Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are extremely common in dogs. These problems reduce the digestion or absorption of food, and alter its passage through the digestive tract. Commonly-diagnosed canine GI conditions include acute gastroenteritis, colitis, constipation, diarrhea and pancreatitis.

Causes of GI disorders can range from eating something other than dog food, allergies/intolerances to certain foods, infections, stress, and lack of digestive enzymes. Symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, flatulence, weight loss, severe diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are common. These symptoms can lead to dehydration, acid-base and electrolyte imbalances, and even malnutrition.

VITAL TO OVERALL WELLNESS

Healthy digestion is essential, enabling dogs to use the nutrients from their food to build and repair tissues and obtain energy. Food can have a significant impact on a dog’s GI tract health. A number of different nutritional approaches are available depending on the specific diagnosis, signs and symptoms.

With the main goal of alleviating symptoms, what is recommended?

• Implement a feeding regimen that includes highly-digestible food to help prevent irritation to the sensitive stomach and intestines. The dog’s digestive system was not designed to consume the bulk of ingredients found in dry food. Highly-digestible foods provide a higher level of absorption and nutrient use. Digestibility is an important measure of a food’s nutritional value and quality.

• Provide high-soluble and insoluble fiber foods, combined with moderate fat levels, to help support the dog’s intestinal function. High-soluble fiber is essential for healthy bowel movements. it increases stool bulk, guarding against constipation and diarrhea. Insoluble fiber can help dogs lose or maintain body weight by increasing the volume of food consumed without adding calories. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool that stimulates movement within the GI tract, making it helpful in cases of constipation.

• Introduce prebiotics, which are essential to help improve digestion. Nutrients are better absorbed, particularly in the case of minerals. Probiotics also help maintain good gut health by increasing the number of good bacteria in the digestive system.

• Monitor hydration to help correct fluid deficiencies. Water is needed to help regulate body temperature, move nutrients throughout the body, release waste/toxins, break down ingested food, and aid in the absorption of nutrients to fully complete the digestive process.

ISOTONIC PREBIOTIC SOLUTION SUPPORTS GI HEALTH

DoggyRade Pro checks all the “what is recommended” boxes above to help support GI disorders and other illnesses in dogs:

• Oral, ready-to-use, isotonic (quick and complete absorption rehydration solution that helps replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. It’s highly palatable, with an attractive chicken
taste and smell.

• Fortified with necessary amino acids: glutamine to help prevent and treat stomach and intestinal issues; glycine for restoring a healthy mucosal lining; and glucose, a major source of energy.

• Provides essential prebiotics (Fructooligosaccharides) to support gastrointestinal health, maintain gut integrity, and the mucosal barrier. Prebiotics support the growth of probiotics that help keep bad bacteria in the gut under control, while helping to prevent and assist in the cure of GI disorders by improving digestion, hydration, and nutrient absorption, and
enhancing the immune system.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Ava Firth, DVM

Dr. Ava Firth received her DVM in 1986 from Ohio State University, and her Master’s degree in Veterinary Science in 1992 from Murdoch University. Currently, she is Director of Research and Development for Tonisity International. She is board-certified by both the American and European Colleges of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care and a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists.