Pet Nutrition: 'Fresh and Why its Best'

Petcurean pet foods- "fresh" and why its best

Elevated Liver Enzymes in Dogs

First and foremost, if you suspect a problem with your pets liver, go to your vet for testing.

It can often be a difficult and daunting task to diagnose dogs with liver problems, unless you specifically test for it. The liver is a vital organ that performs several crucial functions. It metabolizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in the body, and plays an important role in clotting of blood, filtering toxins, and the safe disposal of waste. The liver also stores fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K and also secreted bile which is vital for the proper metabolism of fats. If the liver is damaged it means the dogs body will not be able to detoxify the various metabolic waste and by products. When the liver is malfunctioning, these canine liver enzyme levels often rise.

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip dysplasia is a very common condition that exists in dog. It can be prevented or reduced by keeping three key factors in mind:

Diet – When a dog is obese or overweight, he/she is carrying too much extra weight. This can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia.  Owners should feed their dogs foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Exercise – Activities such as walking (30 minutes per day, atleast) and swimming can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of hip dysplasia. However, it is important to keep in mind that prolonged exercise should be avoided for dogs that already have this condition. Dogs that take regular walks have lower risks of developing symptoms than those that do not.

Hip and Joint Supplements – Painful wear and tear can develop because of too much movement over time. Therefore, owners should consider providing hip and joint supplements to their dogs. Supplements should include key ingredients to promote healthy hip and joint functions, such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Glucosamine helps produce joint lubricants and chondroitin helps by preventing stress injuries to joints. It also helps repair damage or worn out connective tissues.

Please visit our supplements page for more on what types to consider.

 http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/diet-exercise-and-hip-and-joint-supplement-for-dogs-help-prevent-or-reduce-the-severity-of-dog-hip-dysplasia-348026.htm

Research on Overweight Dogs

Here is another post about weight management folks!

According to a study done by Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, overweight pet dogs have a shorter life expectancy than those who are at their ideal weight.

Here is some information on the study that was done:

·   Study looked at 10 different breeds, both male and female.

·    Average of 546 dogs per breed was studied and was between the ages of 6.5 – 8.5 years.

·    Breeds in particular that have shorter life expectancy when overweight include: Golden Retriever, Beagle, American Cocker Spaniel, Labrador, and Shih Tzu.

·    Dogs that are overweight can get diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, as well as kidney and respiratory diseases.

·    Walking, running, swimming, herding, and jumping in agility training are some great exercises to manage your dog’s weight.

 

http://www.redorbit.com/news/science/1112967337/obesity-shortens-canine-longevity-100513/

If you have questions regarding your dog’s weight, please visit your local Vet!

Chia Coconut Crunch Truffle Treats

A great recipe for dogs for their skin and coat. 

Ingredients:
1.5 cups rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup coconut flour
1.5 tbsp chia seeds
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 cup almond butter
2 whole eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla
1/4 cup carob chips

Instructions: 
Choose organic ingredients when possible. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients, except the carob chips. Ensure ingredients are well incorporated, then fold in the carob chips. form small balls of dough with hands and place on cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely before serving. Store in a ziplock bag or airtight container, in the refrigerator or freezer. 

Can be served prepared or served as a raw whole food treat.  

source: Animal Wellness Magazine Volume 15 Issue 4