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  • Understanding Canine Ancestors for Better Digestive Health in the Modern Dog | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    If you’ve noticed your furry companion struggling with loose stools, excessive gas, or vomiting undigested food, you’re not alone. Many dogs today face digestive challenges that can affect their overall health and happiness. Is there something we can improve to make the digestive health of our dogs better?

    Canine Ancestral Diet

    Dogs are descendants of wolves. Wolves primarily ate raw meat, bones, and occasional vegetation. Modern dogs have adapted over thousands of years of living alongside humans. This means your canine companion’s digestive system has evolved to handle a more varied diet than their wild ancestors. But are there still some things that should not be forgotten? Can humans do better with the diets they give to their canine friends?

    In the wild, canine ancestral diet was very different than what most dogs eat today. When wolves and wild canines caught their prey, they didn’t just eat the muscle meat—they consumed nearly everything, including organs like the pancreas. The pancreas provided natural digestive enzymes that helped break down food efficiently. Modern dogs, however, rarely get these natural sources of enzymes.

    Moreover, a breakthrough study has uncovered a unique strain of “good” bacteria in wolves within the Paenibacillus genus. Classified as a probiotic, this microbe provides essential health advantages and may be a key tool in treating canine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For dogs struggling with this persistent condition, the strain could help alleviate common symptoms such as a lack of appetite, gastrointestinal gas, painful stomach cramping, and the characteristic “rumbling” stomach sounds associated with the illness.

    Why Digestion Matters

    When your dog can’t digest food properly, several problems can develop. They may not absorb essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins their body needs. This can lead to weight loss, low energy, and a weakened immune system. That constant hunger you’re seeing? It might be because their body isn’t getting the nutrition it needs from their meals. Study of canine ancestral diet for digestive health in today’s dog can give us useful clues. 

    Signs Your Dog May Have Digestive Issues

    Watch for these common warning signs:

    • Loose or watery stools
    • Frequent gas or bloating
    • Vomiting, especially with undigested food visible
    • Constant hunger, even after eating a full meal
    • Weight loss despite eating normally
    • Gurgling stomach sounds

    These symptoms can indicate that your dog isn’t properly breaking down and absorbing nutrients from their food. Different nutrients are needed for organs to function properly. Nutrient deficiency can lead to problems. 

    What You Can Do

    Feeding Organ Meats Safely:

    Start Small: Introduce organ meats gradually and in small amounts. Too much too quickly can cause digestive upset or diarrhea.

    Variety is Important: Different organs provide different nutrients. Feeding pancreas can provide digestive enzymes and other nutrients, liver is rich in vitamins, while heart is a good source of protein and taurine.

    Follow the 10% Rule: Organ meats and other extras should make up no more than 10-15% of your dog’s total daily diet. This helps maintain nutritional balance.

    Cook or Serve Raw: You can feed organs either cooked or raw. If you choose raw, make sure the meat comes from a reliable source.

    Watch for Reactions: Monitor your dog after introducing organ meats. Look for signs of digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea.

    Important Cautions:

    • Balance is key – Organ meats alone don’t provide complete nutrition
    • Too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity
    • If you’re considering a home-prepared diet that includes organs, ensure the diet is complete and balanced

    Discuss your plans with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the right amounts and ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are being met properly.

    Other Key Nutritional Principles Based on Canine Ancestral Diet 

    Protein Requirements

    Dogs require protein as a cornerstone of their diet. Their ancestors consumed high amounts of animal protein, and this remains important today. Adult dogs generally do well with diets containing at least 25-30% protein. Senior dogs may actually need even more protein – about 50% more than younger dogs – to maintain healthy muscle mass.

    The Role of Fats

    Wild canines obtained essential fatty acids from their prey. Modern dogs still need these fats for energy, healthy skin, and proper organ function. However, too much fat can lead to health problems like pancreatitis, so balance is important.

    Carbohydrates – A Modern Addition

    Unlike their ancestors who rarely ate grains or vegetables, modern dogs can digest carbohydrates effectively. Their bodies have adapted to use these nutrients as energy sources. Quality carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, oats, and barley can be healthy components of your dog’s diet.

    Choose Complete and Balanced Foods

    Ensure your dog receives complete, balanced nutrition. Look for commercial foods with an AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) statement on the label, which confirms the food meets nutritional standards.

    Tailoring Diet to Individual Needs

    Remember that not all dogs have the same requirements. Factors that affect nutritional needs include:

    • Age (puppies, adults, and seniors have different needs)
    • Activity level
    • Health conditions
    • Body weight

    If your dog is having any digestive trouble, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away. They can run tests to determine the underlying cause and rule out serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, or pancreatic problems.

    Your veterinarian can recommend:

    • A complete digestive workup including bloodwork and fecal testing
    • Dietary changes to a more easily digestible food
    • Probiotic supplements to support gut health
    • Enzyme supplementation to aid digestion

    It’s important to know that what works for one dog may not work for another. Your veterinarian can create a customized plan based on your dog’s specific needs, age, and health status.

    Remember, chronic digestive issues aren’t normal and shouldn’t be ignored. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications down the road. Your veterinarian is your best partner in getting your canine companion back to feeling their best.

    Focus on providing complete, balanced nutrition through quality diets. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the best feeding plan based on your individual dog’s needs, health status, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian may also refer you to a veterinary nutritionist for specialized dietary guidance if needed.

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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • Slippery elm for dogs and cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Slippery elm is an herb that helps ease digestive issues in dogs and cats, including diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Get safe usage tips, dosing guidelines, and veterinary advice.

    Digestive upsets in dogs and cats have many causes. If they’re persistent or recur often, it’s important to take your animal to the vet for a proper evaluation. For occasional short-term upsets, home remedies like slippery elm for dogs and cats can help relieve symptoms. Here’s what you should know about this herb and its benefits. 

    What is slippery elm?

    The slippery elm tree is native to the northeastern US. Its inner bark contains a polysaccharide molecular complex called mucilage. This creates an anti-inflammatory response in the body. Humans have long used slippery elm to help treat GERD, stomach issues, constipation, diarrhea, and more. It is safe for dogs and cats as well as humans. You can use it in your animal’s diet as a way of holistically addressing certain digestive concerns.

    1. Constipation and diarrhea 

    Slippery elm for is most often used for constipation and diarrhea in dogs and cats. These two conditions are common and can lead to chronic issues.

    • Acute diarrhea often occurs when the animal has eaten something he shouldn’t have. Veterinarian Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand recommends slippery elm to help calm the gut in cases of acute diarrhea. However, she warns: “Diarrhea should be addressed as soon as possible if there is blood in it, or if the animal has multiple uncontrollable bouts,” she warns. The same applies if your dog or cat’s diarrhea doesn’t go away or keeps recurring. 
    • If your animal is experiencing constipation, the lubricating qualities of slippery elm can provide relief. It’s especially helpful for animals with chronic constipation, offering a holistic remedy without the need for stronger medications.

    1. Vomiting

    Slippery elm can help treat vomiting (depending on the cause) by calming gastrointestinal inflammation and soothing the stomach lining. 

    Additionally, if your cat is vomiting because of a hairball, slippery elm can help by providing additional lubrication.

    Excessive vomiting in your dog or cat likely signals a more serious issue that requires prompt veterinary attention. Persistent vomiting can cause dehydration and weight loss if not addressed as soon as possible.

    1. Digestive disease

    Dogs and cats, like us, can suffer from many digestive diseases. Some are dangerous if ignored, so your vet should assess any chronic symptoms. Dogs and cats can experience any of the following, some of which are more serious than others: 

    “If these issues are left untreated, they can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, or damage to other organs,” warns Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand. “Chronic problems are often a sign of a more serious underlying disease. Slippery elm can’t treat all these issues — but it can help alleviate some intestinal discomfort in dogs and cats.”

    Giving slippery elm to your cat or dog 

    Slippery elm is generally well tolerated by dogs and cats Its pleasant taste makes it easy to mix into food, even for picky animals. The easiest way to give it is as a powder combined with wet food. Don’t sprinkle it directly on food, as your animal might inhale it. If your dog or cat likes the taste, you could also mix slippery elm powder with a bit of water and let him take it that way. 

    Slippery elm is a mild remedy, but you still need to dose it properly and avoid giving your animal too much. “For dogs, I recommend ¼ teaspoon per 20 pounds twice daily (no more than 1 tablespoon max),” says Dr. DiGrazia-Weigand. “For cats, I recommend 1/8 teaspoon twice daily.”

    As with any herb, talk to your integrative or holistic veterinarian before giving your dog or cat slippery elm. And make sure you find out what’s causing your animal’s digestive problems in the first place. In some cases, you can give slippery elm with other medications or treatments if your vet approves.

    Slippery elm for dogs and cats offers a gentle, natural way to support digestive health and ease occasional issues like diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. While it’s not a cure-all, this soothing herb can be a helpful addition to your pet’s wellness routine when used correctly and under veterinary guidance. 

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    Slippery elm’s inner bark contains a polysaccharide molecular complex called mucilage.  

    “Slippery elm can’t treat all these issues — but it can help alleviate some intestinal discomfort in dogs and cats.”

     


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    Abigail Jane

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  • Metabolic Support Secrets Every Dog Parent Should Know | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Dogs deserve a vibrant life full of energy and joy. But what if sluggishness or weight gain dims that sparkle? Supporting your dog’s metabolism unlocks their natural vitality, keeping them lively and healthy. Let’s explore how apple cider vinegar, herbs, nutrient-rich diet, and exercise combine to fuel your dog’s inner fire.

    Apple Cider Vinegar

    Apple cider vinegar (ACV) offers more than a kitchen staple—it acts as a natural digestive booster for dogs. Its acetic acid content enhances stomach acidity, improving nutrient breakdown and absorption. This supports efficient digestion and reduces digestive discomfort like gas or bloating. ACV’s prebiotic properties nurture beneficial gut bacteria, strengthening the immune system and promoting balanced intestinal flora. Many dog lovers notice improved appetite and healthier stool consistency within weeks of adding diluted ACV to meals.

    For safe use, always dilute ACV properly—undiluted vinegar can irritate the digestive tract. Choose raw, unfiltered vinegar with “the mother” to maximize benefits. This simple addition can transform digestion and overall wellness, making ACV a powerful metabolic ally.

    Herbal Help

    Certain herbs naturally stimulate metabolism and energy in dogs. Ginseng and Ashwagandha stand out for their ability to enhance stamina and reduce fatigue. These adaptogenic herbs support hormonal balance and help your dog maintain a steady energy level throughout the day. Incorporating them into your dog’s routine, under veterinary guidance, can counter sluggishness and support weight management.

    Nutrient-rich Diet

    A nutrient-rich diet complements herbs perfectly. Lean proteins like chicken and fish fuel muscle repair and growth, while fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber. Avoid overfeeding by measuring portions carefully to prevent unnecessary weight gain. This holistic approach nurtures metabolism from the inside out, creating sustainable energy and vitality.

    Exercise as Metabolic Medicine

    Exercise ignites your dog’s metabolism like nothing else. Regular physical activity burns calories, builds muscle, and supports cardiovascular health. Tailor exercise to your dog’s age, breed, and energy level—whether brisk walks, playful fetch sessions, or swimming. Aim for at least 30 minutes daily to keep metabolism humming and prevent weight-related health issues.

    Exercise also stimulates mental engagement, reducing stress and boredom that can lead to overeating. Combining movement with balanced nutrition and metabolic support supplements creates a powerful synergy that keeps your dog fit and joyful.

    The right metabolic support for dogs can shape their quality of life. Apple cider vinegar, carefully chosen herbs, nutrient-rich diet, and consistent exercise form a triumphant combination. Together, they unlock natural energy, support healthy weight, and enhance overall well-being. Begin today—your dog’s vibrant spirit awaits.

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    Animal Wellness

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  • Fido Is What Fido Eats | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Fido’s vitality, mood, and longevity hinge on his diet. Avicenna, the polymath, first emphasized the notion that what we consume, deeply affects our health and being. Later, Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, and then Ludwig Andreas Feuerbach popularized the dogma: We are what we eat. Applying this to the furry world, the philosophy remains the same. What Fido eats is the foundation of his health, influencing every wag and bound. So, we come to the conclusion that it’s quite important to give thoughtful consideration to what constitutes your furry friend’s diet. 

    Going Beyond Calories

    Dogs’ digestive tracts are finely tuned systems, evolved for specific nutrient absorption. Modern science has developed models such as the Functional Gastrointestinal Dog Model, which simulate canine digestion to understand nutrient availability and absorption without invasive testing. This research reveals how factors like food particle size and transit time affect how well Fido extracts protein, calcium, and other essentials. Digging a bit deeper about how feeding Fido will impact the digestive system and what will be its response can help you make better decisions.

    Holistic Nourishment Means Feeding the Whole Dog

    Holistic approaches emphasize balance and natural ingredients. Functional food components such as prebiotics, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids support digestion, immunity, and skin health. For example, prebiotics and probiotics foster a thriving gut microbiome, reducing digestive upset and improving stool quality, which means less mess and odor for the household.

    Practical Wisdom for Feeding Fido

    Choosing what to feed while feeding Fido requires attention to his breed, size, age, and activity level. Foods rich in functional ingredients provide benefits beyond basic nutrition, supporting overall wellness. Look for labels listing beneficial bacteria strains like Lactobacillus, marine-sourced omega-3s, and pure ashwagandha. These ingredients act at a cellular level and promote vibrant health.

    Bond Through Food

    Feeding Fido is an act of love and responsibility. Each meal is a chance to nurture his body and soul. When Fido thrives, his joyful energy uplifts the entire household. Thoughtful nutrition creates a partnership where health and happiness flourish together.

    Avicenna once said, “The physician should not treat the disease but the patient who is suffering from it.” This applies beautifully to feeding dogs—nourishment must be tailored to their unique needs. Embracing safe, effective holistic nutrition transforms dog companions mealtime into health time. Understanding unique digestive needs and choosing functional and natural foods ensures your furry friend leads a healthy and happy life.

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    Animal Wellness

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