HOW TO BEGIN A VEGAN DOG FOOD DIET

VEGAN DOG FOOD: 

EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO KNOW

CAN MY DOG BE A VEGAN?

Veganism has been around for many, many years and individuals who have adopted the lifestyle for themselves have often wondered if Fido could also benefit from a meat-free diet.

In short, yes. With a proper, regulated diet and a few added supplements, your dog can be vegan and reap the benefits of veganism. In fact, one of the world's longest living dogs, Bramble, lived to a healthy 27 years old, stayed active throughout her entire life and yes, she was a vegan dog.

With that being said, there are quite a few things that pet owners must be aware of before adopting a vegan diet for Fido. It's certainly not as simple as avoiding meat and calling it a day. Your dog's body needs an ample amount of nutrients and it is imperative to make sure that they receive the necessary vitamins and support to live a long, healthy life. The transition period alone can be quite extensive. However, if you want your pup to be vegan, it is possible, and we hope to inform our readers exactly how it should be done. Let's get started!

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A VEGETARIAN DIET & A VEGAN DIET

It is important for dog owners to be aware of several facts and details before switching pet food. For some reason, a quick Google search will lead to several articles that use vegetarian dog food and vegan diets interchangeably. While vegetarian diets and vegan diets do have similarities, they also have important differences.

Vegetarian dog food and vegan pet food both lack meat. However, vegetarian diets can still have animal products such as eggs and milk whereas vegan diets cannot include any animal products. You can see why adopting any plant-based diet but particularly a vegan diet can be challenging... to say the least.

VEGAN DIET DOG FOOD

Luckily, there are quite a lot of vegan-friendly foods that are safe for Fido to enjoy on a vegan diet.
Some of these foods include:

• Dark, leafy greens (such as kale and spinach)
• Lentils
• Rice
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Quinoa
• Certain types of beans (note: beans can cause flatulence in dogs- use beans sparingly)

There is commercially prepared vegan food that states it contains all of the necessary nutrients and appropriate amounts of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids (specifically l-Carnitine and taurine) that Fido needs. With that being said, we encourage our readers to make sure they read and understand the labels. It is important to consult with your veterinarian regarding whether or not additional supplements will need to be added to Fido's vegan food.

Furthermore, it is even more important to consult with your vet if your dog has any pre-existing health conditions. Again, we completely understand that you want what's best for your dog and switching to a vegan diet may be apart of that want. However, it is imperative that owners make the transition knowing all there is to know about their dog's dietary needs and how to fulfill them prior to switching from a meat-based diet.

HOMEMADE VEGAN DOG FOOD 

If you prefer to prepare homemade vegan dog food there are also a few important details to note. Pet owners should make sure that at least 1/3 of the meal is high-quality, plant-based protein sources. This is also referred to as the base of the meal. For example, healthy base foods include lentils, oats, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. With that being said, you'll want to make sure that your dog doesn't have any allergies to any of the base meals. For example, many dogs have soy allergies that can lead to additional problems down the road.

MEAL BASE 

Many pet owners choose pinto beans as the base of their dog's vegan diet. Pinto beans are considered to be the most non-allergic food for dogs on a vegan diet. Keeping that in mind, you'll need to make sure that the beans are cooked completely until they are very, very soft. The next step is mashing the beans and then adding them to the other vegan ingredients before serving the dish to your dog.

THE REMAINDER OF A HOMEMADE VEGAN MEAL 

The remainder of your dog's vegan diet is just as important as the meal base and should consist of cooked and raw vegetables, whole grains, and additional necessary supplements such as amino and fatty acids. Another beneficial supplement to consider is sea vegetable flakes such as dulse or kelp. Pet owners can sprinkle the supplement on top of their dog's food for added benefits and nutrients.

Dogs can also benefit from fruits such as bananas, apples, watermelon, and oranges (among others). However, keep in mind that adding fruits can cause digestive upset when added to a high protein meal due to the different enzymes fruit contains so it is important to do so slowly and monitor any changes in your dog's normal digestion.

BENEFITS OF VEGANISM

Comparable to people, dogs can certainly reap the benefits of veganism so long as their diets have an appropriate balance of nutrients and supplements. While dogs are widely perceived as carnivores, they are in fact metabolic omnivores. In other words, it is possible for their dietary needs to be met with a plant-based diet.

In fact, the following benefits have been known to accompany a vegan diet:

• Reduction in allergies
• Skin issues
• Obesity
• Bad breath
• Other common ailments

Again, these benefits only come if the vegan diet is balanced and fits the dog's individual needs.

VEGAN FOOD FOR DOGS: MYTH BUSTING AND FACT CHECKING 

There are many myths and misconceptions about veganism. The fact is, veganism itself isn't "bad" or unhealthy. There is, however, a lack of knowledge about the diet and an overall health concern when it comes to not knowing how to prepare a  well-balanced, nutritionally complete vegan diet. Let's take a quick look at some of these myths and explain why certain thinking may not be entirely accurate.

DOGS NEED MEAT TO SURVIVE 

This actually isn't exactly the case. The media does a fair job of convincing us that wolves and dogs are closely related, however, this doesn't mean their similarities are identical. Dogs have been evolving for over 10,000 years. Domesticated dogs have changed enough and have adopted a different genetic component that has allowed them to make good nutritional use of plant-based foods.

MEAT = PROTEIN

It is true that dogs need protein for survival. However, the protein source does not need to come from meat. In fact, there are many food sources that are safe for our four-legged friends that contain no meat at all. For example, pinto beans and peas contain high protein levels.

A VEGAN DOG ISN'T A HEALTHY DOG

This is potentially one of the largest misconceptions about the vegan diet. Vegan dogs can be just as healthy as meat-eating dogs so long as their nutrient intake is closely monitored. Just because you're feeding your dog a  meat-based diet doesn't ensure their health just like feeding Fido plant-based foods doesn't mean their health will decline. A well-balanced, nutritionally sound diet is imperative regardless of what diet you implement.

VETS BELIEVE VEGAN DIETS ARE UNHEALTHY

This is also a myth. Veterinarians have opinions. Of course, their opinions involve medical studies and observations. However, many times they are what they believe, just as doctors will have their own opinions about whether their patients should choose certain lifestyle habits. If your vet doesn't agree with a vegan diet, it doesn't mean veganism is bad. However, hear them out on why they wouldn't choose a vegan diet for your dog. Does your dog have health issues? Are they underweight or have pre-existing ailments? We hate to sound like a broken record, but do your homework! Understand why your vet may have a certain opinion and then proceed accordingly.

VEGANISM IS DOG CRUELTY 

We really don't understand why this is such a talked about topic. However, it is, so we feel we must discuss it. Veganism is in no way, shape, or form animal cruelty. Many pet owners adopt a vegan lifestyle for their own specific reason, be it cultural, religious, etc. These individuals are certainly not being evil pet owners and we need to work to get rid of that unfortunate misconception.  

RISKS OF VEGANISM FOR DOGS

We've touched on the fact that there are risks that come with both a vegan and vegetarian diet. Anytime Fido isn't receiving the nutritional requirements their body needs, things can get scary... quickly. Here are a few risks that pet owners should be aware of.

INADEQUATE TOTAL PROTEIN INTAKE

Dogs who receive less than the 25 grams of protein per 1,000 calories recommended are considered to have an inadequate total protein intake.

IMBALANCE OF THE CERTAIN AMINO AND FATTY ACIDS

Particularly taurine and L-carnitine (for dogs and cats) and essential fatty acids arachidonic acid (in cats only)

VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

Particularly vitamins such as:

• B vitamins
• Calcium
• Phosphorus
• Iron

These vitamins are typically obtained through meat or other animal products. Therefore, if your dog is vegetarian or vegan, it is common for them to lack these nutrients.

The largest concern about deficiencies in the dog's diet is the irreversible health effects that they can have. Dietary problems can directly lead to very serious medical issues. For example, taurine deficiencies can lead to taurine-related dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that involves an enlarged heart with weak contractions and poor pumping ability. Additionally, low taurine levels can cause reproductive problems and failures, growth failures, and eye conditions.

For this reason (among many others) it is incredibly important to consult with a veterinarian and ensure that your pup is getting the necessary nutrition from their vegan diet. Again, nutritional deficiencies can cause a slew of irreversible effects.

VEGAN DOG GUIDELINES

According to experts in the field, the following are a few do's and don'ts when it comes to integrating a vegan diet.

• DON'T feed vegan or vegetarian diets to puppies and kittens. Also, do not feed vegan or vegetarian diets to dogs and cats you plan to breed. These animals need the full nutritional support of a species appropriate, meat diet.
• ONLY feed commercial vegan and vegetarian diets that have gone through feeding trials. These diets must meet the requirements for AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) compliance.
• DO consult with a veterinary nutritionist in order make sure that the vegan or vegetarian diet fulfills the necessary requirements for your dog's lifestyle.
• DO schedule more frequent visits to your veterinarian for blood exams and physicals to ensure that your pup is strong and healthy.

STAY ALERT AND AWARE OF CHANGES 

Honestly, this might be one of the most important rules in our guideline book. It is so critical to know your dog's "normal" and act appropriately if that normal changes. Be aware of things like their overall energy levels and demeanor. Dogs are notorious for hiding pain. It is imperative for pet owners to be hyperaware in order to recognize when something might be off with Fido, particularly when making a big lifestyle change.

HOW TO BEGIN A VEGAN DOG FOOD DIET

First and foremost, if you want your dog to adopt a vegan diet, it's best and easiest to begin early on in their life. With that being said, newborn puppies should not have a vegan diet as they need their mother's milk and proteins to develop healthy immune support. When you chose to adopt a vegan diet, be sure that your dog is getting enough non-meat protein, l-carnitine, and taurine in their diet. You may have to purchase l-carnitine and taurine in supplement form at the health food store and mix it into their food source. It is also imperative for pet owners to do their homework on foods that dogs can and cannot eat. The last thing you want to do is accidentally harm your pup in the process of trying to improve their health.

SLOW AND STEADY 

Additionally, anytime you change your dog's diet you'll want to do so slowly. Rushing the process can lead to a very upset stomach and a lot of resistance to the new food. Switching to a vegan diet is no different. Patience is key. Slowly begin integrating the vegan food into your dog's current meat-based food. Again, there is no reason to rush the process. If you switch food sources too quickly it will likely lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Trust us. This is not the encouragement that your four-legged friends need. Slowly but surely replace your dog's current food with the new vegan food until there is no meat left in their food. (This should typically take a few weeks)

Luckily, most dogs will eat just about anything (even things they shouldn't), but if your dog is resistant to the new food, you can try adding olive oil, nutritional yeast, soy milk, baby food without meat, and powdered kelp. Also, warming the food up can make the new meal even more enticing.

AN EFFECTIVE SUPPLEMENT FOR A VEGAN DOG

What some pet parents may not know is that Chondropaw also has extremely effective preventative properties. Fido doesn't need to be suffering in order to reap the benefits that Chondropaw has to offer. On top of all of that, Chondropaw is vegan!

One of the biggest concerns and misconceptions about a vegan diet is that Fido isn't receiving the necessary immune boosting supplements. Adding Chondropaw to your dog's vegan diet is a great way to ensure that your pup is safely and effectively getting the nutrients they need to live a long, healthy life.

ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Again, vitamin and mineral deficiencies are unfortunately common when it comes to vegan diets. It is imperative that pet owners ensure their dog is receiving the necessary nutrients that their bodies need. Many times this will mean implementing additional supplements such as amino acids, l-Carnitine and taurine, and others when necessary. Consult with your vet regarding what your individual pup needs in order to ensure their health and well-being.

VEGAN DOG FOOD: THE BOTTOM LINE

Pet parents may choose a vegan or vegetarian diet for their dogs for a number of reasons. From varying beliefs and backgrounds, health choices, or political, environmental, cultural, and religious ideas, whatever you choose for your individual pup is entirely your decision.

With that being said, if you decide to switch your dog's food to a plant-based diet, it's important to be sure that is nutritionally whole and complete and also includes the right supplements. Remember, while vegan diets can drastically improve your dog's energy levels, health, and temperament, it is also easier for your dog to not receive all of the necessary nutrients that they absolutely need.

As always, we encourage our readers to do their research and always consult with a veterinarian to ensure that Fido's diet isn't lacking in any way. A vegan diet has the potential to do a world of good for your dog but can also end up harming them if not executed very, very carefully.

SOURCES

Vegan Dog Food

Vegetarian Diet for Dogs and Cats

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

Vegetarian Cats and Dogs

Bramble – 27-year-old vegan Border Collie

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Gluten and its Effect on Dogs - Learn how Gluten can affect your dog's health

GLUTEN FREE DOG FOOD: SMART CHOICE OR CRAZY FAD?

The internet can be a wonderful thing. Nonstop information at your fingertips, a platform for advice, and a tool to share knowledge...right? While the internet can be an incredible source for quick tips and info, a lot of what you're reading, be it on blogs or social media, is merely opinions. Sure, many of these opinions are likely rooted in some form of study to back them up. Yet, they are opinions nonetheless.

A handful of years ago, one of these "opinions" started spreading throughout nutritional blogs and health food guides.

"GLUTEN. IS. BAD"

The rumor, more or less, spread like wildfire. People everywhere were adopting a gluten-free diet for what many described as health reasons. Additionally, many of these individuals wanted the same dietary restrictions for their beloved four-legged friend and thus, dog food companies began producing gluten-free dog food.

Now, we are certainly not saying that there aren't people and dogs who need to be gluten-free. There are. However, so many individuals (and by default their furry companions) jumped on the gluten-free bandwagon without really knowing why. In fact, for the vast majority of people and an even greater number of dogs, gluten isn't "bad" at all!

In this article, we hope to shed light on the misunderstood mystery substance known as gluten and inform our readers on the pros and cons of adopting such a diet. Furthermore, if your dog does, in fact, benefit from a gluten-free diet, we'll expand on how to make the switch and what to look for in a nutritionally balanced gluten-free meal.

WHAT IS GLUTEN?

Let's start with the basics. A surprisingly large number of people are unfamiliar with exactly what gluten is. They just believe that it's best to avoid it. (Here's where the misunderstandings begin) 

Gluten is a family of proteins that are found in grains, namely wheat, rye, spelt, and barley. It is made up of a protein mixture classified into two groups, known as prolamines and glutelins. Gluten helps foods maintain their shape. In a sense, gluten acts as a kind of glue that holds food together. 

WHAT IS CELIAC DISEASE

Here's where gluten can cause problems.

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten leads to damage of the small intestine. An estimated 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease. The troubling part is that approximately 2.5 million Americans are left undiagnosed and when celiac disease isn't treated properly it can lead to severe, long-term health complications.

When people with celiac disease consume gluten, their releases an immune response that attacks the small intestine. This immune response damages the villi, tiny hair-like projections in the small intestine that are responsible for absorbing nutrients from food. The damage to the villi inhibits its ability to absorb essential, basic nutrients including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and, in some cases, water and bile salts. As you can see, gluten consumption for an individual with celiac disease can lead to a slew of issues. For this reason, gluten-free diets exist and are extremely important.

However, for living creatures who do not have celiac disease or any form of gluten intolerance, having gluten in appropriate amounts is a completely safe part of a balanced diet.

Furthermore, dogs do not have celiac disease. Celiac disease is a condition in people. It is possible for dogs to have genetic gluten intolerances, however very uncommon. 

GLUTEN FREE VS GRAIN-FREE DOG FOOD

Another important difference to note is that between gluten free and grain free. Grain free is another popular trend that has been making its rounds over the last several years. Many people use the terms gluten free and grain free interchangeably, but in fact, they aren't the same.

Grain-free diets, as the name implies, are free of all grains. Gluten-free diets may or may not contain grain. This is because not all grains contain gluten. Therefore, grain free dog food will always be gluten-free, but gluten-free diets may very well contain grain as an ingredient.

IS GLUTEN BAD FOR MY DOG?

Extensive research and countless studies have proved that most dogs do not need a gluten free (or grain free) diet because gluten intolerances and gluten sensitivities in dogs are very uncommon. In fact, studies show that gluten is so uncommon that disease has only truly been diagnosed in a small number of Irish Setters in the UK. So then why have so many pet owners chosen to switch to a gluten-free diet? Let's take a look.

UNNATURAL FOR THE SPECIES 

Individuals who advocate for gluten-free and grain-free diets for dogs may argue that grains and gluten were not a part of the diet of our dog's ancestors. While there is truth to this, it goes without saying that our present-day, domesticated dogs have done quite a bit of evolving to get where they are today. This evolution includes internal changes that now allow dogs to consume and digest grains without any problems. In fact, dogs have several genes that have been altered throughout the course of their evolution and allow them to easily and efficiently digest carbohydrates. These carbohydrates include grains and gluten.

With all that said, while dogs may be perfectly fine on a gluten-free diet, for the vast majority of them, it is entirely unnecessary in terms of overall health and wellbeing.

FOOD ALLERGIES

Another common misconception regarding both grains and gluten is their connection to food allergies in dogs. Now, food allergies absolutely exist in dogs and it is possible that your dog is facing a reaction to something in their meal. However, corn and other grains are not among the most prevalent allergens that are found in pet foods. It may surprise you to learn that according to a recent, in-depth study, beef is actually the most common allergen. Dairy ranks second when it comes to food allergens and corn is actually one of the least likely sources when it comes to allergies.

There are, of course, rare occasions where the dog is, in fact, allergic to grains. In these cases, adopting a grain-free will be necessary. Again, grain-free and gluten-free are not one in the same. If your dog is allergic to gluten then a gluten-free diet will be required in order to ensure the health and function of their gastrointestinal system.

DOG ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

Since we're on the topic, you may be wondering the signs to look out for in terms of food allergies in dogs.

These symptoms include:

• Itchiness
• Excessive hair loss
• Bald patches
• Inflamed, irritated skin
• Sore and scabs
• Hot spots

If your dog is showing symptoms of allergies, it is possible that they do in fact have a sensitivity to gluten. However, it is far more common for the sensitivity to be caused by another factor. Environmental allergens are prominent causes of allergies in dogs. Everything from pollen in the air to pesticides can cause Fido to experience some form of allergic reaction. Before assuming that your dog has a gluten allergy, consider if there have been any changes in their normal day-to-day routine. Even changes in your life, i.e. new laundry detergent or a new perfume, can trigger an allergic reaction in your pup.

Additionally, if your pup does have a food allergy or sensitivity, you'll want to get to the root of the problem. While gluten sensitivities are uncommon, food sensitives as a whole are not. Figuring out what Fido is allergic to can be an extensive, time-consuming process. Typically veterinarians recommend an elimination diet where pet owners begin with an extremely bland diet and slowly reintroduce food sources until they find what is causing the reaction. While this can take several weeks to months, trust us when we say it's worth getting to the bottom of.

PERSONAL PREFERENCE

Ultimately, deciding to switch to gluten-free food for your dog is the pet parent's choice. It is very uncommon for dogs to have gluten intolerances and typically, the decision to go gluten-free is not based on necessity but rather a want based on personal preferences. If you do choose to make the switch, it is important to discuss the decision with your veterinarian in order to ensure your dog is getting the necessary nutrients in their new diet. Some dogs, for instance, dogs with diabetes, require a diet that includes complex carbohydrates. Be sure that your dog's health won't be in jeopardy by switching to a gluten-free diet.

SYMPTOMS OF A GLUTEN INTOLERANCE

While gluten sensitivities are uncommon in dogs it is still in the realm of possibilities that your dog may be allergic to gluten.

GI UPSET

If your dog has a gluten intolerance you'll likely see signs in the form of chronic gastrointestinal upset. The body's inability to properly digest the protein will typically lead to intermittent or regular diarrhea and/or constipation. Mucousy stools are also common when it comes to gluten sensitivities. In some cases, vomiting also occurs.

DERMATITIS

As we previously mentioned, chronic dry and flaky skin, hair loss, redness, irritation, bumps, rashes, and constant scratching are telltale signs that Fido may be suffering from a food intolerance. However, dermatitis is a symptom of many food intolerances, not just gluten.

CHRONIC EAR INFECTIONS

An overconsumption of grain, whether or not a sensitivity is involved, can lead to chronic ear infections. Of course, when there is a grain sensitivity, the chance of chronic ear infections developing significantly increases. This is due to the fact that too much grain leads to a build-up of excess sugars in the dog's body. The build-up of sugars leads to an overgrowth of yeast. You'll be able to identify an ear infection pretty easily. Look for dark, waxy, smelly build-up in the dog's ear. It is often accompanied by constant head shaking and scratching. If your dog has chronic ear infections, talk to your vet about whether they may have a grain allergy and how a dietary change to grain-free food may help.

ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS WITH GRAINS (AND GLUTEN)

It's no secret that many pet food companies overload their products with grains. Even if your dog doesn't have a gluten or grain intolerance, there have been many issues associated with the overconsumption of grains. Some of these issues include:

• Arthritis
• Epilepsy
• Abnormal behavior
• Allergic and inflammatory reactions
• Pancreatitis
• Hepatitis
• Weakened immune system
• Cushing’s disease
• Addison’s disease
• Thyroid problems

This is not to say that consuming grains will directly lead to the development of these conditions. However, the amount of grains in modern commercial pet food is generally excessive. Over time, this can deplete the animal’s natural state of good health and lead to additional problems developing. While we aren't suggesting to immediately switch to grain-free food, it's a fact that pet owners should be aware of.

SWITCHING TO GLUTEN FREE DOG FOOD

If your dog does, in fact, have a gluten sensitivity, you'll want to take the necessary steps to transition them into a gluten-free diet. As we mentioned, continuing to eat gluten if you have a gluten sensitivity can lead to long-term problems down the road.

As with everything, we encourage our readers to do their homework when it comes to making major life changes in their pet's life. We also recommend considering a species appropriate raw food diet. A raw food diet closely mimics what your dog's ancestors consumed and provides all of the nutrients that your dog needs. Of course, check the labels and ensure that there are no added grains or gluten to the food source (there shouldn't be but it's always better to be safe than sorry). 

Additionally, go slowly. Transitioning your dog to a gluten-free diet should be just like anything else: a gradual process. Switching your dog's food too quickly can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, something pet owners will want to avoid. Experts suggest beginning with substituting 10% of the dog's normal food with gluten-free food for the first couple of days and slowly adding more and replacing the previous food until the dog's diet is completely gluten-free.

WHAT DOES GLUTEN FREE DOG FOOD CONTAIN

The number one ingredient in gluten-free dog food should be a high-quality protein source. There should be no grains, wheat, soy, corn, preservatives, or artificial colors or flavors. Again, finding gluten-free dog food in the commercially grain loving world can be a bit of a challenge which is why we recommend considering a raw food diet. With that being said, gluten-free dog food does exist, you just have to know what to look for.

GLUTEN-FREE DOG FOOD: THE BOTTOM LINE

At the end of the day, we know that you want the very best for your beloved four-legged friend. That's why it makes sense that you would jump on the health food bandwagon. Keeping Fido healthy and happy? Sign us up!

With that said, it is important to remember that not every trend actually makes sense or is rooted in necessity or facts. This is particularly the case when it comes to gluten-free dog food. The number of dogs with a gluten allergy is so incredibly small. If you are switching to gluten-free to try to ease a food allergy, it is likely that the change won't actually fix the root of the problem.

We also understand that some pet parents are making the switch due to a personal preference. If this is the case, make sure that your dog doesn't have any preexisting condition that requires a complex carbohydrate in their diet. The last thing you want to do is cause your dog harm in the process of making a positive change.

All in all, stay informed! There will always be new health trends popping up.  Try not to make any decisions before knowing how it may affect Fido.

SOURCES

https://simplewag.com/gluten-free-dog-food/

https://celiac.org/celiac-disease/understanding-celiac-disease-2/what-is-celiac-disease/

https://www.beyondpetfood.com/dog/articles/difference-between-gluten-free-and-grain-free-dog-food

https://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=3140

https://www.thealternativedaily.com/gluten-free-dog-foods/

https://www.hillspet.com › Dog Care: What's New? › Nutrition & Feeding

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5 SIGNS THAT YOUR DOG IS SUFFERING

HOW TO TELL IF YOUR DOG IS IN PAIN

One of the worst feelings you may experience is knowing that your dog is suffering. But, sometimes it's very hard to recognize, know and realize that something is wrong with your pet. Dogs are notorious for hiding pain and by pet owner realizes that their pet is hurting typically means they are hurting really badly. But you could be your pet’s hero by identifying the signs and knowing what will help your pet.

Here we will shed light on precisely what dogs should be given for pain and why pet parents should keep their fur babies far away from medication for human consumption, despite what Google may tell you.

5 SIGNS THAT YOUR DOG IS SUFFERING

Dogs are known for hiding pain, it's instinctual for them. This is why pet owners should recognize any distress in order for pet parents to help heal their pets right away. But we don’t have mind reading capabilities so here are some tell-tale signs that your furry friend is likely to be in pain.

ENERGY

A decrease in energy level is a first notable sign that your pet is in pain. Pet owners should recognize what is and isn’t normal in their dog. All dogs a different, but if your pet is usually bouncing off the walls and is now glued to the couch, it is likely a sign that they are in pain or combatting a health issue.

BITING

Another sign of pain or distress is biting, including biting themselves or others. A clear indication of pain is when the dog doesn't want anyone near them or touching an area that might be sensitive.

SWELLING

The most visually noticeable sign of pain and distress is swelling. Swelling and inflammation are tell-tale signs that something isn't right, whether it's disease or injury. Pet owners should make sure that they are always keeping a close eye on any changes in their pup's behavior and body.

yOUR DOG'S TAIL

Another telling sign that your furry friend might be in some kind of pain is their tail. If your dog's tail is usually upright and is now either between their legs or sagging a bit, it's typically a sign that they aren't feeling like their best selves, often due to pain or distress.

EYES

Dogs that are experiencing pain will often have dilated pupils or bloodshot eyes. Your pup may also have loopy-looking sick eyes (the same way that human's eyes get when we are feeling under the weather).

So know that you know the signs, you must be wondering what are the solutions?

THE DO NOTs

The following over the counter (OTC) human medications are DEFINITE NO-NO's for dogs. Trust us, these medications will do much more harm than good and instead of easing pain will ultimately cause a lot more distress.

NEVER EVER Give your pet:

• Ibuprofen – found in Advil, Motrin, and Nuprin
• Acetaminophen – found in Tylenol and many decongestants
• Naproxen – found in Aleve

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF NSAIDS

If your dog accidentally ingests NSAIDs (of any dose), the side effects can be severe and tragic. Even the mild side effects aren't much worse than the initial distress that you may have been trying to aid in the first place.

Side Effects of Fido ingesting NSAIDs include:

• Severe, painful intestinal issues
• Vomiting (with or without blood)
• Diarrhea (with or without blood)
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Depression
• Kidney problems
• Kidney failure
• Bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract
• Liver dysfunction
• Liver failure
• Death

As you can see, NSAIDs should never be given to dogs as pain management.

A SOLUTION MADE EASY 

Which is why we highly recommend Chondropaw for pets. If you haven't heard of Immun-K for dogs then welcome aboard! Immun-k is an incredible Micro-doses of botanical extracts. Chondropaw for dogs is specifically made from 99% pure pharmaceutical grade Chondroitin composite by Aconitum, Allium Sativa, Avena Sativa, Bryonia Alba, Cinamoniun, Pulsatilla, Kali Carbonicum and Lycopodium making it  100% natural, effective, and safe. That means zero adverse, potentially irreversible reactions. Chondropaw comes in 2 different presentations that can be administered orally that can be enjoyed directly. Because of the fact that Chondropaw is all natural, it has virtually no side effects. This means pet parents have the ability to ease their dog's pain without adding harsh chemicals into the dog's delicate system.

These benefits include but are not limited to:

• Immune system support
• Pain management
• Aid for those suffering from seizures and epilepsy
• Easing symptoms of arthritis
• Preventing inflammatory bowel disease
• Fighting cancer
• Easing symptoms from medications and cancer treatment
• Reducing autoimmune disease
• Decreasing chronic inflammation
• Supporting heart health
• Easing skin and allergy issues

We are happy to report that Chondropaw for dog treats, is now making great strides in helping ease and manage pain in our four-legged companions. In fact, Chondropaw is making such substantial progress in the world of holistic veterinary health and wellness that the seemingly magical supplement has been quickly replacing what was one the "only" medication available for certain ailments.

We love Chondropaw for dogs because of the fact that it is all natural and has virtually zero side effects. Pet owners have seen a tremendous improvement in their dog's chronic pain such as arthritis pain as well as acute pain.

When it comes to your fur baby, you want what's best for them. The fact that it's entirely possible to improve your dog's health in an all-natural, safe way is something that we can all celebrate. Give Chondropaw a shot. You won't regret it!

   

 SOURCES

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How to Help a Puppy Who Isn’t Gaining Weight

How to Help a Puppy Who Isn’t Gaining Weight

You’re feeding your puppy a nutritionally-balanced diet and following the directions on the label with precision. You watch as your new best friend voraciously eats his dog food, and surmise his appetite isn’t the problem. Despite your best efforts, however, he’s not gaining weight as he should. Puppies grow at different rates, but if yours is below the average for his breed, there may be an issue. Anything from ineffective feeding methods to underlying diseases can cause slowed growth in puppies, says Dr. Dan Su, a clinical nutrition resident at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

You may unwittingly be feeding your puppy an insufficient number of calories or a diet that lacks essential nutrients for growth. However, “medical causes of slowed growth are more common and can include parasites, digestive issues (such as inflammatory bowel disease), a liver shunt, and diabetes, for example,” Su says.

Read on to gain insight into why some puppies are resistant to weight gain, as well as what you can do to tip the scale in their favor. Of course, run any changes you plan to make to your puppy’s diet past your veterinarian first.

Underlying Causes 

For pampered pets, the inability to gain weight is rarely due to inadequate food intake, “especially if the puppy’s appetite seems good,” says Dr. Cailin Heinze, a veterinary nutritionist at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton, Massachusetts.

It’s best to play it safe and bring your puppy to the vet to rule out medical causes. There could be any number of reasons behind her inability to gain weight, but intestinal parasites—particularly roundworms and hookworms—are probably the most common, says Dr. Joe Bartges, professor of medicine and nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia in Athens.

Inflammatory bowel disease, protein-losing enteropathy (any condition of the GI tract resulting in loss of protein), and hypoglycemia are examples of diseases your vet may look for, says Dr. Susan Jeffrey, a veterinarian with Truesdell Animal Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. Or the problem may be dental-related. “Is there something painful? For example, the puppy’s teeth may not have erupted normally and may be coming into contact with the tongue.”  

Additionally, certain foods can be too rich for some puppies and result in diarrhea. “This isn't necessarily a food allergy, but I think some pups with developing gastrointestinal tracts can't handle certain foods,” she explains.

Is Your Puppy Getting Sufficient Calories?

If your vet has ruled out an underlying condition, it’s possible your puppy is not getting the right number of calories. Jeffrey recommends discussing your dog’s diet with a vet and calculating the recommended daily caloric intake for the puppy, a methodology based on breed, a dog’s activity level, and reproductive status. “Spayed or neutered animals may not need as many calories as intact animals,” she says. 

Feeding a higher calorie food may be beneficial if the puppy has a poor appetite and isn’t finishing the recommended portion of food, says Heinze, who is board-certified in veterinary nutrition. “But this should only be attempted after parasites have been checked for and treated and blood work and other diagnostics have been done to rule out health issues.”

Examine Your Puppy’s Diet

Diets devoid of an essential balance of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates may also be to blame, says Jeffrey, whose professional interests include preventative care.

“You should be feeding your puppy a diet that is AAFCO-approved (complete and balanced) for growth, as well as choosing a diet that is appropriate for the presumed adult size,” Jeffrey explains. “For example, large and giant breed puppies should eat a diet labeled for large breed puppies.”

Despite what you might think, diets formulated for growth aren’t always high quality. “Consider changing the diet to a more well-known diet from a larger pet food company or even feed a therapeutic diet,” advises Bartges, who is board-certified in veterinary internal medicine and veterinary nutrition.

A raw food diet isn’t a cure-all, either. “While I help people with raw food diets if that is what they want to feed, I discourage pet parents from feeding raw food diets to puppies,” he says.  “The margin of safety is narrow during growth and this can be an issue not only for nutrient imbalances but also infectious disease.”

What to Avoid

You may be tempted to add a nutritional supplement to puppy food to encourage growth, but using supplements without consulting a vet can harm your canine companion. For example, “excess calcium can increase the risk of developmental orthopedic diseases in large breed puppies; excess vitamin D can lead to toxicity,” Su says.

Another potential problem to avoid is obesity. “Many puppies that owners deem too thin are at a healthy weight and the owners are trying to make them fat because they don’t have a good understanding of what a healthy puppy looks like,” Heinze says. “Unless the puppy has a known health issue, being slightly ‘ribby’ is generally healthier than slightly overweight, especially for large and giant breed dogs.”

Vets recommend frequent weight checks to ensure your puppy doesn’t become overweight. “And if weight gain is faster than desired, calorie adjustments can be made before weight gain becomes excessive,” Su says.

In addition to ruling out underlying conditions and ensuring your dog’s diet is balanced and provides the appropriate number of calories, you may want to examine your feeding methods. “Some puppies need several small meals throughout the day instead of two large meals,” Jeffrey says. “Feeding small meals may help with weight gain.”

Also look for behavioral clues. “If the puppy is having to compete to eat with other dogs in the house, the puppy should be fed separately,” she says. “Not only will this help reduce stress, it will allow the owner to determine the exact amount of food the puppy is eating.”

Author:  Paula Fitzsimmons

Via:petmd.com

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