In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has raised many concerns about the transmission of the virus between humans and animals. As pet owners, it’s natural to wonder whether our furry friends, particularly dogs, can contract the virus from us. Let’s explore this topic in detail.
Can my dog get covid from me? Possibly. See below for more.
Understanding COVID-19 Transmission
COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs. Additionally, touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face can also lead to transmission.
People who are vaccinated against COVID-19 significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and transmission of the virus to others.
However, there is no COVID-19 vaccine for dogs.
Can My Dog Get Covid From Me?
While there have been isolated cases of pets testing positive for COVID-19, the risk of transmission from humans to dogs appears to be low.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the World Health Organization (WHO), there is limited evidence to suggest that dogs can become infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.
Cases of Covid in Dogs
Though rare, there have been instances where dogs have tested positive for the virus. In most cases, these dogs were in close contact with infected individuals.
However, it’s essential to note that these instances do not suggest widespread transmission from humans to dogs.
Additionally, the infected dogs typically showed mild symptoms or remained asymptomatic.
How to Prevent COVID in Dogs
While the risk of transmitting COVID-19 to your dog is low, it’s still essential to take precautions to protect both yourself and your furry companion:
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching your face. This reduces the risk of contaminating surfaces that your dog may come into contact with.
Limit Close Contact: If you’re feeling unwell, particularly if you have symptoms of COVID-19, avoid close contact with your dog. This includes hugging, kissing, and sharing food or bedding. While it’s unlikely that your dog will get COVID from you, this precaution might give you peace of mind.
Routine Veterinary Care: Ensure that your dog receives regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations. If you have concerns about your pet’s health, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest information and recommendations from reputable sources such as the CDC, AVMA, and WHO regarding COVID-19 and its impact on pets.
If your pet shows any of the following symptoms, see a veterinarian immediately:
It’s important to note that while these symptoms may indicate a potential COVID-19 infection in dogs, they are also common in many other canine diseases. Additionally, COVID-19 infections in dogs are rare, but if you observe these symptoms in your pet, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Respiratory Illnesses Are Dogs Susceptible To?
Dogs can be susceptible to various respiratory illnesses, some of which include:
Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis): This highly contagious respiratory infection is typically caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella. It is characterized by a persistent cough, often described as a “honking” or dry cough, and may be accompanied by nasal discharge and fever.
Vaccines are available to protect against some of the pathogens that contribute to kennel cough, including Bordetella and canine parainfluenza virus. These vaccines are often recommended for dogs that are at increased risk of exposure, such as those who frequently visit boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons.
Canine Influenza: Similar to human influenza, canine influenza is caused by influenza viruses and can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, and lethargy. There are two strains of canine influenza virus: H3N8 and H3N2.
Vaccines are available for both strains of canine influenza virus (H3N8 and H3N2). These vaccines are typically recommended for dogs at risk of exposure to the virus, such as those who participate in activities with other dogs, such as dog shows, competitions, or daycare.
Canine Distemper: Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects multiple organ systems, including the respiratory system. Dogs with distemper may exhibit symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and respiratory distress.
Distemper vaccination is a core component of the canine vaccination schedule. The distemper vaccine is typically administered as part of the combination vaccine known as DHPP or DA2PP, which also protects against canine adenovirus, canine parvovirus, and canine parainfluenza virus.
Canine Parainfluenza: This viral infection is one of the components of kennel cough and can cause symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, and fever.
Canine Pneumonia: Pneumonia in dogs can be caused by various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It is characterized by inflammation of the lungs and can lead to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, fever, and lethargy.
Heartworm Disease: While primarily a cardiovascular disease, heartworms can migrate to the lungs, leading to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, exercise intolerance, and difficulty breathing.
Heartworm disease can affect the lungs and respiratory system. Prevention is key, and there are several FDA-approved heartworm preventatives available for dogs, including monthly oral medications, topical treatments, and injectable formulations.
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections such as blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, and coccidioidomycosis can affect the respiratory system in dogs, causing symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
Prompt veterinary care is essential if you suspect your dog may be suffering from a respiratory illness to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
While the possibility of transmitting COVID-19 to your dog exists, it remains relatively low compared to human-to-human transmission. By practicing good hygiene, limiting close contact when necessary, and staying informed, you can help mitigate the risk to both yourself and your beloved pet. Remember, being a responsible pet owner involves taking proactive measures to ensure the health and well-being of all members of your household, including your furry friends.
Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition that affects dogs of various breeds and sizes. It occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally, leading to discomfort, pain, and mobility issues. While hip dysplasia is often associated with older dogs, it can also affect puppies. Understanding the signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs and puppies is crucial for early detection and management.
This blog post will cover:
Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Puppy’s that sit funny (and what it means)
How to prevent hip dysplasia in puppies
Puppy nutrition & growth disorders
Hip dysplasia diagnosis
Treating dogs with hip dysplasia
Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Puppies and Dogs
Here are some key indicators to watch for:
Difficulty Rising: Puppies and dogs with hip dysplasia may struggle to get up from a lying or sitting position. You might notice them hesitating or using their front legs to push themselves up.
Lameness or Limping: A noticeable limp, especially in the hind legs, can be a sign of hip dysplasia. Dogs may favor one leg over the other or exhibit an uneven gait while walking or running.
Decreased Activity Levels: If your puppy or dog is less active than usual, it could indicate discomfort or pain associated with hip dysplasia. They may be reluctant to participate in activities they once enjoyed, such as playing fetch or going for walks.
Stiffness or Pain: Dogs with hip dysplasia may exhibit stiffness, particularly after periods of rest or physical activity. They may also show signs of pain when touched around the hip area or when attempting certain movements.
Audible Clicking or Popping Sounds: Some dogs with hip dysplasia may produce clicking or popping sounds when they move their hips. These noises can indicate joint instability and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Loss of Muscle Mass: As hip dysplasia progresses, affected muscles may become weaker or atrophied, particularly in the hindquarters. This loss of muscle mass can contribute to further mobility issues and difficulty supporting the body’s weight.
Difficulty Climbing Stairs or Jumping: Activities that require the use of the hind legs, such as climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture, can be challenging for dogs with hip dysplasia. They may hesitate or exhibit reluctance to perform these movements.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your puppy or dog, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian promptly. Early detection and intervention can help manage hip dysplasia and improve your pet’s quality of life.
How is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed in Dogs?
Diagnosing hip dysplasia in dogs typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic imaging. Here’s an overview of the steps involved in diagnosing hip dysplasia:
Physical Examination: During a physical exam, the veterinarian will observe your dog’s gait, posture, and range of motion in the hips and hind legs. They may also palpate the hip joints to check for pain, stiffness, or abnormalities.
Medical History Review: Providing a detailed medical history, including any signs or symptoms you’ve noticed in your dog, can help the veterinarian assess the likelihood of hip dysplasia. Information about your dog’s breed, age, and activity level is also relevant.
Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays (radiographs) are the primary diagnostic tool used to evaluate hip dysplasia in dogs. Sedation or anesthesia may be necessary to obtain clear images, especially in uncooperative or anxious patients. X-rays allow veterinarians to assess the shape of the hip joints, the degree of joint laxity (looseness), and the presence of any arthritic changes.
Additional Tests: In some cases, additional diagnostic tests such as CT scans or MRI may be recommended to provide a more detailed assessment of the hip joint structures. These advanced imaging techniques can be particularly useful for evaluating soft tissue abnormalities and detecting early signs of hip dysplasia.
Orthopedic Evaluation: Depending on the severity of the hip dysplasia and the presence of other orthopedic issues, the veterinarian may perform additional orthopedic tests to assess joint stability, muscle strength, and overall function.
Once hip dysplasia is diagnosed, the veterinarian will discuss treatment options tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Treatment may include a combination of medical management, weight management, physical therapy, and surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition and the dog’s circumstances.
Regular follow-up examinations and monitoring are essential to track the progression of hip dysplasia and adjust treatment plans as needed. With early diagnosis and appropriate management, dogs with hip dysplasia can lead active and comfortable lives.
An abnormal hip x-ray, indicating possible Hip Dysplasia in a dog
How is Hip Dysplasia Treated in Dogs?
The treatment approach for hip dysplasia in dogs depends on various factors, including the severity of the condition, the dog’s age, overall health, and lifestyle. Here’s an overview of common treatment options for hip dysplasia:
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with hip dysplasia. Excess weight places additional strain on the hip joints and can exacerbate symptoms. Your veterinarian may recommend a balanced diet and exercise plan tailored to your dog’s needs to help achieve and maintain an optimal body condition.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with hip dysplasia. These medications can help improve comfort and mobility, allowing affected dogs to lead more active lives. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s dosage instructions and monitor for any potential side effects.
Joint Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acids are commonly used as joint supplements to support joint health and reduce cartilage degeneration. While these supplements may not reverse existing hip dysplasia, they can help slow the progression of arthritis and improve joint function over time.
Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises, such as swimming, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic stretching, can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joints and improve the range of motion. Physical therapy can also alleviate pain, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall mobility in dogs with hip dysplasia.
Lifestyle Modifications: Making adjustments to your dog’s environment and daily routine can help minimize stress on the hips. Providing supportive bedding, using ramps or stairs to avoid jumping, and limiting high-impact activities can help manage hip dysplasia symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Surgical Intervention: In severe cases of hip dysplasia or when conservative management fails to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered. Common surgical procedures for hip dysplasia include:
Total Hip Replacement (THR): This procedure involves replacing the entire hip joint with a prosthetic implant, providing pain relief and restoring normal joint function.
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO): In FHO surgery, the femoral head (the “ball” of the hip joint) is removed, allowing the surrounding muscles to support the hip joint and reduce pain.
Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO): TPO surgery involves altering the shape of the pelvis to improve hip joint stability and reduce the risk of arthritis.
Regular veterinary examinations and monitoring are essential for dogs undergoing treatment for hip dysplasia. Your veterinarian will assess your dog’s progress, adjust treatment as needed, and provide guidance on managing long-term joint health.
By combining appropriate treatment modalities and lifestyle modifications, pet owners can effectively manage hip dysplasia and improve their dog’s quality of life. Working closely with your veterinarian and following their recommendations can help optimize outcomes for dogs with this common orthopedic condition.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Hip Dysplasia?
Whether pet insurance covers hip dysplasia depends on the specific policy and insurance provider. Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for hip dysplasia as part of their standard plans, while others may offer it as an optional add-on or require the purchase of a higher-tier plan with broader coverage.
Here are some key points to consider regarding pet insurance coverage for hip dysplasia:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, including hip dysplasia that was diagnosed before the policy’s effective date or during the waiting period. It’s essential to review the policy terms and exclusions carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.
Breed-Specific Considerations: Some insurance providers may impose breed-specific restrictions or limitations on coverage for conditions like hip dysplasia. Certain breeds are more prone to developing hip dysplasia, so insurers may adjust premiums or coverage options accordingly.
Coverage Limits and Waiting Periods: Pet insurance policies typically have annual coverage limits, deductibles, and waiting periods before coverage for specific conditions, including hip dysplasia, becomes effective. Be sure to review these details when selecting a policy to ensure it meets your pet’s needs.
Optional Coverage Add-Ons: Some pet insurance companies offer optional wellness plans or riders that cover preventive care, including hip dysplasia screening and diagnostic testing. Adding these options to your policy may provide additional coverage for managing your dog’s orthopedic health.
Policy Renewals and Changes: Insurance providers may adjust coverage terms, premiums, or exclusions at policy renewal. It’s essential to stay informed about any changes to your policy and consider how they may impact coverage for hip dysplasia and other conditions.
Before purchasing pet insurance, carefully research different providers, compare coverage options and exclusions and consider factors such as cost, coverage limits, and customer reviews. Discussing your specific concerns, including hip dysplasia coverage, with insurance representatives can help you make an informed decision about the best policy for your pet’s needs.
What Causes Dogs to Get Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia in dogs is a multifactorial condition with both genetic and environmental influences. While the exact cause of hip dysplasia is not fully understood, several factors contribute to its development:
Genetics: Genetics plays a significant role in the development of hip dysplasia. It is believed to be a polygenic trait, meaning it involves multiple genes, each with a small effect on susceptibility. Dogs with a family history of hip dysplasia are at a higher risk of inheriting the condition. When choosing a breeder for your puppy, verify that both parents have been OFA Hip Tested.
Breed Predisposition: Certain dog breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia than others. Large and giant breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Great Danes, are among the most commonly affected. This suggests a genetic predisposition to the condition within these breeds.
Developmental Factors: Hip dysplasia primarily affects growing puppies and young dogs, as the abnormal development of the hip joint occurs during the early stages of skeletal growth. Factors such as rapid growth rate, excessive weight gain, improper nutrition, and inappropriate exercise during the puppyhood stages can contribute to the development and progression of hip dysplasia. I’ll cover nutritional factors below!
Joint laxity: In dogs with hip dysplasia, the hip joint may exhibit excessive laxity or looseness, allowing abnormal movement and instability. This laxity can lead to increased wear and tear on the joint surfaces, cartilage damage, and inflammation, ultimately contributing to the development of hip dysplasia and secondary osteoarthritis.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, including diet, exercise, and management practices, can influence the development and progression of hip dysplasia. Providing appropriate nutrition, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding excessive or high-impact exercise during the critical growth phases can help mitigate the risk of hip dysplasia in susceptible dogs.
Other Factors: Hormonal influences, such as estrogen and testosterone levels, may also affect the development of hip dysplasia. Additionally, factors such as trauma, joint infections, and inflammatory conditions can contribute to the progression of hip dysplasia or exacerbate existing symptoms.
While hip dysplasia is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, responsible breeding practices and proactive management strategies can help reduce the prevalence and severity of the condition in susceptible dog breeds. Early detection, appropriate veterinary care, and lifestyle modifications are essential for managing hip dysplasia and improving affected dogs’ quality of life.
How to Prevent Hip Dysplasia in Puppies
Preventing hip dysplasia in puppies involves a combination of responsible breeding practices, proper nutrition, appropriate exercise, and proactive management strategies. While it may not be possible to eliminate the risk of hip dysplasia, these measures can help reduce the likelihood and severity of the condition. Here are some steps to consider:
Consider Breed Selection: If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, research different breeds and their predisposition to hip dysplasia. While hip dysplasia can occur in any breed, certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds, are more prone to the condition. Choosing a breed with a lower risk of hip dysplasia may reduce the likelihood of the condition occurring.
Provide Balanced Nutrition: Feed your puppy a balanced and nutritious diet appropriate for their age, breed size, and activity level. Proper nutrition is essential for healthy skeletal development and muscle growth. Avoid overfeeding or excessive weight gain, as excess body weight can increase the risk of hip dysplasia and other orthopedic conditions. It’s especially important to ensure that large and giant breed puppies receive balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus in their diet.
Control Growth Rate: Large and giant breed puppies are particularly susceptible to hip dysplasia due to their rapid growth rate. To help reduce the risk, feed controlled portions to prevent rapid weight gain and avoid over-supplementation with growth-promoting nutrients, toppers, and treats. Consult with your veterinarian for guidance on an appropriate feeding plan for your puppy’s specific needs.
Provide Adequate Exercise: Encourage regular, low-impact exercise to promote muscle strength, joint stability, and overall fitness in puppies. Avoid excessive or high-impact activities, such as jumping and rough play on hard surfaces, especially during the critical growth phases. Moderate exercise helps support healthy joint development without placing excessive stress on the hips.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keep your puppy at a healthy body weight to minimize strain on the hip joints. Excess weight can exacerbate existing hip dysplasia or increase the risk of developing the condition. Monitor your puppy’s body condition regularly and adjust their diet and exercise as needed to maintain an ideal weight.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary examinations for your puppy to monitor their growth and development. Your veterinarian can assess your puppy’s hip conformation and guide you on preventive measures, nutritional counseling, and appropriate exercise routines tailored to their specific needs.
Early Intervention: If you notice any signs of hip dysplasia or orthopedic issues in your puppy, such as limping, stiffness, or difficulty rising, consult with your veterinarian promptly. Early detection and intervention can help manage the condition and prevent further joint damage.
By incorporating these preventive measures into your puppy’s care routine and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help minimize the risk of hip dysplasia and promote your puppy’s overall health and well-being.
Calcium in Puppy Food & Hip Dysplasia
The relationship between calcium levels in puppy food and hip dysplasia is a topic of ongoing research and discussion in the veterinary community. While calcium is essential for healthy bone development, excessive or imbalanced levels of calcium in a puppy’s diet may contribute to skeletal abnormalities, including hip dysplasia, especially in large and giant breed puppies.
Many “super premium” and holistic type pet foods are not properly balanced for puppies. I recommend sticking to brands that meet WSAVA recommendations for ingredient sourcing, quality control, manufacturing, and formulation practices.
Here are some key points to consider regarding calcium in puppy food and its potential impact on hip dysplasia:
Balanced Nutrition: Providing a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of growing puppies is essential for skeletal health. Calcium plays a crucial role in bone formation, but it must be provided in the appropriate amount and ratio relative to other nutrients, such as phosphorus and vitamin D.
Calcium Imbalance: Excessive dietary calcium levels or imbalances in the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio can disrupt the normal development of bone and cartilage in puppies, potentially predisposing them to orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia. Conversely, insufficient calcium levels can also affect bone health and lead to developmental abnormalities.
Growth Rate Management: Controlling the growth rate of large and giant breed puppies is important for reducing the risk of skeletal disorders, including hip dysplasia. Rapid growth and excessive weight gain during the puppyhood stages can place additional stress on developing joints and increase the likelihood of orthopedic problems.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) establishes standards and regulations for pet food labeling and nutritional adequacy in the United States. When it comes to dog food for puppies, AAFCO provides specific guidelines and statements to ensure that the food meets the nutritional needs of growing puppies. Here are some common AAFCO statements found on dog food labels for puppies:
Complete and Balanced: This statement indicates that the dog food has undergone feeding trials or meets the nutrient profiles established by AAFCO for puppies. It assures consumers that the food provides all essential nutrients in the correct proportions to support the growth and development of puppies.
Formulated to Meet the Nutritional Levels Established by AAFCO: This statement indicates that dog food is formulated to meet the nutrient requirements outlined by AAFCO for puppies. While the food may not have undergone feeding trials, it is designed to provide adequate nutrition for puppies based on AAFCO’s guidelines.
Life Stage Designation (e.g., “For Puppies” or “Growth and Reproduction”): Dog foods labeled for puppies are formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of growing puppies. AAFCO requires that these foods contain higher levels of certain nutrients, such as protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus, to support healthy growth and development.
Nutritional Adequacy Statement: This statement indicates whether the dog food is intended for growth, maintenance, or all life stages. Dog foods labeled for puppies should include a statement indicating that the food is suitable for growth, meaning it provides the essential nutrients necessary for the growth and development of puppies.
When selecting food for dogs expected to weigh more than 70 pounds as adults (including giant puppies such as Great Danes), seek out the label indicating that the food is specifically formulated to support the growth of large breeds.
Consultation with Veterinarian: Before making any changes to your puppy’s diet or feeding regimen, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized guidance based on your puppy’s breed, age, health status, and nutritional requirements.It’s important for pet owners to carefully read and understand the information provided on dog food labels, including AAFCO statements, to ensure that they are selecting a high-quality, nutritionally balanced food for their puppies.
Natural Treatments for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Natural treatments for hip dysplasia in dogs focus on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and promoting joint health through holistic approaches. While these treatments may not cure hip dysplasia, they can help alleviate discomfort and improve your dog’s quality of life. Here are some natural treatment options to consider:
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing hip dysplasia in dogs. Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints, exacerbating symptoms and increasing the risk of progression. Consult with your veterinarian to develop a weight management plan tailored to your dog’s needs, which may include portion control, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.
Regular Nail Trimming: Regular nail trimming is essential for maintaining your dog’s comfort and preventing overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. It’s important to use proper nail trimmers and techniques to avoid cutting into the quick, causing pain and bleeding.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain associated with hip dysplasia. Adding omega-3 supplements to your dog’s diet may help improve joint mobility and overall comfort.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are natural compounds that support joint health and cartilage repair. These supplements are commonly used to manage osteoarthritis and may benefit dogs with hip dysplasia by promoting joint lubrication and reducing cartilage degeneration. I recommend Dasaquin Advanced.
Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that may help alleviate joint pain and inflammation in dogs with hip dysplasia. Adding turmeric to your dog’s diet or providing curcumin supplements may offer symptomatic relief.
Massage and Physical Therapy: Gentle massage and physical therapy techniques can help improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain in dogs with hip dysplasia. Consider working with a certified canine rehabilitation therapist or physical therapist to develop a customized exercise and massage regimen tailored to your dog’s needs.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and pain relief. Some dog owners find acupuncture beneficial for managing hip dysplasia symptoms and improving mobility.
Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying cold packs or heating pads to the affected hip joint can help reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort. Cold therapy is particularly effective during acute flare-ups of hip dysplasia, while heat therapy can provide relief for chronic pain and stiffness.
Before starting any natural treatment regimen for hip dysplasia, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that the chosen therapies are safe and appropriate for your dog’s individual needs. Integrating a combination of natural treatments with veterinary care and lifestyle modifications can help optimize management of hip dysplasia and improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.
By staying vigilant and proactive, pet owners can effectively manage hip dysplasia and ensure their furry companions lead happy, healthy lives.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) has gained popularity among pet owners as a natural solution for flea control, itching, and more. Frequently endorsed by “Holistic” veterinarians and natural pet food companies for its perceived advantages, it’s important for pet owners also to be aware of the associated risks. In this article, we’ll dig into the ins and outs of Diatomaceous Earth for dogs, highlighting its limitations and advocating for safer, more effective alternatives.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. It is commonly ground into a fine powder and used in various applications, including pest control.
DE is believed to work by dehydrating insects and pests, leading to their eventual demise.
Never purchase inexpensive unknown brands online, as these products may be low quality or adulterated.
Wholistic Pet Organics is an example of a clean brand of Diatomaceous Earth, that contains the NASC seal for quality.
It’s important to understand, however, that while the NASC seal is an important sign of quality in pet supplements, that does not mean that Diatomaceous Earth is safe for your pet.
However, like arsenic and black widows, “natural” can have its drawbacks.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Effective For Dogs?
The effectiveness of Diatomaceous Earth (DE) for dogs is a topic of debate among pet owners and experts. While some people claim that DE is effective in controlling fleas, ticks, and other pests, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited and inconclusive.
DE is believed to work by dehydrating insects and pests, causing them to die. However, studies have shown mixed results regarding its effectiveness, particularly in severe flea infestations.
Additionally, the abrasive nature of DE may cause irritation to the skin and respiratory tract of dogs, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
Considering the lack of robust scientific evidence and the potential risks associated with DE, many veterinarians recommend caution when using it on pets. Instead, they may suggest alternative flea and tick control methods that are proven to be safe and effective, such as prescription medications, flea collars, and environmental control measures.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Dogs to Eat?
In general, Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is considered safe for dogs to eat in small amounts, but caution should be exercised. DE is often used as a dietary supplement for its purported benefits in promoting digestion and parasite control. However, it’s crucial to use food-grade DE specifically labeled for consumption by pets and to follow dosage recommendations carefully.
Inhaling large amounts of DE dust can irritate the respiratory tract, and ingesting excessive quantities can potentially lead to gastrointestinal irritation or blockages. Additionally, the abrasive nature of DE can irritate the mouth and throat if consumed in large amounts.
To ensure the safety of your dog, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian before adding DE to their diet. A veterinarian can guide you on the appropriate dosage and usage based on your dog’s individual health needs and dietary requirements. Additionally, they can offer alternative dietary supplements or treatments if DE is not suitable for your dog or if you have concerns about its safety.
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, sedimentary rock made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It is typically mined from ancient sea beds and processed into a fine powder.
Food-grade DE is specifically processed and regulated for use in food and animal feed applications, ensuring its purity and safety for consumption. Always confirm that the supplements you are buying for your pet contain the NASC seal, like this food-grade DE by Wholistic Pet Organics.
Here are some key points about food-grade Diatomaceous Earth:
Purity: Food-grade DE undergoes strict processing and quality control measures to ensure its purity and safety for use in food and animal feed. It is free from contaminants and additives, making it suitable for consumption by humans and animals.
Uses: Food-grade DE has a wide range of applications in food production, agriculture, and animal husbandry. It is commonly used as an anti-caking agent in grain storage, a clarifying agent in beer and wine production, and a supplement for animals.
Safety: When used as directed, food-grade DE is generally regarded as safe for consumption by humans and animals. It is important to follow dosage recommendations carefully and to use caution when handling DE to avoid inhaling fine particles, which can irritate the respiratory tract.
Can Diatomaceous Earth Stop Dog Itching?
While some pet owners may claim that Diatomaceous Earth (DE) can help alleviate dog itching, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness for this purpose.
Because DE functions by dehydrating parasites, it might offer some degree of effectiveness in reducing or eradicating bothersome fleas and mites, potentially alleviating the source of itching. Nevertheless, its efficacy in this regard remains unproven and questionable, at best.
DE is unlikely to soothe the skin, however, as it’s more likely to dry the skin out.
Never rub Diatomaceous Earth into your pet’s fur! The abrasive nature of DE particles could potentially exacerbate skin irritation or cause further discomfort for dogs, especially those with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions.
If your dog is experiencing itching or skin irritation, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Fleas and Ticks?
The effectiveness of Diatomaceous Earth in eliminating fleas and ticks is not well-supported by scientific evidence. While some pet owners may report success with DE, many studies have found its efficacy to be limited, especially in cases of severe infestation.
Certain individuals suggest applying Diatomaceous Earth (DE) around the house to deter pests. However, this approach raises the likelihood of your pet inhaling the DE, potentially irritating their lungs.
Given the uncertain effectiveness and potential risks associated with DE, pet owners are encouraged to explore alternative flea and tick control methods that are proven to be safe and effective, such as prescription medications, flea collars, and topical treatments recommended by veterinarians.
In general, there is limited scientific evidence to support the need for detoxification in healthy dogs. Dogs have highly efficient natural detoxification systems, including the liver and kidneys, which are responsible for removing toxins and waste products from the body.
While certain situations, such as exposure to toxins or ingestion of harmful substances, may warrant medical intervention to support the body’s detoxification processes, most healthy dogs do not require detoxification treatments or supplements.
Instead of focusing on detoxification, pet owners should prioritize maintaining their dog’s overall health and well-being through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care. Providing a balanced diet, keeping vaccinations up-to-date, and preventing exposure to toxins is essential for supporting your dog’s natural detoxification processes and overall health.
If you have concerns about your dog’s health or suspect they may have been exposed to toxins, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and appropriate medical care. Veterinarians can assess your dog’s individual needs and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions to support their health and well-being.
Diatomaceous Earth for Dogs
While Diatomaceous Earth may seem like a natural and appealing solution for flea control and itching in dogs, its effectiveness is questionable, and its risks should not be overlooked.
Instead of taking chances with DIY remedies, pet owners should prioritize their dog’s health and safety by opting for veterinary-approved alternatives backed by scientific evidence.
By working closely with a veterinarian and choosing proven methods of pest control, pet owners can ensure their furry companions remain happy, healthy, and free from pesky parasites.
Another day, another round of pet food lawsuits, recalls, misinformation, and drama. I suspect this is going to be a big one! On February 6th, 2024, Keto Natural Pet Foods filed a massive class action lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet. Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition is a hot topic, with a controversial argument.
They claim that Hill’s Science Diet and a handful of top veterinary specialists “participated in an egregious, wide-ranging, and damaging campaign of coordinated, for-profit, faux-scientific misinformation.”
Here is the list of Defendants listed in the lawsuit:
Hill’s Science Diet
Morris Animal Foundation – Mark Morris Institute
Dr. Lisa M. Freeman – Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist
Dr. Darcy B. Adin – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. Joshua A. Stern – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. Ryan C. Fries – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
Dr. John E. Rush – Board Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
To put this in simple terms, Keto Naturals pet food is alleging that Hill’s Science Diet and the above list of highly-educated veterinary specialists fabricated the entire grain-free DCM heart disease debate to gain back lost market share from boutique and small food brands.
What is the “Grain-Free DCM Heart Disease Debate?
This issue in pet food revolves around concerns that certain grain-free diets may be linked to an increased incidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. While some believe that grain-free and boutique diets can contribute to DCM, others argue that insufficient evidence exists to establish a direct causal relationship, prompting ongoing discussions and research in the pet food industry. You can learn more about this HERE.
I have so many thoughts. As always, our blog relies on published evidence, common sense, and cited research. We do not resort to fear-mongering or insincere sensationalism! This blog post is your one-stop place to learn more about this issue. Please like, share, and follow. Read on, friends.
