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  • 7 Positive Changes After Switching to a Limited-ingredient Dog Diet | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Dogs with allergies or food sensitivities are challenging to feed. When you switch to a limited-ingredient dog diet, you can help alleviate symptoms and support your pup in other ways!

    Does your dog scratch constantly, get hot spots, or have digestive problems like diarrhea? Dogs with food allergies and sensitivities can experience a host of problems. In fact, it’s estimated that about 40% of dogs with dermatitis and itchy skin have food allergies. In other words, there’s a good chance diet could be contributing to your dog’s symptoms. When you switch to a limited ingredient dog food, it can benefit your pups’ sensitive stomachs and allergic reactions in many ways, including these seven!

    1. Say Goodbye to Surprise Allergy Triggers

    While it’s not always possible to pinpoint what your dog is allergic to, common ingredient list items include beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and eggs. When you limit their diet, you reduce potential allergen exposure, making it easier to avoid triggers and reactions.

    2. Improved Skin Symptoms

    When your dog eats food that contains something they’re allergic to, it triggers an immune response that includes inflammation and a range of skin symptoms, including:

    • Itching
    • Redness
    • Hot spots
    • Paw chewing
    • Hair loss
    • Skin dryness
    • Rashes
    • Flaking

    When you remove potential common allergens and irritants from their diet, it gives their immune system a chance to calm down, bringing relief from constant scratching and irritation.

    3. No More Recurring Ear or Skin Infections

    Food allergies cause itching and inflammation, so they can also cause recurring skin and ear infections. Inflammation can disrupt the skin barrier, so when your dog scratches, wounds form and bacteria enter, causing an infection.

    4. Improved Skin and Coat Health

    By stopping the allergy cycle, a limited-ingredient diet can give your dog’s skin and coat a chance to heal, especially if the diet contains quality protein sources, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Not only will symptoms cease, but they’ll also have healthier skin and a shinier, softer coat.

    5. They’ll Have Better Digestion and Less Upset

    Allergies and food sensitivities also cause gastrointestinal problems. Limited-ingredient dog diets usually focus on simple, highly digestible ingredients. This supports better nutrient absorption, less strain on the gut, and improved overall digestive health. What’s more, they’ll have better stool quality and fewer GI symptoms, such as:

    • Gas
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Bloating
    • Constipation

    6. Overall Health Can Improve

    Companies that make limited-ingredient diets typically prioritize high-quality, nutrient-dense, whole food ingredients and complete, balanced diets that promote stronger energy levels and better long-term wellness. Furthermore, a limited-ingredient dog food diet supports a calmer, more balanced immune response, enabling their body to focus on maintaining total body health.

    7. Their Appetite Could Return

    Dogs often avoid eating when food causes stomach pain, itching, or discomfort. By contrast, when their body feels good after eating, they’ll naturally develop a stronger, healthier appetite. Therefore, one of the benefits of limited-ingredient pet food is that it eliminates triggers and can help make mealtime enjoyable again.

    A Limited-Ingredient Dog Diet with Everything You Want, Nothing You Don’t

    Venture recipes from Earthborn Holistic are an ideal solution for dogs with allergies and sensitivities. They feature carefully selected proteins, omega fatty acids, antioxidant-rich vegetables, probiotics, amino acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. What they don’t contain is common triggers for allergies or sensitivities, such as:

    • Grains
    • Gluten
    • Egg
    • Peas
    • Legumes
    • Lentils
    • Chicken
    • Colorants
    • Fillers
    • By-products
    • Artificial preservatives

    Crafted in the USA using premium ingredients, Earthborn Holistic comes from a long-standing, family-owned company established in 1926. For generations, they’ve focused on nourishing food for dogs and cats with quality nutrition, protecting the environment through sustainability efforts, and giving back to communities through meaningful charitable programs.

    Visit Earthborn Holistic to learn more about their Venture recipes and other high-quality diets for dogs and cats!

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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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  • 7 Ways to Prevent Skin Problems in Dogs | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Skin problems in dogs are no match for regular grooming with natural botanical healing and grooming products. Check out these seven tips and say hello to skin and coat health!

    One of the most common challenges for dogs is skin and hair coat problems, like itching, hot spots, redness, dandruff, irritation, and hair coat loss. Allergies, infections, stress, nutrition, and other things can wreak havoc on a dog’s body. To address skin problems in dogs, you must treat the root cause and adopt a regular grooming routine. Today, we’ll cover seven tips that will help you nip these problems in the bud and tell you about essential oil-based healing and grooming products you should always keep on hand!

    1. Adopt a Regular Grooming Schedule

    Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed is one of the easiest ways to avoid skin problems. Regular brushing helps remove dirt, loose hair, and moisture that can lead to hot spots and fungal infections. For short-haired dogs, you can get away with brushing once or twice a week, but dogs with thick or long coats will likely require daily brushing.

    2. Dry Their Coat After Swimming or Bathing

    Moisture allows bacteria and fungi to grow, which can cause infections and irritation. Always dry your dog completely after baths, swimming, or rainy walks. And don’t forget to dry under the collar, behind the ears, between the toes, and under the legs.

    3. Learn the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Problems

    Itching, licking, redness, or a musty/yeasty odor are potential signs of an underlying skin issue. Catching these signs early can prevent them from developing into full-blown infections. If your dog is constantly scratching or licking one spot, inspect the area and talk to your veterinarian.

    4. Use Products That Are Formulated for Dogs

    Dogs have a different skin pH from other animals, which is why you generally shouldn’t use human shampoos or grooming products for them, unless your veterinarian recommends something specific. Instead, reach for Essential Canine’s naturally inspired grooming collection, crafted with gentle botanicals and pure essential oils that work in harmony with your dog’s skin and hair coat.

    5. Clean Their Bedding and Bowls Regularly

    Wash your dog’s bed/bedding every one to two weeks, clean food and water bowl daily, and vacuum often to reduce allergens, fungi, bacteria, and other irritants that can thrive in and around your dog’s stuff.

    6. Feed a Healthy Diet

    Good health starts with good nutrition. Feeding your dog a balanced diet rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, zinc, and protein can help maintain healthy skin and coat.

    7. Check in Regularly with Your Veterinarian

    Take your dog for a check-up anytime they develop new symptoms. Skin issues can indicate allergies, parasites, or more serious health concerns, and it’s important to address the root cause as well as the symptoms.

    Three Essential Products that Promote Skin and Coat Health Naturally!

    Tea-Pro® wound spray, TZōN® hot spot and wound cream, and Private Reserve shampoo from Essential Canine are essential oil-based healing and grooming products that support skin and coat health. Formulated by a Veterinarian for dogs to help prevent and manage hot spots, fungal flare-ups, and irritated skin, the products are powered by nature’s best healing agents:

    • Peppermint oil
    • Comfrey oil
    • Goldenseal oil
    • Myrrh oil
    • Aloe vera oil
    • Australian tea tree oil
    • Jojoba oil
    • Calendula oil

    These high-grade essential oils work in harmony to purify, soothe, and protect. They deliver powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritation, relieve discomfort, support natural healing, and promote a healthy, vibrant hair coat.
    Visit Essential Canine to learn more about how these potent botanicals can help you manage skin problems in dogs!


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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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  • Natural treatment for dog itching with Oleander extract | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Here’s how Oleander extract offers a natural solution for your dog’s chronic itching — without suppressing his immune system. 

    Did you know that itchy dogs account for nearly 50% of veterinary visits? Atopic dermatitis and persistent itching commonly affect dogs, making them uncomfortable and frustrating their families. Chronic itching, along with the associated scratching and licking, significantly impact your dog’s quality of life. 

    This article explores the common causes of itching in dogs. It also discusses current solutions, their benefits, and limitations. We’ll focus on how oleander extract (Nerium indicum) offers a safe, natural alternative for dog itching. This treatment option manages symptoms while supporting your dog’s immune system.

    Common causes of itchy skin

    Take your dog to the vet to identify the root cause of his itchiness — a critical first step. Common culprits include:

    • Allergies: Environmental (pollen, mold, dust mites) or food-related

    Tip: Diet plays a key role. For example, many dogs are allergic to chicken, a common protein in commercial dog food.

    • Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mites are notorious for causing itchiness
    • Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections (e.g. yeast dermatitis)
    • Dry skin: Low humidity, poor diet, or over-bathing 
    • Underlying health issues: autoimmune diseases, hormone imbalances, or other systemic conditions.

    Conventional medications for itching 

    Many veterinarians use allopathic medications and treatments to manage atopic dermatitis:

    Cytopoint: A monoclonal antibody injection that targets itch-inducing cytokines. It provides relief for four to eight weeks at $65 to $200 per injection, depending on the dog’s size. While dogs experience minimal side effects, the efficacy of Cytopoint varies. 

    Apoquel: This oral medication suppresses itch-inducing cytokines within four hours. It costs $60 to $150 per month and may cause side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and an increased risk of infections due to potential immunosuppression. 

    Apoquel is not advisable for dogs with cancer or severe skin infections, or those less than 12 months of age.

    Atopica: This cyclosporine-based medication also suppresses the immune system and can be highly effective for chronic itching. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea are the side effects, along with immune suppression. Cost is $100 to $200 per month.

    Tip: Conventional options can be effective. However, their limitations include immune suppression and high costs. 

    Oleander extract: a natural solution with immune support

    Nerium indicum, also known as Nerium oleander, is a botanical whose properties are being studied as a powerful natural alternative for managing skin conditions. Unlike traditional medications, oleander extract provides the following benefits:

    • Inhibits itch cytokines: It reduces the signals that trigger itching by targeting inflammatory cytokines. 
    • Supports the immune system: Instead of suppressing immunity, Oleander helps the body mount a balanced immune response.

    Tip: Because oleander extract supports the immune system and does not suppress the immune system, it may be a safe, long-term solution for dogs suffering from chronic itching.

    Nix the itch without suppressing immunity

    Many pet products claim to stop itching, but they often rely on marketing hype instead of proven efficacy. While conventional options like Apoquel, Cytopoint, and Atopica are effective, they come with limitations – specifically immune suppression and high cost. 

    If your dog has chronic itching, speak to your vet about the best natural options that address itching while supporting his immune system. Early studies of oleander extract i dogs shows promise as an innovative solution for your dog’s symptoms without compromising his or her health.

    Managing atopic dermatitis requires a comprehensive approach. Identifying the root cause and exploring both traditional and natural solutions can help you find the right treatment for your dog. 

    Other natural treatments for managing itch 

    For some dogs, the following natural remedies can be effective:

    1. Chamomile and green tea soaks: Soothing and anti-inflammatory
    2. Colloidal oatmeal baths: Help hydrate and calm itchy skin
    3. Apple cider vinegar rinses: Balance skin pH and reduce yeast infections
    4. Fish oil: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that improve skin health
    5. Aloe vera: Provides cooling and healing effects for irritated skin.

    While these solutions can help alleviate symptoms, they don’t always address the underlying immune imbalances that drive chronic itching.

    On the safe side

    Oleander is highly effective, but it is a cardiac glycoside. These compounds can be toxic if not administered properly. Work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian to ensure the correct dose of oleander extract for your dog. Studies confirm that microdosed Nerium indicum is safe for dogs when administered appropriately.


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    Theresa Fossum, DVM, MS. PhD, Diplomate ACVS

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  • Support Pet Health Safely and Naturally with Nature’s Best Source of Sialic Acid! | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    Is your dog’s or cat’s diet missing this crucial component? Learn about the best source of sialic acid and the myriad ways it supports pet health!

    When it comes to supporting pet health from the inside out, pet parents often overlook one powerful nutrient: sialic acid. As one of eight essential glyconutrients, sialic acid plays a vital role in cellular communication, immune regulation, and skin, joint, and brain health. Daily supplementation can help with allergies, itching, redness, and low energy. And the best source of sialic acid is swiftlet nest, an ancient health ingredient now backed by modern science. Let’s look at how you can harness the power of swiftlet nest to deliver safe, effective, whole-body wellness for your furry companions!

    Daily Sialic Acid Supplementation Supports Whole-Body Health for Dogs and Cats

    Sialic acid is one of the eight glyconutrients. Glyconutrients are simple sugars and essential components of cell membranes that play a crucial role in:

    • Cellular communication
    • Gut health
    • Tissue repair and healing
    • Skin and coat health
    • Brain function
    • Immune regulation
    • Healthy connective tissues, joints, and cartilage

    Making sure your dog’s or cat’s diet has plenty of glyconutrients like sialic acid supports their overall health, vitality, and well-being while helping manage issues like:

    • Allergies
    • Hot spots
    • Alopecia
    • Skin redness
    • Itching
    • Dandruff
    • Low energy
    • Mobility problems

    The Best Source of Sialic Acid Is—Are You Ready for This?!—Swiftlet Nest!

    There are a handful of dietary sources of sialic acid, such as dairy, aloe, echinacea, Boswellia, kelp, and some fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms. However, the most potent natural source is swiftlet nest, a centuries-old secret for skin and health benefits. Swiftlet nest contains six of the eight glyconutrients, including sialic acid. In fact, it contains 200 times more sialic acid than royal jelly, which was long thought to be the best natural source of this glyconutrient.

    Meet MIRANEST: The Safest and Most Effective Delivery System for Glyconutrients Like Sialic Acid

    At the Swiftlet’s Nest Laboratory in Japan, a company called MIRANEST discovered a way to maximize swiftlet nest’s glyconutrient benefits by creating a proprietary extract that concentrates the beneficial components. Then, they blend the extract with functional plant-based ingredients to deliver all eight glyconutrients in a format that’s:

    • Highly bioavailable and effective
    • Cruelty-free and bio-sustainable
    • 100% natural
    • Non-toxic
    • Free of drugs, steroids, and antibiotics
    • Made according to strict safety and quality standards
    • Free of side effects

    MIRANEST has been used by 100,000+ people around the world and is trusted by pet parents and veterinarians alike to manage skin & coat issues, allergies, and vitality—93% of pet parents see results in as little as 30 days!

    Visit MIRANEST to learn more about the world’s best source of sialic acid for dogs and cats.


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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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