal range for a male dog is zero to three for an intact dog. Even when we put him on testosterone therapy, the LH level was still outside the normal range. It went down to 30, but it was still high. With the GnRH agonist, the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist, which overstimulates the pituitary and stops the flow of LH, his LH is now down to a normal level.
I get Toby’s blood work done regularly, but I don't check his hormones any longer because he's been on a standard testosterone dose all this time and hasn’t had any issues at all.
Before the hormone replacement therapy, he couldn’t jump up on you like a healthy dog would do, he was in constant pain and became horribly anxious. He was petrified and we couldn't take him anywhere. He was so scared of everything.
We spent the next three years, like many people do, trying one therapy after another. He's been on all sorts of medications and training, diets and everything else without any results.
I was fortunate because of my job. I was familiar with this background and knew some veterinarians who could counsel me and help my local veterinarian start this testosterone therapy regimen on him.
Within a couple of months, his entire body composition changed. Before we started, he was emaciated in his hips because he just couldn't use his legs very much. Within about three months, it was entirely noticeable how his ability to move became better, and he started running around.
It was interesting because, at about the same time, we had gotten a new dog that was younger than him and wanted to play. What really broke our hearts was that we had this dog who wasn’t old, but he couldn't run. He could hardly play. He was limping, and we had him on pain medicine all the time. It was awful.
Then, after a couple of months, he was totally changed, and you wouldn't even know now that he had any kind of hip issues. His weight issue also stabilized as he was overweight before. His anxiety took longer to come around, I would say several years. Overall, he is in better shape today than he was when he was a year and a half old.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Are there any behavioural changes if you start replacing testosterone in male dogs? Do dogs become more aggressive or more territorial?
Dr. Linda Brent: The only behavioural change we noticed in my dog, because we have two dogs, was that he started mounting the other dog, but it was transient. It didn't last.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Is there currently an established testosterone dose per pound or per dog? How do you dose it currently?
Dr. Linda Brent: You know, it's tricky. We did a lot of research on both animal and human dosage and what works. Toby is on 0.5 mg/kg weekly.
We tried it monthly, but his LH or his testosterone went really high and then really low. We wanted it to be levelled off. So, a weekly dose works great.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Do you do hormone replacement therapy in female dogs as well?
Dr. Linda Brent: Our foundation hasn't done any studies yet because female dogs get incontinent quite frequently when they're spayed. There is at least a small body of literature on using various types of estrogens and sometimes GnRH agonists to reduce LH, which helps.
For most dogs, you can pretty much get things under control by replacing what they lost. It doesn't seem to work quite well in males, at least with the little bit of literature there is for incontinence in male dogs. But, because of that, at least veterinarians are usually familiar with the concept.
We hope that if a female dog is having similar problems and you go to a veterinarian, you'll have an easier time potentially finding a vet that would offer hormone therapy. There's just such a lack of knowledge on hormone replacement therapy in male dogs, which is why we've kind of concentrated in that area.
Dr. Peter Dobias: How do you plan to raise or how have you been raising awareness among pet owners and veterinarians about the alternatives to traditional?
Dr. Linda Brent: We've gone to a lot of veterinary conferences. I've given a presentation about this with other veterinarians talking about hormone-sparing sterilization. Our website, parsemus.org, has tons of information. We're one of the main repositories for research on this topic.
The other thing we do is fund studies, and we try to encourage people and veterinarians to try new sterilization methods and get the word out. We have a whole veterinary directory of people who offer alternatives to traditional spaying and neutering.
Dr. Peter Dobias: How do you envision the future of pet care, especially in terms of reproductive health?
Dr. Linda Brent: It's a matter of time before we all think about our pets in a different way. We're already on that path where we think of their lifetime health and nutrition
People are starting to realize they can't just give them this stuff in a can anymore. They are questioning, and that trickles down to all the different areas of health, just like we think of our own health in many different ways. I'm very optimistic that we're on the right path and that it is about educating people.
We're in an age where it's easy to find information and organizations like ours. Parsemus Foundation is a non-profit and we are here to help people and support the professionals in the area so that they can learn and grow and offer new treatments to their patients.
Dr. Peter Dobias: What advice would you give veterinarians regarding discussing sterilization options with pet owners?
Dr. Linda Brent: Being open-minded and giving individual care is critical. When you're talking about something as important as sterilization, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. The quicker people come around to that concept and take the time to understand each individual client they have, and what may work best for them, and look at the risks and benefits just like they might with any other type of procedure they do, that's going to work the best.
In our opinion, the demand from the public far outweighs the number of veterinarians offering this. So, as a veterinarian or even as a shelter or rescue, if you embrace the newer methods that consider the individual lifetime health of the animal, you're going to do well. There's an enormous amount of demand from the public.
We are contacted every day by people looking for a veterinarian in their town or in their state to do a certain procedure. That's why we have the directory, but it will separate veterinarians in terms of the ones that are in the most demand and those that aren't.
Dr. Peter Dobias: Reflecting on your career, what has been the most significant learning and insight regarding pet health?
Dr. Linda Brent: Don't accept the status quo. Just because it's something that has been done or people say is the only way to do it, that might not be true. Always question, always educate yourself. To me, that is the most important thing because that covers all the areas.
Many thanks to Dr. Linda Brent for her invaluable insights and I hope our discussion has provided you with a better understanding of how spaying or neutering affects our dogs’ long-term health and well-being and will help you make an informed decision about when or if you plan to get your dog neutered or spayed.
(1) Animals (Basel). 2020 Apr 1;10(4):599. doi: 10.3390/ani10040599. Possible Relationship between Long-Term Adverse Health Effects of Gonad-Removing Surgical Sterilization and Luteinizing Hormone in Dogs. Michelle A Kutzler
(2) Volume 261: Issue 3. doi.org/10.2460/javma.22.08.0382. Vasectomy and ovary-sparing spay in dogs: comparison of health and behavior outcomes with gonadectomized and sexually intact dogs. Chris Zink DVM, PhD, DACVSMR, Mikel M. Delgado PhD and Judith L. Stella PhD
(3) Top Companion Anim Med. 2021 Nov:45:100565. doi:10.1016/j.tcam.2021. 100565. Epub 2021 Jul 28. Restoration of Reproductive Hormone Concentrations in a Male Neutered Dog Improves Health: A Case Study
]]>Can you share an apple with your canine companion? Packed with powerful antioxidants, fibre, and vitamin C, apples can help boost your dog’s immune system and support optimal cardiovascular and digestive health. Discover how to safely feed apples to your dog, what apple treats you should avoid and which healthy dog recipes you whip up at home.
]]>One moment, you prepare to bite into a fresh, mouth-watering apple, and the next, your dog appears out of nowhere, demanding to get their share.
And as any protective dog parent would do, you wanted to know if apples are indeed good for dogs and ended up here!
The good news is that apples are not only among the fruits that are safe for dogs to eat but are also packed with antioxidants, fibre, and minerals, which are highly beneficial for your best friend’s digestion and immunity.
If you plan to add apples to your dog’s diet and don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered!
Let’s go together over the main health benefits of apples, how to feed them to your dog, what apple treats to avoid, and easy dog-friendly apple recipes you need to try.
They sure are! Apples are safe and healthy additions to your dog’s diet if fed in moderation. Remember that fruit shouldn’t exceed more than 5% of your dog’s daily meal, roughly what canines would eat in nature.
Most dogs enjoy apples because of their satisfying crunch and fresh taste, but like humans, some dogs aren’t very impressed with them and prefer other fruits to munch on.
Giving your dog a small piece sometimes works when they have never had apples before. Also, sweeter, less sour apples generally work better. My dog Pax loves Honey Crisps, and I do too!
Apples are a rich source of antioxidants such as polyphenols and vitamin C, which help fight joint inflammation, boost immunity, support the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and help lower the risk of cancer.
Feeding your dog apples can also help boost digestion and regulate bowel movements thanks to their high fibre content. And with almost 85% water, apples are a go-to hydrating and energizing treat that is perfect to have on hand when going for a walk or a trip with your dog.
One thing to pay attention to before giving your dog apples is that they’re among the most heavily sprayed fruits, also known as the dirty dozen list. This is why I recommend feeding only organic fruit if possible, or you can plant an apple tree in your backyard.
Start by washing the apple thoroughly, then slice it up or dice it while removing the core and seeds. Apple seeds should be avoided because they contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs, especially in larger amounts.
There is no reason to panic if your dog eats a few apple seeds, but I have seen a few dogs have health issues that went away after their “parent” stopped feeding apple cores with seeds.
If you’re giving your dog apples for the first time, it’s recommended to start with a few slices and notice how their digestive system reacts.
To prevent gastrointestinal issues, always feed apples 1 hour before you give your dog meat or 3 hours after a protein meal. Protein takes longer to digest compared to fruit; thus, mixing the two could result in stomach discomfort for your dog.
While fresh apples are always the best and healthiest treat for your dog, dried apple chips are a crunchier apple treat you can easily make at home.
Cut apples into round, thin slices and use a dehydrator to dry them or pop them in the oven on low. The ideal temperature for dehydrating apples is around 135°F (57°C), which helps dry the apples while preserving most of their nutritional content and preventing cooking.
Dehydrating at this temperature can take about 6 to 10 hours, depending on the dehydrator you’re using and the thickness of the apple slices.
As with any fruit, the apples you give your dog shouldn’t be more than 5 percent of their daily diet. That could mean one or two slices for a small-sized dog and half an apple for a larger dog.
When introducing new fruits to your dog’s diet, start slowly and make sure their stomach tolerates it. If your dog develops diarrhea, vomiting, itching, hives, and swelling soon after eating apples, contact your veterinarian.
The apple peel is safe for dogs if the fruit hasn’t been sprayed with toxic pesticides. Peeling the apple before giving it to your dog removes a significant part of the vitamins, minerals, and fibre; that’s why feeding organic fruit is best.
Avoid fruits such as grapes/raisins, black and red currants, and grapefruits, as they’re highly toxic to dogs. If you feed your dog cherries, peaches or apricots, remove the pits first because they contain cyanide.
Yes, apples are safe for dogs and an excellent source of polyphenols and phytochemicals, such as vitamin C and vitamin K. These antioxidants help maintain optimal brain, joint and cardiovascular health for your canine companion and lower cancer risk. Apples also contain a significant amount of fibre, which helps support healthy bacteria in the gut.
No, you should remove the apple core and seeds before feeding the fruit to your dog. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. However, you shouldn’t worry if your dog has ingested some seeds. They would have to consume a large amount for it to become harmful.
I would not feed my dog a whole slice of apple pie, but a little piece will be fine as long as it doesn’t have raisins or other toxic ingredients for dogs. If your dog has diarrhea or digestive upset, you know that you must resist the pleading eyes next time.
Also, ideally, don’t give your dog food from the table; always serve food from their regular feeding spot. It may make your and your dog’s life easier if they know that food doesn’t come from the table. It’s also much better if your guests aren’t faced with a begging dog under their feet when they come to your house.
Theoretically, dogs can eat a small amount of applesauce if it doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners. At the same time, sugar and cooked apples are not exactly healthy food, so I wouldn’t recommend feeding applesauce to your dog.
Yes, apple cider vinegar is safe for dogs and can improve your dog’s digestion, fight bacterial infections and lower blood sugar levels. I have seen many dogs with sensitive stomachs feeling better after getting organic apple cider vinegar. This is one of the reasons why apple cider vinegar is one of the ingredients of our best-selling naturally fermented multivitamin supplement, SoulFood for dogs and SoulFood H+ for people.
]]>
However, a 2012 study proves that avocado toxicity in dogs is a myth, and people can safely feed avocado flesh to their dogs as an occasional treat.
The amount of persin, a natural fungicide, found in the avocado flesh is harmless to dogs; however, it’s the leaves, pit and skin that can cause problems if ingested.
So, is the avocado on the list of safe fruits for dogs? Keep reading to find out more about how to feed avocado to your dog and why the leaves, pit, and avocado skin should never be given to dogs.
Yes, but only the flesh of the avocado can be safely fed to dogs.
The avocado tree and fruit contain persin, a natural fungicide that can be toxic to dogs. However, the highest concentrations of persin are found in inedible parts such as the avocado leaves, skin, and pit, and very little in the avocado flesh.
That being said, you can give avocado to your dog and share the healthy benefits of this nutritious superfood, but make sure you only feed the avocado flesh without the peel.
My dog Pax is crazy about avocados and interestingly, he knows exactly what is good for him. When he finds an avocado fallen from a tree, he skillfully eats the inside and leaves the peel and pit behind.
Here is a little video of him enjoying his favourite fruit:
If you look at the nutritional profile of the avocado, there’s little surprise that it has become one of the most popular additions to our diets and why it would be a great snack for our dogs, too.
Unlike fruits such as strawberries, which are often sprayed with high amounts of pesticides, avocado is at the top of the Clean 15 list, containing fruits with the least pesticides in the world.
Avocados are composed of 70% oleic acid, an essential fatty acid that supports the cardiovascular system and the heart, helps to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood, increases the absorption of carotenoids and lowers inflammation.
But that’s not all — aside from healthy fats, avocados also contain high amounts of essential nutrients such as:
Potassium: maintains healthy muscle and heart contractions, supports optimal nervous function, and balances electrolytes.
FIY, avocados are a better source of potassium and have much less sugar per serving than bananas, another healthy snack you can add to your dog's diet.
Vitamin B9 (Folate): regulates metabolic processes such as red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and repair, cell division and tissue growth
Vitamin B6: supports healthy nervous and cardiovascular function and regulates hormones
Carotenoids (α-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene): have powerful natural antioxidant effects, promote optimal eye and joint health
Fibre: supports the growth of good bacteria in the gut and improves digestive health
Feeding avocado to your dog is similar to feeding it to a child. Remove the skin and pit first and cut the flesh into small cubes or slices. There are some exceptions, like my dog Pax, who never eats the peel and pit, but I suggest you never feed the whole avocado.
You can also mash some avocado and spread it onto a lick mat or put the mix inside a Kong Toy to make your dog’s snack time more entertaining.
Feed avocado in moderation as you would with any fruit or veggie you add to your dog’s diet. Remember: regardless of how healthy the food is, too much of anything good can have the opposite effect.
Depending on your dog's size, the amount of avocado your dog can eat will vary but take the same approach as you would eating avocados.
If you want to add more vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients to your dog’s diet, treats such as fruits or veggies are not enough mainly due to soil and nutrient depletion.
Natural nutritional supplements for dogs can help cover all your dog’s nutritional needs and treat deficiencies to avoid premature aging and health issues.
If you don’t know where to start, you can try the Healthy Dog Tool and get a free personalized supplement plan with recommendations and dosage.
The avocado pit represents a serious choking and gastrointestinal obstruction hazard for dogs. If ingested, the pit may get stuck in your dog’s gastrointestinal tract and need to be surgically removed. If your dog eats an avocado pit, please refer to this article on how to prevent surgery if your dog swallows a foreign object.
As mentioned above, the leaves and skin of the avocado contain a high quantity of persin and can lead to diarrhea and vomiting in dogs if eaten by mistake.
Some dog parents may also be concerned about the risk of pancreatitis when feeding avocados. While avocados contain a significant amount of healthy fats, they also contain lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat.
In fact, a diet high in carbohydrates and grains is more likely to cause pancreatitis in dogs than a high-fat diet. That’s why pancreatitis is more prevalent in dogs fed a kibble diet.
Ancient superfood: Avocados have been around for thousands of years and were a staple in the diet of the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, dating back to 500 B.C. These civilizations considered avocados as a symbol of love and fertility because the fruit grows in pairs.
Name origin: The word avocado comes from the Aztec word “ahuácatl,” which was altered to "aguacate" and "palta" by Spanish conquistador and chronicler, Pedro de Cieza de Leon, who wrote about Peru between 1532 and 1550.
Historical trade routes: The Spanish conquistadors were responsible for bringing avocados to Europe in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that avocados began to gain popularity outside of Central and South America.
The Hass variety: The most popular variety of avocados, the Hass, was discovered by chance by Rudolph Hass, a postman from California, in the 1920s. He patented the variety in 1935, revolutionizing the avocado industry in the decades to follow.
Celebratory day: National Avocado Day is celebrated on July 31st in the US and highlights the growing popularity of the fruit and its impact on international food culture.
Yes, you can safely feed your dog avocado, but only the flesh. Always remove the skin and pit as these contain high levels of persin, a toxin that causes severe gastrointestinal problems in dogs.
Depending on your dog's size, the amount of avocado your dog can eat will vary but it’s best to take the same approach as you would eating avocados. I don’t recommend feeding avocados every day and it shouldn’t exceed more than 10-15% of the overall meal amount.
No, giving your dog a small piece of avocado won’t cause any side effects. Many dogs love the taste and texture of avocado, and this fruit can help keep their skin, coat and heart in healthy shape.
The avocado peel, leaves, and pits contain high amounts of persin, which can be toxic to dogs and cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested. However, avocado flesh is safe for dogs and has several health benefits, including optimal heart and brain function, healthy skin and coat, and better digestion.
If your dog steals a few slices of avocado from your plate without you noticing, you shouldn’t worry, as avocado is rich in healthy fats and fibres that help with their skin, coat and gut health. However, eating too much avocado at once can cause diarrhea in some dogs.
You can offer your dog a small amount of guacamole if it doesn’t contain onions or hot peppers. A small amount of garlic is also safe. However, if you want to feed your dog avocado, plain fruit is the best choice.
Yes, avocado oil is safe for dogs in moderation. If you feed your dog cooked meals, you can use avocado oil as an alternative to olive or coconut oil.
]]>
If you have shared your life with a canine friend for more than eight years, you likely know how concerning it is to witness a gradual decline in their mobility.
Most dog lovers in our community already take extraordinary care in feeding a balanced diet and shielding their dogs from harmful toxins, flea products, and unnecessary vaccines. We've also made leaps in preventing organ diseases and cancer and extending health-span.
I will not deny it's fun to celebrate our wins and enjoy all the reports of middle-aged and senior dogs acting much younger than other dogs of the same age.
But I also have an endless desire to continue to improve, innovate, and push our limits when it comes to healthspan and quality of life. One area of focus for me has been improving muscle strength, joint function, and overall mobility.
If your dog has mobility issues, you may have already been incorporating exercises or trying out different mobility and joint support supplements. However, from your reports, many dogs still suffer from mobility problems, and there doesn't seem to have been much progress in the past few decades.
Most senior dogs suffer from progressive muscle loss, joint pain, weakness, and an inability to tackle stairs, hardwood floors, or jump up into a car. I feel lucky to have met many great veterinarians, among whom are two particularly amazing ones who focus on rehabilitation: Dr. Megan Kelly and Dr. Laurie McCauley.
The challenge of managing mobility issues in dogs has also led me to research, study, and formulate a new generation of support for joint health, muscle strength, and mobility.
Knowing how much of a difference fermentation makes in the other products in the lineup, I knew our dog mobility support supplement had to be fermented. But that wasn't the only challenge my team and I took on.
There is only so much powder we can add to our dogs' meals, and the final decision was to make this new product a nut-butter-like consistency using a coconut oil base.
Think of this joint and mobility support formula as a new generation, supercharged golden paste that our dogs can enjoy as a delicious treat while their muscles and joints are nourished, strong, and pain-free.
The estimated launch is the end of January/February. Over the next couple of months, I'll share more about the ingredients and formula.
I believe this product will significantly enhance your dog's mobility and give you more quality time together. I can't wait to hear about the transformations you'll witness, just like with our other dog supplements.
]]>
As Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) continues to impact dogs across the US and Canada, veterinarians and researchers are working tirelessly to find out what has caused this unusual outbreak and how to tackle it. But what is this mystery dog illness? Dive into our blog to get a better understanding of canine respiratory infection and learn how to boost your dog's immune system and reduce the risk of infection.
]]>The news about the mystery dog illness has put many dog parents from within our community, including myself, on edge as there is still little known with certainty about what has caused this outbreak.
Today, I want to share with you what I know about the situation at the moment, what veterinarians are saying, and what you can do to help strengthen your dog's immune system naturally.
Starting with the summer of 2023, American and Canadian dog lovers and veterinary communities have been confronted with a rise in cases of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) among dogs, a situation that has sparked widespread concern and discussion across the nation.
According to recent discussions and reports, veterinarians are observing symptoms in dogs that deviate what you typically see in dogs with kennel cough.
These symptoms include high fever, severe lethargy, persistent coughing, tracheal sensitivity, and in some cases, vomiting. Alarmingly, several of these cases have progressed rapidly to severe pneumonia, leading to a swift decline in health and, in some instances, fatalities.
The geographical spread of this mystery dog illness is notable, with reports coming from various regions, indicating that the issue is widespread. However, there is inconsistency in these reports, with some areas witnessing a significant surge in cases of canine respiratory illness while others haven't yet observed anything unusual.
Among the veterinary community, there is ongoing speculation about the potential causes of this outbreak.
While some veterinarians ponder over the possibility of a resurgence of canine flu or a link to COVID-19, others are concerned about the emergence of a new, unidentified pathogen. The lack of concrete evidence supporting these theories adds to the uncertainty.
Faced with these unusual and severe cases, veterinarians are approaching treatment with heightened caution. The response to treatment, particularly antibiotics, has been varied across cases, suggesting that the root cause of the disease might be viral rather than bacterial.
The good news is that the veterinary community is actively collaborating, sharing observations, and discussing treatment approaches in an effort to better understand and manage these infections. Many are advocating for more thorough testing and reporting, which could speed up the process of finding the best way to help dog parents and their companions in the months to come.
As the issue gains more and more national media attention, veterinarians are advising dog parents to remain calm and follow professional guidance as in any other medical treatment of canine respiratory infections.
Provide your dog with a high-quality, balanced diet that is as natural as possible. This may include raw or minimally processed foods. A diet rich in nutrients can support the immune system and helps prevent disease.
As a significant part of the immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, supporting a healthy gut is critical to help protect your dog against respiratory illness. Check out our other blogs to learn more about the role of probiotics in canine health.
Maintain regular exercise appropriate to your dog's breed, age, and health status. Exercise strengthens the whole body and helps in stress reduction, which is crucial for healthy immune function.
Here is a link to an article on safe exercise for dogs.
Ensure your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest and gets enough sleep. Minimize stress as much as possible, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system.
Provide access to clean, fresh filtered water at all times. Chlorinated water can degrade your dog’s intestinal microbiome and weaken its immune response, so it's best to avoid it.
Follow a vaccination schedule that is appropriate for your dog's specific risk exposure and health condition. Excessive, unnecessary vaccination may lead to decreased overall immunity.
Here is link to a Safer Vaccination Protocol for puppies and dogs
In general, I don't recommend the kennel cough vaccine as I've often seen it causing upper respiratory tract disease symptoms in dogs.
You can read more about kennel cough and our recommendations in the article Kennel cough in dogs - 10 steps for natural treatment and prevention.
Double your dog’s Omega-3 and probiotics dose to reduce inflammation and naturally boost the immune system.
Add plant-based calcium and minerals and a fermented multivitamin for dogs to nourish your dog's body with the essential nutrients it needs for optimal health.
To create a custom supplement plan for your dog click below:
Provide a safe and toxin-free living environment. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, both in the home and outdoors, as they can compromise your dog's immune system.
Use a gentle herbal liver detox to cleanse your dog's body of toxins and heavy metals and boost the immune system.
If you are concerned about airborne pathogens, consider investing in a HEPA-filter-equipped air purifier.
If you live in an area where the risk of canine respiratory disease is higher, try to avoid contact with sick dogs and steer clear of areas such as crowded dog parks. If your dog requires grooming or daycare, a house call grooming service and at home dog sitting is the safest option.
At the same time, do not let fear and worry rule over your interactions with your dog or with others. Stress is known to lower the immune system and safe healthy social interactions are an important part of a healthy and disease free life.
Following the steps outlined above, keeping informed, and taking common-sense precautions is the best you can do for your canine companion and your peace of mind.
IMPORTANT: If your dog displays symptoms of upper respiratory disease, such as coughing and difficulty breathing, avoid contact with other dogs to prevent spreading the infection, and contact your veterinarian before making an appointment to bring your dog to the clinic.
]]>
While the prevalence of kibble in our dogs' diets shows how modern convenience often overshadows long-term well-being, this trend might echo our evolutionary past.
This month has been filled with quotes and wisdom that have found their way to me. The first inspiring quote I came across was:
"We can choose to be wise or wounded."
I then wrote about learning to fly even when others have stolen our wings of hope and courage. However, even when we might choose wisdom over being wounded and we learn to fly without wings, there is yet another trap...
Our dogs and we tend to choose short-term pleasure over long-term health. But before you start blaming yourself for failing to resist a dessert, snack, or processed food, read on to discover why it's not your fault, nor is it your dog's.
Let me explain. In the past, eating as much food as possible increased our chances of survival when food was scarce.
However, now that food scarcity is much less common, we are still programmed to eat as much as we can, and obesity has become one of the most serious modern-day problems.
In the past, conserving energy increased our ancestors' chances of survival up to a point. But, similar to overeating, comfort-seeking and convenience are no longer beneficial in today's world. In fact, they have contributed to the rising rates of obesity in people and dogs.
Now that you have a better understanding of why most of us have such a hard time choosing long-term health over short-term pleasure, it will be easier to be kinder to yourself and also find solutions that work.
One of the greatest challenges in veterinary health care is dealing with health issues that are caused by feeding processed dog food, such as obesity and diabetes.
Unfortunately, dog kibble typically contains around 300-500 calories per cup (about 8 ounces or 240 grams), whereas raw food, such as meat and veggies, contains around 30-100 calories per cup.
Your dog’s food satiety is controlled by the fullness receptors in the stomach, and an average kibble-fed dog can eat about 10-15 times more calories per meal when compared to real food.
In other words, when a kibble-fed dog gets just the right amount of calories, they still feel very hungry. And who can resist their pleading puppy-dog eyes?!
This is how dog obesity happens. If you are wondering whether your dog has the optimal weight, refer to the body condition score chart below:
[[infographics]]
To add to the problem, most dog kibble diets have large amounts of carbohydrates, which puts the canine pancreas under increased strain. In carnivores, the pancreas has evolved to mainly digest protein, so a high carbohydrate intake puts it under an unusual amount of stress.
Such overexertion commonly leads to pancreatitis, a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease that is much more common in kibble-fed dogs.
Diabetes is almost exclusively seen in dogs eating kibble, as smouldering pancreas inflammation leads to an autoimmune response and consecutive destruction of the insulin-producing Langerhans cells, which leads to a drop in insulin production and diabetes.
Poor quality, rendered, rancid, highly processed ingredients and chemical preservatives are other reasons to stay away from kibble and why I would never feed it to my dog.
But I also know some people in our community still feed kibble because of convenience, lower cost, and also because their veterinarians recommend it.
It's unfortunate that most veterinary clinics rely on the sale of pet food, which constitutes a significant portion of their revenue, ranging from 10% to 30% of their total income.
It would be very difficult to find a human doctor who recommends that people consume processed and junk food instead of wholesome food, and I wish this were also true for veterinarians.
]]>
Just a few days ago, I had the chance to see Cirque du Soleil. Many of you have heard of this unique and extraordinary company, founded by Guy Laliberté, a dreamer entrepreneur who transformed a small troupe in Montreal, Canada, into a worldwide phenomenon that has awed and inspired millions.
One of their performances that is most memorable to me is the Flight of Icarus. From the midnight blue darkness of the big top, a brightly lit white-winged Icarus emerges, falling to the ground while moving his wings back and forth in slow motion.
When he hits the ground, people gather around him, poking and prodding his limp body, eventually stealing his wings, tying him up in a fishing net, and hoisting him back up into the dark sky.
That is when the motionless, limp Icarus frees himself from the net and manages to fly again despite having lost his wings.
We all face situations in life when we get burned, we fall, or others try to take away our wings — our purpose, passion, or hope — but as the story says, we can fly even without our wings.
When it comes to health and dogs, there will always be people who will try to clip our wings of exploration and courage by discounting or ridiculing the achievements of others.
Recently, after the world’s oldest dog, Bobi, passed away, a British veterinarian started a campaign to have him disqualified from the Guinness World Records because he was fed homemade unprocessed food. How ridiculous!
I am appalled by the actions of this veterinarian, as I am absolutely certain that Bobi’s age was real. No matter who was behind this smear campaign, you and I know very well that feeding natural species-appropriate food is better for the health of all dogs.
There will always be people who attempt to steal the wings of others, but that cannot prevent us from raising our collective consciousness, knowledge, and wisdom.
I love what Vaclav Havel, the first democratically elected president of the Czech Republic, once said:
In light of recent events, I have decided to donate my time to organize short, impromptu, free consultation sessions to connect with you and answer questions you may have. I already ran one session last week, and it was really fun.
The next session will be on Wednesday, November 22nd 2023, at 10:15 am PST.
Five spots will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis — so make sure you're on time! FYI, the session will be recorded and shared for others to learn from, and by participating in the session, you are giving us consent to do so.
We will post the link to join on our Facebook page, so make sure you are there at the session start time. If you can’t get in, it means that all of the spots have already been taken.
Take care, and have a great day!
]]>
Who knew attending an interval training class the other day would lead to sharing Pax's wellness routine and eventually my own?
I love going to these classes because it gives me the opportunity to hang out with fun people while getting my heart rate up, which, as many health experts say, is important for health and longevity.
During one of the classes, my coach Nicole and I started chatting, and I mentioned I've been a vet for 35 years.
“How old are you?” she asked me.
“I will be 60 in January”, I replied with a little hesitation because, in my head, 60 is ancient.😅
“What?! You are as old as my dad, and he can’t even move!” Nicole replied.
I think I blushed a little, and went on to the next cardio segment, but I could see Nicole was genuinely surprised by my fitness level, and I honestly never expected to still be able to do as much as I do at this age.
Yes, I've had some injuries over the years, but, in general, I've been able to maintain the same body weight and fitness level I had 20 years ago.
Perhaps you're wondering why I don’t really talk about what I do to keep myself and Pax fit and healthy. It's stupid of me not to, but the reason is I don’t want to give you the impression that I'm “selling to you.”
However, I also know that not sharing means that I'm not helping you and your dog, which is my ultimate goal.
It's heartbreaking to see dogs and people we love and care about falling apart because no one took the time to share with them the basics of how to create long-lasting health.
So I'm once again pushing myself to overcome my deep-seated hesitation to share with you Pax’s wellness routine and also my own (coming soon) in point form.
Pax gets mainly raw meat and blended veggies. I've been serving his supplements in veggies, with Omega-3s and extra olive oil. He likes it that way.
I also make sure he gets bones at least 2-3 times per week. Some of the bones I choose are harder dental bones (but NOT marrow bones).
Here are some free resources to help you take the guesswork out of creating a healthy, balanced diet for your dog:
🐶 Free Dog Food Recipe Maker
🦴 What are the best bones for dogs: Complete vet-approved guide
🥦 What vegetables are good for your dog?
🍎 What fruits can dogs eat?
I give Pax the Fab4 supplements:
Once every six months, I take Pax through a month long liver cleanse with LiverTune as living in today’s world makes exposure to toxins and heavy metals inevitable. Regular body detox is essential in maintaining optimal health for our canine best friends.
Pax gets at least 2 hours of walks each day as part of his wellness routine, yet that may increase to a multiple day long hiking trip when possible. Dogs love it.
Sometimes we walk through the city, with a lot of off-leash time in parks and on trails. Pax loves to walk in water, swim, and fish. He chases critters, when it’s okay, and enjoys just being a dog.
Pax is definitely a social butterfly. He loves being with other people, kids especially, and being petted and cuddled. As many dogs do, he gets super excited about meeting new people, or people he doesn’t get to see very often.
At one point, I thought he was taking me for granted, because he was a little lukewarm when he would greet me. But when he refused to leave me or go for a walk without me, even with close friends or family members, the question of whether he loved me was answered once and for all. I'm definitely his person.
Sometimes we go and hang out in a coffee shop when we are in Czech Republic, my home country. Dogs are allowed inside and as you can see from the picture, these places are fun, funky, and great canine social hubs.
I've been writing on this topic for many years, yet over-vaccination in dogs is still very common. Click here to see my recommendations and current dog immunity protocol that hasn't failed in more than 25 years.
I don't recommend any conventional dog flea and tick control because there have been numerous severe adverse reactions, such as seizures, organ toxicity, and sadly fatalities caused by pretty much all the major flea and tick brands.
I use FleaHex on Pax only if I see fleas but that is very, very rare. It works really well in breaking the flea cycle.
If I'm walking Pax in an area with ticks, I use TickHex. I apply it before the first walk and check for ticks after we get home. If the tick infestation is heavy, I apply it more often during the day.
As a crazy boy who likes to run super fast, Pax pulled his iliopsoas muscle — the one that goes along the back and attaches over the pelvis to the femur.
Now, I have to be careful not to overextend him going full speed. He loves to chase squirrels, marmots and pikas and it has been a little bit of a struggle to prevent him from re-injuring himself.
I'm sharing this so you don’t think that I don’t have my own challenges with Pax. Life finds its ways to teach us lessons.
My partner is a physical therapist so Pax gets regular IMS (acupuncture treatments), chiro adjustments, massage, and we do a whole bunch of exercises as part of his preventive care.
My rule of thumb is to never attach a leash to Pax's collar to protect his neck, thyroid gland, and nerves.
The vagus nerve that originates from the cervical spine governs the function of the heart, lungs, digestive tract, kidneys and vascular function. When injured by a collar, many things go wrong. Sadly, the connection between the collar, neck, vagus nerve and organ health is often missed in conventional medicine.
It took me years to find the right set up for dog walking, but I've definitely settled on the Gentle Leash, a light, shock absorbing wool leash that feels fantastic, and the Perfect Fit Harness, a comfortable and secure dog harness made in the UK that we've been carrying in our store for years now.
There's only one more thing you'll want to check out before you go. We've recently refreshed the Healthy Dog Tool, our free educational tool that helps you become a more knowledgeable and confident dog parent.
Use the Healthy Dog Tool to
Have a fantastic day and give your dog a hug for me!
]]>
While some may find it endearing to see an overweight dachshund slowly waddling along on a dog walk, the reality is much different.
Obesity is also one of the top reasons for shorter lifespans in dogs. Studies have revealed that the lifespan of overweight dogs is up to 2 and a half years shorter than that of dogs with a healthy body weight.
My plan today is to answer the most common questions about canine obesity and ensure that you and other dog lovers are not robbed of precious years with your beloved companions.
This article will shed light on the concerning trends of obesity in dogs and provide you with practical advice and suggestions on how to help your dog lose a few extra pounds if necessary.
Obesity, in general, is rather misperceived. I’ve heard so many people say they had to exercise more and eat less. I’ve also heard many say that no matter what they do, they or their dog can't lose weight.
While drastically reducing calories and exercising may work, some people and dogs are able to remain slim within reasonable limits of food intake. Meanwhile, others can be challenged by sluggish or disrupted metabolisms, which make weight loss difficult.
Assess your dog's weight according to the body condition chart below. Feel the ribs and hips and see if your dog is under, over, or at the right weight. Make sure to account for the thickness of your dog's coat.
If you can see your dog's ribs, they are likely too thin. In long-haired dogs, you need to go by feeling the ribs, and by observing them when they are wet.
[[infographics]]
[[infographics]]
From my experience, people often worry about canine obesity because of their dogs’ appearance, but the real danger lies in many health problems linked to excess weight such as mobility issues, organ disease and metabolic disorders that lower their quality of life and shorten the lifespan.
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting a dog's joints. However, besides nutrition, low exercise levels, auto-immune disorders and aging, obesity and excess weight put extra strain on joints, leading to pain, inflammation, declining mobility and shortened lives.
Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease due to a combination of factors.
Excess body weight often leads to high blood pressure, cholesterol imbalances, and a greater likelihood of developing diabetes — all of which are major risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, obesity can cause inflammation in the body and dysfunction in the blood vessel linings, further escalating the risk.
Similar to obesity in humans, overweight dogs can develop hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) and hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease, a health condition that impairs optimal liver function. Fatty liver disease can cause liver inflammation and scarring, which reduces the organ’s ability to metabolize fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and remove toxins from the body.
Obesity is known to be caused by but also causes hormonal, metabolic and gut imbalances in dogs that impact wound healing. Obese dogs usually suffer from a greater degree of inflammation in the body and increase the incidence of skin issues, allergies and hot spots.
Deep metabolic imbalances and immune system issues, prevalent in overweight dogs, can significantly reduce a dog’s ability to detect and destroy cancerous cells. At the same time, excess fat tissue can act like a sponge for certain toxins and carcinogens that further increase the risk of cancer.
Whenever a conversation veers towards the topic of weight gain and obesity, people generally blame themselves for overeating or not being active enough, but when it comes to dogs, I see dog owners taking a different stance.
We love our dogs, and food is an expression of our love. It takes just one occasion of giving a dog food from the table, and the memory is forever etched into their brain. Next time, when dinner is served, no one can resist their pleading look.
Many dogs get fed whenever they ask, or their bowl is always filled with kibble. Unfortunately, the evolutionary path of dogs made them naturally ravenous. What if the next meal is a long time away?
My father used to say that if we can't stop ourselves from doing something out of love despite it not being helpful, it is "monkey love." But how can we resist those eyes?!
Caring for and being kind to our dogs makes us feel good, and it leads to the release of feel-good hormones, which quickly turns us all into repeat "monkey love offenders."
Based on my observations in veterinary practice, many dog parents find it challenging to feed their dogs only once a day. Feeding two to three times per day is more common; however, it is much easier for dogs to maintain an optimal weight with one meal per day.
In addition, one meal a day is intermittent fasting, which activates the body's DNA systems and allows the process of regeneration and cleansing, known to increase youth and longevity.
Most of us understand that the type and quality of food we feed our dogs matters. Much has been written about the health issues dry kibble or processed canned food can cause.
The argument that kibble is scientifically formulated is mostly unfounded. All you need to do is look at the ingredients to see that most processed pet food companies completely ignore the natural diet of canines and make our dogs the victims of their corporate greed, similar to the tobacco industry.
Who are the people behind recipes that make no sense? I wonder who they are and often wish I could have an open conversation to answer one question:
Why do they think corn, wheat, fat, gluten meal, and poor quality by-products are okay for our four-legged family members?
Are they aware that their products shorten the average dog's lifespan? Can they sleep at night?
But there are a few more issues with kibble and dehydrated food, with calorie density being at the top of the list. Dehydrated food is much more calorie-dense per volume. When dogs eat kibble or any form of dehydrated food, their stomach registers volume, not calories, making them eat much more than they would on natural food.
Over the years, the only overweight dogs I’ve seen were on kibble. It’s tough to make a dog fed a natural raw or home-cooked diet fat. They can't eat enough to gain weight.
Poor diet, insulin metabolism, and obesity are closely related. Processed food typically contains higher levels of carbohydrates. When your dog consumes high amounts of carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. In response, the pancreas releases insulin to facilitate glucose uptake by cells.
In a healthy individual, insulin helps maintain stable blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells and storing excess glucose in the liver and muscles for later use.
However, high or frequent consumption of carbohydrates causes spikes in glucose levels, which can contribute to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells become less responsive to insulin signals.
Insulin resistance can promote weight gain and make it difficult for dogs to lose weight. When cells are less responsive to insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased hunger and fat storage.
Excess fat tissue, particularly visceral fat (fat stored around the abdomen), can release inflammatory substances that further impair insulin action and promote insulin resistance in dogs.
A healthy diet, rich in whole foods, can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of obesity and its associated health complications.
Regular checkups by your veterinarian are important, especially to rule out hormonal conditions leading to obesity, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease.
However, I warn you against going with the recommendation of special processed weight loss diets that many veterinary clinics still carry.
Knowing now what you know about obesity and weight loss, I will let you decide whether this example of the so-called "weight loss diet" makes any sense:
Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Fiber, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Oat Fiber, Carrots, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Coconut Oil, Pork Liver
To comment on this recipe, chicken is no longer lean due to breeding; the rest of the top ingredients are carbohydrates that are not a species-appropriate diet and contribute to obesity and insulin resistance.
Exercise is undoubtedly vital for a dog's health and longevity. However, it's hard to shed weight if calorie intake isn’t reduced. This applies to dogs and people alike.
Eating 500 calories is easy, but it is very challenging to burn them off. For example, a person would have to do an hour of high-intensity interval training to burn that amount of calories.
In other words, you can't exercise your way out of a poor diet.
In recent years, we’ve gradually started to recognize that a balanced intestinal microflora is essential for obesity prevention.
Research shows that certain probiotic strains can positively affect weight loss and help maintain optimal body weight by increasing microbiome diversity and promoting normal nutrient absorption and fat storage, often disrupted in obese dogs.
Maintaining a healthy gut and metabolism was one of my objectives when formulating GutSense and GutSense H+ — our canine and human probiotic supplements.
Combined with a balanced raw or cooked diet, probiotic supplementation can help your dog maintain a healthy body weight and increase longevity.
As mentioned above, avoid putting your dog on a highly processed weight loss diet that is rich in carbohydrates and low-quality ingredients. Instead, if your dog is overweight, try feeding it as much non-processed food as possible.
Use the Healthy Dog Food Recipe Maker to create healthy recipes and determine the proper feeding amount for your dog. This tool is free for you to use and enjoy.
Another way to help your dog lose weight is to reduce the number of times you feed them. If you feed your dog more than once a day, try reducing the size of one meal until it disappears.
You will see that a gradual change won't upset your dog as much as removing one meal straight away. In the worst-case scenario, they may be unhappy for a few days, but the long-term health benefits are worth it.
Also, remember the 'monkey love' I was talking about earlier? If you find yourself giving in to those pleading puppy eyes at meal time, we've all done it so be kind to yourself.
What you can do, however, is to try to feed your dog at predetermined times and treat them only on special occasions and when they are not asking. I learned that if I "drop" food when my dog Pax is not looking, the brain synapses between asking for and getting food don't form.
Last but not least, to make sure your dog gets all the minerals, vitamins and Omega-3 fatty acids they need for optimal health, you can supplement their diet with all-natural essential supplements.
Throughout my years in veterinary practice, I’ve seen that the best way to prevent and also treat obesity is to feed your dog a species-appropriate, raw, or cooked diet of meat, raw bones, and raw vegetables once per day.
If your dog is overweight, include dog treats in the total amount calculated for their daily food intake, weigh your dog's food, adjust it up or down by 20-25% if necessary, and check again in two to three weeks.
Good luck!
PS: If no weight loss happens, adjust further, but also check with your family members to see if they are not sneaking food behind your back. It is more common than you may think.
Canine obesity is generally related to a high caloric intake due to processed food diets, metabolic disturbances, and insulin resistance. Obese dogs are also more likely to suffer from an imbalanced gut microbiome, which can result in excess body fat and inflammation.
While some might find chubby dogs quite endearing, obesity increases the risk of joint issues, respiratory and heart problems, and chronic conditions such as diabetes, lowering the quality of life for your dog. And it’s not only your dog’s health that suffers. Overweight dogs also have a shorter lifespan than those with a healthy body weight.
You can use the dog obesity chart above to assess your dog’s body weight at home. If you can’t see or feel their ribs and you notice rolls of fat along their back, your dog might fall in the obese category. Please consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned your dog might be overweight.
Maintaining a healthy weight starts with a balanced diet. Gradually switch your dog to a raw or cooked diet and support gut health with canine-specific probiotics to help reduce systemic inflammation, boost digestion and metabolism, and help reduce excess body fat.
High or frequent consumption of carbohydrates can make dogs gain weight as it causes their bodies to produce more insulin and store extra blood glucose in fat tissue cells.
Dogs fed a high-carb diet can develop insulin resistance, a condition where cells in the liver, muscles, and fat tissue become less responsive to insulin and excess glucose remains in the bloodstream.
Over time, insulin resistance can lead to increased hunger and fat storage, weight gain, inflammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
]]>
Losing a dog is like losing a child and sharing our experiences, knowing that we are not alone, makes the loss a little easier to bear. This is why I have decided to continue sharing a letter, I wrote to my beloved Skai, who passed away in May 2017.
I wrote it on the way back from Norway, where I was on business, and I confess, I cried the whole flight back to Vancouver. It was a very difficult return home, but writing this letter made it easier.
May 17, 2017....
My sweet friend,
Today is a very, very big day. The kind of day most dog lovers fear more than our own death.
I didn’t get much sleep last night – maybe two hours at best. Work took me nine time zones away from you. I didn’t realize how bad things were when I left. Perhaps, deep inside I didn’t want to see what to you was already obvious.
Your injury took a lot out of you. You are sixteen, that is two times eight, or 112, in human years. That is old for a large dog like you. But you did so well for so long that I almost forgot. You didn’t even have much gray hair, your coat was shiny and the neurologist who saw you last week could not believe how good your teeth were.
When we went to see your neurologist, Uncle Nick, and he told us you suffered a serious cervical disc injury, I should have clued in, but at that moment I was not a vet. I was a hundred percent your dad and dads don’t want to see their kids leaving, not for school, not for travel and especially not for good.
When a baggage porter accidentally swung a heavy suitcase and hit your head two weeks ago, first you tried to be brave, but then I had to carry you on the flight. The people of Westjet were amazing. They let us fly home and then one of their employees and a dog lover came to check on you when we arrived. But I could see the sparkles in your eyes had faded away. We knew, considering your age and diagnosis, surgery was simply not an option. I wouldn’t want you to go through that, my sweet friend. You didn’t deserve to suffer, it would be more for us than for you.
Deep inside, I hoped you’d bounce back like you always have. Brave, shiny, sweet and full of beans. You have always been caring, so worried about everyone else. Always ready to help, asking: “What do you need? What can I do for you? What else, what else?!” That was you – Mr. Skai Wantstofly, a border collie at heart, more human than a dog.
When we met, you were holding a bone, growling at all your brothers and sisters, fiercely defending your prized possession. But when you saw me, you dropped your bone, forgot about the growling and came to say hi. That is how the story began.
Yes, it’s true I was told by your people that you’d be aggressive and I should not choose you, but they could not be more wrong. All I needed to do is to get you two bones and teach you, by switching them, that there will always be enough food for you.
Over time, you turned into a Zen dog, our pride and joy, a true best friend! As time progressed, you’ve taught me so much and inspired hundreds of thousands, or possibly millions of dog lovers to take better care of their best friends. You were a true dog ambassador and I was very happy to live in your shadow. You were the star and I was your dad.
And then there were the girls. Boy, you loved girls! You had it pretty dialed, walking on the beach or in the park, laying right at their feet! Girls love boys to be at their feet and you were a master at that. Your success rate was pretty close to 100 percent.
In fact, you were the only male I know who got to sleep in the bed on the first night every single time. That is a skill that many guys would love to possess!
Yes, I know, the Labs and Golden Retrievers were sometimes challenging. They were like the Italians. Loud, rowdy and cordial. “Manger, manger!!! Mamma Mia!!!” For you, they were a little too much.
You were the master of manners and etiquette, after all, your ancestors were British. Many people told me you were the best trained and well-behaved dog and I agree. Your manners led you to be my guide and protector, my service dog to help me with my sleepwalking. Yes, I sleepwalk and have since I was a child. When I was at vet school, I walked through a glass door and almost died. But since I got you, you made sure I was safe. You were my guardian, and I was yours.
Adventures! Oh boy, you lived for adventures and we had so many! There is enough for a whole book. Do you remember when we cashed our air mile points and flew you to Paris in first class? As a service dog, you were able to fly in the cabin and had your own pillow! And there was a woman having a fit because there was a dog in the cabin. If I had an airline, I would fly all dogs first class and put all the anti-dog people in cargo!
It was fun to see my crazy dreams come true. You ran around the Eiffel Tower, you loved that. Also around the Louvre pyramid. Do you remember how we put you in the lap of a female statue in the park and took pictures? You were smiling as if you understood it was funny. That picture is one of my favorites.
There was a point when you were clearly trying to tell me that I was burning out at work. It was you who gave me the idea of living a more balanced life, doing yoga, enjoying nature and spending our winter months in Maui. I loved doing yoga in the park with you because I could watch you sleeping and chasing bunnies.
The first time I brought you over to Hawaii, we flew to the island of Oahu. I took you to the beach, the water was warm. You taught me that anything was possible. You were seven-years-old then.
When you were a puppy, I almost thought you didn’t love me because you were always ready to go for an adventure with your other human and canine friends. But one day, we went to a lake and everyone tried to coax you in the water, but you would not go.
Then I jumped in and in a second you were in the water, trying to ‘rescue’ me. Perhaps my swimming style made you think I was drowning?
Your sister, Peggy was a very special friend to you and us too. Did you know, originally, I chose her, but then she started to run away from me. Obviously, she had a plan. She didn’t want me to leave you behind. Have you ever thought what would happen if I left you behind? I can’t imagine. It was meant to be.
There are not many dogs who get the chance to see their sister or brother every week. I love spending time with my siblings, so I understood how much you loved being with her and you especially loved sleepovers.
I could go on and on, writing about our adventures and crying my heart out because today is a pretty tough day. In fact, I don’t think I’ve had a tougher day in my life and there were some tough ones!
You were barely walking when I took you to your favorite park the other day and I found a little stuffed doggie leaning against the post. I couldn’t believe my eyes because the doggie looked exactly like you, brown and white and he even wore glasses. It was you! I took the little stuffed “you” with me to Norway because I missed the real you so much.
And then there was the phone call. You were not doing well. The call I was the most afraid of. I saw your eyes and knew you were asking me to let you go. You didn’t eat or walk for three days and you were waiting for me to come home.
I spent three hours looking for flights to see how I could get to you faster. Interestingly the same airline that carried us home when you were injured is now carrying me to you.
I am on the way and I know you are waiting. They say the biggest expression of love is when we let someone go despite the pain we feel.
I am aware I could go to heroic measures. I know I could take you through procedures, but that would mean more suffering. I have had many breakdowns today. Walking through the airports, not caring if someone sees me crying. I know I am coming home to help you and it feels like someone ripped my heart out.
I so don’t want to let you go, but I know that the biggest expression of my love is to let you go.
I will cuddle you, I will kiss you, I will lay down beside you and then I will let you go because I love you.
I am writing this letter on the plane to pass the time, ease the pain and be closer to you.
You, Mr. Skai Wantstofly, are the big reason why my life has been so good. You taught me how to be a better vet and a healer, you showed me how to be a better person and that the biggest purpose in life is to help others and spend time with family and friends.
So, when I get to Vancouver we will act like big boys who know that the real you is timeless and limitless and that in our world you will never leave. I could hang on for a little longer because many people do. Often, I have seen people hanging on for too long. I know you loved to run and I really do not want you to suffer, unable to walk and not eating. You are telling me to let you go.
You see, I am terrified right now, but I know I need to be strong. As a vet, I have seen many heartbreaks but I also learned that the biggest expression of love is to let you go my friend, even though it hurts like hell.
Just hang on Mr. Skai, I am coming….
__________________
Note: I arrived in Vancouver at 1 p.m. on Wed. May 17, 2017. When I got home, Skai was waiting on his favorite sofa, a pillow under his head. (He loved pillows) We spent a few hours together. He had his loved ones by his side. He passed away at 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time at his home in North Vancouver, Canada.
Our hearts are broken and it will take time to recover from losing him so fast.
My family and I thank you all for all the messages of support and encouragement.
I promise I will continue to be there for you and your dogs as soon as I can.
With love and gratitude,
Dr. D
Mr. Skai Wantstofly 2001 - 2017
]]>From birth, we have a mutually beneficial partnership with our friendly gut bacteria. We provide them with shelter and food, and in turn, they keep our bodies healthy and our immune systems in top shape.
This kind of relationship is not unique to humans but is found in other places in nature, where bacteria can give some animals incredible superpowers, including immunity to poison.
For example, desert woodrats living in the Mojave Desert, California, can feed on the creosote bush thanks to a special kind of gut bacteria, which grants them resistance to this plant’s toxic resin that would normally cause severe liver and kidney damage.
There are still many things we do not know about the human microbiome and probiotics and more studies uncovering surprising findings about the importance of probiotic bacteria are coming to the forefront. They are not only important for maintaining our digestive system but also play a key role in immune function, organ health, mental well-being and cognition.
But before we dig into the impact of probiotics on our health and longevity, let’s cover the basics.
Probiotics are essentially live microorganisms, also known as beneficial or good bacteria, residing in our gut. There are about 38 trillion bacterial cells in the human body, compared to 30 trillion human cells, however, because the bacterial cells are much smaller, there are about 2-4 lbs of bacterial mass in an individual weighing 150 lbs.
Probiotic bacteria are the underrated guardians of one of the most delicate ecosystems on our planet — the human gut microbiome, and maintaining a balanced and diverse microbiome is not an easy task.
Modern life has produced many challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy microbiome, such as processed foods, sugar, artificial preservatives and sweeteners, pesticides, antibiotics, and excessive stress. However, probiotics can help restore balance to the gut.
Here are some of the ways probiotics help improve our health and well-being:
Break down food into essential nutrients that our bodies can easily absorb
Inhibit pathogens in the gut and minimize inflammation
Support the integrity of the intestinal barrier
Stimulate immune cells and balance the body’s immune response
Neutralize toxins in the stomach and prevent them from being metabolized
Produce neurotransmitters that regulate our mood and stress response
Improve brain function and prevent aging-related cognitive decline
Some probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, and pickles, however, there are reasons why carefully formulated and cultured probiotic supplements provide greater benefits,
Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria in our gut microbiome and prebiotics are the fuel that keeps them alive.
Prebiotics are plant-based dietary fibre that is digested and broken down in the gut into short-chain fatty acids.
Butyrate is one of the short-chain fatty acids that provide several health benefits, such as improvement in gut motility, reduction of inflammation, strengthening of the intestinal lining, and reducing the risk of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Eating foods naturally rich in prebiotic fibres like oats, apples, legumes, artichokes, and mushrooms can help increase butyrate production.
Scientists have divided probiotics into seven groups — Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Escherichia, and Bacillus.
The first three categories are the most extensively researched and consumed for their beneficial effects on the gut microbiome, immune and cognitive function, emotional well-being, and chronic conditions.
Lactobacillus bacteria produce health-supporting substances such as lactic acid, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and some antimicrobial substances that stop pathogenic bacteria from disrupting the microbiome.
Bifidobacterium bacteria produce several vital chemical compounds, including vitamins, short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, and organic acids that balance the gut pH, all while keeping pathogens at bay.
Unlike the other two, the Saccharomyces category includes several types of beneficial yeasts, which can be found in plants and the human GI tract, while some are used in commercial alcoholic drinks such as wine and beer.
Of all of them, Saccharomyces boulardii is the most studied probiotic for its antimicrobial properties and anti-inflammatory properties in treating digestive issues such as acute diarrhea.
Is there a difference between different probiotic strains?
Names such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium bifidum might sound more familiar to you because they’re the probiotic strains you see listed on probiotic supplement bottles.
Each probiotic strain can have different scientifically proven effects on our microbiome and general health, as shown below.
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus brevis
Lactobacillus helveticus
Lactobacillus plantarum
Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium longum
Probiotics help restore and maintain a balanced gut microbiome, regulate bowel movements and support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption. Studies show that probiotic supplementation can help reduce the duration of acute infectious diarrhea by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria that disrupt digestion and cause irregular bowel movements.
Taking probiotics has also been found to help counteract the disruptive effects of antibiotics on the gut flora, reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and speed up recovery by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Probiotics have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help manage IBS and IBD flare-ups and reduce the severity of symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort and irregular bowel movements.
Research shows that using probiotics can also help address leaky gut symptoms by reducing gut inflammation, improving the integrity of intestinal walls and preventing toxins from entering the bloodstream and causing further infection.
Probiotics help support and regulate our immune system by activating immune cells to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses, reducing systemic inflammation, and stimulating the production of antibodies in the gut. These beneficial bacteria ensure our body is protected from disease-causing pathogens while also preventing it from overreacting to harmless substances, such as food.
Probiotic supplementation has been shown to lower the risk of allergic reactions by balancing the body’s immune responses and reducing the hypersensitivity that leads to allergies like asthma and atopic dermatitis and relieving related symptoms.
One of the most surprising findings related to gut health is the gut-brain axis, the bidirectional communication channel between the brain and the gut microbiome.
Researchers have uncovered that bacteria in our gut can directly impact our mood and emotions, and dysbiosis or an unhealthy gut can lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and age-related cognitive decline.
Probiotic bacteria showing mental health benefits or psychobiotics have become the focus of numerous clinical studies in recent years, some revealing promising outcomes. As such, strains of Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium breve have been found to alleviate stress and anxiety in adults and reduce the severity of depression compared to the placebo groups.
Probiotics can enhance renal and liver function, as well as prevent or slow the progression of chronic kidney and liver disease and prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by promoting a balanced gut microbiome, reducing inflammation, strengthening the intestinal barrier, and cleansing toxins from the body.
An increasing number of clinical studies have revealed that rebalancing the gut microbiome can impact the development of liver disorders such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and reduce complications.
While more research is needed to cover the benefits of probiotics for patients with chronic kidney disease, some studies have found that probiotic treatment can help improve kidney function and reduce uremic toxin levels in the blood.
Probiotics represent a promising tool for cancer prevention and treatment as they might slow down the growth of cancer cells, making it harder for them to multiply uncontrollably and wreak havoc on the body. Research also shows that probiotics can boost the immune system to help recognize and eliminate cancer cells faster and reduce the risk of tumours, thus saving our lives.
Eating fermented foods is without a doubt beneficial for your gut health, but compared to supplements, you have very little control over what probiotic strains you’re consuming and in what quantity.
Also, not all fermented products that claim to contain live probiotics actually do. For example, it may surprise you that many yogurt manufacturers use pasteurization to kill the bacteria within the products and extend their shelf life. In doing so, they also eliminate the probiotic bacteria that are beneficial for your health.
A diversified diet that includes fermented foods, as well as essential vitamins, minerals, Omega-3s, and probiotic supplements, is more likely to help restore your gut balance and address related health issues more effectively.
Probiotics have a variety of health benefits, including improved digestion, stronger immunity and better mood and are considered safe for most people, especially when they do not contain dairy.
Probiotics are even more important in pregnancy or people with compromised immune systems, who are critically ill or those who have undergone surgery or are on antibiotics.
Timing matters when it comes to probiotics, especially since they must pass through the stomach and survive the highly acidic environment before reaching the large intestine, namely your gut.
When you eat a meal your stomach produces acid to help digest the food. However, food also dilutes and buffers the stomach acids which helps the probiotic bacteria survive.
Different bacteria have different levels of sensitivity to stomach acid, but in general, taking probiotics with food is closer to what happens in nature.
The time it takes for probiotics to have noticeable health improvements can differ from person to person and depends on several factors, including your health status, the specific probiotic formulation, supplement dosage, and health concerns you’re targeting with the probiotic treatment.
For example, if you’re taking probiotics for antibiotic-related or traveller’s diarrhea, you might see improvements in your digestive health within a couple of days. However, if you’re using probiotics as an alternative treatment to relieve allergies, immune disease or anxiety symptoms, it can take several weeks to a few months to see the full effect.
Although probiotics are safe to use and can help improve your overall health, some individuals may experience mild digestive symptoms when first taking probiotics, such as bloating, gas, stomach cramps, and changes in bowel movements.
There’s nothing to worry about, as these symptoms are usually temporary and may be a sign of positive resetting of your gut microbiome.
As the body adjusts to the probiotics and eliminates the harmful bacteria and toxins accumulated in the gut, these initial side effects typically disappear within the first weeks of treatment.
With so many probiotic alternatives on the market, making the right decision can be overwhelming when you’re unsure about what to look for.
To give you a starting point, I’ve put together a list of factors you might want to consider when doing your research and comparing probiotic supplements.
Choose brands that are transparent about their ingredients, sourcing and manufacturing processes and are not afraid to walk the talk regarding their commitment to quality control and customer satisfaction.
These companies typically have a proven history of producing high-quality supplements supported by verified customer reviews and testimonials.
Look for probiotic supplements that undergo third-party testing for quality and purity to ensure the product respects the highest quality standards.
You should also be able to find clear information about the company’s ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes on its website and product labels. This way, you get peace of mind the supplement you use is free of fillers, toxins and heavy metals.
Different strains offer unique health benefits, so opting for a probiotic with a variety of carefully selected strains can improve overall health and well-being by restoring the gut microbiome, boosting the immune response and improving cognitive function.
When supported by clinical studies and scientific research, a multi-strain probiotic formula can also help relieve symptoms of chronic digestive issues.
Not all probiotic formulas are created equal. Ideally, choose probiotic supplements that contain prebiotics as well as herbs that enhance the digestive benefits of probiotics and improve overall health.
As lactose intolerance is rather common, we suggest that you opt for vegan probiotic supplements for which the selected live bacteria strains have been fermented on a dairy-free medium.
When considering a probiotic supplement, pay attention to the CFU count. CFUs indicate the number of live and active probiotic bacteria per serving. A supplement with 10 to 20 billion CFUs is generally sufficient for optimal gut health, a strong immune system, and a balanced mood.
While you’ll also find probiotics with 50 billion CFUs or higher, remember that the CFU count doesn’t necessarily equate to a high-quality probiotic supplement or better results.
Packaging plays a significant role in maintaining the effectiveness of probiotics. To preserve the probiotic's potency and purity, look for supplements that come in opaque, airtight, glass bottles. Chemicals leaching from plastic containers may negatively affect the quality of the product, harm the environment, and increase the risk of exposure to moisture. They are also a sign that the manufacturer prioritizes cost-cutting over product quality.
GutSense H+ is a dairy-free probiotic and digestive health support formulated with nine clinically-researched Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains to help stimulate the growth of good bacteria in your gut, relieve digestive discomfort, gut inflammation, and bloating, and boost your immunity and mood.
Unlike most probiotic supplements, GutSense H+ is enriched with a unique blend of certified organic natural ingredients that improve digestion and nutrient absorption, regulate bowel movements, and gently detox your body from toxins and heavy metals.
GutSense H+ is a vegan probiotic formula that also includes prebiotics, which helps friendly bacteria in your digestive tract thrive and fight off pathogens. GutSense H+ is suitable for all ages and can help boost digestive health and immunity and relieve symptoms from common GI conditions such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, and leaky gut.
All H+ supplements are sustainably sourced and undergo rigorous third-party quality and purity testing to ensure maximum health benefits for you and your family.
As the understanding of the gut microbiome evolves, so does the importance of probiotics for our physical and mental health.
Research shows we can count on our friendly bacteria allies to restore balance and well-being in the gut microbiome and within the whole organism to help increase our body’s natural ability to heal and defend itself.
But you’d be surprised how much more we can learn from nature and its inherent capacity to rebalance and heal, a process I have called the Healing Cycle that involves easy-to-apply principles of natural healing and can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life.
We can no longer solely rely upon the help and knowledge of our healthcare providers, which is why empowering yourself with knowledge is so important.
I believe it is no coincidence that your health journey brought you here, and I hope I can help you and your dog live healthier, happier and longer lives.
Please accept my invitation to join our health-minded dog-loving community to get the latest news on health, nutrition and healthy living.
Probiotics are your body's bacteria allies that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut microbiome, regulate your immune response, and improve your mood and cognitive function.
Absolutely! Many people take probiotics as a part of their daily routine as they can help balance the gut microbiome and support overall health. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage on the supplement label.
Probiotics and prebiotics are your gut’s dynamic duo. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that contribute to your overall health and well-being, while prebiotics are the non-digestible fibres that act as fuel and help them thrive in the gut.
Although both probiotics and digestive enzymes are essential for your digestive health, several key differences exist between them. Probiotics are live bacteria that restore gut balance and help boost your immune response and cognitive function, while digestive enzymes are proteins that assist in breaking down food to increase nutrient absorption.
While digestive enzymes can benefit individuals of any age, they are more frequently indicated in middle-aged or older individuals with signs of digestive problems.
The beneficial impact of probiotics can differ from person to person, depending on their health and gut microbiome. The first improvements you may notice when taking probiotics include reduced bloating and gas, improved digestion and regular bowel movements, less sugar cravings, and better energy and mental focus.
Timing matters when it comes to probiotics, especially since they must pass through the stomach and survive the highly acidic environment before reaching the large intestine, namely your gut.
When you eat a meal, your stomach produces acid to help digest the food. However, food also dilutes and buffers the stomach acids which helps the probiotic bacteria survive.
Different bacteria have different levels of sensitivity to stomach acid, but in general, taking probiotics with food is closer to what happens in nature.
Generally, antibiotics are over-prescribed in medicine, and our goal should be to reduce their usage. However, when they are indicated, antibiotics can have negative long-term effects on the gut microbiome, lowering gut microbial diversity and decreasing the population of probiotic bacteria. This negative effect may persist for months.
Taking a probiotic supplement is shown to help prevent antibiotic-related side effects, such as diarrhea, bloating, and cramps, and replenish the GI tract with beneficial bacteria.
Ideally, antibiotics and probiotics should be taken at least two hours apart from each other to help the friendly bacteria survive and restore the gut.
Probiotics not only help eliminate the pathogens that cause viral infections but also improve the body’s immune response. Taking probiotics regularly has been shown to help decrease your chances of getting sick and reduce the severity and duration of symptoms for the common cold and upper respiratory infections.
People with an imbalanced gut can struggle to lose weight due to lower microbiome diversity that disrupts nutrient absorption and fat storage. While studies show that probiotics can boost metabolism and help with weight loss, they should be accompanied by a healthy diet and lifestyle for long-lasting results. Weight gain is generally related to a higher caloric intake in addition to metabolic disturbances, insulin resistance, high sugar, and processed food diet.
Probiotics are contraindicated in individuals sensitive to a particular supplement or ingredients in the product.
Disclaimer: Any information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute medical care. |
]]>
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver cells, which is not caused by alcohol consumption.
The disease ranges in severity from simple fat accumulation (steatosis) to more advanced stages, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and even cirrhosis, which can be life-threatening.
The incidence of NAFLD in the United States has been on the rise, reflecting broader trends in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Estimates suggest that approximately 25% to 30% of the U.S. adult population has NAFLD. The prevalence can be even higher among individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
This means that one out of every four people will suffer from NAFLD, which often remains undiagnosed in the early stages of the disease. This condition is a real concern because it's not only the most common liver disorder in the United States but also a leading cause of liver transplants.
Moreover, NAFLD is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of death worldwide.
NAFLD is one of the most common forms of chronic liver disease and is often associated with conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. These health issues can significantly increase your risk of developing the disease.
Here's why fatty liver disease is more than just extra fat storage and how it could be affecting your overall health if ignored.
NAFLD is often asymptomatic in its early stages but can lead to liver inflammation, elevated liver enzymes, liver scarring, and ultimately liver failure if not managed appropriately.
Other health risks associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease include gallstones, memory loss, kidney disease, and overall metabolic decline.
NAFLD is more than just an extra fat storage problem — it's a serious condition with severe metabolic, health span and life expectancy implications. The sooner you catch it or take preventive measures, the better.
Additional tests might be needed to rule out other liver diseases, such as chronic hepatitis C or alcoholic liver disease, especially if initial tests are inconclusive.
Once NAFLD is diagnosed, further tests may be conducted periodically to monitor liver function and assess progression of the disease, especially if treatment interventions are initiated.
It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals for diagnosis and management, as fatty liver disease can progress to more severe conditions if not adequately managed.
If you have no other medical conditions, you can control or even reverse the fat storage buildup in your liver and improve organ function through simple lifestyle changes and nutritional supplementation.
Special treatment is generally required if the disease has progressed and you're suffering from other chronic health issues.
IMPORTANT: It's crucial to work closely with healthcare providers, including hepatologists, dietitians, and other specialists, for a comprehensive approach to treating NAFLD.
Disclaimer: Any information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical care.
STEP 1: A semi-annual liver cleanse and detox as part of preventive care.
STEP 2: Fermented multivitamin supplements will ensure sufficient levels of choline, vitamin E and other vitamins that are important in preventing NAFLD. Fermented vitamins are known to absorb better, be gentle on the stomach and have increased nutrient bioavailability and positive health benefits.
STEP 3: Healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids are another important element of NAFLD prevention. Regular medical check-ups, including blood tests and imaging studies, can help monitor progression of the disease and effectiveness of treatment interventions.
]]>
One of the first things you learn as a dog parent is how to manage the occasional bout of diarrhea.
While there are a variety of potential causes for diarrhea in dogs, you mustn’t forget that dogs are scavengers by nature and their digestive system has developed to purge itself of toxins and bacteria found in food by producing runny stool. Simply put, diarrhea acts as the body’s messy yet effective defence mechanism to eliminate the cause of digestive upsets and restore health.
This is why using anti-diarrheal drugs to stop this natural cleansing process is contraindicated in a large majority of cases. While these drugs can relieve diarrhea symptoms, they also prevent the body from expelling harmful bacteria, toxins, and viruses and suppress a natural protective response.
A much better approach is to support your dog’s digestive system and the whole body, by ensuring proper hydration and using canine-specific probiotics to restore the natural balance of the gut microflora.
If your dog has occasional or frequent episodes of acute diarrhea, or you found blood in your dog's stool, I am glad you’re reading this article. As a dog parent myself, I understand your concern, and want to share a series of proven home remedies for dog diarrhea based on my 30 years of veterinary practice.
In this article, you’ll find natural and inexpensive methods of treating your dog’s acute and bloody diarrhea at home without antibiotics, special veterinary diets, or chemicals.
However, please keep in mind that severe episodes of diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours can indicate a serious health issue and require immediate veterinary attention.
The most common causes of diarrhea in dogs include:
Diarrhea in dogs may also be a sign that the body is in a deeper state of imbalance, as parasites or bacterial pathogens like to settle into a weakened body and wreak havoc. Therefore, if your dog suffers from chronic diarrhea, the underlying causes must be addressed first.
Routine investigations such as fecal smears, parasite tests, blood tests, bacterial cultures, and X-rays are often used by veterinarians to get a better understanding of what is causing your dog’s diarrhea and determine the best treatment plan.
3.1 How to recognize if your dog’s bloody diarrhea is an emergency
Dog parents often panic when they spot blood in their dog’s stool, however, unlike in people, streaks of fresh, undigested blood in your dog’s stool, while not completely normal, are common and usually not a serious health issue.
There are two types of bloody stool to look out for when your dog gets diarrhea:
If your dog has had diarrhea for longer than 48 hours or appears to be listless and sick, call your vet immediately.
Other symptoms associated with diarrhea that warrant a trip to the vet include dry/tacky/pale gums, fever, vomiting, and passing large amounts of blood.
Always be prepared to answer your vet's questions about your dog’s diet, bathroom habits, general behaviour, and details about their current diarrhea episode. This information and a thorough physical examination will help narrow down the list of possible causes and help your vet determine if and what diagnostic tests are needed.
The good news is that diarrhea on its own is not necessarily a cause for concern. If your dog is bright, alert and energetic, it is usually safe to give them 24 – 48 hours before consulting with your veterinarian.
Meanwhile, I recommend you apply the at-home diarrhea treatment plan detailed below to help soothe your dog’s upset stomach.
5.1 Are antibiotics necessary to stop diarrhea in dogs?
Antibiotics are unnecessary and sometimes contraindicated for dog diarrhea. In my practice, I only used them as a last resort if a pathogen was confirmed and diarrhea didn’t improve within 48 – 72 hours.
The administration of toxic chemicals during a time when the body needs to cleanse itself doesn’t make much sense and can overwhelm the digestive system.
One of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for treating diarrhea in dogs, metronidazole (Flagyl), causes long-lasting disturbances of the bacterial flora, damages the intestinal lining and induces diarrhea, as confirmed in a research study involving healthy dogs.
5.2 Should anti-diarrheal drugs be used to treat acute diarrhea?
As I mentioned above, slowing down intestinal movement can hinder the body’s natural cleansing, rebalancing, and healing process. It is much better to support your dog’s health using the above diet, give probiotics, and ensure good hydration than it is to go against the body’s natural defences.
Excessive use of anti-diarrheal drugs and antibiotics in diarrhea treatments often leads to health issues such as chronic diarrhea, leaky gut, inflammatory bowel disease, and a weakened immune system.
5.3 Is rice good for dogs with diarrhea?
Many traditional dog diarrhea recipes call for rice, which I don’t recommend for several reasons
Based on my clinical experience with dogs suffering from diarrhea, rice is not as soothing as cooked squash, pumpkin, or yams. Moreover, thousands of HairQ Test results have also confirmed that rice contains high levels of toxic arsenic due to heavy metal pollution in Asian countries.
5.4 Can chiropractic adjustment help with acute diarrhea in dogs?
In some cases of recurring dog diarrhea, digestive issues can be caused by an undiagnosed lumbar spine injury. Some exercises, such as ball or frisbee chasing, can result in muscle injuries, tightness, and inflammation due to the dog slipping during an attempt to catch the toy.
If left untreated, lumbar muscle tightness can shut off the blood, nerve, and energy flow that supplies the small and large intestines, weaken digestive function and lead to recurring bouts of diarrhea.
Talk to your veterinarian if you suspect your dog might be experiencing back pain. There are numerous drug-free alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture, that could help your dog heal.
Discover more about how you can support your dog in the healing process with natural supplements that help nourish and detox the body, reduce inflammation, and soothe the digestive system.
6.1 Canine probiotics
The most critical step in treating your dog's diarrhea is to restore the balance of their intestinal microflora. Canine-specific probiotics not only support healthy digestion, bowel movements, and immune system function but also help you naturally prevent the occurrence of acute diarrhea episodes in the future.
GutSense is a non-dairy pre and probiotic supplement and digestive support for dogs, formulated with nine canine-specific probiotic strains and organic natural ingredients that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and maintain a healthy gut balance.
Our probiotic formula is naturally fermented and contains numerous Lactobacillus species, which increase nutrient absorption levels and relieve inflammatory bowel disease and leaky gut syndrome symptoms.
GutSense also contains organic cilantro, a powerful detoxifying agent that eliminates heavy metals and toxins from the body, and certified organic dandelion, which helps boost digestion and gently cleanse the liver.
6.2 Nutritional supplements
For ongoing support and natural diarrhea prevention, I recommend giving your dog essential supplements such as minerals, vitamins, and high quality toxin-free sustainable Omega-3 oil. Here’s what I give to my dog Pax to improve his digestion and boost his immunity naturally.
GreenMin is a nourishing plant-based mineral and amino acid-rich green superfood made from certified organic Brazilian Alga Calcarea and Californian Spirulina.
SoulFood is a certified organic wholefood multivitamin and organ health support supplement for dogs of all ages. It is fermented which makes it stand apart from synthetic vitamins that have a tendency to cause stomach upset.
FeelGood Omega is a pure, sustainably sourced, and mercury-free Omega-3 calamari oil with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Watch the video below to learn more about the modern nutrient cycle and the importance of nutrient supplementation in dogs, or check out the Healthy Dog Tool for a step-by-step approach to your dog’s health and longevity.
6.3 Liver support and detox supplements
Living in a polluted world can take its toll on your dog’s liver, dramatically reducing its capacity to remove toxins from the bloodstream, break down drugs, and metabolize vital nutrients.
One of the critical steps to preventing liver disease in dogs is to do a liver cleanse and detox every 6 to 12 months. Not only does a liver detox help eliminate all the heavy metals and toxins accumulated within the body and rebalance liver enzymes, but it also prevents digestive issues such as diarrhea.
For Pax’s semi-annual liver cleanse, I use LiverTune, a naturally fermented liver support and detox supplement enriched with anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer plant-based nutrients. Made using a patented fermentation process, LiverTune is a highly bioavailable supplement meant to improve digestion and liver enzymes and strengthen your dog’s immune system.
🐶 Read our comprehensive dog diarrhea guide, or as I like to call it, the Holistic and Natural Approach to Treating Diarrhea in Dogs.
🦴 Check out the Healthy Dog Food Recipe Maker and learn how to transition your dog from kibble to a natural raw or cooked, balanced diet with easy-to-make recipes.
✅ Register for our brief Raw and Cooked Natural Diet Course for Dogs and find out how you can easily create a long and healthy life for your beloved pup.
Join our pack to receive the latest natural health news and become a part of our dog-loving community!
● What do you give a dog for diarrhea?
Giving canine probiotics and feeding an easily digestible diet can work wonders for dogs with diarrhea by promoting the growth of good bacteria and rebalancing the gut microflora.
To quickly relieve diarrhea symptoms, withhold food for 24 to 48 hours, then feed a meal of cooked pumpkin or squash mixed with beef or chicken broth once a day. Make sure your dog stays well hydrated throughout the diarrhea episode.
IMPORTANT: Never give your dog diarrhea medication formulated for humans unless explicitly instructed by your vet.
● When should I worry about my dog's diarrhea?
If your dog has had an episode of acute diarrhea but is otherwise acting normal, it’s most likely not a cause for concern.
However, if your pup shows other symptoms as well as diarrhea, including lethargy or lack of responsiveness, fever, vomiting, dry/sticky gums, straining to pass a stool or large amounts of blood in stool, see your vet as soon as possible.
Recurring bouts of diarrhea over a short period of time associated with weight loss or lack of appetite can indicate a serious health issue (intestinal parasites, chronic diarrhea, IBD or liver disorder) and requires medical attention.
● Why is my dog pooping liquid poop?
Runny stools are a general symptom of intestinal inflammation, possible toxin, parasite infestation, infection or diet intolerance allergies. Please follow the above guidelines and see your veterinarian if the symptoms do not improve within 24 to 48 or your dog is dehydrated, listless and appears unwell.
● How long does dog diarrhea last?
Acute diarrhea episodes in dogs usually last anywhere between 24 to 48 hours and will often resolve with fasting, diet adjustment, and probiotic treatment. If your dog’s diarrhea goes on for more than 2 days and is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, and vomiting, please contact your vet.
● How can I firm up my dog’s stool?
If you want to firm up your dog’s stool, I recommend feeding the bland diet recommended above for a few days until their digestion returns to normal. Homemade meal options can include boiled squash or pumpkin mixed with broth or a small amount of cooked lean meats such as chicken, beef, or venison. Giving your dog canine-specific probiotics is also important to firm up their stools by increasing the number of good bacteria in the gut.
● What is the most common cause of diarrhea in dogs?
The most common causes of dog diarrhea include dietary indiscretion, species-inappropriate diets, allergies, parasites, bacteria, hormonal issues, diet intolerance, allergies and toxins in food. Another frequent yet often overlooked cause of diarrhea in dogs is lumbar spinal injuries, which can slow down the blood, nerve, and energy flow to the digestive tract, thus weakening the intestines and causing diarrhea.
You should always seek your vet’s advice if your dog’s diarrhea doesn’t improve within 24 to 48 hours or if they have other symptoms.
Sharing fruits with your pup is a healthy (with some exceptions), low-calorie alternative to store-bought, processed dog treats. Check out our guide to learn which fruits are safe for dogs to eat and which ones are toxic.
But let’s get back to bananas and reveal their health benefits! I will also give you more info on how to feed them to your pup and share a few fun homemade banana treat ideas.
Of course they can, plus most dogs love them. It’s as if our pups knew that bananas are rich in essential nutrients and generally beneficial for their health and immune function.
However, bananas are also high in sugar content, so you should keep them in the treat-only category and feed them in moderation.
Pax loves bananas — whenever I hold one, he appears out of nowhere in seconds. He must have a banana radar!
Bananas are a good treat after exercise, as they are rich in potassium and magnesium. These minerals help prevent muscle cramps and rebalance electrolytes after eating salty foods or drinking ocean water, which many dogs do.
As a rule of thumb, fruit shouldn’t exceed more than 5% of your dog’s daily diet, which is roughly what canines would eat in nature.
While some nutritionists say that bananas are nutritionally starchy treats and high in sugar, they do contain some beneficial nutrients.
Bananas have a moderate glycemic index, about 30% greater than apples. Less ripe bananas are generally less sugary and better for your dog.
Here are a few of the most important nutrients found in bananas and their health benefits:
IMPORTANT: While fruits such as bananas can be a great way to add more vitamins and minerals to your dog’s meals/ treats, they’re not enough to cover nutritional gaps. Unfortunately, neither is our and our dog’s food due to intensive agriculture and nutrient-depleted soils.
Make sure your dog gets all the essential nutrients for a healthy and long life by supplementing their diet with human-grade, bioavailable minerals and vitamins.
As with any food consumed in excess, bananas too can cause problems for your dog, including diarrhea and vomiting.
If your dog is overweight or has been diagnosed with diabetes, you may want to feed lower glycemic index fruits such as apples and consult your veterinarian for food recommendations.
The easiest and quickest way to feed your dog bananas as a treat is to cut them into small slices and serve them as is.
You can also make homemade frozen banana chips by placing the slices into the freezer for a couple of hours.
You can offer your dog the occasional dehydrated banana treat, but they are higher in sugar than the fruit. If you want to add some healthy fats, you can spread some coconut, pumpkin seed or almond butter but make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol which is toxic to dogs.
If you want to add a healthy topper to your dog’s meal, you can mash a few slices of banana and add them to their food. If your dog is a busybody and loves to be entertained, you can add mashed bananas inside a Kong Toy or spread it on a lick mat.
Last but not least, you can add bananas to your favourite doggie fruit smoothie and mix them with your dog’s supplements for a delicious immunity booster.
You should avoid giving your pup fruits such as grapes/raisins, black and red currants, and grapefruits because they’re highly toxic to dogs. Feed cherries, peaches and apricots without pits as they contain cyanide.
In fact, dogs can eat bananas, but you should feed them only as an occasional treat. Bananas are rich not only in minerals and vitamins but also natural sugars. Thus, giving your dog bananas every day or more than a few slices at a time can upset their stomach.
If you haven’t given your dog bananas before, start with a couple of slices and see how their stomach reacts. If your dog tolerates bananas and likes them as a treat, I recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine the best portion size.
Bananas contain a high amount of fibre that can help improve digestion and maintain regular bowel movements. However, giving your dog too many bananas or being allergic to them can cause diarrhea.
That being said, cooked squash or pumpkin is better suited to soothe your dog’s upset stomach than bananas. Check out our holistic guide to treating dog diarrhea for more diet and natural treatment recommendations.
Although the chance of having your dog be allergic to bananas is slim, you should always start slowly when introducing new fruits to your dog’s diet and test how their body reacts. If your dog develops symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, itching, hives, and swelling soon after eating bananas, please see your veterinarian.
No, while the banana peel is not toxic to dogs, it’s hard to digest and can potentially cause intestinal blockage. If you want to feed your dog some bananas, take the peel off first.
Yes, as long as the banana chips and dried bananas have no added sugars or artificial sweeteners, they’re safe for your dog to eat.
Banana chips and dried bananas are a crunchy and healthy treat you can easily make at home and bring along on your outdoor adventures with your pup or use for training. Make sure you give these banana treats in moderation to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach.
Yes, frozen banana slices can be a refreshing summer pup treat. Depending on your dog’s size, you can break the slices into smaller bits to avoid choking, especially if they like scarfing down their food.
Yes, puppies can be fed bananas but only in small amounts. Since bananas are high in sugar, it’s recommended not to give your puppy more than a few slices of banana a day as a treat. Feeding your puppy more than that can cause digestive upset.
]]>Discover if dogs can eat strawberries and how to add this nutritious fruit snack to your best friend’s diet. This short guide includes the health benefits of strawberries, vet-approved recommendations on how to feed them to your dog and a couple of homemade strawberry treat ideas for you to try.
]]>If you enjoy sharing healthy snacks with your best friend as I do with my dog Pax, you’re probably wondering what fruits are safe for dogs and which ones are toxic.
While strawberries can be a delicious, nutrient-rich addition to a dog’s meal, there are several dos and don'ts you need to keep in mind before feeding them to your pup.
So if you’re interested to learn more about the health benefits of strawberries, how to safely feed them to your dog, and what strawberry dog treats you should stay away from, you’re in the right place.
The answer is yes, strawberries are non-toxic and healthy for dogs if eaten in moderation. You can feed your dogs strawberries as a health-boosting snack because they’re low in calories and rich in essential nutrients.
Even though strawberries are safe for dogs, it’s important to acknowledge that they’re one of the most heavily sprayed fruits. This is why I recommend choosing locally-grown organic fruit whenever possible or growing them yourself.
It may be a surprise to some of you, but British Columbia, Canada, where I've lived for more than 30 years, has the most delicious summer strawberries I've ever eaten, so not sharing them with my dog Pax is completely out of the question! Sometimes, he eats them fresh, but he also loves them as a frozen summer treat to cool off.
Strawberries are packed with vitamins and minerals, some Omega-3 fatty acids such as ALA, antioxidants, and fibre that help boost the immune system and promote optimal organ and digestive function.
Here are more details on the nutrients found in strawberries and how they can boost overall health:
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, protects the body against free radical damage and reduces inflammation.
Folate (vitamin B): Promotes normal cell growth and regeneration and aids in healthy organ development.
Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and balances electrolytes.
Magnesium: Protects brain and heart health, regulates blood sugar, and maintains healthy bones.
Fibre: Feeds the friendly gut bacteria and supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
I generally recommend giving your dog small amounts of fruit — up to 5 percent of their daily diet — as dogs usually eat only a limited quantity of fruit in nature.
Whenever you feed your dog strawberries be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides. You can give them whole, blended into a smoothie, or cut up, depending on your dog’s preference.
I prefer feeding strawberries to Pax at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after feeding a protein meal. Protein takes much longer to digest than fruits, so keeping the two separate when feeding your dog helps prevent digestive issues.
Always remove the leaves and stems from the fruit before serving them to your pup. While strawberry leaves are not toxic to dogs, they can cause stomach upset if ingested. However, I doubt many dogs would find them enjoyable in the first place.
Caution: Conventional strawberries are one of the most heavily pesticide-treated fruits. Ideally, buy organic strawberries and if you feed conventional ones, feed them only occasionally.
Can puppies eat strawberries too? Younger canines can enjoy strawberries just like their older counterparts, but with slight extra caution. Puppies' stomachs are more sensitive, and new foods should be introduced slowly.
Start by giving your puppy a small piece of a strawberry. Watch for any signs of an upset stomach such as diarrhea or vomiting. If no adverse reactions are apparent, you can gradually increase the portion size.
Keep in mind that while strawberries are a source of vitamins like A, C, B6, and sugar content, they shouldn't replace a balanced puppy diet. Although the immune system can benefit from these vitamins and the aging process can be slowed down, they should not constitute the main source of nutrition.
Dogs or people generally don’t benefit from canned strawberries as they contain high amounts of sugar or even artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which is very toxic to dogs.
Also, canned fruit is tainted with chemicals from the inside coating of the cans and high-temperature processing degrades the nutritional and vitamin value of strawberries.
If you want to give your dog a healthy fruit treat, stick with fresh or frozen organic strawberries. Speaking of treats, here are a couple of fun and easy homemade dog treat recipes for you to try.
Strawberries can be easily added to your go-to dog fruit smoothie for a refreshing summer treat.
Looking to prepare a healthy strawberry snack for your dog? Here is an easy recipe you can make in no time:
If your dog likes strawberries, I wouldn’t recommend exceeding 5% of their daily diet.
While there are many healthy nutrients found in strawberries, dogs still can be allergic. If your dog develops symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, itching, hives, and swelling soon after eating strawberries, stop feeding them to your dog and consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Grapes/raisins, black and red currants, and grapefruits are toxic to dogs and should be avoided. Also, although dogs can eat cherries, don’t forget to remove the pit as it contains cyanide.
If you want to feed strawberries to your dog, you need to adjust the quantity of fruit according to their size. Start with just a few pieces of fresh or frozen strawberry, and see how your dog’s stomach reacts.
For small dogs, I recommend a couple of strawberries per day. In the case of medium-sized and large dogs, you can give up to 10 strawberries per day. However, don’t forget that non-organic strawberries are one of the most heavily pesticide-treated fruits.
The only contraindication is if your dog is allergic to strawberries or displays symptoms of digestive upset after eating them.
Yes, dogs can safely eat strawberries, either fresh or frozen. Frozen strawberries can be fed whole or cut into bite-sized pieces if your dog has a tendency to gobble up food.
If you are wondering, should dogs eat strawberries? Indeed, strawberries are safe for dogs to consume. They are rich in fibre and vitamin C, folic acid, and additionally, they possess an enzyme that can aid in brightening your dog's teeth while being eaten. Similar to all fruits, strawberries have natural sugars, so it's advisable to provide them in limited amounts.
No, although removing the stems and leaves from strawberries before feeding them to your dog is recommended, they’re not toxic. However, if eaten, they can cause stomach issues for your pup.
]]>
Hi my friends, I arrived to Maui two days before the fires started and witnessed the tragedy's direct impact. I am ok, and stay about an hour away from Lahaina, however, witnessing what has happened is heartbreaking and hard to describe. 💔
Beyond the toll on the community, many pets are now in need – they're traumatized, many suffered burns, some lost their families or are lost.
Yesterday I went to The Maui Humane Society to see what they need and was informed that while there are plenty of physical donations and volunteers, they need funds to cover the cost of the treatments, rehoming, and rescue operations, and this is why I am turning to you with an invitation to join this fundraiser.
Your support will help:
❤️🩹 Medical Care: Attend to burns, smoke-related issues, and injuries
🐾 Rehab: Help these pets recover both physically and emotionally.
🏠 Shelter & Rehoming: Provide a safe space or even a new home for those in need.
🐶 Support their families: Aid with pet essentials, helping families rebuild and reunite.
Where's the money headed?
Directly to the frontline: The Maui Humane Society, vet care cost, and homeless families with pets.
Every bit helps, whether you can donate or share this message.
Thank you for showing up and making a difference. We'll keep everyone updated every step of the way.
With gratitude,
Dr. Peter Dobias, on behalf of my team and the whole community
Have you ever considered the impact of your dog's leash on their well-being? This article explores the unexpected dangers of retractable leashes, a popular but controversial tool among dog owners. From physical injuries and emotional stress to the increased potential for accidents, we delve into why these extendable leashes might be causing more harm than good. If you think giving your dog more freedom to explore is worth the risks, our findings might make you reconsider what leash you use for your canine companion.
]]>Before I get into the nitty-gritty of why retractable leashes can endanger your dog’s well-being, I’d like to invite you to do an experiment.
If you have a dog collar nearby, put it on your neck, attach a retractable leash and ask a friend to hold the handle firmly. When you’re in position, start running without knowing when you’ll hit the end of the leash. Nevertheless, I’m sure you'll feel it when you reach the end.
Sadly, there are millions of dogs around the world whose health has been affected by these seemingly benign tools without pet parents being aware of it.
The combined effect of the pull and sudden stop on retractable leashes greatly impacts the neck and, consequently, the health of many dogs, and this article aims to explain why.
For many years, I didn’t understand how dangerous retractable leashes are. While I’m aware this article may make some manufacturers unhappy, our dogs’ well-being is my priority.
I hope this information will help raise awareness about the injuries and health problems caused by extendable dog leashes and guide you in choosing safer alternatives for your canine friend.
Repeated jerks and pulling on the leash cause injuries to the neck if your dog wears a collar or to the chest and torso if you use a harness.
The neck is the region where the parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve fibres originate. When traumatized, it can profoundly affect organ function, resulting in heart issues (atrial fibrillation, dilation, or other cardiomyopathy), stomach and digestive issues, or problems with lung and kidney function.
At the same time, neck injuries can result in front leg lameness as foreleg nerves are connected to the cervical spine. Many people don’t realize that paw licking is often caused by an abnormal sensation and numbing due to nerve injury.
The thyroid gland is also a frequent victim of a harsh leash and collar combo, as it’s located directly under the front portion of the collar. Repeated trauma to the thyroid gland leads to the loss of thyroxin-producing cells, resulting in hypothyroidism which affects the ‘breathing’ or oxygenation and function of every cell in the body.
Retractable leashes pose a genuine safety risk for you and your canine companion. For example, many cases of the leash suddenly snapping back have ended up causing harm to both the dog and the pet parent.
Retractable leashes may give dogs the illusion of freedom, but they often compromise your control. When your dog runs out too far, retracting the leash can be cumbersome and slow, potentially leading to dangerous situations such as car, bike and other vehicle accidents.
The lock mechanism on retractable leashes can sometimes fail and get stuck, leading to potential accidents and serious injuries if an unfriendly dog approaches or your dog runs in traffic.
The bulky handle of retractable leashes can be uncomfortable to hold for longer periods, making your walks less enjoyable. A light, gentle leash that is easier to grip can enhance your comfort during doggie walks.
The speed at which the cord can retract poses a high risk of painful burns or cuts to your hands, especially if the leash wraps around your fingers.
If you have a “garbage hound” that has to stay under control in littered areas, retractable leashes make it harder for you to supervise your dog by allowing them to go far away. This can expose your dog to toxic waste and other things that, once ingested, might endanger their health.
When the retractable leash is fully extended, your dog might feel disconnected and start ignoring your commands.
Retractable leashes can inadvertently reward pulling, teaching dogs bad habits. With a traditional leash, your dog can learn proper walking behaviour and that pulling doesn't result in additional freedom.
The retractable cord can wrap around people, other pets, or objects, which could lead to injuries or accidents.
When your dog bolts on a retractable leash, either because they want to explore a particular area or are scared by something, the abrupt stop will yank them backward, which can often cause whiplash and neck pain.
The retracting mechanism can startle and stress dogs, impacting their overall comfort and happiness. Traditional leashes provide a consistent and predictable experience, reducing stress for your canine companion.
The durability of retractable leashes has often been called into question, especially the longevity of their retraction mechanism. Traditional leashes, being simpler and made of durable materials, are typically longer-lasting and more reliable.
Plastic and synthetic materials are another reason you may want to ditch retractable leashes and choose one made of natural, eco-friendly materials instead.
For the reasons above, I’ve never used a retractable leash on my dogs, and I’ve been searching for a safer option for years until I found one of the gentlest leashes available.
Handmade from strong, plastic-free, shock-absorbing materials, the Gentle Leash is the best alternative to extendable dog leashes because it helps you prevent injuries and protects your dog’s neck and health, and the planet too.
Retractable leashes put your dog’s health and safety at risk by causing injuries to their neck, throat and back and disrupting the energy, blood and nerve flow in the body. Moreover, using a retractable leash can result in injuries if the retraction mechanism malfunctions or the cord gets entangled, which could harm you and your dog as well as others and their dogs.
Walking your dog on a retractable leash can cause severe neck injuries that are most often undetected and can further impact organ health. The cord of a retractable leash can also cause cuts and burns on your hands and entangle other people and pets, resulting in injuries.
Yes, retractable leashes encourage dogs to pull while on a leash, as they learn that pulling helps extend the leash providing them more freedom to explore their environment. A retractable leash can be even more problematic for puppies that haven’t been trained to walk correctly on a leash.
Yes, unfortunately, the cord of an extendable leash can wear down in time and snap, especially if there’s a larger dog at the end of the leash pulling or running at full speed. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries if your dog wanders too far away.
I recommend avoiding the leash and collar combo when walking your dog as it can cause injuries and inflammation to their neck and throat and lead to hypothyroidism, kidney, lung and digestive issues, and heart disease. Switching to a well-fitted harness and a traditional leash can help minimize the pressure of tugs and jerks throughout the body and keep the neck and throat protected.
]]>This article covers common reasons why dogs lick their groin, such as muscle injuries, spinal issues, urinary problems, and skin allergies. Making dietary adjustments, giving supplements, and identifying the root cause is essential for providing effective relief and ensuring your dog's well-being.
]]>Index:
If your dog or puppy keeps licking their abdomen or groin area, it is natural to worry and wonder why. From my experience in practice, most people naturally jump to the conclusion that their pet has skin problems, an infection, allergies, or was bitten.
While these are all possibilities, your dog's persistent licking could be their way of signalling pain and discomfort in the area due to injury, inflammation, or possibly even bladder issues — which is actually the most common cause.
To avoid going on a wild goose chase trying to solve your dog's problem, it’s crucial to identify the cause and seek appropriate remedies.
In this article, I delve into the most common reasons for groin licking in dogs and cats, recommend supplements to aid their recovery, and share tips on how to manage skin irritation, inflammation, and provide links to other articles on skin allergies and hot spots.
Dogs are active animals, and muscle injuries, including groin muscles, such as the adductor (responsible for moving the leg in), and illio-psoas muscles. These muscles may be sprained and inflamed due to injury, or from excessive one-sided exercise such as ball chasing, jumping up, or any repetitive exercise that is out of balance.
To detect such injuries, you can touch and feel the deeper tissue in the groin and inner thighs. Your dog may yelp, flinch, or react strongly if sore.
Recommended first aid:
Lumbar region back and spinal injuries or misalignment can lead to nerve impingement and abnormal skin sensations in the groin.
Such injuries are often caused by excessive or repetitive injuries.
Solution:
Follow the steps above and consult a professional with expertise in spinal adjustments, physical therapy or acupuncture.
Urinary tract infections, bladder inflammation, stones, or a rare form of cancer may cause a dog to lick their groin.
Solution:
If the issue is not resolved after addressing the above-mentioned steps, have your dog's urine and blood work tested and consider an ultrasound examination if urinary stones are suspected. Skin Sensation, Itching, and Allergies
Allergies are often over diagnosed while muscular skeletal issues are overlooked. If you apply the recommendations from above and the problem doesn’t resolve, you may need to refer to my article on allergies.
Hernias may also cause your dog to pay attention to their groin area. Check for any hernia bulges and consult your veterinarian.
Other causes of abdominal licking may be insects, fleas, mosquitoes, sharp grass irritation, or hormonal diseases like hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease.
If your dog continues licking, careful examination by a vet and a spinal alignment practitioner are key to making the right decisions.
While you are resolving the underlying causes, it is important to prevent your dog from licking the affected area in the meantime.
If your dog keeps traumatizing the skin, use a T-shirt or an inflatable collar to restrict their ability to access the area.
Excessive licking often leads to yeast or bacterial skin infection.
In such cases use a herbal Skin Spray formula to reduce redness and swelling, and follow the hot spot protocol if necessary.
For any dogs suffering from groin and abdominal licking consider adjusting their diet and incorporating the Fab4 supplements as recommended in our free natural diet video course and Recipe Maker. Improving your dog’s general health will resolve many stubborn health problems.
Understanding the root cause of your dog's groin licking is essential to provide them with the best care and relief. By identifying the issue, seeking professional help when necessary, and using supplements and remedies, you can effectively address your dog's condition.
You may have yet to hear about the new leash laws in Tofino, a small resort town on the west coast of Canada.
In the past, Tofino was one of the last places in North America where dogs and people could enjoy freedom on spectacular beaches in peace and harmony. Here is a photo of the area.
However, the Tofino Council recently approved a bylaw that requires dogs to be leashed in all public spaces, including the beaches. While the Council made this decision with the best intentions, there's much more to consider.
There has been growing evidence that off-leash time is vital for our dogs' physical and mental health, but the decision to prohibit off-leash dogs impacts the community more deeply.
Tofino is unique as a community where people from around the world visit to enjoy the unspoiled wilderness, amazing beaches, and relaxed and tolerant atmosphere — of which happy and freed dogs are part.
Although minor at first glance, the new community bylaw reflects a continuous erosion of freedoms for dog lovers and our society. Way too often, a few loud voices spoil it for everyone.
That's why I've written a letter to the Council in Tofino, expressing these thoughts and asking them to reconsider the new leash laws.
To make them listen, we need to unite as a community.
And while some of you may not be directly affected by the situation in Tofino, you may face similar problems in your own community. I hope that my letter will inspire you to write to your city council to bring about change for your dogs too.
40% of families in North America live with dogs. Until now, we have broadly accepted the gradual erosion of freedom for our dogs, but it is time to stand up.
People who live with dogs are healthier and happier. Dogs with plenty of off-leash time live longer and are much more socially adjusted, which prevents aggression, fearfulness, and other problems.
By signing this petition, we can show the Tofino Council that our dog community is open to discussing better solutions.
Be sure to share the petition with as many people as possible. The more support we gather, the more powerful our message becomes.
Let's join forces to support our dogs and our community. Let's make a difference together!
Dear Honourable Council Members of Tofino,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concern over the recent changes made regarding the Tofino community's dog leash bylaws, which now require all dogs to be leashed in all public areas, including our beautiful and wild beaches.
Tofino has long been a haven for humans and dogs alike, providing a refuge from our busy lives and giving us a sense of freedom in an otherwise complex world. Residents and visitors come here to enjoy the ocean and wilderness and spend time with our canine companions. There is a general understanding that happy and free dogs are very much part of the character of Tofino and are often featured in hotel brochures and ads.
As a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience, I am intimately aware of the importance of dogs in people's lives and how crucial off-leash time is for their physical and emotional well-being.
I have witnessed the stark contrast in dog behaviour in different locations worldwide. For example, in Vancouver, where leashing has become increasingly mandatory and dogs are generally disallowed on beaches, we have seen a rise in canine aggression and conflicts. In contrast, in Prague, where dogs are given off-leash freedom almost anywhere, and dog guardians are trusted to make responsible decisions, you rarely see any problems because most dogs are socially well-adjusted. The difference is striking.
The issue at hand in Tofino does not only concern dog owners but the community at large. With approximately 40% of Canadian households owning dogs, dog lovers represent a significant demographic of taxpayers and voters, and it seems only fair that our views are considered when drafting pet-related bylaws.
Having spent 27 years behind the Iron Curtain, I have also developed a deep appreciation for the importance of individual freedom, a value that most Canadians hold dear.
This is why it deeply saddens me to observe the gradual erosion of our liberties and to drift toward unnecessary restrictions and overregulation. History has shown that too much control often leads to more problems and that everyone wins when people have the freedom to create a community built on trust and respect.
Although dog leash bylaws may seem minor, they indicate an overarching pattern of increasing restrictions that threaten our cherished liberties and democracy. Good municipal government should be about trusting people and inspiring them to build a vibrant and thriving community of support and respect.
There are, undoubtedly, dogs that may be dangerous, as some people pose threats to public safety. However, it would be unfair and unwise to impose restrictions on the entire community because of the actions of a few. Instead, we should focus on dealing with those who endanger the safety of others, be they dogs or humans, without infringing upon the rights of the responsible majority.
Moreover, we must not succumb to the impression that the preferences of a vocal minority are the wishes of most people. I have also observed a rise in cultural or personal disliking of dogs in recent years. I love Canada for its multicultural society that respects and accommodates diverse views and customs. However, we should not do so at the expense of the freedoms of a substantial proportion of its citizens.
Dogs undoubtedly offer endless benefits to our health and well-being. They are proven allies in combating mental disease, depression, loneliness, and suicide and help us live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
Society must reassess our approach to regulations and acknowledge our dogs as valued family members. This is why I have decided to approach you, the Council of Tofino, and propose a comprehensive review of the matter, factoring in scientific evidence, community views, and the long-term importance of preserving our freedoms.
Dog lovers in Tofino are ready and willing to engage in constructive discussions and appreciate your understanding and consideration of our views. We are confident that we can find a balanced solution that serves the best interests of all Tofino residents and visitors — both two-legged and four.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
With gratitude,
Dr. Peter Dobias, DVM
Skin Spray is more than just a wound care solution; it's a harmonious blend of nature's most powerful healing herbs. This unique formula supports rapid healing, decreases wound swelling, and helps alleviate pain and discomfort. Safe for both humans and pets, Skin Spray is a testament to the power of nature and the wisdom of traditional European herbal practices.
]]>If you're looking for a more natural approach to wound and skin healing, this guide will help you learn how to treat wounds effectively without chemical antiseptics or antibiotic ointments and discover the medicinal herbs that heal wounds fast and prevent infections and scarring.
Do you recall the last time you or your animal friend had a scrape or a cut? Remember the stinging sensation of the antiseptic, the pain, the worry of ensuring the wound remains clean, and the struggle of managing to prevent an infection?
Most people worry about infections and struggle to make sense of conflicting wound-healing recommendations online.
What if I told you the key to quicker, safer wound healing could be as simple as applying a herbal spray that addresses pain, swelling, and bleeding and supports faster healing?
In my early days as a vet, I worked with horses who were very good at running through barbed wire fences, which gave me extensive experience in the area of skin healing.
Working with horses made me understand the secret to faster healing was hydrotherapy - taking a hose and rinsing the wound several times a day for 5-10 minutes with cold water to keep it clean. The stream of water not only prevents wounds from drying it also washes off bacteria and prevents infection.
When I ventured into small animal practice, I found a wide acceptance of chlorhexidine soap for wound care. Most people assume that because it is widely used, it's got to be good, but this isn’t necessarily true.
Chlorhexidine soap may be okay for killing bacteria, but it is also toxic to the skin cells that need to heal, which slows down the healing process; plus, it is considered an irritant to skin, eyes, lungs, and mucous membranes. It's surprising to me that chlorhexidine is still used in mouthwash.
You might think hydrogen peroxide is a safer alternative; however, even though it turns into water when it bubbles up, the chemical reaction destroys skin cells along with bacteria. This is why hydrogen peroxide also slows down the healing process and why I never use it.
Then there's Polysporin, a household name for wound-healing antibiotic ointments and creams. It may surprise you to hear that I never use it. The petroleum jelly base used in these products is the same stuff we get from crude oil, and it’s a skin irritant.
Overusing these products also breeds antibiotic-resistant bacteria, creating a film that slows healing. Dogs and cats are also attracted to the greasy substance, and licking causes more harm. So, they’re not really the best solution for wounds after all.
I first treat almost any wound, incision, or cut with a thorough flush of body-temperature water or a saline solution. I then dry the wound and apply a herbal Skin Spray that's pH optimized to promote quick healing.
Skin Spray supports fast wound healing, decreases wound swelling, and reduces pain and discomfort thanks to a blend of four herbs that work in synergy.
The formula is based on a European tradition of three generations of healers. I was lucky enough to have learned about herbs at an early age from my grandfather, an herbalist, and from my father, a veterinarian.
Unlike traditional disinfectants and chemical or antibiotic-based wound treatments, Skin Spray contains herbs that work in synergy with the body, activating its natural immune defence. It is also non-toxic, which is particularly helpful for pets that enjoy licking off topical products.
Skin Spray contains a unique blend of four herbs that help wounds heal fast while reducing pain and scarring:
Most people still believe that having a thick scab supports healing, but this isn’t true. In fact, thick scabs lead to increased chances of infection and more prominent scarring. Gently soaking and then removing a scab allows for quicker healing.
Sounds contrary to conventional wisdom, right? But during my 25-plus years in practice, I've seen how keeping the wound clean, preventing thick scab formation, and applying Skin Spray leads to faster healing than leaving the scab on.
Try it the next time you have a scratch or scrape, you might be pleasantly surprised!
I recommend washing under running water immediately and applying Skin Spray topically three to five times daily for a few days.
Apply Skin Spray on a piece of gauze or bandage liberally and change it once or twice daily until the skin is healed.
You can use Vetrap (a self-adhesive bandage) or something similar and spray Skin spray directly onto the bandage to SATURATE it with the herbal solution and keep it moist.
You may want to repeat, "SATURATE BABY, SATURATE!" in a thick European accent to help you remember this when you treat a cut. 😉
Even challenging wounds such as cut paws in dogs can benefit from this natural approach.
A gauze saturated with Skin Spray can prevent infections, significantly speed up wound healing, and can be used for athlete's foot, fungus, eczema, itchy skin, ringworm, bee or wasp stings, and mosquito bites.
Ultimately, chemical antiseptics, which are toxic to the wound, cells, and the whole body and harmful to the environment, are not the key to effective wound healing.
This is not to say that antibiotics are never needed when treating wounds; they just aren't needed as often as we once believed.
So the next time you or your animal friend have a wound, scratch, or sting, ensure you have Skin Spray in your emergency kit. Personally, I never travel without it.
Regularly applying our Skin Spray, which encourages natural healing, can minimize the risk of scarring.
Skin Spray contains yucca, a natural herb known for its bleeding-stopping capabilities.
If you're concerned, you should definitely seek professional medical advice. For less serious cuts, a rinse with body-temperature water or saline solution and then application of Skin Spray can help start the healing process.
Washing the wound under running water and applying Skin Spray, which contains natural anti-microbial properties, can help ward off infection.
Initial stinging or burning can be normal, but our Skin Spray contains herbs like calendula and witch hazel, which can help soothe these sensations.
Apply Skin Spray to the sting-affected area. Skin Spray is designed to help with reducing swelling and discomfort.
Skin Spray works wonders on insect bites, providing soothing relief from itching and swelling.
Redness can be a normal part of healing but is also a sign of inflammation or an infection. Skin Spray has anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce this; however, we recommend seeing your health care provider.
You should always check with a healthcare provider for concerns like this. Meanwhile, keeping the wound clean with water and Skin Spray can help prevent infection.
While some redness and puffiness can be normal, Skin Spray can help reduce these symptoms and speed up healing.
Actually, keeping a wound too dry can slow healing. Using Skin Spray keeps the wound environment balanced for optimal healing.
Tightness can be a normal part of healing. To soothe discomfort, try applying Skin Spray around the area (not directly on stitches unless advised by a healthcare professional).
Every person and every wound is different. If you're concerned, seek medical advice. And remember, regular application of Skin Spray can support faster healing.
Some discomfort can be normal, but Skin Spray can help soothe pain and support healing. If pain persists, seek medical advice.
Some oozing can be normal, but excessive or coloured discharge can indicate infection. Skin Spray can help prevent infection but consult with a healthcare provider if you're concerned.
Clean the wound with water or saline solution and apply Skin Spray. It's safe, non-toxic, and can help soothe pain and discomfort.
It could be. Skin Spray can help soothe the itchiness and swelling. For severe reactions, seek medical advice.
Skin Spray is a natural, non-toxic treatment option that's safe for long-term use and doesn't harm the body or the environment.
Absolutely! The ingredients in Skin Spray are natural and gentle, making it a great option even for sensitive skin types.
Skin Spray is safe and non-toxic, so if your pet licks the treated area, there's no need to worry.
Skin Spray promotes healthy tissue growth, helping to minimize scarring. Remember, keeping wounds clean and preventing thick scab formation is crucial for scar prevention.
Skin Spray can be effective for many types of wounds, but it's always important to seek professional medical advice for deep, large, or infected wounds or if the condition doesn't improve within a few days.
Yes, Skin Spray can be used on various wounds, from minor cuts and scrapes to more significant injuries. For severe wounds, it's always best to seek medical attention.
Skin Spray's natural, environmentally friendly formulation makes it a guilt-free choice for wound care.
While cleanliness is essential, keeping a wound dry can slow healing. Skin Spray maintains a moist healing environment, promoting faster recovery.
No, Skin Spray provides a cooling, soothing sensation, unlike traditional antiseptics' typical sting.
Gently removing the scab and keeping the wound clean, coupled with Skin Spray application, can speed up healing.
Skin Spray can be applied directly onto gauze or a bandage, which is then placed on the wound. Remember, serious wounds should always be seen by a healthcare professional.
Skin Spray is versatile and can be beneficial for various wounds. However, if your pet has a severe or non-healing wound, it's best to seek advice from a vet.
]]>
Have you ever heard of homocysteine? Many people are unaware that this amino acid is a marker of an increased risk of heart attack, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline in people and dogs. In this article, you will learn about homocysteine, what it means to have elevated levels, and how to keep it in check.
]]>Have you ever heard of homocysteine? Many people are unaware that this amino acid is a marker of an increased risk for heart attack, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline in both people and dogs.
In this article, you will learn about homocysteine, what it means to have elevated levels, and how to keep it in check.
The good news is that maintaining healthy homocysteine levels is easy and inexpensive!
Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid derived from metabolizing the essential amino acid methionine. Homocysteine synthesis is a normal part of your body's methionine metabolism; however, increased homocysteine levels are closely connected to various diseases.
Increased homocysteine levels are similar to a smoke detector going off inside the body; they are a red flag warning you of an increased risk for serious problems.
In recent years, research has shown a link between high levels of homocysteine and Alzheimer's disease, dementia, stroke, and cognitive decline in older people and dogs - in dogs; it’s commonly known by the term ‘dog dementia.’
Various factors, including genetic ones, can cause high levels of homocysteine, but one of the leading causes that stand out is a deficiency of vitamins B6 and B12. An increase in homocysteine and a deficit of vitamins B6 and B12 are linked to cognitive disorders and dementia.
Other causes can be kidney disease, hypothyroidism, certain medications*, and lifestyle factors like poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity in dogs and people.
*Several medications have been associated with elevated homocysteine levels; these include methotrexate, antiepileptic drugs, cholesterol-lowering drugs, drugs for Parkinson's disease, and metformin.
Homocysteine levels can vary, and the ranges for what's considered "normal" can differ slightly based on the laboratory that processes the test. However, here are the general guidelines.
In humans, normal homocysteine levels are typically considered to be between 5 and 12 micromoles per litre (µmol/L).
In dogs, normal total plasma homocysteine concentrations range from approximately 1.6 to 9.9 µmol/L. The wide range reflects the variations among individual dogs and different breeds.
Homocysteine is not obtained directly from the diet but is a by-product of methionine metabolism.
Homocysteine is measured through a simple blood test, where a blood sample is drawn and sent to a laboratory for analysis. As elevated levels of homocysteine can increase the risk of heart disease and cognitive disorders, it's generally recommended that individuals start testing their levels at around 50 years of age. Similarly, for dogs, it may be a good idea to consider testing at 10 years of age.
Besides determining the levels of homocysteine, the test is also helpful in assessing the need for supplementing vitamins B6 and B12 and other vitamins.
Several labs can conduct homocysteine tests on people. For instance, LabCorp provides a homocysteine plasma test, and Quest Diagnostics offers a Cardio IQ® homocysteine test. Mayo Clinic Laboratories also provides a similar service.
However, no known labs currently offer homocysteine testing for dogs, and such tests would have to be done in a human lab.
The good news is that there is a simple and more cost-effective way of reducing the levels of homocysteine and preventing its consequences, and that is vitamin supplementation.
Here are some practical steps to help prevent cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and cardiovascular disease.
As I mentioned, homocysteine gets metabolized back to methionine. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, converts it back to methionine, and vitamin B6 converts it into cysteine.
Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis.
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is equally essential as it participates in over 100 enzyme reactions, mainly related to protein metabolism. It is vital for brain development and function and helps the body make the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which influences mood, and melatonin, which helps regulate the body's clock.
Ideally, a diet rich in B vitamins can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels. However, due to intensive agriculture and the resulting depleted soil, research has shown that food alone cannot sufficiently provide the required nutrients and supplements are needed.
When choosing supplements, it’s important to be aware that not all supplements are created equal. Most vitamins are made of coal and crude oil, and the body doesn't benefit from them in the same way it does when given food-based fermented vitamins.
Fermented vitamins are different because they are bound to a bioprotein matrix, and the body recognizes them as food. Some benefits of fermenting vitamins include increased potency, bio-availability, as well as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Fermented supplements are also gentle on the stomach, unlike conventional vitamins, which frequently cause digestive upset.
We are the only company making a fermented certified organic multivitamin and organ support for dogs.
Only a handful of fermented vitamin supplements are available for people, most of which have now been acquired by multinational companies.
My team and I have worked hard to ensure our independence and continue exceeding customers' expectations with the quality of our products and customer care. See what our customers have to say - check out our reviews.
We know how much your dog means to you and how much you mean to your dog. My team and I are grateful for the opportunity to help support you and your dog on your journey toward better health. Give our products a try and feel the difference!
]]>
There are numerous myths surrounding what the canine diet should or should not include, which is why finding the answer to 'can dogs eat tomatoes?' is not as easy as you'd expect.
In the realm of veterinary medicine, many recommendations appear to be handed down through generations of practitioners and accepted without question. One such belief is the potential toxicity of tomatoes in dogs.
I did a lot of digging on this topic, and there doesn’t appear to be any proof that tomatoes are poisonous to dogs.
But are tomatoes a good addition to your dog's diet? In this article, I'll share with you everything I've found about feeding tomatoes to your dog, their health benefits and potential risks.
My curiosity was piqued by a fascinating encounter with Bobi, the oldest dog in the world, who had, surprisingly, been eating tomato sauce nearly every day of his long, healthy life!
This contradicts the decades-old advice given by veterinarians, including myself. Instead, I wondered, have we overstated the danger of tomatoes? Are ripe, cooked tomatoes safe for our canine friends?
Historically, our caution towards tomatoes stems from solanine, a glycoalkaloid found primarily in the green parts of the tomato plant, including unripe tomatoes, leaves, and stems. Solanine, in substantial amounts, is indeed toxic to dogs. However, the concentration significantly drops as the tomato ripens and is negligible in red, mature fruits.
This leads me to wonder — perhaps the danger is not with tomatoes per se, but rather with their unripe fruit, stems, and leaves. Bobi was one of several dogs that have done fine on tomatoes. Leonel, Bobi's dad, has given tomatoes to his other dogs, some of whom lived for more than twenty years!
After all these observations and the lack of empirical evidence against feeding ripe, particularly cooked tomatoes to dogs, I've decided not to avoid them when feeding my dog Pax.
Yes, they can, but the choice of feeding your dog tomatoes should be based on individual discretion and understanding. Given current knowledge, I cannot outright recommend tomatoes for everyone else's dogs.
Still, it may be time to reevaluate and update our advice on tomatoes for dogs. I take this as a reminder that we, veterinarians, must constantly scrutinize our recommendations to ensure we’re providing the most accurate and beneficial advice to dog parents, no matter how established some opinions are.
I invite you to read our comprehensive guide on safe fruits for dogs to find out what healthy treats you can add to your dog's diet.
Tomatoes are nutrient-dense fruit high in vitamins C and A, crucial for immune function, vision health, and skin and hair integrity. They also provide a good amount of potassium, which supports heart health and maintains blood pressure levels.
Moreover, tomatoes are well known for their high lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant associated with a lower risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Lycopene is also known for its potential skin-protective properties against UV damage.
Additionally, the folic acid in tomatoes makes them a beneficial dietary choice for pregnant individuals, as it is crucial for preventing neural tube defects in infants. Their vitamin C content aids in iron absorption, which can help prevent anemia.
In short, tomatoes are a versatile and tasty ingredient and a nutritional powerhouse offering a wide range of health benefits for dogs.
The tomato has a fascinating history and cultural significance. Here are a few curiosities about tomatoes:
Yes, but only ripe, red tomatoes that have been thoroughly washed. If you want to feed your dog tomatoes, avoid green or unripe tomatoes as these are high in solanine, a natural chemical that is toxic to dogs.
Tomatoes should be fed in moderation, as a treat. You can start by giving your dog one or two slices to see how they react.
Yes, as with regular tomatoes, make sure they're ripe first and feed in moderation.
No, ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs as an occasional treat. Make sure to remove the stems and leaves and avoid green tomatoes as these contain solanine and tomatine that are toxic to dogs.
Yes, if the juice is homemade and made from ripe tomatoes. Avoid feeding your dog store bought tomato juice as it can contain preservatives, additives and seasonings that are bad for dogs.
]]>
Discover why dogs eat dirt and learn about the six-step holistic program that helps to understand and curb this behaviour. This guide reveals how to recognize normal behaviour from potential health concerns and ensure your dog's optimal well-being
]]>
Index:
As a dedicated pet parent, seeing your dog eating dirt from your yard or digging up and licking dirt in the forest can be perplexing. It's natural to wonder why your dog is eating dirt.
In some cases, this might just be healthy, and harmless behavior because dogs are much more intuitive when it comes to what their body needs. However, in some cases, soil eating could also signal an underlying issue.
Understanding how to identify a problem from normal behaviour is essential to ensuring your dog's optimal health. Here, are 6 simple steps to help you determine what is going on with your dirt-eating dog.
Step 1 - Check for Missing Minerals and Toxins
Some dogs instinctively eat dirt to compensate for missing minerals or to neutralize toxins in their bodies. Unfortunately, due to intensive agriculture, soil depletion, and the variable quality of commercial pet food, mineral deficiencies, and toxicity are more common than one might think.
HairQ testing, or Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA), can help shed light on potential deficiencies. In addition, we can gain insights into their nutritional history by assessing the mineral content in your dog's hair.
Step 2 - Detox the System, Provide Minerals
While awaiting the hair test results, consider starting your dog on an herbal liver detox and a plant-based mineral supplement. If the dirt-eating stops, toxicity and mineral deficiency are likely the root causes. However, if the habit persists, there's more to explore.
Step 3 - Rule out Indigestion
Dirt eating might also indicate indigestion. Commercially processed dog food is often far from what nature intended, and its nutritional value can also degrade over time. Switching your dog to a natural raw or cooked diet might alleviate indigestion and curb the dirt-eating habit. Here is a FREE video course on how to feed a raw or cooked diet and a handy Recipe Maker tool to help you easily create healthy balanced meals for your pup.
In the spring of 2023, I met Bobi, the oldest dog in the world, confirmed to be 31 years old by the Guinness Book of Records. He has only been given wholesome, non-processed food.
Step 4 - Correct Vitamin Deficiencies.
Low levels of B complex, and Vitamin B12, could also be behind your dog's dirt-eating. Fermented vitamins are the best way to correct such deficiencies. Learn more about Certified Organic Vitamins for Dogs.
Step 5 - Add High Potency Probiotics
Your dog might instinctively consume soil to supplement a deficiency in their gut microbiome. Soil is a rich source of diverse microbes that can support digestion, immune function, and mood.
You can help balance your dog’s microbiome and promote a healthier gut by adding fermented probiotics to their routine.
Step 6 - If your dog's dirt-eating habit continues
If eating dirt continues despite implementing the above-mentioned steps then it's wise to have more comprehensive blood work done along with further evaluation. This can help identify any underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, Addison's disease, Cushing's disease, and other health conditions.
Excessive and frequent dirt eating in dogs may also be a sign of boredom and obsessive behaviour. Ensure your dog has plenty of mental and physical stimulation and that you offer them the right raw bones to chew on.
Dogs need regular walks, ideally at least twice daily, playtime, and social interactions with other dogs.
To summarize, the frequency and volume of dirt eating behaviour is essential to determining whether or not it is abnormal. It’s okay if your dog occasionally tastes a bit of soil, especially from a healthy garden or forest. However, if they're eating dirt regularly or in large amounts, it might indicate a problem, and contacting your veterinarian is a wise choice.
Here's everything you’ll need:
The HairQ Test
Minerals
Detox
Vitamins
Probiotics