The humanisation of pets is leading to serious health issues for dogs, withan increase in diet trends not supporting the correct balance of nutrientsthey need to thrive.
Generally, ‘human food’ and human-type diets are very poor for dogs and whilegiving leftovers here and there seems harmless, this food tends to be morecarb-based and lacks many essential vitamins and minerals that dogs need.
Cheap commercial diets can also be harmful, as well as poorly planned,misunderstood, or home-made raw diets, which often lack many of the nutrientsa dog requires.
The pet dietary supplement industry is booming and is set to reach $100million by 2024, according to Future Food Systems.
Emily Turner, who is a Vet for natural supplement company, Field Day, saysit’s important to educate Australians on the dog superfood trends to listen toand the ones better off ignored.
“Grain-free diets are a big no-no from me, and I think most of the veterinaryworld at the moment. There is strong evidence that grain-free diets can leadto cardiac issues in dogs, and something called dilated cardiomyopathy, whichcan be fatal,” she says.
Turner adds that there are many superfoods that humans have known about fordecades but they’re also beneficial for dogs with specific health issues,including St John’s Wort, Green Lipped Mussels and Hemp.
The most common nutrients missing from dogs’ diets are generally vitamin B9,B12 and vitamin D as well as magnesium and zinc.
“A lack of these nutrients is not always due to diet. For some dog’s it is theresult of an inability to absorb nutrients due to various medical conditions,however diet is a common form of carbohydrates and good protein sources canalso be lacking in some of the lesser well-balanced diets.
“Common signs of deficiencies include poor hair or coat condition (dry, dull,uneven looking growth). Poor nail health including visibly brittle ordiscoloured nails. Lethargy or lack of energy and enthusiasm in daily life.
“These signs tend to be the most common things we note in cases where dietsare less than adequate,” explains Turner.
“Whether you provide your dog with dry biscuits, wet food or make it yourselfat home, meal toppers or supplements and the superfoods found in them, canassist in keeping your furry friend’s health and wellbeing needs in paw-fectshape.
“Supplements are also a great choice for dogs with specific health issues,such as anxiety, arthritis, gut issues, or skin problems. For example, GreenLipped Mussels aren’t found in regular dog food, but they are full of Omega-3fatty acids. When taken as part of a healthy, balanced diet, they can helpsupport joint health and mobility by reducing cartilage degradation andinflammation.
“Specially created with a vet nutritionist, Field Day’s meal toppers arescientifically formulated to not only improve your dog’s health and wellbeing,but also to maintain peak condition and nutrition from the inside out.”
Tagged: Field Day
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