Keto Naturals Ketona Pet Food
To better understand the source of this lawsuit, I did some digging into the company behind it.
Keto Naturals is a boutique pet food company in the truest sense of the word. According to Grips Intelligence, their yearly sales revenue is below $1 Million U.S.D.
Compare that to Hill’s Science Diet, whose 2023 revenue sits at $4 Billion U.S.D.
If they wanted to, Hill’s could buy Keto Naturals and stuff it in a closet. Their measly revenue is not, and has never been, a threat to Hill’s Science Diet.
Keto Naturals markets their pet food as a low-carb Keto and “natural” diet option for pets.
However, while some pet owners are drawn to these products due to their alignment with human dietary fads, there is an ongoing debate among experts about the suitability and safety of ketogenic diets for animals. There is minimal research supporting the use of Ketogenic diets, while a considerable body of evidence suggests various potential problems associated with them.
Here are some other things we know about Keto Naturals / Ketona Pet Food and its founder:
Their food is co-packed by big factories that make many other brands for other companies.
There is no qualified nutritionist on staff.
It is unclear where the recipes are from, and if a qualified nutritionist consultant was used in their creation.
Keto Naturals does not participate in or publish peer-reviewed research or feeding trials.
They have a “science” page on their website pointing to a belief that carbs are fattening for humans and dogs. That is a theory that has remained unsubstantiated and is often refuted in published research.
A lot of their marketing is centered around bashing competitors (Such as the Farmer’s Dog) and other food types (including raw and fresh), as well as AAFCO regulations and standard practices for food nutrient testing.
Their website states that their foods have never been associated with a single case of nutritional DCM. However, their market share is abysmal. Some of the revenue comes from supplements they sell, not complete diets. The company has only been around since 2018, and very few dogs eat their food.
Keto Naturals’ outspoken founder and CEO Daniel Schulof is a lawyer. He is not an animal scientist, biologist, qualified nutritionist, or veterinarian.
Despite having no formal education in animal nutrition, biology, or veterinary science, Daniel Schulof has positioned himself as an expert authority on this topic and even published a book that he says has been critically acclaimed.
He does have a $200 certificate in pet nutrition from a RACE-approved veterinary CE online course. He openly declares his readiness to challenge anyone with superior credentials, firmly believing that his knowledge exceeds theirs.
This information is easy to find via a quick Google search, where his LinkedIn profile is publicly visible.
He is boldly challenging a group of veterinary researchers and specialists who possess significantly more education and expertise than he does.
I’m going to say something controversial about Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s, but hear me out.
I believe that the Keto Natural vs. Hill’s Science Diet Lawsuit is a brilliant marketing move.
This news has spread rapidly across social media, leading to increased interest in Keto Naturals and higher engagement with their content.
By submitting a controversial and potentially frivolous lawsuit, costing around $400 U.S.D., the brand has garnered significant attention in the pet community. Holistic veterinarians and “consumer advocates” are buzzing, selectively promoting information that supports the arguments presented in the lawsuit.
How ironic.
Keto Naturals History & the DCM Debate
Daniel Schulof (founder of Keto Naturals) is no stranger to engaging in this controversy. He practically invented it.
He wanted that article removed, so he created a website called “Veterinary Integrity” and collected the signatures of veterinarians, scientists, human medical providers, representatives of grain-free pet food companies, and individual pet owners. His petition demanded the removal of the above editorial commentary piece from the JAMVA. (Read his demand letter HERE). 5
Despite the submission of the petition to JAVMA, the article was not retracted.
Certainly, the signatures he amassed predominantly reflected the views of a minority subset consisting of “holistic” veterinarians, pet food companies, and individuals inclined towards extreme “wellness” ideologies that often overlook scientific evidence. These signatures did not align with the sentiments of the majority of veterinarians and pet owners.
Keto Natural Pet Foods vs. Hill’s Lawsuit & Arguments
Determining whether Keto Naturals has a case against Hill’s Science Diet would depend on various factors, including the evidence presented, legal arguments, and the interpretation of relevant laws and regulations.
Author’s Note: Hello Danes does not necessarily agree with the following statements and arguments made in the Keto Naturals vs. Hill’s Science Diet lawsuit filing. This is being provided for informational purposes only:
Hill’s Science Diet collaborated with several veterinary specialists to falsely claim that all “non-traditional” dog foods raise the risk of canine DCM.
They deceitfully encouraged the FDA to investigate DCM cases by cherry-picking data.
Studies have not proven definitive causation.
They popularized the term “BEG” diets (Boutique, Exotic, Grain-Free) to implicate competitors and used blogs, websites, and social media to shape the narrative.
This led to significant losses for “BEG” pet food companies like Keto Naturals, which alleges its reputation was unfairly damaged.
Veterinarians who spread information about grain-free diets received it from Hill’s Science Diet and the Veterinary Defendants, raising concerns about funding and influence.
The Veterinary Defendants also have a conflict of interest due to their involvement in research funded by Hill’s Science Diet.
In this specific case, it seems like a class action is being pursued. This means that other small pet food companies could potentially join the case and seek compensation from any eventual judgment or settlement (if there is one, and that is a big if).
As a journalist, I typically strive to remain impartial while supporting my argument with published research and science.
It’s worth pointing out that the founder of Keto Naturals seems quite upset by what he feels is a loss of consumer trust in his brand (and thus, revenue), and he wants somewhere to place the blame.
Conveniently, his argument also happens to stand on a very controversial platform.
Controversy sells.
Grain-Free Diets and DCM Heart Disease in Dogs
In 2014, Veterinary Cardiologists initiated communication with the FDA regarding an alarming trend they had been noticing of atypical heart disease. This led the FDA to begin collecting data from Veterinary Specialists (some of whom are defendants in this lawsuit).
An announcement from the FDA in 20187 (four years later) aimed to gather more information from affected pet owners, sparking a prolonged debate that continues into 2024. Coincidentally, Keto Naturals Pet Food was started in 2018. The discussion had already been happening, and they were late to the party.
Despite the implication made in the lawsuit that “no research has proven a link between grain-free foods and heart disease in dogs”, there is a lot more to that story.
The FDA has a helpful Q&A page8 that beautifully explains a lot of the information available to us regarding DCM and Nutritional Factors.
Veterinarians nationwide consistently observe a rise in atypical heart disease cases among patients fed non-traditional, BEG, or grain-free diets. Many instances reportedly show improvement or reversal with diet change.
While it’s very possible that most dogs can eat BEG-style diets their whole lives without issue, some cannot. It may take years to sort out why.
The Keto Natural Pet Foods Inc. lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet is adding fuel to the flames. To deny the hundreds of pet parents, whose pets were diagnosed with nutritional DCM and were harmed by boutique pet foods, is disingenuous.
Moreover, nutrition science is a highly complex and expanding area of research. It’s concerning that the owner of a small company, who is a lawyer and not a veterinary scientist, feels confident in arguing so egregiously against something about which he has limited knowledge and personal experience.
Given his background as a lawyer, one would anticipate his understanding of the peer-review process in research and science. However, it is troubling that he dismisses any critical studies and discussion on this topic, attributing it all to perceived financial influence and conflict of interest.
Does Keto Naturals Have a Case Against Hill’s Nutrition?
I’m not a legal professional, so I can’t provide a definitive answer. However, I’m open to sharing my thoughts and speculations on the matter.
Frivolous lawsuits are often considered baseless, lacking in legal reasoning or evidence to support the claims made. They may be filed for reasons such as harassment, intimidation, or to exploit the legal system for personal gain (see above, this is exceptionally good marketing for Keto Naturals brand).
Frivolous lawsuits can waste time and resources for both parties involved and can clog up the court system.
I observe a fledgling brand (Keto Naturals/Ketona) investing its limited time and resources into challenging top veterinary specialists and a large company (Hill’s Pet Nutrition) that is backed by extensive volumes of peer-reviewed scientific research.
At its core, that is frivolous.
The suggestion that multiple veterinary researchers have colluded with a single company to deliberately undermine small brands like Keto Naturals (whose revenue, even when combined with several other smaller brands, poses no threat to Hill’s bottom line) is far-fetched.
To prevail in this case, they’ll need to provide substantial evidence that these events occurred and were intentional. Many statements in the legal filing appear akin to a toddler’s tantrum, which may not be taken seriously by a judge.
Keto Natural Pet Food attributes its stagnant growth to the DCM “scheme” allegedly orchestrated by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and its purported co-conspirators, overlooking the simple fact that there may just not be much interest in Keto Dog Food among consumers.
The popularity of the human Keto diet trend is waning as people become more aware of the health risks associated with extreme and restrictive diets. It’s logical to assume that a boutique pet food company attempting to capitalize on this trend would face challenges, regardless of external factors.
With many things in the world of pet food, there are two sides.
On one side, there’s the often anti-science “holistic” faction, advocating for what they view as a more “natural” approach. Unfortunately, many adherents to this philosophy regularly undermine the credibility of experts and engage in the propagation of conspiracy theories. This side stands firmly with Keto Naturals, as for years they have shared the same unsubstantiated arguments that he does.
On the other side, there’s the pro-veterinary research faction, committed to uncovering the truth through scientific methods, diligent peer-reviewed research, and evidence-based practices.
It will be interesting to see how this shakes out, but for now, I’m choosing to continue standing with science.
Disclaimer: The information provided regarding the KetoNatural Pet Foods Inc. vs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. lawsuit is for informational purposes only. We are not legal professionals, and any information presented is a journalistic interpretation and should not be construed as legal advice. Additionally, our site is not affiliated with, or funded by the FDA, Hill’s Science Diet, or Veterinary Researchers.
Footnotes
Diet culture is rooted in racism, white supremacy, and colonialism, Marisa Crane BS↩︎
Ketogenic diet: What are the risks? U.C. Davis. Natalie Helms ↩︎
Cridge H, Lim SY, Algül H, Steiner JM. New insights into the etiology, risk factors, and pathogenesis of pancreatitis in dogs: Potential impacts on clinical practice. J Vet Intern Med. 2022 May;36(3):847-864. doi: 10.1111/jvim.16437. Epub 2022 May 12. PMID: 35546513; PMCID: PMC9151489. ↩︎
Freeman, L. M., Stern, J. A., Fries, R., Adin, D. B., & Rush, J. E. (2018). Diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs: what do we know?. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 253(11), 1390-1394. Retrieved Feb 13, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.253.11.1390↩︎
Daniel Schulof Demand Letter to the AVMA, January 26th, 2019 ↩︎
Keto Naturals Inc. vs. Hill’s Science Diet Inc. Class Action Lawsuit Document ↩︎
FDA Investigating Potential Connection Between Diet and Cases of Canine Heart Disease ↩︎
Questions & Answers: FDA’s Work on Potential Causes of Non-Hereditary DCM in Dogs ↩︎
Owens EJ, LeBlanc NL, Freeman LM, Scollan KF. Comparison of echocardiographic measurements and cardiac biomarkers in healthy dogs eating nontraditional or traditional diets. J Vet Intern Med. 2023; 37(1): 37-46. doi:10.1111/jvim.16606↩︎
The pet community has jumped head-first into yet another social-media-fueled panic about certain pet food brands. Once again, misinformation is spreading, rampantly! The now-closed Hill’s Science Diet Recall1 for Vitamin D has been brought up by concerned pet parents and influencers as “proof” of a bigger problem, and I wanted more information.
A Facebook group, led by a pet owner who claims to have been the lead plaintiff in (and “won”) the lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet, utilizes its platform to advocate for raw and “natural” diets for pets.
The group actively discourages members from trusting veterinarians and feeding kibble, likening it to “playing Russian Roulette with your pet“. They openly criticize brands like Hill’s, Purina, and Royal Canin, alleging they contain fillers and toxins that primarily serve the companies’ financial interests.
That was a mouthful, but it’s important in the context of this story.
This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Hill’s vitamin D recall, including the reasons behind the recall and why it may have been blown out of proportion.
Hill’s Science Diet Recall information
The Hill’s Class Action Lawsuit for Vitamin D (and how it was resolved)
How many pets were harmed by Hill’s Science Diet
How many pets died because of Hill’s Vitamin D Recall
Pet food manufacturing quality control
Background on Hill’s Pet Nutrition
Hill’s Pet Nutrition is a well-established brand known for producing premium pet foods, including heavily researched therapeutic “prescription” diets recommended by veterinarians for various health conditions. With an average 2023 revenue of over $4 Billion U.S.D., they are a major player in the pet food market.
The company invests significantly in state-of-the-art research facilities. It employs a team of veterinarians, veterinary nutritionists, and scientists dedicated to advancing the understanding of pet health and nutrition.
This cutting-edge facility spans over 80 acres and is equipped with laboratories and top-of-the-line animal housing areas where humane controlled feeding studies are conducted.
Few brands meet this commitment to research and the advancement of nutrition.
While it does elevate them above many other pet food brands, this doesn’t make Hill’s Science Diet exempt from mistakes.
The Hill’s Science Diet Recall for Vitamin D
In January 2019, Hill’s Pet Nutrition received a complaint about possible Vitamin D toxicity in a dog that had eaten Hill’s canned dog food.
Hill’s Science Diet investigated and then quickly alerted the FDA that they were issuing a voluntary recall of select canned dog foods due to elevated levels of vitamin D.
A recall was issued on January 31st, 2019.
“Following that recall, we conducted a detailed review of all canned dog foods potentially impacted by the vitamin premix with elevated levels of vitamin D. This review included: analyzing consumer complaints; reviewing veterinarian medical consultations; auditing our supplier; and reviewing our own manufacturing and quality procedures. We then did additional product testing to ensure we had taken all appropriate action.“
Hill’s indicates in their press release that a “limited number of complaints” came in. Not thousands.
Elevated levels of vitamin D2 can lead to potential health issues in pets, including symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss. In some cases, it can lead to death.
A pet’s size and overall health affect its capacity to metabolize excessive amounts of Vitamin D.
Following the initial recall, the FDA requested that Hill’s Science Diet conduct testing on their retention samples. Retention samples refer to portions of each production lot that are retained at the testing facility in the event of any potential issues arising.
“Testing leading up to the January recall and the March and May recall expansions found that samples of the dog food contained excessive, potentially toxic amounts of vitamin D.”
U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
Of course, this is a scenario that should never happen, however, it did. There is no disputing that Hill’s Science Diet distributed contaminated food and that some dogs were made sick by it.
I’ll dig into that more, below.
Hill’s Science Diet Recall Timeline
Here is a timeline of events related to the vitamin D recall:
January 2019 – Hill’s Science Diet Received a report of a pet sick with possible Vitamin D toxicity
January 30th, 2019 – DSM Nutritional Products, the supplier of the vitamin pre-mix used in Hill’s Science Diet, issued a recall for the ingredient3. A single employee had included an extra drum of Vitamin D, instead of Vitamin E, into the mix.
February 1st, 2019 – The FDA started inspections of the pet food manufacturing facility.
February 2019 – A media frenzy ensued, with countless pet owners anecdotally reporting on social media that their pet had been sick from eating Hill’s Science Diet of all kinds (including kibble) up to a year prior. (This is reminiscent of the questionable 2023-2024 “Purina Panic”).
Many of these reports lacked solid evidence, as pet owners attributed various ailments without providing full context.
February 11th, 2019 – One lawsuit of many, Bone et. al. v. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. et. al.5 1:19-cv-00831 is filed. The text of the lawsuit indicates a belief that “As a result of online consumer complaints, Hill’s thus knew or should have known of the elevated vitamin D levels in the Specialty Dog Foods by at least February of 2018.”
The lawsuit alleges that Hill’s Science Diet knowingly sold toxic food for an extended period, including dry pet foods that were not part of the recall. The plaintiffs claim their evidence for this assertion stems from anecdotal consumer reports observed on social media.
February 11th, 2019 – The FDA tested two samples of Hills Prescription Diet Digestive Care i/d Low Fat (SKU Number 10423). The results showed:
Lot code T1911124 3912 had: 100,170 to 107,282 IU/kg of vitamin D
Lot code T1911125 3912, had 102,829 to 102,346 IU/kg of vitamin D
Scientific literature suggests that concentrations exceeding 4,000 IU/kg of dry matter can induce symptoms, with higher levels correlating with more severe health problems and the potential for death.
There is no question that some pets were harmed by this.
March 20, 2019 – The recall is expanded to include additional formulas, following the testing of retention samples. Some of those formulas had not yet been distributed, and thus, posed no harm to pets.
Hill’s Science Diet states that they have “received a limited number of complaints of pet illness related to some of these products.”
May 17, 2019 – An additional lot code is added to the recall list when it was discovered to have been left off the March recall in error.
All told, one source I found indicated that 86 total lots of 33 varieties of Hill’s Canned Pet Foods were recalled.
That’s 675,000 cases—or 13.5 million cans
November 2019 – A warning letter from the FDA nailed Hill’s Science Diet for failing to follow Hazard and Risk-Analysis prevention.
“During our inspection of your facility, FDA Investigators noted violations of the Hazard Analysis and Risk- Based Preventive Controls requirements for animal food found in Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 507, subpart C (21 CFR part 507, subpart C).“
Some, but not all of the foods were part of the “prescription” line. No dry food or treats were affected.
The Hill’s Vitamin D Recall was terminated on 12/21/2021, indicating that the company had responded satisfactorily and that there was no more threat to pet health.
Hill’s Science Diet made some major errors leading up to the recall.
How Did Hill’s Science Diet End Up With Too Much Vitamin D?
The manufacturing process involves the addition of specific vitamins and minerals to ensure the nutritional balance of the pet food.
A pre-mix should contain the correct levels of each nutrient, however, in this case, something was wrong.
An Employee at DSM Nutrition Products, the maker of the vitamin package used by Hill’s Science Diet pet food, had supposedly poured a drum of Vitamin D, instead of Vitamin E, into the batch of pre-mix.
How Hill’s Science Diet specifically missed the elevated vitamin in numerous lots remains to be understood. Understandably, this has caused many pet parents and veterinarians to lose trust in the company.
Regrettably, pet owners are left to speculate, and the speculations propagated by influencers and bloggers in this field have led to significant levels of panic, fear, and misinformation regarding the topic.
Hill’s Science Diet asserts that they have revised their criteria for third-party ingredient suppliers and have enforced more rigorous testing and safety standards internally. The issue should never have happened and Hill’s Science Diet deserves some fallout from the veterinary and pet community.
As with many things like this, however, there is no proof of an ongoing, or widespread issue involving “thousands of deaths”.
How Many Pets Were Harmed by the Hill’s Vitamin D Recall?
The exact number of pets affected by the Hill’s Vitamin D recall is challenging to ascertain.
While Hill’s initially reported receiving complaints related to approximately 0.1% of their product volume, the actual number of pets harmed remains uncertain.
Pet owners across various regions reported instances of illness and, tragically, some deaths potentially linked to elevated Vitamin D levels in Hill’s pet food. Many claim, online, to have experienced harm up to a year before the recall. Certain people outright blamed any foods in Hill’s product line, including cat food and kibbles that were not part of the recall.
However, without comprehensive reporting mechanisms or centralized data collection, determining the precise extent of harm inflicted on pets is difficult.
There is no published proof that excessive levels of Vitamin D harmed or killed “thousands of pets” as is commonly reported.
Hill’s Science Diet addressed complaints and, upon receiving evidence from pet owners such as purchase receipts and veterinary records, willingly covered veterinary expenses related to any verifiable illnesses attributed to their products.
Several unverifiable online reports assert that certain individuals were “offered only $5 or $10 coupons as compensation for their pet’s demise.” It is reasonable to surmise that these individuals may have lacked evidence substantiating their assertion that Hill’s food was responsible for their pet’s health issues.
In simpler terms, there is a possibility that they attributed the issues to food not included in the recall, had no veterinary records, or their pet’s records indicated a conflicting diagnosis unrelated to the food in question. Hill’s Science Diet pet food doesn’t have a responsibility to pay veterinary bills for those people.
Author’s Note: If you suspect your pet has been made sick by food, especially if there is a recall of that food, see a veterinarian! Get a diagnosis showing that the food caused your pet’s health condition. Save the food in its original container, and report your case to both the manufacturer and the FDA.
Avoid online speculation and at-home diagnosis, as these things are hard to receive compensation for if damages are legitimately due.
Some pet owners with verifiable claims declined to receive assistance and compensation from Hill’s and instead, filed lawsuits (35 of which were combined into a single class action that resulted in a settlement. More on this below).
At its core, the class-action settlement did little more than award some lawyers a payment of cash, and worse, delayed pet owners receiving payment to cover their veterinary expenses.
What’s more, there is no proof that any of the more egregious claims made by the lawsuits (such as Hill’s “knowingly” selling contaminated food and hiding the truth from consumers) were true.
The Bone vs. Hill’s Lawsuit
As mentioned earlier, one of the plaintiffs involved in Hill’s Class Action lawsuit surrounding the vitamin D incident has become a significant influencer in the world of Holistic pet care.
Her 13-year-old dog Duncan was suffering from pancreatitis when her veterinarian recommended a Hill’s diet to help with his symptoms. Pancreatitis is a common condition with a range of causes, including poor diet, obesity, genetics, and certain medications.
The diet she fed to alleviate his pancreatitis symptoms was recalled two weeks after her dog died. Her veterinarian said that his enzymes were elevated, but not enough to kill him. Despite this, his health declined quickly and he was put to sleep. She had a very valid claim against the Hill’s food, as it likely contributed to his early death.
His owner sought a minimum of $13,500 to cover her veterinary bills and the cost of replacing him with a new service dog. I was unable to determine how much of the final settlement she received.
According to her lawsuit, which was filed jointly with two other plaintiffs who had legitimate claims against the food itself, she asserted a belief that Hill’s Science Diet was aware of the excessive vitamin D in the product and had delayed initiating a recall.
Here is an excerpt from her lawsuit against the company, outlining one of the claims for which she sought damages:
“Dogs that consumed Hill’s products which are not yet part of the recall are exhibiting symptoms of vitamin D toxicity. For example, Plaintiffs have heard complaints from a number of consumers whose dogs ate dry dog food (rather than canned dog food) sold under the Hill’s Prescription Diet and Science Diet brand names and who reported that their dogs’ symptoms are consistent with vitamin D toxicity. Thus, it appears that Hill’s has recalled only a subset of its affected Specialty Dog Foods.”
This assertion lacks concrete evidence, relying solely on unsubstantiated information gathered through social media platforms. It necessitates readers to assume that both the FDA and Hill’s Science Diet were intentionally concealing a known problem and that they didn’t investigate claims.
When you hear people say that “Hill’s dragged their feet” or “waited 6 months to recall contaminated food“, this is where that information is coming from.
However, without a court judgment, verifiable proof, or official statements from credible sources, such claims remain speculative and should be approached with caution.
The plaintiff-turned-influencer often claims to have “won her case” against Hill’s, but the truth is that her lawsuit, along with others similar to hers, were consolidated into a single case. That class-action suit (more info below) ultimately led to a settlement agreed upon by both parties, not a judgment.
Additionally, the judge ruled that her claims related to dog and cat food not covered in the settlement were excluded. She did not “win” this part of her argument.
“The cat and dry dog food-related claims included in Bone, et al. v. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc., et al., No. 19-CV-02284-JAR-TJJ, are expressly excluded from this Settlement”
That was several years ago now (2021), and there is no evidence to suggest that she has pursued these claims in a new lawsuit, let alone one with a viable argument supported by fair and verifiable evidence.
The Hill’s Class Action Settlement of $12.5 Million
Several smaller lawsuits, including Bone v. Hill’s, were combined into one class action, which led to a settlement.
A settlement in a class action lawsuit refers to an agreement reached between the parties involved in the case, typically the plaintiffs (representing a class of individuals) and the defendant (usually a company or entity). This agreement resolves the legal dispute without the need for a trial.
As outlined in this court document9, the lawsuit progressed through legal channels, eventually culminating in an agreement between the parties involved. The settlement, valued at $12.5 million, aimed to provide financial relief to affected pet owners and underscored Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s acknowledgment of its responsibility in the matter.
The settlement funds were allocated to reimburse pet owners for veterinary expenses related to the recall and to provide refunds for the purchase of the recalled products.
4 million dollars of the settlement were allocated towards legal fees and counsel.
In a settlement, all representing parties must agree to the terms.
Thus, the plaintiffs agreed to accept a $12.5 million payout to satisfy the harm done to their pets by Hill’s mistake.
While some may argue that the settlement amount is insufficient, it’s important to note that without evidence of additional harm, Hill’s couldn’t be deemed accountable.
Two members of the class action formerly objected to the settlement. One of them failed to both substantiate her claim and submit a timely objection (Swaim), while the other (Hawley) was overruled with the following commentary:
“While a class member may wish to receive an unlimited amount of money from a settlement, that wish does not make the settlement unfair, inadequate, or unreasonable.”
Anyone can make a claim or initiate a lawsuit, but only those supported by credible evidence can substantiate their case. Anecdotal online reports, lacking concrete proof, do not constitute evidence.
Purina Dog Food & Viral Social Panic
This is the same thing we are seeing play out yet again with Purina in 2023-2024. A single, since-debunked viral post of heavy metals in the food sparked a public outcry where thousands of pet owners began claiming that Purina food harmed their pets.
A considerable number of pets reportedly affected by Purina dog and cat food did not receive veterinary care, and if they did, their diagnoses were unrelated to food-related issues.
Calls for recalls and class action lawsuits gained momentum as individuals initiated these actions based on their at-home diagnoses, attributing their pets’ conditions to the food. They don’t have toxicology reports or proof of these claims, and multiple laboratory results showed that their claims were without merit.
The outcry is isolated to members of the social media group that is, of course, run by the “former Plaintiff from the Hill’s Recall that won her case“.
While we can understand and empathize with her heartache, it’s important to note that there is a lot more to this story.
Notable Vitamin D Recalls in Pet Food
Several other pet food brands have faced recalls for elevated levels of vitamin D in their products, contributing to a broader concern within the pet food industry.
Some notable brands that have issued recalls for vitamin D include:
Pet food companies have a responsibility to ensure the safety and quality of their products through rigorous testing and monitoring protocols. Vitamin D levels, like other essential nutrients, must be carefully controlled during the manufacturing process to prevent potential health risks to pets.
Some smaller pet food companies have questionable testing protocols, and may easily overlook something like this (hence the reason that “no recalls” is not always a positive thing).
For large companies that produce food for millions of pets and perform thousands of quality checks each day during production, bigger questions arise about how something like that goes overlooked.
That doesn’t make it ok, though. Call your pet food companies! Ask them what testing they do on the ingredients before, during, and after production. Find out if they manufacture their food, or outsource it to a large co-packing facility where they have less control over the final product.
Ongoing pressure from pet owners, as well as research and development efforts, can further enhance quality control measures, ensuring continuous improvement in pet food safety standards.
Was the Hill’s Vitamin D Issue Blown Out of Proportion?
While any product recall can understandably cause concern among consumers, some argue that Hill’s vitamin D recall may have been blown out of proportion for several reasons:
Limited Impact
The recall affected specific varieties of canned dog foods (around 4% of the product line), and the vast majority of Hill’s products were not implicated. There are no verifiable reports of harm from other products.
While there may have been many pets affected in some way by the excess Vitamin D, their symptoms would have resolved when they were no longer fed the contaminated food. Ideally, those pet parents submitted claims to Hill’s Science Diet or participated in the lawsuit as a means to recover their veterinary bills.
Some pets may have suffered fatalities directly linked to the contaminated canned food; however, there is no documented evidence supporting the notion of widespread harm.
While acknowledging the inexcusable nature of the deaths of those pets, it is essential to base our understanding on verifiable facts and comprehensive data rather than anecdotal reports to form a clear and accurate assessment of the overall impact of the situation.
Lack of Proof
While various claims have circulated regarding the supposed harm to pets and perceived deficiencies in Hill’s Science Diet’s management of the food recall, it’s imperative to underscore the absence of verified evidence backing the idea of widespread harm or negligence.
Many blogs and influencers have crafted a narrative that may amplify concerns, yet it’s essential to approach these accounts critically and rely on concrete evidence rather than anecdotal information.
Without substantiated facts, it’s challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the extent of harm or any alleged negligence in this matter. I encourage readers to maintain a balanced perspective and rely on credible sources for a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Proactive Measures
Rather than downplaying the issue, Hill’s did take proactive measures to address the manufacturing error and ensure the safety of pets consuming their products.
While this issue should have never happened in the first place, Hill’s Science Diet did take steps to remedy the problem and change the practices that led to it happening.
Understandably, some people may doubt the sincerity of those measures taken by Hill’s Science Diet. However, despite any skepticism, sales of Hill’s Science Diet have consistently increased each year.
This upward trend suggests that consumers and veterinarians place their trust in the brand. This continued patronage could stem from various factors, including the brand’s long-standing reputation, quality assurance measures, and effective communication efforts regarding product safety and improvements.
Ultimately, the sustained growth in sales reflects a level of confidence and satisfaction among consumers and veterinary professionals with Hill’s Science Diet products.
In my view, I would confidently choose to feed Hill’s Science Diet, particularly after the thorough research conducted for this blog post. The process revealed several misconceptions I previously held about the entire situation. I feel a sense of relief about this now, and I hope that my reporting helps others do the same.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides a general overview of Hill’s class action lawsuit and should not be construed as legal advice. For specific legal inquiries or concerns, please consult with a qualified attorney.
Footnotes
“FDA Alerts Pet Owners and Veterinarians About Potentially Toxic Levels of Vitamin D in 33 Varieties of Hill’s Canned Dog Food in Expanded Recall” ↩︎
FDA Warning Letter to Hill’s Science Diet, November 2019 ↩︎
Hill’s Science Diet Press Release “2019 Voluntary Canned Dog Food Recall: United States” ↩︎
Veterinary Information Network: “Supplier identified in Hill’s pet food vitamin D-related recalls” ↩︎
Hill’s Class Action Settlement Case No. 2:19-md-02887-JAR-TJJ ↩︎
“Sunshine Mills, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of Dry Dog Food Due to Potentially Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“Nutrisca Issues Recall of Dry Dog Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
Nutrisca “Natural Life Pet Products Expands Recall of Dry Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“In Association With Sunshine Mills, LIDL Voluntarily Recalls Orlando Brand Grain Free Chicken & Chickpea Superfood Recipe Dog Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company® Voluntarily Recalls Simply Nourish Brand Frozen Dog Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“Fromm Family Foods Voluntarily Recalls Four Star Shredded Entrée Canned Food for Dogs Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“Tuffy’s Pet Foods; Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of a Limited Quantity of Pure Vita Salmon Entrée Dog Food in a Tetrapak Carton Due to Potentially Elevated Levels of Vitamin D” ↩︎
“Nestlé Purina Petcare Company Voluntarily Recalls Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets El Elemental Dry Dog Food in the U.S. Due to Potentially Elevated Vitamin D” ↩︎
In the world of puppy care, the practice of giving vitamin C to treat knuckling or carpal laxity has been a long-standing tradition. However, some veterinary journals suggest that this practice may be outdated and potentially harmful. This article aims to provide a thorough examination of the history, pros and cons, dosing information, and recommendations for pet owners considering vitamin C supplementation for their puppies.
This blog is especially important for those who own large or giant breed puppies such as Great Danes, as they are particularly susceptible to growth disorders affecting their orthopedic structure for life!
In this blog we will discuss:
Vitamin C as a treatment for puppy knuckling
The health benefits of Vitamin C for puppies
New research on bone health and optimal nutrition
The cons of giving Vitamin C to puppies
Which form of Vitamin C to choose, if you use it
Vitamin C dosing for Puppies
Are Vitamin C Supplements Beneficial for Puppies?
A quick Google search turns up countless blog posts on this topic, but few answers are backed by legitimate science and research.
The tradition of administering vitamin C to puppies stems from a belief in its potential benefits for joint health, particularly in large and giant breeds. Vitamin C plays a key role in collagen production and may play a supportive role in joint health. Proponents also believe that it can boost the immune system and act as an anti-inflammatory.
To further understand if that is beneficial, it’s helpful to know how Vitamin C works for dogs in the first place.
Dogs synthesize Vitamin C in their liver, all on their own, creating around 18mg of Vitamin C for every pound of their body weight.
In other words, it is extremely unlikely for a dog to be deficient in Vitamin C, because they make it themselves.
Can Dogs Get Scurvy?
Scurvy is a condition caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C, which plagued pirates and travelers who spent extended periods at sea without access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
The link between citrus fruits and scurvy prevention in humans was discovered in the 18th century by James Lind, a Scottish naval surgeon.
While it’s theoretically possible for dogs to experience scurvy, the likelihood is exceedingly low, thanks to their natural ability to produce vitamin C without relying on dietary supplements. In this way, dogs and cats differ from humans!
If a dog is suffering from symptoms that mimic or could be scurvy, veterinary diagnostics are needed to sort out the root cause of the deficiency.
Carpal Laxity Knuckling and Vitamin C Supplementation
Many pet owners administer vitamin C to their puppies with the belief, rooted in the practices of breeders and fellow pet owners, that it can prevent or even address the issue of puppies knuckling over.
Carpal Laxity, commonly known as “knuckling over,” occurs when a puppy undergoes rapid growth that outpaces the development of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Consequently, the feet may either knuckle over or lose support at the ankle and toe joints and fall flat.
This condition is understandably alarming to pet parents! It can also be common, especially among young large and giant breed dogs during their explosive growth stages.
Breeders and enthusiasts frequently recommend Vitamin C as a preventive or treatment measure for this condition. However, the question remains: is this practice genuinely beneficial, or is it rooted in anecdotal beliefs?
I’m not convinced it’s something we should be doing for every dog. It may be a harmful practice! Let’s dive into this.
The Dangers of Over-Supplementation in Pet Diets
Excessive supplementation in pet diets poses significant risks to the health and well-being of our furry companions.
While certain vitamins and minerals are essential for their proper growth and development, an overdose can lead to adverse effects. Over-supplementation, whether intentional or unintentional, may result in toxicity, causing symptoms ranging from digestive issues to more severe complications such as organ damage.
While some argue that over-supplementation merely leads to “expensive pee,” the reality is that at times it can translate to costly veterinary bills.
For example, there is a reason that excess vitamin D in pet food has resulted in multiple recalls from pet food companies (including Hill’s, Fromm, Simply Nourish, and others).Excess vitamin D is toxic to dogs.
Just because something is “natural” and sounds healthy, doesn’t mean that it is.
Is Too Much Vitamin C Toxic For Dogs?
Vitamin C does act as an ANTI-oxidant. Antioxidants prevent cell damage, and that’s a wonderful benefit.
However, according to the veterinarians at Tufts University, excess Vitamin C (too much of it) will have the opposite effect.
When given in large amounts, Vitamin C can become a PRO-oxidant! Instead of fighting oxidation, it begins to promote oxidation and thus, lead to cell damage.
What I’m trying to get at here is that the blind practice of giving large and giant breed puppies Vitamin C as a “preventative” may be misguided and worse, damaging.
Of course, one data point on this topic isn’t enough. I want to see the research! So I dug some more.
Cons of Vitamin C for Puppies Joint Health
In my research, I found four additional problems with giving puppies high levels of vitamin C!
Calcium Oxalate Stones
When the body has an abundance of vitamin C, it metabolizes into oxalate, a compound that, when combined with calcium, can lead to the development of these stones in the urinary tract.
Calcium Oxalate Stones pose a serious health concern for dogs, as they can obstruct urinary passages, causing discomfort, pain, and potential complications.
Chronic Loose Stools & Digestive Upset
When provided more than their body needs, abundant vitamin C can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach discomfort, or vomiting.
Advocates for providing puppies with high levels of vitamin C often suggest resolving potential digestive issues by dividing the dose across multiple meals. Yet, considering the inherent sensitivity of puppy stomachs and the prevalence of chronic digestive problems in many young pups, one may question the wisdom of this practice.
A lot of pet owners modify their puppies’ diet and incorporate various home remedies into their food to address persistent loose stools and stomach upset. In many of these cases, the culprit behind these issues might have been Vitamin C.
Excess Calcium in the Blood
Here is where things become sticky. Science tells us, without question, that excess calcium is damaging to puppies’ bones and joints as they grow. Calcium is an incredibly important mineral that is necessary for bone growth and health, but too much is devastating.
Large and giant breed puppies should receive no more than 3.5g per 1000 kCal of calcium in their diet. For most foods, that means the calcium needs to be at 1.2% or less, with phosphorus closely matched.
Studies have shown that puppies with an excess of calcium in their bloodstream are highly prone to developing profoundly abnormal joints as they grow.
One study showed that giving Ascorbic Acid to puppies that were suffering from HOD (hypertrophic osteodystrophy) correlated with an increase in their calcium levels.
For puppies already experiencing the effects of over-nutrition and high calcium from their diet, vitamin C made it worse.
Overnutrition and Rapid Growth
Rapid growth and hasty bone modeling are significant indicators of potential orthopedic issues in large and giant breed puppies. The long-term effects of their puppy diet become evident, particularly in adulthood.
It’s logical to assume that doubling or even tripling the quantity of a specific nutrient in the diet can lead to issues. The intricate process of tissue, bone, cartilage, and tendon creation is highly susceptible to negative influences when the body receives improper nutrition.
Amino acids, vitamins, and minerals all play pivotal roles in the functions of growth, bone mineralization, and modeling. What’s more, they all work together. Some cannot function without the other.
Excessive amounts of any of these key elements may have adverse effects, no matter how ‘nice’ and ‘harmless’ a simple nutrient (such as vitamin C) may sound.
Do Puppies Excrete Excess Vitamin C?
Faced with this information, many individuals argue that animals, including humans, will excrete the excess Vitamin C through urine, suggesting that over-supplementation poses no problem.
The belief here is often guided by the notion of “no harm, no foul.” This notion is often reinforced by the anecdotal favorite response of “Well, my dogs were given this, and they are perfectly fine.“
While it’s true that some portion of the excess is eliminated through urine, particularly for vitamins with low bioavailability that won’t be effectively absorbed or utilized, we must acknowledge that over-supplementation has been proven to cause certain conditions.
This raises the question of “when is it too much?”
Irrespective of the dosage, there are established conditions linked to the excessive intake of vitamins, even those considered “safe”, like vitamin C.
Every pet owner should conduct a risk-benefit analysis to ensure informed decision-making.
If over-dosing could easily lead to cell damage, urinary stones, and an excess of calcium in the blood, it raises questions about whether Vitamin C is as beneficial a supplement as it was once believed to be.
Does Vitamin C Prevent Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?
The role of Vitamin C in preventing hip dysplasia in dogs is not conclusively supported by scientific evidence.
I’m sorry to say, but it just isn’t. There are thousands upon thousands of veterinary studies, journals, and research out there and there isn’t anything supporting the use of Vitamin C as a preventative for hip dysplasia or any other bone growth disorder.
Genetic factors, nutrition, and proper care play crucial roles in hip dysplasia prevention.
Similar to most bone growth disorders such as Panosteitis, knuckling over, HOD, Retained Cartilage Cores, etc., the development of these conditions is frequently influenced by excess calcium and over-nutrition.
Hip dysplasia is genetically linked, and dogs with a predisposition are potentially at an even greater risk when exposed to preventable environmental factors.
In my research on Vitamin C supplements for puppies, I’ve discovered that providing excessive amounts may have adverse effects. Puppies given an excess of vitamin C may experience elevated levels of calcium, which can be detrimental. Read more from the Vet Chick, HERE.
Does Vitamin C Prevent or Treat Knuckling Over in Puppies?
If you’ve made it this far into my article here, you probably realize what I am going to say.
Chances are, no.
Observations regarding the potential effects of Vitamin C treatment on puppy knuckling are anecdotal and rooted in correlation rather than established causation.
For example, if a puppy never experiences a growth problem (such as carpal laxity), a pet owner or breeder may believe that the supplementation of Vitamin C has played a role in its prevention.
In a different example, a puppy exhibiting knuckling over may have shown rapid improvement upon the addition of vitamin C to its diet. It would be easy to believe that Vitamin C had resulted in the improvement.
However, other contributing factors such as alterations in the diet fed, reduced overall stress levels, a better feeding routine, the puppy maturing out of it naturally, and improved practices in caring for the puppy’s joints, likely played a role in the observed recovery.
Considering that a genuine diagnosis of scurvy is highly improbable for dogs, it becomes evident that vitamin C deficiency is not the root cause of the symptoms. If it’s not the underlying cause, the question arises: why is it being employed as a preventative or treatment?
Are There Benefits to Giving Vitamin C to Puppies?
There can be some benefits to vitamin C supplementation, yes!
It is well understood that while dogs make their vitamin C in their livers, their reserves of it may be depleted by stressful events such as extreme exercise (sled dogs and greyhound racing, for example), changes in the home environment (new home, leaving the litter), and medical procedures (including ear cropping).
Nevertheless, since the advantages of supplementing in these scenarios lack conclusive evidence, such practices may serve little more than to provide a sense of reassurance for the pet parent.
It’s important to highlight one study that found giving racing greyhounds vitamin C had the opposite effect as desired. It slowed them down!
For me, the combination of a lack of scientific proof, paired with numerous data points showing the potential problems, makes me question the practice of giving puppies Vitamin C supplements.
With an appropriate diet and adequate care at home or in a veterinary environment, dogs can effectively replenish their depleted vitamin C levels on their own.
Does Vitamin C Prevent Cancer in Dogs
Some research has shown that vitamin C may have a positive effect on cancer prevention and outcomes. However, this has not yet become well understood, nor has it been well replicated in human (or dog) models.
Many researchers speculate, based on their studies, that the role of Vitamin C in cancer prevention will ultimately be disappointing. In other words, it is unlikely to be more beneficial and less harmful than other therapies and treatments.
Practitioners in alternative medicine frequently advocate for the use of vitamins, including Vitamin C, in preventing health conditions, despite limited evidence supporting their effectiveness. It’s not uncommon for them to position things like Vitamin C as a magical cure-all with numerous benefits.
This creates a challenge in distinguishing between factual information and speculation, as opinions within this field often diverge and contradict each other.
While Vitamin C may have some potential benefits in cancer prevention, it’s important to recognize that it’s unlikely to be a miraculous cure-all.
What is the Best Form of Vitamin C to Give Puppies?
The best form of Vitamin C for puppies is a nutritious diet.
If you want to provide nutritious foods that contain vitamin C, consider offering fresh, whole foods as a boost instead of commercially available Vitamin C supplements. Adding fresh foods to the diet can have other benefits, too, such as increasing fiber intake and reducing the risk of bloat.
Some examples of dog-safe foods that contain vitamin C include:
Remember to keep healthy toppers like this to less than 10% of the diet, or less than 5% of the diet if under the age of 8-12 months.
This is important because your pet needs balanced nutrition to support their overall health; too many extras can cause problems with the intake of other important nutrients, amino acids, and minerals.
Final Verdict – Is Vitamin C Beneficial?
I don’t think it’s the most harmful practice, but I’m not convinced it’s necessary or truly helpful, either.
Having now read some of the actual research in-depth myself, I will not be giving Vitamin C supplements to future puppies. Many veterinarians would agree with me; a lot of them consider this practice outdated and without merit.
Millions of people have given their big pups up to 1500mg/day of Vitamin C and seem to have suffered no ill effects. However, how can we know for sure? We don’t, and that mystery is what gives me pause.
Depending on the pup’s current weight at dosing, 1500mg can be 2-4x what their body produces, and needs, naturally.
The form of Vitamin C used can affect how much is used in the body, too. Esther C is commonly seen as the most bioavailable form; however, it includes calcium. We know unnecessary and additional calcium in the diet is damaging.
In assessing all of that, I’ve come to realize that it may just not be worth the money or the potential risk. We have no legitimate or scientific proof that Vitamin C supplements do much at all to help with certain conditions (such as knuckling over and dysplasia) and plenty of proof that it may be harmful.
Do you believe that large and giant breed puppies should always receive vitamin C supplementation in their diet? Leave a comment below!
If you’ve noticed your Great Dane’s paws suddenly sporting a concerning shade of red and appearing inflamed, it’s completely understandable that you may be concerned! A Great Dane with red paws requires treatment ASAP.
Below we’re including some information to help you sort out your pup’s irritated paws, including:
Causes of red paws on dogs
How serious or concerning inflamed, swollen, and red paws might be
Tips for preventing paw irritation and redness
Home remedies for treating red paws
Veterinary information and evidence for treatment and prevention
Great Dane with Red Paws Causes
Because there are many reasons why your Great Dane may have red, irritated paws you must sort out the root cause before applying any treatments. While people online have good intentions, they may lead you down a path of frustration with their recommendations on treating this at home.
Step one is to address the cause, and yes, that may mean a veterinary visit! We recommend documenting all possible factors so that when you see your vet you can bring them as much information as you can.
Here are common causes of red paws on dogs:
Food or Environmental Allergies
Great Danes, like other breeds, can develop allergies to various environmental factors, such as pollen, grass, detergents, or certain foods. Allergic reactions may manifest as redness, swelling, and irritation on the paws.
Do not jump immediately to “chicken allergy”. It’s much more likely to be environmental.
Contact Dermatitis
Exposure to irritants like harsh cleaning chemicals or certain surfaces can lead to contact dermatitis. If your Great Dane frequently walks on surfaces treated with chemicals, it may contribute to red paws.
This is especially true for dogs that are walked in the winter where they may encounter chemicals and salts used to melt ice and provide traction! We recommend utilizing dog boots, like these Hipaw Waterproof dog boots, to prevent the paws from contacting snow and ice salts.
A paw wax such as Musher’s Secret can also help protect paws against snow, ice, and chemicals on the ground!
Bacterial and Fungal Infections of the Paws
Bacterial or fungal infections can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort. It’s essential to examine the paws for any signs of infection, such as unusual odors, pus-filled bumps, or discharge.
Grass seeds and fox tails are common reasons for irritation and swelling in the paws! These seeds get in between the toes and burrow into the skin. It’s very likely that they are deep and must be removed by a veterinarian.
Bacterial and fungal infections (including yeast) can be caused by several factors (including mites, yikes!) and require veterinary treatment.
Do not attempt to treat this at home with “natural home remedies” as in avoiding your veterinarian, you may only prolong the process of healing.
Dry or Cracked Toe Pads
The pads of a Great Dane’s paws can become dry and cracked, especially in extreme weather conditions and in dry climates. This can lead to redness and discomfort. Providing proper paw care, including moisturizing, is crucial.
Musher’s Secret is a fantastic product that will build up over time and continue to protect the paws from snow, ice, chemicals, and allergens.
Mites are a common and often overlooked cause of irritation, redness, and hair loss on dogs and their paws!
They are preventable with veterinary flea & tick prevention, such as Bravecto. Talk to your veterinarian! Internet claims about these products being unsafe are unfounded.
Choosing a veterinary flea, parasite, and tick preventative is a key step towards itch-free skin and robust health in dogs.
How To Treat Red Paws on Dogs
In many cases, the treatment is determined by the cause.
Step One: Consult a Veterinarian. A professional diagnosis will help determine the underlying cause and the most suitable course of action.
Your veterinarian can do testing such as biopsies and skin scrapes which can prove without a doubt what is causing your pup’s discomfort. This step is especially important if your pup’s red paws are oozing, swollen, or smell.
Allergen Management: Identify and manage potential allergens in your Great Dane’s environment. This may involve changes in diet, avoiding specific outdoor areas, or using hypoallergenic grooming products.
Paw Hygiene: Regularly clean your Great Dane’s paws to remove any potential irritants. Use a mild, pet-friendly cleanser and ensure thorough drying after walks or outdoor activities.
We love the Mud Buster for cleaning paws of mud and allergens after playing outside!
In some cases, a nightly soak in a veterinary chlorhexidine wash or Epsom salt is recommended. Talk to your veterinarian.
Prevent Parasites: Use veterinary flea and tick medications to prevent mites that can irritate your Great Danes’ paws and skin. Tread cautiously with online misinformation about these products being “toxic”!
Mites are disgusting and wreak havoc on your dog’s health. Veterinary flea and tick medications, however, are safe and effective. Your pet will thank you for it!
Moisturizethe paws with a veterinarian-recommended paw balm or moisturizer, such as Musher’s Secret. This helps maintain paw health and reduces the risk of irritation. While this won’t necessarily treat an active infection, it can help soothe the skin and prevent future occurrence.
Medications: In cases of infections, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as mite prevention, antibiotics, or antifungals. Follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently for the best results.
Support your dog’s healthy immune system with a WSAVA-compliant diet, while they undergo treatment.
Prevent Licking: Do not allow your dog to lick their red paws for any reason! Use a crew sock secured properly (not too tight) with a stretchy ACE-type bandage, and supervise your dog. Think of it this way: every time your dog licks their inflamed paw, you have to start all over again with treatment. Do not allow any licking.
Is There a Home Remedy for Treating Red Paws?
Yes, of course!
However, in many cases, home remedies may cause you to chase rainbows. If your pet has a serious underlying infection caused by bacteria, mites, or yeast home remedies may only make it harder for your pet to heal.
There are times when a solid veterinary treatment is needed (including surgery to clean out the infection, as well as antibiotics, antifungals, and mite prevention). Do not let your pup suffer so you can avoid the veterinarian.
However, home remedies can help prevent problems and provide soothing relief for dogs while you wait for more robust treatment (if needed). Here are a few home remedies for red paws:
Prevent licking with breathable boots and socks
Keep the paws clean by wiping or washing them after exposure to the outdoors
Use an Epsom salt soak to reduce irritation
Keep the nails short to prevent discomfort associated with joint pain that can make your dog chew and bite their feet
Feed a quality, WSAVA-compliant diet that is well-balanced and bioavailable for their nutritional health, so their body can focus on healing
Soothing treatments such as coconut oil may be helpful for some pets
If your pet doesn’t improve within 24 hours, it’s time to ditch the home remedies and see your veterinarian!
Leave a comment below! Has your pet had red, irritated paws?
As we step into 2024, a viral news story has circulated suggesting that Purina dog food poses a threat to your pet’s health. Despite widespread concerns regarding Purina dog food making dogs sick, please note that there is currently no substantiated evidence supporting the claims propagated across various social media platforms.
If you’ve come across our blog post, it’s essential to clarify that the information you’ve encountered is unfounded and likely falls under the category of fake news.
We understand that a lot of anxiety and panic surrounds the issue of pet food and what is safe to feed our dogs, so we’re addressing this today with the most up-to-date information we can find.
I’ll dive into this more below, but here is what we do know:
There is NO Purina Recall in 2024, as of this writing (January 5th)
There are no “soft recalls”. Purina foods are well stocked at all major retailers
Despite the implication that hundreds or even thousands of dogs are sick from Purina Foods, no one has provided proof
Many of the “sick pets” have illnesses such as Parvo that can easily be attributed to a root cause that has nothing to do with the food they were fed
No toxicology reports or post-mortem autopsy reports (necropsy) have been produced, not one
The Pet Vet Corner Group is actively in contact with Purina and has indicated that Purina foods are (and have been) safe to feed
In the U.S., the solid majority of practicing veterinarians who see 100’s of dogs each month are not concerned, and no, it’s not because of “kickbacks” (that is a myth)
The FDA is looking into the reports (note, this doesn’t mean there is a problem, only that they must investigate things if enough people complain)
Influencers such as Dr. Judy Morgan are capitalizing on the panic to gain likes and followers, which they leverage to sell educational materials, holistic food, and supplements
Updates
This section will be ongoing to include important and relevant information.
January 30th 2024
On January 30th, 2024, at approximately 1 pm MST, Dr. Judy Morgan shared a video on her Facebook account. In the video, she disclosed that despite investing $4000 in testing, none of the samples she submitted were found to be toxic or hazardous. Further details on this update are provided below.
February 2nd, 2024 – Snopes released a well-cited article with information about the claims against Purina. Of course, their journalism on this aligns with what I’ve written in this blog post below.
“Snopes posted in the Facebook group to solicit comments from members willing to provide a verified, confirmed report (i.e., necropsy from a veterinarian) that linked Purina dog food directly to their dog’s illness or death. As of this publication, we have not received a response.” – Snopes
March 6th, 2024—Dr. Judy Morgan released another video on her social media channels, this time with information about the results she received from a second round of laboratory testing on Purina food. This time, the food had been sourced from pet parents who believed their pets were made ill by the food and sent it to Dr. Morgan to be tested. Once again, the laboratory found nothing concerning about the food.
Dr. Morgan deflected from this result by generating a narrative that the toxin must be some rodent poison the lab was not testing for. She presented a handful of theories to propagate continued conspiracy about this topic.
We encourage you to note that Hello Danes is a research-backed informational source for dog owners. Leveraging fear and panic in exchange for clicks is against our code of ethics, so while many blog posts on this topic may attempt to induce anxiety and panic about Purina dog food, you won’t find that here.
Read on!
Is Purina Dog Food Making Dogs Sick?
The current viral claims suggest that Purina is indifferent to the health of pets, refusing to recall the supposedly harmful dog food.
Purina is a big player in the pet food market with an average yearly sales volume of 20 billion U.S.D. (Compare this to a small brand like Diamond, averaging just 1.5 billion U.S.D.). That makes Purina pet food a prime target for fake news about recalls and toxins.
A group on Facebook (that I refuse to name, but if you’ve been there you know which group I’m talking about) has become the central hub for reports and activity related to Purina dog food making dogs sick. This group is engaging in cult-like activity, an observation that I will touch on below.
The claims being made indicate that Purina food has made dogs “sick”. Others blame their dogs’ seizures on the food. The symptoms vary considerably.
It’s important to understand that while the group has produced many claims of dogs being made ill after eating Purina, they’ve produced absolutely no proof of a link. In most cases, they don’t even have a veterinary diagnosis.
The truth is that pet owners are terrible at understanding their own pets’ health and the root cause of behaviors and medical conditions. Just because somebody thinks Purina dog food made their pet throw up or have a seizure, doesn’t mean the food had any role in it happening.
Is Purina Harming Dogs, or Are People Harming Their Pets?
It’s very interesting to look at this from a social perspective. If a well-meaning pet owner is feeding Purina and is presented with information that Purina is harming dogs, they may begin to feel that their pet has been harmed by the food, too.
What may have been a tummy ache from counter surfing is quickly blamed on Purina. The owner panics and shares this information with others, compounding a building problem of viral social anxiety. It doesn’t matter if their pet has been doing phenomenally on the food, having eaten it for years.
Every digestive issue, bump, or behavior may now be assigned to the food by the pet owner, who is reacting with anxiety and fear.
Worse, this owner is now particularly susceptible to being taken advantage of as others beg them to immediately stop feeding Purina, purchase expensive supplements, pay $10 for a list of “approved” pet diets, and “detox” their dog immediately with a cocktail of herbs and vitamins.
They may even be led to completely disregard their veterinarian regarding nutrition, surgery, health care, vaccines, and parasite prevention. This leads to a form of medical neglect and abuse that is not talked about enough!
Guilt, fear, panic, and anxiety rule in this situation, and that’s not healthy.
Does Purina Contain Toxic Heavy Metals?
The event that set off the current Purina Panic was a post on Facebook from a “friend of a friend“. In the original post, she warned pet parents not to feed Purina because her friend’s dogs were very ill after eating Pro Plan.
In that post, an image of a toxicology report from Kansas State University indicated that heavy metals were present in the food, leading to allegations that Purina had become unsafe to feed. This report lacked important information about the test, including reference numbers and the exact formula that was tested; leading many to have questions about its validity.
Despite this, the holistic pet community hitched its wagon to that report and launched its latest smear campaign against Purina (and now, all kibble).
Within two weeks the post with the toxicology report disappeared. While concerned pet parents continue to reference that content as fact, the truth is that the food had been tested again and it was shown that there were no problems with it.
Purina and the FDA had looked into the report and the claims being made and found nothing wrong with the food. Not only that, no other adverse events were reported in association with that particular batch/lot number.
Chances are, the ‘friend’ referenced in the original post had three sick dogs who had gotten into something. Anti-freeze or rat poison are common toxins that cause health problems emergency veterinarians treat all too often.
Update: January 30th, 2024 NO Toxins Found in Purina Pet Food
Dr. Judy Morgan invested close to $4000 to dispatch samples of Purina food to a laboratory for testing. Neither the specific lab utilized nor the formula and lot numbers were disclosed.
Around 1 PM MST on January 30th, 2024, Dr. Morgan published a video on her Facebook Page, stating that the results were in and none of the tested samples contained harmful levels of the substances examined.
In other words, repeated tests from multiple independent labs show that Purina does NOT contain toxins or dangerous substances.
Many of us had demanded transparency, and hoped she would provide this information even if it didn’t support the arguments of “Saving Pets”. She embedded the details about the test results within the video, compelling people to interact with her content to discover the truth.
I think the pet community deserves to see it in writing.
In the video, she says that the samples were tested for:
Vitamin D
Salmonella, Listeria, and Clostridium
Aflatoxins
Heavy metals including cadmium, selenium, and arsenic (possibly others)
Pentobarbital (Euthanasia Drug and Anti-Seizure Medication)
Melamine
None of the food that was tested was high in any of those values.
I believe the logical progression for Dr. Morgan would be to now share the lab reports with pet owners, as well as the FDA and Purina, for review.
Transparency in this process is a reasonable thing for people to ask for.
In the video, she tried to downplay the significance of the test results by criticizing the AAFCO for what she perceived as its lax approach to regulations.
In the video, Dr. Morgan mentioned her intention to send samples from “known affected lots” for testing. She also outlined her intention to explore other potential toxins and to persist with testing until she uncovers the root cause.
As a writer and pet owner, I’m intrigued. With numerous pets supposedly falling ill at the hands of (from what they believe to be) one culprit, why aren’t people exploring alternative possibilities? If they genuinely seek to address the issue, and multiple independent tests consistently indicate that the food isn’t the problem, why not investigate other potential sources?
Purina Dog Food Health Claims
In 2023, Purina did remove the probiotics from their Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach line. This understandably did cause a few dogs some digestive issues as they adjusted to the new formula.
That doesn’t mean that Purina is full of toxins. It means that an already sensitive dog struggled with a diet change. It’s not fun for the pet owner or the dog, but it’s not inherently harmful, either (especially for those with a great relationship with their veterinarian).
Does Purina Cause Seizures
The implication that Purina causes seizures in dogs is blatantly false. That would require Purina foods to be laced with absolutely toxic levels of heavy metals. Why would Purina, who has no interest in losing profits or being part of a massive media frenzy, sell contaminated food?
Legacy pet food companies such as Purina, Hill’s, and Royal Canin stand out as the only brands that extensively employ and utilize substantial and expert teams consisting of veterinary nutritionists, food scientists, safety experts, researchers, and quality control specialists.
These companies not only own their manufacturing facilities but also rigorously test products at every stage, from raw ingredients to the final products available on store shelves.
The notion that a multitude of highly educated experts would be involved in producing toxic or dangerous pet food is entirely unfounded. From a logical standpoint, it simply doesn’t make sense. None of those people employed by these companies wants that on their resume.
On the flip side, caution is warranted with smaller pet food brands. Lacking the sales volume, highly qualified nutritionists, and research budgets of larger counterparts, many of these brands don’t even produce their own food.
A significant number of the pricey “holistic” pet foods and supplements are manufactured in large factories producing hundreds of other brands. The pretty bags are nothing more than good marketing.
Not to mention, it’s much easier for small pet food brands to get by by with selling contaminated pet food. Just take a look at the unprecedented 2023 Victor recall, proving that the brand had not been testing for or mitigating bacteria for at least a year.
What Percentage of Pets Have Become Sick on Purina?
Purina feeds over 100 million dogs and cats every year.
If the reported statistics were accurate (as of this writing, supposedly 664 dogs, and 219 cats for a total of 894 pets), it would mean that:
0.000894% of pets fed certain foods have supposedly been harmed.
The figure is extremely low, especially when taking into account that it includes dogs fed a variety of diets, not limited to Purina alone.
If we add in the daily meals of the other brands implicated in this panic about kibble (which include Hill’s, Royal Canin, Instinct, and others), the percentage of “affected pets” related to “pets fed” is even lower than the number listed above.
If the food were genuinely toxic or hazardous, we would witness a much higher number of ill pets (and veterinary records to go with them).
Any pet harmed by food is one pet too many. However, there is no supporting evidence from veterinary records or toxicology reports for any of the 894 pets included in this statistic, as far as we have seen.
Pets are added to this tally without considering their existing health conditions, and often in the absence of a veterinary diagnosis or test results. The criteria for adding a pet to this list is unclear and lacks both transparency and attention to detail.
Understandably, individuals are in pain and seeking something to hold responsible. The loss or illness of a pet is always a heartbreaking experience. Pets, however, become sick and often die regardless of the diet being fed.
It’s correlation, not necessarily causation.
As the community of concerned pet parents has grown, so too has the list of foods categorized as “toxic” or “dangerous” by those compiling these statistics.
The Number of Pets Harmed by Purina is Made Up
Upon reviewing the Facebook group, numerous accounts detail pets allegedly harmed by Purina (and other brands of foods).
However, these accounts lack essential evidence such as toxicology reports, blood panels, or necropsies, relying solely on speculations attributing the harm to Purina.
Many of the pets in these anecdotal reports had suffered for days without seeing a veterinarian, before passing away. The owners blamed the food when any number of things could have been wrong.
One instance involved a member sharing a photo of their deceased puppy at 9 weeks, where they blamed Purina as the cause of death. The owner casually mentioned that the veterinarian had diagnosed the puppy with Parvo (a deadly and common disease), but they felt that was incorrect and the puppy’s Purina food was to blame.
Another account comes from a pet parent who shared her experience of feeding a 50/50 mix of Victor foods and raw meals, only to observe her dogs developing bloody stools. In an attempt to address the issue, she switched to a similar combination with Purina, but unfortunately, the problem persisted.
Not surprisingly, the blame was placed solely on Purina, overlooking the fact that salmonella, a known cause of bloody stools, was the reason behind the 2023 Victor Recall. It’s crucial to recognize that raw food can also carry a risk of bacterial contamination.
In another story, a dog suffered for 5 days with symptoms that should warranted an emergency veterinary visit. The owner didn’t take him to the veterinarian for a diagnosis, and instead, bought aspirin to give him. She blamed Purina for his death while admitting that he’d not eaten Purina at all for the past 6 months.
These stories and many more just like them are added to the growing list of pets ‘harmed or killed by Purina’. This list is the same one that “holistic” veterinarians and moderators of this Facebook group are passing around as absolute facts.
I have no doubts that there are sick pets. The doubt comes in when assessing the root cause, and determining if the food itself is actually the problem.
As the group has grown, additional brands have also come under scrutiny. This has triggered a surge of frantic activity as anxious pet owners hastily switch foods in response to the heightened concern.
Suffice it to say that a significant number of the “reports” are likely nothing more than owners who have misdiagnosed their pets at home. When you consider that these are often the same people who don’t trust legitimate practicing veterinarians, this tracks.
Knowing the reach that the Pet Vet Corner group has in the pet owner community, Purina was eager to respond.
Purina clarified that:
46 million dogs and 68 million cats eat Purina food each year
The quality assurance team at Purina Pet Foods leads more than 100,000 quality checks every single day, across the entire manufacturing process
Purina states that false statements about the brand are resulting in unnecessary stress for pet parents (we agree)
They take safety and quality very seriously
Confidently, Purina also emphasized the importance of pet parents critically evaluating the sources behind the claims. They acknowledged that while some posts are from well-intentioned individuals genuinely concerned and aiming to assist, many other posts intentionally generate chaos and distrust, often as a means to promote and sell alternative products.
Is Purina Horse Feed and Chicken Feed Killing Animals?
As if the claims about Purina pet foods weren’t enough, new content has surfaced implying that Purina Horse Feed and Chicken Feed are also causing health problems in animals.
It’s important to note that Purina Mills (horse & chicken feed) is owned by Land O’ Lakes and is a completely different company than Nestle Purina (maker of dog and cat food).
They do not share funding, facilities, or staff. Nestle Purina and Purina Mills are distinct entities, despite their shared name. Anyone disseminating misinformation on this subject is, once again, spreading false news.
What Should I Do if Purina Made My Dog Sick?
If you believe that Purina made your dog sick, you need to first speak with your veterinarian. Take the following steps:
Seek emergency veterinary care, if necessary
Document the symptoms
Write down anything else unusual about the day the symptoms began. Did your pet get food off the counter, eat bunny droppings in the yard, get into the trash, jump off the deck too hard, or nose around in a place where they don’t belong?
Make a document with a list of all foods, supplements, treats, and medications that your pet may have ingested in the past 30 days
Keep the bag of food to submit for testing if necessary
Don’t panic. There are many reasons for a dog to have symptoms (including seizures) that are completely unrelated to the food you are feeding.
Until there is a legitimate FDA statement and published recall, there is no need to panic or be concerned about your pet’s Purina Dog Food or the advice given by your veterinarian when it comes to nutrition, vaccines, and flea/tick prevention.
The Rumor Mill & Purina Pet Food with Dr. Em
Dr. Em is a veterinarian with a scientifically grounded YouTube channel. Her videos present factual information supported by evidence and the professional consensus of her peers.
She prioritizes a rational approach over fear-based tactics and sensationalism, and it’s a breath of fresh air!
If, after reading this post, you find yourself still on the fence regarding the safety of Purina pet foods and other kibble brands, please watch her video on this topic.
I also highly recommend checking out this podcast, which highlights Dr. Ruthann Lobos in an in-depth and approachable discussion about myths and misconceptions in pet food marketing. Many evidence-based veterinarians are speaking out on this topic, and have some incredibly valuable information to share!
This section is for you if you want to dive with me into how a social phenomenon like this happens. Given how many pet parents have felt untold anxiety over this, it’s worth discussing.
Celebrity veterinarians and influencers such as Dr. Judy Morgan (and others) have capitalized on the “Purina Panic” to gain likes and followers, which they leverage publicly to sell holistic food and supplements.
The more people they can get to share content on the topic of “toxic Purina dog food”, the more people they can engage with their platform.
Topics like this are sensational and this particular one took off like a freight train.
The people who follow Dr. Morgan truly believe they’ve been provided with “the truth”, and “insider information” that the big companies and veterinarians won’t tell them.
Pet Parents are implored, by many of these influencers to disregard the information they hear from traditionally reputable sources (veterinarians, educated professionals, scientists, etc.).
Anybody who speaks up with an opposing viewpoint or legitimate data is canceled. Their posts and content are removed, and they aren’t allowed to comment.
Members of Dr. Judy Morgan’s and the “Saving Pets” group following will reply with hate, vitriol, and snark towards anybody who presents with information that challenges what they are being told by their “leader”.
Perhaps the most alarming thing of all is that provocative content is designed to incite panic and fear, and to what end?
Follow the money. If a pet owner is concerned about something they have fed or given their pet, Dr. Morgan (who set the stage for that anxiety to build in the first place) and similar influencers can swoop in with solutions.
Courses, memberships, recipes, and supplements can all be conveniently purchased, so pet parents can make sure their pet “lives forever”.
This doesn’t mean that these influencers aren’t well-meaning. Many things like this start with concern and a desire to help.
People need to ask more questions. However, these inquiries should not be directed solely at established pet food companies with extensive research histories and expert teams dedicated to nutrition science and food safety.
Instead, the focus should shift towards questioning the self-proclaimed leaders who undermine these seasoned experts, especially if they are using panic to drive affiliate clicks, social engagement, and sales of the products they recommend.
Predatory Influencers & Social Media Groups
While Dr. Judy Morgan has spearheaded much of the current panic about Purina dog food, she is not alone. Many influencers are leveraging the Purina-Panic to boost their engagement on TikTok, Instagram, Blogs, and Facebook.
A large group on Facebook has become a hub for this viral activity. They claim to be fighting a good fight against “big pet food” and have begun passing out questionable nutrition, medical, and veterinary advice to members. The group in question is gaining hundreds of new members each day.
I’m not going to lie – that group is one of many just like it, and it’s terrifying.
Here are just a few of the culty tactics being used in this group to promote the unfounded idea that Purina Pro Plan, Purina One, and Purina Dog Chow (and now all kibble) are killing pets:
Removing comments that contain verifiable facts and opposing viewpoints
Banning members who challenge what is being said or recommended
Allowing and even encouraging members to practice veterinary medicine without a license (diagnosing and providing holistic “treatments”)
Actively discouraging members from trusting their real veterinarian
Discrediting established experts including veterinarians, food and nutrition scientists, and published research
“Love bombing” those who have joined the group, and reminding them that only they are doing the right thing for their pet
Recommending unproven and potentially dangerous treatments such as “detoxing” as part of their health and wellness protocols
Creating an “insiders” vs. “outsiders” community, where those in the group are “in the know” and those outside of it are harming their pets
Shaming anybody who doesn’t follow the belief system (applying guilt, fear, and anxiety to those who don’t “do better” for their pets)
Posting deliberately false, fake, and incorrect information as fact
Allowing the platform to be a hub of blatant misinformation, instead of moderating content that may cause unnecessary stress, anxiety, and hardship for people
Encouraging members to ignore experts, including scientists and veterinarians, under the belief that those people don’t care about pets and all of them are “shills with a bad agenda“
Purposefully deflecting away from verifiable information that doesn’t support their claims
It’s appalling how much of this aligns with Dr. Hassan’s BITE model for cults and cult behavior!
What’s even more concerning is that some members and leaders of these groups have been actively discouraging people from seeking veterinary care and/or having their pet food tested for toxins and pathogens.
Testing the food is a crucial first step in identifying potential issues, but the group suggests that sending samples for testing is futile because “major laboratories are [allegedly] affiliated with prominent pet food brands”.
In essence, they propagate a conspiracy theory, insinuating a cover-up.
Author’s Note: We believe that they fear that if thousands of individuals test Purina Pro Plan and the results demonstrate that the food is clean, their misinformation campaign will unravel. If this group truly wanted to save pets, they would work with Purina to sort out the alleged problem.
The “Saving Pets” group is now telling members that if they go to the media to share their stories, they must first communicate with the group leaders.
They want to fully control the narrative. If that is not a red flag, I don’t know what is.
All Kibble is “Bad”
As of mid-January 2024, the “Saving Pets” group has raised and promoted concerns regarding all types of kibble. They are advising their members that no kibble, regardless of brand, can be considered safe for feeding pets.
Within hours of her posting that video revealing the test results, Saving Pets doubled down on their campaign advising members to switch as quickly as possible to a fresh or raw diet with no kibble.
This appears to be a deliberate effort to shift the discussion away from the test results that did not support their claim that “Purina is full of Toxins.“
The “acceptable” brands recommended in the group include AllProvide, a fresh food brand in which Dr. Morgan has a huge stake.
For those unable to afford commercially prepared fresh or raw diets, Saving Pets advises preparing homemade cooked meals for their pets.
Group members and administrators caution against seeking assistance from Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists for recipes, asserting that those professionals are unqualified “shills for big kibble” and may only provide recipes rich in carbohydrates and synthetic vitamins, according to the group’s perspective.
I am concerned that this panic will lead many into feeding unbalanced diets that ultimately, do harm their pets.
Pet Food Misinformation & Armchair Veterinarians
I mentioned above that the group is banning members and deleting comments that question the leaders and the advice being given. They are not, however, shutting down blatant misinformation.
In just 10 minutes, I found the following statements (which, suspiciously, remain un-moderated). Some of the comments came directly from moderators:
“If the pet parent has received a Covid vaccine, they have shed Covid on their pet and that’s why their pet is dead”
“After a hurricane when the dead animals are floating around, they are picked up in trucks and taken to the Purina pet food factory”
“Pet food contains snake venom. It’s true.”
“Covid wasn’t a virus. We were all being poisoned with snake venom in our food and our pets food!”
“Veterinarians sell euthanized pets to the rendering plant and the pets are ground up and used in pet food. The collars aren’t even removed, they grind those up, too.”
“Veterinarians prescribe things to keep your pet sick so they can make more money off of you.”
“CBD is the only safe way to treat seizures, read this guide on it, and don’t take your veterinarian’s advice, they don’t know as much as you do.”
“Do not take your dog to a vet! They will only shame you for your choices. This herb is all you need.”
“All Purina food is manufactured in China.”
“If you don’t feed a whole raw or homemade diet, you shouldn’t even have pets.”
What does the group gain from allowing extreme misinformation to be spread? More panic, more anxiety, and more alarm. All of which drive engagement, clicks, and sales.
Author’s Note: All of the above statements in the list are easily debunked with actual science and proven facts. At Hello Danes, we do not endorse, subscribe to, promote, or believe in the statements shared in the above list titled “pet food misinformation”. The list was created using actual statements from members of a public Facebook group.
How to Spot Misinformation on Social Media
If you are struggling to understand how so many people screaming from the rooftops can be so wrong, this part of the blog post is for you! When you are digesting media about pet care, dog nutrition, and veterinary science, cross-check the information you receive against facts.
This checklist of how to spot social media misinformation can help guide you!
Verify Sources
Cross-check information from reputable sources, such as official statements from Purina, veterinary organizations, or trusted news outlets.
The only way to verify that a dog food product has been recalled is by visiting the FDA recalls page. If it’s not listed there as an active recall, then it doesn’t exist.
Reach out to the company being accused! A quick note to Purina itself can help clear up a lot of misinformation and misgivings you may have, for example.
While they do have an interest in maintaining a good public appearance, there is no reason to believe that they are trying to cover anything up. That’s a bad business practice that would be devastating to their financial success.
When consuming content from bloggers and social media influencers, it’s important to evaluate the sources of their information.
Are they drawing from reputable and credible sources, or are they employing excessive embellishments to provoke panic and fear, conveniently distorting the truth?
Guard Yourself Against Predatory Influencers
Be aware of influencers who attempt to deceive by presenting closed or outdated recalls as if they were present-day issues. Many of the so-called ‘recalls’ causing panic are resolved and belong to the past.
Stay vigilant and don’t be swayed by misinformation that inaccurately portrays outdated concerns as immediate threats.
Be wary of any controversial type of influencer who is primed to present you with a solution to the problem they claim is there, especially in the form of an affiliate link or product you can purchase. Don’t let them control your mind with panic and fear-based sales tactics.
An affiliate link presented in good faith, for a product that could be helpful to pet owners is one thing. A profitable link presented to pet parents as a solution to anxiety and fear is another. That’s the one you need to watch out for.
Fact-Check the Information You Hear
Use legitimate and unbiased fact-checking websites to verify the accuracy of claims. Misinformation often crumbles under scrutiny.
In reaction to misinformation being challenged, you might observe that members involved in cult-like behavior may dismiss the facts as part of an intricate plot, urging you to distrust experts, disregard your veterinarian, and be suspicious about individuals with legitimate credentials.
Instilling doubt in experts (in this case veterinarians, veterinary nutritionists, and legacy pet food brands such as Purina that are backed by decades of nutrition research) is a fundamental aspect of cult mind control.
Exercise extreme caution in navigating this situation and promptly disregard any commentary that intentionally undermines those with authority.
Evaluate the Expertise of the Person Giving the Information
Assess the credentials of those providing information. Celebrity status doesn’t necessarily equate to expertise, especially when promoting alternative products such as ‘detoxes’ and supplements.
This holds even when the individual is an expert with a veterinary degree!
If a particular expert, such as Dr. Judy Morgan for example, holds an opinion that diverges significantly from the consensus of their peers, it’s essential to treat them as an outlier and subject their views to thorough scrutiny.
Dr. Karen Becker is another veterinarian whose profit-driven platform and controversial perspectives warrant careful consideration and questioning.
While it’s acceptable and even encouraged for content creators, including bloggers like myself, to share information about various pet care choices, it’s important to verify that their opinions align with science, research, and evidence.
Pseudoscience, alarmist marketing, and woo-woo theories unfortunately sell very well on social media; learn how to spot it.
Holistic Veterinarians and Controversial Medicine
Be alert to signs that raise doubts about the authenticity of stories, particularly those from public-facing veterinarians who label themselves “holistic.”
The term “holistic” implies consideration for the entire body.
In theory, a truly holistic approach means addressing the pets well being with every tool available (including science, research, and medicine).
Holistic should not mean:
Discrediting and avoiding conventional veterinarians altogether
Dismissing legitimate science
Exclusively opting for “natural” treatments, forgoing anything related to evidence-based veterinary medicine (a practice that may result in medical neglect and abuse)
Because many “holistic” practitioners unfortunately promote and adopt the beliefs listed above, the term “holistic” may serve as a warning signal.
I’ve extensively researched the “holistic veterinarians” and “experts” propagating the current media frenzy surrounding Purina. It’s noteworthy that each one of them has a potential financial stake if allegations against “big pet food” prove to be true.
They have the financial motivation to drive people away from evidence-based veterinarians and science-backed pet foods. I find this ironic, given how often they promote the idea that their traditional veterinary peers are “shills for Big Pharma” and only recommend foods because they “receive kickbacks“.
There is, of course, a time and a place for “holistic” care and natural remedies. My veterinarian falls into the category of “integrative” and we do use some natural treatments for the animals in our home. At its core, “holistic” is not the problem (nor should it be).
As a community of pet lovers, we must draw the line on profit-driven misinformation. Many “Holistic” influencers have taken on the role of contemporary snake oil salespeople, offering unproven and often overstated solutions to exaggerated problems. It’s easy to sell things when what you promote is controversial.
They are often primed and ready to sell a course, book, membership, or supplement to solve our problems as pet owners, all the while utilizing provocative marketing tactics to make it happen.
Because Holistic medicine falls on a spectrum, it’s important that we recognize the role thoughtfully implemented holistic care may have in our pet’s health.
However, more importantly, we need to recognize when “holistic” has gone too far.
Author’s Note: Everybody deserves to earn a living when they share their skills and talents. At Hello Danes, we do use affiliate links to help us pay for the costs associated with running this site. We also put a lot of effort into aligning ourselves with experts and presenting research-based facts. To be fully ethical and transparent, I have chosen to turn off ad serving on this particular article.
Holistic Veterinarians & the Alt-Right
In one post on Facebook, a “holistic” veterinarian (Dr. Barb Fox) suggested that links in her Facebook posts weren’t working because “Big Pet Food wants to prevent her from sharing the truth“.
This resembles the conspiracy-style content often associated with members of the far-right group QAnon.
When someone with credentials, like a veterinary degree, demonstrates a lack of critical thinking like this, it’s wise to disengage. Guard your time and attention, as misinformation can hinder your decision-making about pet care.
It’s noteworthy that like all of the others, this “holistic” veterinarian who is spreading misinformation and predatory content operates a website selling online courses and books to solve your pet’s health problems the “natural” way.
The formula is simple: induce anxiety in pet parents, create a sense of community, and sell the solution.
On her Facebook page, Dr. Barb Fox shares content from an alt-right news source, signaling a concerning perspective. This is a discussion for another day, but it’s important to note that holistic wellness and elitism about pet food is a pipeline that feeds directly into anti-science conspiracies and alt-right belief systems.
Holistic integrative “wellness” is often a dog whistle and that’s unfortunate. Too many “holistic” influencers promote anti-science and anti-veterinarian content, and that’s both dangerous and worth talking about.
There is room for natural solutions and holistic care in science-backed veterinary medicine. But this is not it.
The current media panic about Purina conveniently serves her financial interests, as it does for most other “holistic” veterinarians with online platforms. They are riding this wave for every penny it’s worth.
Please leave thoughtful questions and comments below!
Disclaimer: As the author, I want to clarify that I am not affiliated with Purina. They have not sponsored or funded this article, and our site does not receive compensation from them. In adherence to ethical considerations, ad serving for this particular article has been disabled. This post does not generate any profits for the blog or myself and has been published at my own expense.
Comment Moderation: This blog does not tolerate misinformation or hate speech that is directed toward the author, readers of this blog, or veterinary professionals. Constructive and well-articulated arguments from both perspectives of this discussion are welcomed and will be approved as time allows, provided they contain verifiable information and contribute to thoughtful discussions on the topic.
I’m sitting here on the day after Christmas, enjoying my coffee and watching my dogs romp around our snowy yard. I love watching my Danes play outside! Winter brings a magical blanket of snow, transforming our surroundings into a frosty wonderland. Big dogs and cold weather require thoughtful care to ensure their comfort and well-being during winter, but that doesn’t mean not ever playing outside!
For our large canine companions, the cold weather can pose some unique challenges. While it’s tempting to believe that dogs can tolerate the cold and ice because “they are animals and not humans”, we should not forget that our big furry babies have acclimated to indoor life.
Our dogs love the warm cozy fireplace, a soft bed, and access to safe, nutritious food.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to navigate the colder months with your gentle giant, without being a fur-mom!
1. Big Dogs and Cold Weather: Know Your Dog’s Tolerance
Understanding your big dog’s tolerance for cold weather is a solid first step. Dogs, like people, vary in their sensitivity to temperature. Pay close attention to their behavior during outdoor activities. If you notice signs of discomfort such as shivering or attempting to lift their paws off the ground, it’s an indication that they may be too cold.
My terrier Jackson has a very low tolerance for the cold! At night, he sleeps under blankets. When he’s been in the snow I’ve found it helpful to snuggle him to stop the shivers. He loves to wear a hoodie, too!
Some dogs just aren’t built for the cold, and that’s ok! Big dogs with short fur may have a lower tolerance than giant breeds such as the Great Pyrenees.
You aren’t being a “fur mom” if you put your dog with a low cold tolerance into warm cold weather gear.
How Much Time Can a Big Dog Spend in the Snow?
Generally, a good rule of thumb is to limit outdoor exposure to around one hour if your dog tolerates that much.
For dogs, temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) are generally considered cold, and extra precautions, such as providing insulation or protective gear, may be necessary to ensure their comfort and well-being during outdoor activities.
Breeds with thick fur and insulating undercoats can often handle longer periods, while those more sensitive to the cold may benefit from shorter intervals.
We never advocate for leaving dogs out in the cold with no way to escape from it! They must be able to get off of the snow or cold ground and have access to an insulated space.
2. Invest in Quality Winter Gear
As temperatures drop, the risk of discomfort, frostbite, and other cold-related issues increases for your canine companion. Adequate gear, such as insulated jackets and booties, protects your dog’s warmth and shields them from harsh elements like freezing temperatures, ice, and salt on pavements.
This investment enhances their physical comfort and contributes to their overall health, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities without compromising their safety.
a. Dog Booties
Protect your dog’s paws from the harsh winter elements with durable booties. These are especially helpful if you walk your dog in areas with a lot of ice melt on the sidewalks (which can be harsh or even toxic for them).
Look for options with non-slip soles to prevent slips on icy surfaces. Gradually introduce your dog to wearing booties indoors before venturing outside to help them acclimate.
For dog shoes that fit big paws, we recommend looking into the Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots which can fit a foot that is up to 3.5″ across. This is a luxury option with some solid features (Waterproof upper with a Vibram sole) so plan to spend some dough on these! Please note that Ruffwear sells these only in a 2-pack. If you want boots for all four paws, you’ll need to buy two sets.
For a more budget-friendly choice, consider Mutluks. These waterproof dog boots will fit giant breed paws up to 3.5″ and while still spendy, are less than half the price of the Ruffwear.
The Hipaw dog snow boots come up higher on the leg and fit paws up to 3.5″ in width. They are priced VERY reasonably and have some great features. This brand has mixed reviews but may be a great entry point when it comes to pricing.
I speak from experience in mentioning that a lot of very cheap dog shoes don’t stay on their paws. Take that info as you will when shopping on Amazon. There are a million choices and many of them are a waste of money. Read the reviews and be prepared to invest if you want something that will last more than a season.
b. Paw Protection Wax
Apply a pet-safe paw wax to create a protective barrier against ice, salt, and cold surfaces. This wax helps prevent dryness, cracking, and irritation, ensuring your dog’s paws stay healthy and comfortable.
For big dogs, especially those with short fur or lower body fat, an insulated jacket provides an extra layer of warmth. Always monitor your dog when they are wearing jackets, as some dogs may overheat!
The Ruffwear Powder Hound dog jacket is our top pick for large dogs that are regularly outside playing in the snow. You can find it on Amazon HERE.
We also really like simple dog jackets like this Carhartt Duck Insulated coat that is designed for being out in the cold (but not necessarily the snow).
For chilly winter walks in the neighborhood, a fleece body suit will keep your pup cozy and warm.
3. Adjust Their Diet
The winter season may require adjustments to your big dog’s diet. Colder temperatures mean they burn more calories to stay warm. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog’s current diet needs modification to meet their increased energy requirements.
We recommend feeding large and giant breed foods, formulated for life stages (puppy, adult, senior) from legacy brands that meet WSAVA recommendations for formulation and manufacturing practices. Purina, Eukanuba, Hill’s, Iams, and Royal Canin are great choices!
4. Maintain a Regular Exercise Routine
While it might be tempting to stay indoors when temperatures drop, regular exercise is vital for your big dog’s physical and mental well-being. Consider adjusting your walking schedule to the warmer parts of the day and engage in indoor activities to keep them active.
5. Create a Warm, Cozy Space Indoors
Ensure your big dog has a warm and comfortable spot to rest indoors. Provide soft blankets and consider placing their bed away from drafts. This cozy space becomes a retreat where they can relax and stay warm during the colder nights.
6. Regular Grooming
Winter grooming is essential for maintaining your dog’s coat health. A clean, mat-free coat provides better insulation against the cold. However, be mindful not to over-bathe, as excessive washing can strip their skin of essential oils, leading to dryness and discomfort.
7. Watch for Signs of Hypothermia
Keep a close eye on your big dog for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, lethargy, and weakness. If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to bring your dog indoors immediately and gradually warm them up. Use blankets and a warm, dry environment to help them recover.
Conclusion
By taking these winter care tips to heart, you can ensure that your big dog survives and thrives during the colder months. Quality winter gear, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a warm indoor haven all contribute to a happy and healthy winter season for your gentle giant. