Water Soluble Vitamins - Vitamin C & Vitamin B Complex in Dog

The water soluble vitamins are not stored within the body except in small amounts***Vitamin B1(Thiamin) .01 mg/lb. Plants, fruit, vegetables, milk, meat Loss of appetite, loss of reflexes, loss of nerve control, weakness....

Water Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin C & Vitamin B Complex in Dog

According to Stedman's Medical Dictionary, a vitamin is 'one of a group of organic substances, present in minute amounts in natural foodstuffs, that are essential to normal metabolism.' As defined, vitamins are present in very small quantities in most foods and it is this fact that leads to the manufacture of vitamin supplements for dogs, cats, and people. Not only are vitamins naturally present in only small amounts, they are also essential for life.

The importance of vitamins has been known for only a short time, however, their actual effects were demonstrated long ago. Around 400 B.C., the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, first advocated using liver to cure night blindness. We now know that the essential component of the liver was vitamin A and it was the lack of vitamin A that caused the night blindness. Beriberi, the once feared paralytic disease of humans, was found to be curable by feeding unpolished rice. It is now known that the unpolished rice was rich in the vitamin B1 - thiamine. Low thiamine levels were the real cause of beriberi and a simple diet change could cure the paralysis.

The primary vitamins are normally identified as vitamin A, D, E, K, C, and B complex. Of these, A, D, E, and K are the fat soluble vitamins. Vitamins C and B complex are water soluble. The fat soluble vitamins are commonly stored in special fat storage cells called lipocytes, whereas, the water soluble vitamins are not stored within the body except in small amounts. It is for this reason that the fat soluble vitamins pose the biggest threat if oversupplemented. They are stored and build up within the body.

The body tissues do not readily store water soluble vitamins and when fed in excess, they are easily eliminated from the body via the urine. Because they do not accumulate within the tissues, there is minimal risk of toxic effects. In fact, we are not aware of a single toxicity case ever having been documented in either dogs or cats. All of the water soluble vitamins, just as the fat soluble ones, are inherently important for life. The lack of adequate amounts of vitamins has been well described in both pets and people.

We will outline the water soluble vitamins: vitamin C and B complex. Of the vitamin B complex we will discuss thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid, B12, and biotin.
Vitamin Recommended Minimum Daily Dose for Dogs Sources Signs of Deficiencies
Vitamin C Not required, synthesized in the liver of healthy dogs Citrus fruits and vegetables

Slowed healing, increased susceptibility to disease(?)

Vitamin B1(Thiamin) .01 mg/lb. Plants, fruit, vegetables, milk, meat Loss of appetite, loss of reflexes, loss of nerve control, weakness

Niacin .12 mg/lb. Meat, meat by-products Loss of appetite and weight, inflamed gums, hemorrhagic diarrhea

Vitamin B2(Riboflavin) .05 mg/lb. Organ meats and dairy products Poor growth, eye abnormalities, heart failure

Vitamin B5(Pantothenic Acid) .1 mg/lb. Meats and vegetables Hair loss, diarrhea, premature graying

Vitamin B6(Pyridoxine) .01 mg/lb. Found in most foods, damaged during processing Anemia, poor growth, skin lesions
Folic Acid .002 mg/lb. Organ meats Hypoplasia of bone marrow, macrocytic anemia

Vitamin B12(Cyanocobalamin,cobalamin) .00025 mg/lb. Organ meats, animal sources Macrocytic anemia
Biotin .001 mg/lb. Corn, soybeans, beef liver Poor hair, dry skin, diarrhea

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has long been considered the cure for the common cold in humans. In pets, it has been thought to prevent hip dysplasia, cure feline leukemia, and prevent urinary tract infections. We doubt that its use will prevent a dog that genetically carries the trait of hip dysplasia from developing this condition. However, we have worked with several animals that had clinical hip dysplasia, that when given high levels of vitamin C, seemed to exhibit fewer signs of joint pain. It did not cure the condition, but it did seem to allow the patient to better live with the problem.
In the case of bladder infections, as in human medicine, we believe that vitamin C is unusual in that it is excreted unchanged totally via the kidneys, and it therefore, acidifies the urine. This makes the bladder a much less hospitable place for bacteria to live. Most of the bacteria that cause cystitis (bladder infection) survive much better in environments that have an alkaline pH. Therefore, by acidifying the urine with vitamin C, these organisms are often eliminated. This is the reason many women are told to drink large quantities of cranberry juice by their doctors when they have cystitis.

As far as its use in viral diseases like the common cold or feline leukemia, in all honesty, there is little evidence of its value. At the same time, we would readily admit that vitamin C can do no harm when used. As we stated, it is excreted unchanged via the urine.

Forms of Vitamin C: We know that vitamin C exists in two forms: as dehydroascorbic acid and as ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid is easily hydrolyzed (mixed with water) and therefore, it is readily absorbed through the intestinal wall. Likewise, it easily enters the urine to exit the body. Very little is stored within the body and the minute amount that is, is contained within the adrenal gland. Ascorbic acid can be fed or it can be manufactured within the body from glucose. Unlike dogs and cats, guinea pigs and humans cannot manufacture vitamin C so their only source is in their diet.

Therapeutic Uses: Ascorbic acid plays many important functions in bone formation. It is involved in bone growth as well as bone mineralization. Deficiencies of ascorbic acid result in the syndrome known as scurvy. Dogs with scurvy exhibit weak bones and swollen joints usually accompanied by severe tissue hemorrhaging. Scurvy has not been reported in cats. In young dogs, scurvy is sometimes referred to as hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD). Dogs with HOD generally exhibit swollen, painful joints especially of the limbs. The swollen areas are the portions of the long bones that are growing. We might add here that a lack of vitamin C is only one factor in HOD. There are other causes of HOD that are unrelated to a vitamin C deficiency. A puppy may have HOD, but have perfectly adequate amounts of vitamin C. With this in mind, it is easily explained that only some patients with HOD will respond to vitamin C therapy.

Vitamin C is definitely justified as a supplement, especially in fast-growing puppies and in lactating bitches. It is not, however, a cure of hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic conformational abnormality and vitamin C cannot alter genetics. It may help alleviate the pain associated with dysplastic hips, but hip dysplasia is genetic and not nutritional. Whether the dog is in pain or not, or whether vitamin C does or does not help, the dog is still dysplastic and should be treated as such.

Vitamin C has been used with varying degrees of success in helping prevent the formation of some bladder stones in dogs and cats. The vitamin C makes the urine more acidic and maintaining an acid urine helps discourage the creation of most stone types.
In conclusion, vitamin C is widely used as a supplement in growing, pregnant, lactating, stressed, and working pets. There are numerous vitamin C supplements available.

There is no concern for vitamin C toxicity.

Vitamin B complex
Vitamin B complex consists of a multitude of B vitamins. We will detail thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid, B12, and biotin. All are B vitamins and together form the water soluble vitamin B complex. Toxicities from B vitamins generally pose no concern so we will mainly discuss their functions and the conditions that may result from deficiencies.

Thiamin: Thiamin, or vitamin B1, was the very first water soluble vitamin to be identified. It is required for the normal function of muscles and nerves because it converts glucose to energy.
Thiamin is found in plants, vegetables, fruits, milk, fish, and other meats. Like all water soluble vitamins, it is not stored within the body so it is extremely important that the diet have a sufficiently high amount.

In veterinary medicine, a thiamin deficiency is generally associated with pets that are fed a large amount of raw fish. Herring, smelt, and catfish contain large amounts of thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys thiamin. Pets fed these raw meats as a sole source of food will become thiamin deficient. Cooking fish prior to feeding will destroy the thiaminase enzyme, and therefore, cooked fish poses no problem. A deficiency of thiamin results in loss of appetite, weakness, loss of reflexes, loss of nerve control, and eventually death.

Niacin: Niacin, another B vitamin, plays a role mainly in helping enzymes to function properly. Niacin is found in adequate levels in meats and meat by-products and is very low in vegetables and grains. 'Black tongue' and 'sore mouth disease' are the terms used to describe a dog or cat suffering from a niacin deficiency. A pet suffering with black tongue will lose weight, fail to eat, and have red inflamed gums, lips, and inner cheeks. Bloody diarrhea and death may follow. Niacin deficiency is generally encountered when owners formulate their own diets for their pets and do not include meat as part of the ration. Be very careful when trying to convert a pet into a vegetarian. Dogs are omnivores, which means they must eat meats and vegetables. Cats are carnivores which means they must eat meat.

Riboflavin: Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, has been proven to be essential to normal growth, muscle development, and hair coat. Riboflavin is found naturally in organ meats and dairy products. It is lowest in grains, vegetables, and fruits. The unsupplemented vegetarian pet is at extreme risk of developing a riboflavin deficiency. Dogs fed a diet deficient in vitamin B2 will have poor growth, eye abnormalities, weakness in rear limbs, and eventually heart failure. Deficient patients usually have periodic episodes of fainting, and this is termed the 'collapsing syndrome of dogs.' Riboflavin toxicity is rare if not nonexistent; we know of no documented cases.

Pantothenic acid: Pantothenic acid is another B vitamin and is found in sufficient quantities in most raw foodstuffs including meats and vegetables. Processing of foods will reduce the amount of pantothenic acid available to the dog or cat. The role of pantothenic acid has been well described. This acid enables the body to create usable energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The symptoms of pantothenic acid deficiency include loss of hair, diarrhea, and gastric (stomach) upsets. It has also been associated with abnormal graying, particularly in black-coated animals. There are no known toxicities.

Pyridoxine: Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, is another B complex vitamin. Vitamin B6 is found in many foods, but processing easily destroys it. B6 is used by the body in the utilization of amino acids. It is absolutely essential for life. Deficiencies of pyridoxine lead to anemia, poor growth, kidney stones, tooth cavities, skin lesions, and in advanced cases, death. There are no known toxicities.

Folic acid and vitamin B12: Folic acid and vitamin B12 (also called cyanocobalamin or cobalamin) are two closely related B complex vitamins and are usually discussed together. They are necessary for the bone marrow to produce red blood cells, and a deficiency of either can lead to advanced anemia. In this type of anemia the red cells are fewer in number but are larger than normal (macrocytic). The quantity of white blood cells may also be reduced. Both vitamins are usually included in the diet and are found in organ meats. Toxicities are of no concern.
Biotin: Biotin is the last of the B complex vitamins that we will detail. Biotin is one of the most discussed of all vitamins, primarily because of its role in maintaining healthy skin and hair. It does much more than this, as it is necessary for growth, digestion, and muscle function. In some animals, it has been linked to litter size.

Biotin deficiencies have been reported following the ingestion of raw egg whites. Raw egg whites contain an enzyme called avidin that acts to destroy biotin. It is best if raw egg whites are not fed to dogs or cats. Cooking inactivates avidin. The yolk is very high in Biotin and if the whole egg is fed, the avidin in the white and the high biotin in the yolk cancel each other out. A patient suffering from a lack of biotin may have poor hair, skin lesions, dried eye discharge, diarrhea, decreased litter size, and in advanced cases, a paralysis of the limbs. Biotin is found in grains, but is not always of a usable quantity. Diets rich in corn or soybean are best, while those of wheat and barley are deficient. Beef liver supplies the richest source, with brewers yeast being next highest. Biotin supplements are also available. Biotin toxicity is rare to nonexistent.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Food Allergies and Food Intolerance

Food allergies account for about 10% of all the allergies seen in dogs and cats... Food allergies are true allergies and show the characteristic symptoms of itching and skin problems associated....

Food Allergies and Food Intolerance

Food allergies account for about 10% of all the allergies seen in dogs and cats. It is the third most common cause after flea bite allergies and atopy (inhalant allergies). With the advent of lamb and rice diets many people feel that they are preventing or treating food allergies. The fact is that nothing could be farther from the truth.

The entire process of a pet being sensitized to a particular agent in food and the complicated antibody response that occurs in the intestinal tract in pets with food allergies are not very well understood. Despite our lack of understanding of the actual disease process, there are many things that we do know including the symptoms, how to diagnose food allergies, and also how to treat them.

Food allergies affect both dogs and cats. Unlike atopy, there is no strong link between specific breeds and food allergies. Food allergies affect both males and females and neutered and intact animals equally. They can show up as early as five months and as late as 12 years of age, though the vast majority of cases occur between 2 and 6 years. Many animals with food allergies also have concurrent inhalant or contact allergies.

Food allergy or intolerance?

There is a distinction that needs to be made between food allergies and food intolerances. Food allergies are true allergies and show the characteristic symptoms of itching and skin problems associated with canine and feline allergies. Food intolerances can result in diarrhea or vomiting and do not create a typical allergic response. Food intolerances in pets would be similar to people that get diarrhea or an upset stomach from eating spicy or fried foods. Fortunately, both food intolerances and allergies can be eliminated with a diet free from offending agents.

Common food culprits

Several studies have shown that some ingredients are more likely to cause food allergies than others. In order of the most common offenders in dogs are beef, dairy products, chicken, wheat, chicken eggs, corn, and soy. As you may have noticed, the most common offenders are the most common ingredients in dog foods. This correlation is not a coincidence. While some proteins might be slightly more antigenic than others, many proteins are similar in form and the incidence of allergic reactions are probably associated with the amount of exposure. For example, pet foods have historically been made up of beef, chicken, corn, and wheat. In an effort to combat food allergies, several companies produced a diet made of lamb and rice. There was nothing special about lamb and rice diets except those two ingredients were normally not present in pet foods. Animals had not eaten lamb or rice before, and therefore, had not developed an allergy to it yet. If the main ingredients in pet food become lamb and rice, then it would stand to reason that the most common problem foods could become lamb and rice. The determinant of whether a food is likely to cause a food allergy or not is based on the structure and size of the glycoprotein in the food. In addition, many lamb and rice-based foods contain many other ingredients, and if the animal has a food allergy to any of them, this lamb and rice food will do nothing to treat the food allergy. In addition, while many people criticized and blamed preservatives and flavorings as a source of food allergies, studies have shown that they are not the causes, and while we may not have justifiable health concerns about preservatives, food allergies is not one of them.

skin lesions above the eye of a dog with food allergiesSymptoms

The symptoms of food allergies are similar to those of most allergies seen in dogs and cats. The primary symptom is itchy skin. Symptoms may also include chronic or recurrent ear infections, hair loss, excessive scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that respond to antibiotics but reoccur after antibiotics are discontinued. There is evidence that dogs with food allergies may sometimes have an increased incidence of bowel movements. One study showed that non-allergic dogs have around 1.5 bowel movements per day where some dogs with food allergies may have 3 or more per day.

It is difficult to distinguish an animal suffering from food allergies from an animal suffering from atopy or other allergies based on physical signs. However, there are a few signs that always make me suspect food allergies. One of these, is a dog with recurrent ear problems, particularly yeast infections. Another, is a very young dog with moderate or severe skin problems. A third tip off, is if a dog suffers from allergies year-round or if the symptoms begin in the winter. And the final clue, is a dog that has very itchy skin but does not respond to antihistamines or steroid treatment.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis for food allergies is very straightforward. But due to the fact that many other problems can cause similar symptoms and that many times animals are suffering from more problems than just food allergies, it is very important that all other problems are properly identified and treated prior to undergoing diagnosis for food allergies. Atopy, flea bite allergies, intestinal parasite hypersensitivities, sarcoptic mange, and yeast or bacterial infections can all cause similar symptoms as food allergies. Once all other causes have been ruled out or treated, then it is time to perform a food trial.

Elimination diets and provocative testing: A food trial consists of feeding an animal a novel food source of protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks. A novel food source would be a protein and carbohydrate that the animal had never eaten before. An example would be rabbit and rice, or venison and potato, or duck and rutabagas. These are homemade diets but there are several commercial diets available on the market. Special Foods produced by Hill's and Purina, and a food named EXclude are used by many dermatologists. Regardless of the diet used, it must be the only thing the animal eats for 12 weeks. This means no treats; absolutely nothing but the special food and water. Young growing pets have special dietary needs and a homemade diet that only contains one protein and one carbohydrate with no multivitamin or fatty acid may not be suitable even for only twelve weeks. For puppies undergoing a food trial, a balanced commercial diet like the ones listed above is recommended.

A food trial consists of feeding a dog a novel food source of protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks.

Veterinarians used to recommend that a pet only needed to be placed on a special diet for 3 weeks, but new studies show that in dogs, only 26% of those with food allergies responded by day 21. However, the vast majority of pets responded by 12 weeks. Therefore, it is very important to keep the pet on the diet for the entire 12 weeks. If the dog shows a marked reduction or elimination of the symptoms, then the animal is placed back on the original food. This is called 'provocative testing' and is essential to confirm the diagnosis. If the symptoms return after going back on the original diet, the diagnosis of a food allergy is confirmed. If there has been no change in symptoms but a food allergy is still strongly suspected, then another food trial using a different novel food source could be tried.

We must reiterate that placing a dog on a commercial lamb and rice formula dog food is not an acceptable way to diagnose or treat food allergies. Lamb and rice are no longer considered novel food sources and most commercial lamb and rice diets also contain wheat, egg, corn, or other ingredients that can be the cause of the food allergy. Despite the implication by dog food companies to the contrary, these foods do not prevent food allergies nor are they considered adequate for diagnosis. While these diets may provide adequate nutrition, they are not a substitute for a true, novel protein source diet.

The only way to accurately diagnose food allergies is with a food trial.

Blood Testing: Many owners and veterinarians attempt to look to other tests to diagnose food allergies. Blood tests such as the RAST test or the ELISA test can be performed to screen for food allergies. In addition, intradermal skin testing could also be performed. Despite the fact that these tests are routinely performed and used as a diagnostic aid, there is no evidence that blood tests are accurate for the diagnosis of food allergies. Veterinary dermatologists insist that there is no merit in these tests whatsoever in the diagnosis of food allergies. The only way to accurately diagnose food allergies is with a food trial as detailed above. While the intradermal skin testing is excellent for diagnosing atopy (inhalant allergies) it is ineffective for food allergies. While the ELISA and to a lesser extent the RAST test can be used to help in the diagnosis of atopy, they have no benefit in diagnosing food allergies. In our review of all the current books and articles on veterinary dermatology and allergies, we could not find a single dermatologist that endorsed anything other than the food trial as an effective diagnostic aid. If you want to diagnose and treat food allergies you must do a food trial.

Treatment

Once we determine a positive diagnosis, then the treatment is very straightforward. The owner of the animal has two choices. They can choose to feed the animal a special commercially prepared diet or a homemade diet.

If the owner chooses to feed the homemade diet, then they can periodically challenge the pet with new ingredients and determine which ingredients are causing the food allergy. For example, if the animal's symptoms subsided on a diet of rabbit and potatoes, then the owner could add beef to the diet for two weeks. If the animal showed no symptoms, then they could then add chicken for two weeks. If the animal began to show symptoms, then it could be assumed that chicken was one of the things the pet was allergic to. The chicken could be withdrawn and after the symptoms cleared up, a different ingredient could be added and so on until all of the offending ingredients were identified. A diet could then be formulated that was free of the offending food sources.

If homemade diets are used, it is essential that they be balanced, with correct amount of ingredients, vitamins, and minerals.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Weight Loss Programs

A weight reduction program***Veterinary examination,Household participation,Diet change,Eliminate table scraps and reduce treats,Examples include:,Exercise,Dietary aids....

Weight Loss Programs

Like humans, overweight dogs are at risk for health problems and do not generally live as long as dogs that are trim. In addition to being at a greater risk for heart disease, overweight dogs show greater incidence of arthritis, circulatory problems, pancreatic disorders, liver disease, and more.
To determine if your dog is overweight, run your hand along his side. If you can not feel his ribs, it is time to start a weight reduction program. If your dog does not have a waist, that is another indication it is time to start a weight reduction program.

A weight reduction program for dogs is multi-faceted
and should include the following:

Veterinary examination

Any dog with a weight problem should be examined by a veterinarian prior to initiating a weight control program.

Certain medical conditions can cause obesity in dogs, and any dog with a weight problem should be examined by a veterinarian prior to initiating a weight control program. The veterinarian will determine if there is an underlying cause for the obesity or if there are other medical conditions present, which could complicate weight reduction. The veterinarian is also a valuable resource in helping you establish a weight reduction program specific for you and your dog. Certified veterinary nutritionists are also a good resource.

When starting a weight reduction program, your veterinarian can help you determine a realistic weight goal and timeline. It is important to understand how long the process may take. In general, a good goal to aim for is 1-2% of the body weight per week. We do not want the dog to lose weight too fast, since rapid weight loss increases the likelihood the weight will come back after the weight reduction diet is stopped.

Household participation

Setter licking plateOne of the main reasons weight reduction programs for dogs fail is that one (or more) member(s) of the household, or even the neighborhood, is not following the recommendations. Everyone must agree that the program is essential for the life and health of the dog. Each must follow the recommendations regarding diet, treats, exercise, etc., if the program is to be successful.

Diet change

Most weight loss protocols for dogs recommend estimating the dog's ideal weight, calculating the energy needs (maintenance energy requirements-MER) for a dog of that weight, and then feeding 25 to 50% of that amount of energy (calories). The calculated MER is based on the amount of energy used by an average, moderately active dog in a room temperature environment. There is extreme variability (up to 20%) in the actual MER of dogs weighing the same amount, since their activity level can vary greatly. For this reason, the dog's response to the program is monitored and adjustments made as necessary.

There are two basic ways to cut down on calories. One is to feed less of the food the dog is currently eating. The second is to switch to special weight reduction diets. And of course, with either way, table scraps are a no-no and treats need to be minimized.

Limit access to current food: If your dog will be placed on a weight reduction program that calls for her to continue eating her current food, it is generally recommended that the amount of food fed daily be cut back by 20 to 40%. For example, if your dog is normally fed 3 cups of dry food, she should now be fed in the range of a little less than 2 cups to 2-1/2 cups. After 3-4 weeks, the progress is evaluated. It may be necessary to cut the amount fed even further.
Feed a weight reduction diet: Weight reduction diets allow you to feed the usual amount of food (unless you are severely overfeeding), but still feed less fat and calories. For example, if your dog is normally fed 3 cups of dry food, the recommended amount of diet food will probably be about 3 cups also.

Feeding your dog more often during this time will keep hunger under control. Generally, feeding 2-4 small meals throughout the day is recommended. Also feed your overweight dog separately from the other pets to prevent him from eating their food. Feeding your dog before you prepare a meal or eat may also be helpful.

Eliminate table scraps and reduce treats

Table scraps are often high in fats and sugars, and thus in calories. Feeding your dog before you cook or eat may help decrease his begging. If you cannot resist giving treats, choose a treat that is made for dogs and is low in fat.

Examples include:

* Air-popped popcorn, non-salted and non-buttered
* Broccoli
* Cooked green beans
* Carrots
* Baked or frozen canned diet food (Cut small slices of canned food and bake them at 350ºF until crisp. Store in refrigerator. Alternatively, simply freeze slices of the canned food and feed it frozen to your dog.)
* Commercial low calorie dog treats

Treats should never make up more than 10% of the daily intake. New toys are often a good substitute for treats, as is exercise. For dogs who like to be groomed, a good brushing can take the place of food treats. If you ask your dog, she will probably say your attention is the best treat she could have.

Exercise

In addition to reducing calorie intake, it is important to increase the calories used. Exercise, may in fact, be more important than feeding a diet food.

walking older and overweight dog outside Exercise programs will need to be tailored to the dog taking into account the condition of the dog's muscles and joints, heart, and respiratory system. It is important to choose activities appropriate for your dog and do not overdo. Start slow and work up to higher activity levels. Rest if you notice signs of fatigue, like heavy panting. In general, leash walking for 20-60 minutes a day, five days a week would be a great way to start. Swimming is also an excellent activity for obese dogs, since it places less stress on joints.
Exercise is a great way to give your dog attention and can be a substitute for treats. Exercise will help your dog build muscle, and increase mental stimulation, taking his focus away from food.

Assure adequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids
If you are feeding less of your dog's regular food, it also means your dog is receiving fewer nutrients. The added exercise may also produce a greater demand for nutrients. A vitamin/mineral supplement may be helpful to guarantee your dog's body has what it needs to stay healthy, alert, and active. Until recently, many of the weight reduction dog foods were deficient in fatty acids, and supplementation was necessary. One of the consequences of decreased fatty acid intake is a dry, flaky hair coat. To keep your pet's skin and coat healthy, it may still be necessary to supplement your pet with a fatty acid supplement such as Dermcaps or Drs. Foster and Smith's Vitacaps. Many high high quality weight reduction dog foods contain fatty acids, to alleviate this problem. They would also be formulated to contain the adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Dietary aids

Various medications and nutraceuticals are being evaluated for use as an adjunct to the more traditional weight reduction program. These include dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which has been shown to have antiobesity activity in rodents. A recent study at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine demonstrated that dogs receiving DHEA while being on a weight reduction program lost weight faster and had lower cholesterol levels than those dogs who were on a weight reduction program alone.

Carnitine is being included in some weight reduction programs because of its effect on the utilization of fat by the body. Studies have suggested that another compound, pyruvate, has favorably altered the metabolism of obese rats and humans and was associated with increased weight loss. Chromium picolinate has been demonstrated to promote the activity of insulin. Its effect on weight loss in obese animals is being studied. The herbal compound Garcinia cambogia contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is being investigated as a potential antiobesity agent. Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone, is essential for energy production at the cellular level. It has been shown to benefit humans with various heart and muscle diseases. Again, studies of its effect on obese animals are currently underway. It has been shown to be safe, with no adverse effects demonstrated in animal studies according to Nutramax, a company which produces Coenzyme Q10 in an oral form for dogs, cats, and horses. Chitin/chitosan, a compound that may inhibit fat absorption and storage is undergoing evaluation as an adjunct to dietary alterations.

Monitor progress

Example chartKeep a written log of food intake (including all treats), exercise, and weekly weight. Weigh your dog weekly on the same scale at the same time of day. (Most veterinary offices will be more than happy to have you come in and use their scale.) It is sometimes helpful to plot out this information (dates and weights) on a graph. Remember, you may hit 'plateaus' in which your dog seems stuck at a certain weight. This is common. Do not despair, but continue with the weight reduction program.

A good way to help you enjoy your success is to take a 'before' diet picture, several during the weight reduction process, and then one at its conclusion. You will be amazed at the difference.
Make appointments with your veterinarian every 2-4 weeks to make adjustments in the weight control program.

Maintenance

Once the weight is lost, the last thing we want is for the dog to regain it. To be sure that does not happen, continue weighing your dog as you gradually increase food intake. You can either feed more of the weight reduction diet or change to a diet that is less restrictive. Do not start feeding free choice (the bowl of food is always there). If weight is regained consistently for 2 weeks, or more than 3% of weight is regained in one week, go back on the diet program. Remember, exercise needs to continue after the weight is lost or pounds will start to accumulate again.


Enjoy the results

When the weight goal is reached, congratulate yourself and your dog. You will be amazed at how much younger and livelier your dog seems to be. Enjoy the longer life you will be able to have with your happier, healthier friend!

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Feeding Puppies: What, When, How

puppies and sometimes, large breed puppies, for whom the protein, calcium,...Talk to your veterinarian about the best food for your dog...Type of food..Cow's milk can cause problems...Feeding schedule...

Feeding Puppies: What, When, How

Puppyhood is a time of rapid growth and development. Puppies require different levels of nutrients than do older dogs. Because of their special nutritional needs, your puppy should only receive puppy food for the first year. Most dog food manufacturers offer a special formula for puppies and sometimes, large breed puppies, for whom the protein, calcium, and phosphorus levels may be more critical.

Feeding the first few days

For the first few days you have your new puppy home, it is a good idea to continue feeding the same type and brand of puppy food and use the same feeding schedule the puppy was on before he came to you. Then you can slowly start using the food you have chosen based on information you received from the breeder and veterinarian. A pet needs to be switched to a new food slowly to prevent intestinal upset. By 'slowly' we mean over the course of 7-10 days go from feeding 100% of the previous food to 100% of the new food. For example, make a mixture that contains 25% of the new food and 75% of the old food and feed that for several days. Then make it 50-50 for several days, then 75% new food to 25% old food for several days. Then you can start feeding 100% new food. If at any time your puppy starts vomiting, or has loose stools or appears constipated, slow the rate at which you are switching him over.

Type of food

There are three forms of commercially produced dog foods: dry kibble, semi-moist (sealed packages), and moist (canned). Most trainers and veterinarians recommend dry kibble food. We rarely recommend canned or the semi-moist foods. Canned foods are typically higher in fat and are usually 80 to 83 percent water. That makes them pretty expensive if you squeeze out the top 4/5 of the can. The semi-moist foods are about 55% water and use high salt or sugar levels for preservation. Again, you are paying too much for water and puppies do not need the salt and sugar. Dry foods are only 9 to 11 percent water and are made of the same quality ingredients as the other types. They are more economical, easier to use, and in our opinion, better for your dog.

Probably the most important advantage of using dry foods and feeding them dry is that the abrasive action of eating them is good for the dog’s teeth and gums. Dog’s that constantly eat any of the softened foods usually have more dental problems ranging from tartar and plaque buildup, to abscesses, tooth loss, and gum disease. Any or all of these cause bad breath. In addition, dry food is easy to store, less expensive than alternatives, more conveniently served, palatable and has less odor.

With dog food, you pretty much get what you pay for. Economy brands are cheap and are made of the cheapest ingredients available. As such, their energy values are lower, and most importantly they often use poorer-grade proteins with lower digestibility, which means much of the food passes right through their system and is not absorbed. Premium brands, which include those classified as Super Premium and Performance, use higher quality ingredients from sources with higher biological values. Because better quality ingredients mean better digestibility, your puppy does not need to eat as much and less waste is produced (which means less to pick up in the yard). Regular brands, as you could guess, fall somewhere in between.

Remember, the back of the dog food bag does not tell the entire story, including important information like percent digestibility - how much of the food your puppy's body will actually use.

Talk to your veterinarian about the best food for your dog.

Table scraps are a No-No
The only thing we dislike more than canned or pre-moistened foods for dogs is table scraps. We strongly recommend never starting because once you do, it never stops. Most nutritionists believe that dogs that are on a good quality commercially prepared dry food are nutritionally better off than their owners are. This has been shown in many studies. Table scraps are usually higher in calories and certainly are not balanced. Neither are they fortified with the vitamins and minerals that dogs require.

Young puppies should not be given table scraps because their digestive tracts are not fully developed and table scraps could cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal problems. Table scraps fill them up, but do not provide the nutrients their rapidly-growing bodies need. Feeding them from the table teaches them the bad habit of begging and may make house training more difficult for you.

Cow's milk can cause problems

Cow’s milk has the sugar lactose. Dogs do not have the enzyme lactase that is necessary to digest it. That is why they often develop diarrhea or softer stools when fed milk. Most humans produce this digestive enzyme. Those that do not are said to suffer from milk intolerances. Dogs do not need fresh milk.

Feeding schedule

beagle puppy eating The puppy’s feeding schedule will be somewhat dictated by your own personal schedule. We do not want to leave food out for the puppy so that he can eat it whenever he wants. You need to be there for the feedings because you want the puppy and his entire body on a set schedule. This is best accomplished by feeding the pup what he will eat at specific times on a specific schedule. Puppies under six months of age should be fed three times daily; after 6 months they may be fed twice daily.

By feeding on a set schedule, the dog will then go to the bathroom on a more set schedule and make housetraining easier and faster.

Make it a habit to give the puppy some quiet time after the meal. Do not let the children romp and play with him for the first hour to an hour and a half after eating. This can lead to some stomach upsets that can sometimes be very serious. The puppy will probably need to go to the bathroom, however.

Amount to feed

The amount of food given with each meal should never be dictated by what is on the back of the puppy food bag. That is a good place to start, but from our experience, many puppies need less than what is on the bag, and a few may need more. Adjust the amount fed to maintain your puppy at an optimal weight. Your veterinarian can help you determine the proper amount to feed. Remember to have water available with or immediately following the meal.

One of the common complaints that veterinarians hear from dog owners, especially those with animals less than 18 months of age, is that they never eat enough. The owners feel the dog is not putting on weight or growing as fast as they think she should. They are tempted to somehow encourage their animals to eat more. Do not do it. The growth rates and appetites of young animals on a good quality food are primarily dictated by their genetics. Do not try to make your dog grow faster than she should or into something she is not. This will only cause problems. Artificially accelerated growth leads to bone and joint disorders.

Feed them the amounts they want and let their bodies dictate their needs.

Treats

Treats should never account for more than 10% of your puppy's caloric intake (which is not much in Toy breeds). Your puppy's food is his sole source for the nutrition he needs, so do not 'fill up' your puppy on treats before meal time.

Hard chew treats keep your puppy entertained and improve dental health by exercising the gums and scraping the teeth. It also satisfies your teething pup's need to chew.

Treats can be used during training to reward good behavior, but be careful not to overdo it.

Water

Puppies may seem to drink large quantities of water. They need water and cannot be deprived of it. A dog or cat can lose almost all of his body fat and half of his protein mass (muscle) and still survive. However, if this same animal loses 15% of his body water, he will die. Water is the most important nutrient of all.

For dogs of any age that eat dry food, water will be needed to rehydrate it in their stomachs for digestion. Puppies also need more water per pound than adults do because they are growing. Growth comes through very active metabolism at the cellular level. These processes produce many wastes and by-products that are excreted into the blood. It requires plenty of water to carry these substances to and be flushed through the kidneys. It is okay to schedule when your puppy drinks, but on a daily basis you must allow her to consume what she wants and needs.
Providing fresh water is important. Infectious agents and diseases such as leptospirosis, Giardia, E. coli, and Cryptosporidium can be transmitted through contaminated water sources. Providing fresh water greatly reduces the risk of disease and therefore keeps your pet happy and healthy.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

How Much to Feed A Dog to Meet His Energy Needs

The importance of knowing how much dog food to feed...What the pet food labels say**Understanding your dog's energy needs,How to feed your individual dog,Adjusting to change,...

How Much to Feed A Dog to Meet His Energy Needs

One of the most common questions that I am asked concerning dogs is how much to feed them. While this seems like a very straightforward question, there are actually some unique circumstances that make this question very difficult to answer. This article will help to explain those circumstances and will help pet owners choose the right amount of food for their dog.

The importance of knowing how much dog food to feed

Adult dog eating dry dog foodI once had an elderly client that bred and raised Labrador Retrievers. Whenever she brought her dogs in to the clinic I was consistently impressed with the fact that they were always about the perfect weight with beautiful coats and good muscle tone. Finally, one day I asked her what her secret was that allowed her to feed her dogs in such a way that they were always the perfect weight. She thought for a few seconds and then leaned forward and in a serious whisper divulged, "when they are skinny I feed 'em more and when they get fat I feed 'em less." Years and hundreds of nutritional consultations later, I am still impressed with the simplistic truth of that statement. Despite our determined efforts to devise a 'one size fits all formula' that will tell us exactly how much to feed a dog of a given weight, we still do not have one, and it is very unlikely that we ever will.

What that owner displayed was years of experience that allowed her to make slight adjustments in the dogs' diets to keep them at the perfect weight. Unfortunately, most owners do not have years of experience and hundreds of dogs under their care to allow them to become good at regulating their dogs' caloric intake. Yet, maintaining the proper weight is critical to ensuring good health in your dog. Underweight dogs often suffer from poor muscle tone, delayed healing, loss of energy, and metabolic and reproductive disorders. Overweight dogs, which are much more common, suffer from arthritic problems, an increase incidence of metabolic disease including diabetes and liver problems, as well as a lack of energy, and an increase in skin problems. They may also have a shortened life expectancy.

The health benefits from providing proper nutrition in the correct amount are immeasurable.

What the pet food labels say

There is one readily available source of information concerning feeding amounts. Every bag of food has a suggested feeding guideline based on the weight of the dog.

But there are several problems with these guidelines.

First, there is usually a wide range of recommended quantities to be fed.

Second, determining a quantity to be fed based on weight is an extremely inaccurate way of feeding.

Third, there is little consistency between brands in the recommended quantities to be fed.

For example, I did a quick survey of the labels of three of the most popular brands of dog food. They were all adult maintenance formulas with fairly similar ingredients, levels of fats, proteins, fiber, etc. All three labels had different recommendations on the total daily amount to be fed. One recommended 1¾ cups, the second recommended 2 cups, and the third stated 2¾ cups. This is a discrepancy of over 50% in recommended feeding amounts between three of the most similar types of dog food. What happens when you take into account puppy, senior, performance, and low fat foods? It is little wonder consumers are confused on this issue. The point is that the amount on the back of the bag is rarely the amount that should be fed, but should be considered a rough starting point.

Understanding your dog's energy needs

Table 1. Activity levels and daily energy requirements

Activity Daily Energy

Requirements

Weight loss 1.0 x RER

Neutered adult normal activity 1.6 x RER

Intact adult normal activity 1.8 x RER

Light work 2.0 x RER

Moderate work 3.0 x RER

Heavy work 4-8 x RER

Pregnant dog (first 42 days) 1.8 x RER

Pregnant dog (last 21 days) 3.0 x RER

Lactating female 4-8 x RER

Puppy - weaning to 4 months 3.0 x RER

Puppy - 4 months to adult size 2.0 x RER

The first step in understanding your dog's energy requirements is realizing that there is no set formula for determining your dog's individual needs. For people, it is fairly simple to calculate your recommended daily caloric requirements based upon your weight because, as people, we are all relatively similar compared to dogs. As a person, if you want to know how many daily calories you should consume all you have to do is look on a chart and there it is, give or take a few percentages for activity level and age. But with dogs, there are huge differences between breeds, size, growth rates in puppies, activity levels, skin and coat thicknesses, and living conditions. For example, compare the energy needs of a young Malamute living outdoors and learning to pull a dog sled to that of an adult Pomeranian living in a heated apartment, and the pound for pound difference in caloric needs could be over tenfold. Those kind of differences rarely happen in humans and these differences are why it is so difficult to have a set answer for how much a dog should be fed.

Table 1 gives some guidelines that nutritionists use for calculating caloric needs for dogs. This table is based upon a dog's Resting Energy Requirements or RER. The RER is the basic amount of energy that a dog would use in a day while remaining at rest. The formula to calculate RER for animals between 2 and 45 kg (5 - 99 pounds) is:

RER in kcal/day = 30(body weight in kilograms) + 70
Any activity or variable other than rest will require an increase in energy (RER) and an increase in calories to meet the energy needs. Realize that these numbers are not a reflection of maintenance calories but of resting energy levels. For example, a normal adult dog with normal activity is already at 1.6 times the resting energy requirement.

While this table does not tell us how much we need to feed our dog, it does show the significant variability in a dog's energy requirements based upon his activity. Remember that this table does not take into account characteristics like breed differences, air temperature, and coat insulation, which can additionally alter an individual dog's energy requirement as much or more than any of the activities listed above.

How to feed your individual dog

So where should you start? The first place to start is with the food itself. Feeding a poor quality food is never a good idea because in addition to actually being more expensive because of the increased quantities needed to fulfill nutritional requirements, it also produces more waste. It is also more likely to create digestive or behavioral problems. So, to begin, choose a high quality food and look at the recommendations on the label to get your starting point. From there you need to have an accurate weight of the dog and a projected target weight, whether it is an adult on a diet or a growing puppy. Look at the table above and get an idea of your dog's activity level.

Remember to factor in the other environmental variables and any additional calories in the form of treats or table foods, and adjust the starting amount accordingly. Ask your veterinarian's opinion on what your dog's ideal weight should be and factor that into your feeding amount.

Remember that most dogs are overfed and underexercised so, if in doubt, I usually tell people to feed a little less. After you have started feeding the amount that you have calculated that your dog needs, then you need to weigh your dog at least monthly to determine if the amount fed is appropriate. If necessary, increase or decrease the amount of food slightly until the dog stays at his ideal weight. A handy trick for weighing your dog on a bathroom scale is to weigh yourself while you hold the dog and then weigh yourself without the dog and subtract the difference.

Adjusting to change

Beagle puppy eating dry puppy foodAs you can observe from the table above, the amount of food that you feed your dog will change throughout your dog's life. Most weight problems develop slowly and will often begin when a dog goes through the transition from a growing puppy to an adult. The adult dog's appetite is often greater than his need. Another time during a dog's life at which weight gain occurs is when an adult dog becomes a senior and his activity level decreases. By being aware of the need to adjust your dog's calories and performing periodic weight checks, you can avoid overfeeding during these problematic transition times.

Knowing how much food to feed your dog can be a confusing problem. Start out with a quality food, note the feeding recommendations on the bag, add or decrease the amount fed depending on your dog's activity level and housing environment, and then start feeding that amount. From there, by carefully monitoring the dog's weight and making adjustments as needed, you can keep your dog at his perfect and healthiest possible weight.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Antioxidants As Preservatives in Dog Food

Artificial antioxidants,Natural antioxidants,Dog and cat foods, which often contain significant levels of fat, are especially susceptible to oxidation.....

Antioxidants As Preservatives in Dog Food

Antioxidants are substances that help to keep fats and fat-soluble ingredients (including vitamins A and E) from becoming oxidized. Once a fat is oxidized, it starts to taste rancid and loses much of its nutritional value. Dog and cat foods, which often contain significant levels of fat, are especially susceptible to oxidation. Canned foods are protected because they are airtight, but dry foods need to have antioxidants added to preserve them. If an antioxidant is used, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines require that the common name of the antioxidant must appear on the label, along with a reference to the fact that it is being used as a preservative.

dog eating dry foodThere are both natural and artificial antioxidants, and they all work to preserve food from oxidation. The most common artificial antioxidants used in the pet food industry are ethoxyquin, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Commonly used natural antioxidants include tocopherols (vitamin E), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), citric acid, and rosemary.

Artificial antioxidants

Artificial preservatives definitely keep ingredients stable longer and give a longer shelf life than natural antioxidants. However, consumers have had concerns over the safety of artificial preservatives in pet food. The most controversial of these has been ethoxyquin, which has been approved for use in animal feeds for over 30 years. It is currently allowed in dog foods at levels of up to 150 parts per million (ppm), or 0.015%.

About 10 years ago, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began receiving reports from dog owners who felt that ethoxyquin was related to the development of medical problems in their dogs, including allergic reactions, skin disease, organ failure, cancer, and behavior problems. There has been speculation that in the late 1980's, some companies that were making high performance foods began adding extra ethoxyquin as an inexpensive way to extend the shelf life of these higher-fat products. However, there are also those who maintain that most pet food manufacturers who were using ethoxyquin at that time, were actually using much lower amounts than that allowed by law. Without scientific evidence, it has been difficult to determine whether or not the problems reported were truly related to the use of ethoxyquin, and at what levels.

In 1997, the FDA reviewed a study done voluntarily by Monsanto, a major manufacturer of ethoxyquin. The results from this study showed that ethoxyquin levels above the current amounts allowed in dog foods produced no reproductive abnormalities. The only adverse effects noted were mild increases in the blood levels of certain liver enzymes and an increase in the levels of a normally-occurring red blood cell metabolite. These increases occurred in the livers of lactating bitches, who generally eat more than other dogs. These liver changes are considered to be mild and may resolve when the dogs return to eating less food; however, the complete health significance will not be known without further investigation.

The FDA felt that allowing ethoxyquin to be used at 150 ppm might not provide an adequate margin of safety in lactating females and possibly puppies. In July 1997, the FDA sent letters to the manufacturers of ethoxyquin and to the pet food industry, requesting that the maximum amount of ethoxyquin used in pet foods be voluntarily lowered from 150 ppm (0.015%) to 75 ppm (0.0075%). It appears that all pet food manufacturers have complied. There is a study being performed by the Pet Food Institute, an organization that represents pet food manufacturers in the United States. This study is designed to determine whether even lower amounts of ethoxyquin (30 or 60 ppm) would provide adequate antioxidant protection for dog food.

BHT and BHA are synthetic analogues of vitamin E, and are often used together. BHA is relatively stable at high temperatures. Both of these antioxidants are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used at specific levels, and they are the most common preservatives in human food. There is, however, continuing controversy as to the safety of these substances, as well. Both have been suspected of being carcinogens; however, in 2 animal studies, BHT and BHA have been shown to actually protect against cancer if they are added to food before an animal is exposed to a carcinogen. More research is needed to determine the true effect of these preservatives.

Natural antioxidants

Some consumers prefer pet foods with only natural preservatives. Vitamin E, vitamin C, citric acid, and rosemary are among the most commonly used natural antioxidants. Mixed tocopherols are a common source of vitamin E in pet foods. Vitamin C is provided by ingredients such as cranberries, blueberries, apples, and some other fruits. Citric acid is also found in many of these, especially citrus fruits. Rosemary is an extract from the plant Rosmarinus officinalis, an evergreen shrub which has anti-oxidant properties.

If you choose to use a dog food containing natural preservatives, keep in mind that they cannot extend shelf life as long as the artificial preservatives can. Consider buying the food in smaller amounts, to make sure that it is used up before it loses its freshness or nutritional value. Look for foods with a 'best if used by' date stamped on them. Store these foods in a dry location, away from excessive heat or humidity. If possible, place the bag inside another clean, dry container once it has been opened.

To make wise decisions when selecting your dog's food, become an informed consumer. Learn all you can about the various ingredients in pet food, and why they are used. Beware of claims that can not be backed up with scientific evidence, or that seem to go against your common sense. Watch for new information and reports on nutrition from knowledgeable sources. Being informed about pet food is another way you can help to protect your animal's health, so that you can enjoy many happy years together.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Fiber in Dog Foods

Choosing a fiber to help in the treatment of some common medical conditions ,Definition,Sources,Requirements and function,Role of fiber in weight management...

Fiber in Dog Foods

Fiber is one of the nutrients listed on every bag of pet food, but its importance has occasionally been questioned. As this article explains, fiber can have many health benefits for your pet. The type of fiber determines its role in the digestive process.

Choosing a fiber to help in the treatment of some common medical conditions can be a good alternative or adjunct to traditional drug therapy.

Definition

Fiber is made up of several different compounds all of which are carbohydrates. While fiber is essentially a carbohydrate for most nutritional discussions, the term 'soluble carbohydrates' is used to describe easily digested carbohydrates like starch, and the term 'fiber' is used to describe the 'insoluble carbohydrates' that resist enzymatic digestion in the small intestine. The most common fibers are cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, gums, and resistant starches.

Sources

Fiber is found in a variety of sources, but in pet foods, it comes primarily from the cell walls of plants and grains present in the food. Almost all carbohydrate sources will contain some fiber. Some of the most common sources of fiber in pet foods include rice hulls, corn and corn by-products, soybean hulls, beet pulp, bran, peanut hulls, and pectin.

Requirements and function

Fiber is not considered an essential nutrient in the diets of cats and dogs, but it is present in almost every commercial pet diet. Dogs and cats do not derive any energy from fiber, however, improved colon health is a benefit of having fiber in the diet, and therefore, its presence in pet food is often considered beneficial. There are several medical conditions that are greatly improved by the addition of fiber in the diet and they will be discussed in depth later in the article. The function of fiber in the diet is to increase both bulk and water in the intestinal contents. Fiber will shorten intestinal transit time in pets with fast transit times, and speed up the transit times in animals with slow transit times. What this means is that fiber will help treat both diarrhea and constipation. Fiber absorbs extra water in diarrheic stools, and it helps hold onto water, which prevents constipation. Some fiber is broken down in the intestine into fatty acids. These fatty acids will aid in preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. They will also help the colon cells to recover from injury and possibly help reduce the risk of colon cancer.


Rate of fermentation of common dietary fibers slow
and rapidly fermentable fibers

When people think about fiber, they are often concerned with the quantity of fiber present, however, the rate of fermentation is actually more important. The rate of fermentation of the fiber will actually dictate how beneficial it is for the given medical condition being treated. The rate of fermentation of a fiber determines its effect on the water holding capacity and the overall bulk of the stool. Slowly fermented fibers are the most effective stool bulking agents because they maintain their structure longer and hold more water. The rapidly fermenting fibers lose their shape and hold less water and bulk. In fact, if a large amount of rapidly fermenting fiber is fed, it can produce a laxative effect and produce diarrhea as a result. Unless a pet food is designed to treat a certain condition, a mix of both rapidly fermenting and slowly fermenting fiber sources is usually the most desirable.

Role of fiber in weight management

One of the most common uses of fiber in pet foods is in the dietary management of obesity. The addition of extra fiber in the diet, particularly slowly fermented fiber, is useful in reducing and preventing obesity. The slowly fermentable fibers that are added to specialized weight loss diets help to increase bulk and promote a feeling of satiety (fullness) without adding calories. The animal eats a satisfying meal, but consumes fewer calories and thus loses weight. If rapidly fermented fiber sources are used at too high of a level, then loose stools or excessive gas may result; so if problems arise using weight management pet foods, the source of the fiber should be examined.

Role of fiber in the control of diarrhea and constipation

Many of my clients are often confused about how fiber can be used for two very different problems, namely diarrhea and constipation. But once you understand the function of fiber it all begins to make sense. Fiber will absorb moisture in cases of diarrhea, and add moisture in cases of constipation. Moderate levels of both slowly and rapidly fermentable fibers will both absorb water and can be used to treat either symptom. In addition to its water absorbing properties, the binding and gelling properties of fiber also aid in the treatment of diarrhea.

Role of fiber in the control of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disease in dogs and cats. In some animals, controlling the disease can be difficult and time consuming. One of the more important breakthroughs in managing this disease has come from the recognition that by feeding a diet high in fiber to dogs with diabetes, we can help control the swings in blood sugar, minimizing the peaks and valleys in blood glucose that often accompany this disease. Feeding a high fiber diet to diabetic dogs has now become a standard part of treatment and has helped in the management of many diabetic patients. In cats, recent studies have shown that diets high in protein and fat aid in the dietary management of diabetes mellitus more than diets high in fiber.

Summary

Fiber has been an often overlooked ingredient in pet food. While there is no proven need for fiber in pet diets, there appear to be many benefits from the addition of both rapidly and slowly fermented fiber sources. Most commercial diets more than meet this need, but if your pet needs to be managed for obesity, diarrhea, constipation, or diabetes mellitus (in dogs), additional fiber sources may be beneficial.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/

Homemade Diets

Why would someone feed a homemade diet?,Why doesn't everyone feed a homemade diet?,The three kinds of homemade diets,Some things to consider before feeding a homemade diet...

Homemade Diets

The vast majority of dogs and cats in this country are fed commercial dry kibble or canned food as the sole source of their calories and nutrition. Since the 1940s, preprocessed commercial foods have become so commonplace that most people would find feeding anything other than dry kibble or canned food very unusual or abnormal. This article will explore the pros and cons of a homemade diet.

Why would someone feed a homemade diet?

There are several reasons why people feed homemade diets. Some people have pets with special dietary requirements that may be hard to meet with commercial foods, such as food allergies or to support a pet with a serious medical condition that may affect the appetite. Some people feed a homemade diet because they want a source of nutrition that is free from the by-products, chemical additives, and processing found in many commercial foods. A third group of animals that may be fed homemade diets are performance dogs such as sled dogs, since they require very high amounts of fat and protein that cannot be met by many commercial diets.

Why doesn't everyone feed a homemade diet?

People do not feed a homemade diet because for most of us it is too much work and most pets do well on commercial diets. It is also difficult to keep up with the new information on pet nutrition. The fact is that pets live longer now than ever before and a lot of that is due to improved nutrition, mainly, commercially prepared diets. In fact, pets do so well on commercially prepared diets, that by far, the single biggest nutritional problem veterinarians see is obesity in pets. Commercial diets have the benefits of affordability and convenience.

The three kinds of homemade diets

There are basically three different kinds of homemade diets being fed. The first is the true, well-balanced, nutritiously complete, entirely homemade diet. This diet contains premium protein sources, a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and fiber and meets the animal's entire vitamin and mineral needs. People that feed this diet are truly dedicated to the health of their pet. This type of diet requires a commitment of time and money.

Springer Spaniel eatingThe second diet is the supplemented homemade diet. It usually consists of a commercial dry food, and the owner then supplements the diet with meat and some carbohydrate sources. The family leftovers usually get scraped into the pet's bowl. If the table scraps account for more than 10% of the diet, imbalances can occur.

The third type of homemade diet is the one where the owners feed their pet only table food and do not balance the diet for protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins. This is not a good diet for your pet. It is often fed to finicky eaters. In an effort to please the pet and to get them to eat, the owner prepares a 'special' diet that may consist of chicken breast or turkey but lacks fiber, and the correct vitamins and minerals.

Some things to consider before feeding a homemade diet

* Preparing a homemade diet takes more time.

* A homemade diet may be more expensive than commercial kibble.

* A homemade diet needs to be supplemented with a multivitamin to ensure that it is completely balanced. Other supplements such as fatty acids and antioxidants may need to be added.

* As we learn more about nutrition, recommendations for nutrients change. People feeding a homemade diet will need to keep current on the new information. What was considered a balanced diet 5 years ago, may not be balanced by today's standards.

* If a homemade diet is not properly balanced it can be worse for your pet than commercial diets.

* Careful attention to the cooking and storing of homemade diets is necessary to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

* Once a pet gets used to eating a homemade diet it will be difficult to return him to eating a commercial food.

* Homemade diets are often soft and do not provide the chewing action that is good for the teeth and gums.

* If you are going to try to feed a homemade diet, you need to switch your pet from the commercial diet to the homemade diet slowly over a period of three weeks to prevent intestinal upset.

* The best diet in the world will not improve your pet's health if he does not receive daily exercise.

Article source:http://www.peteducation.com/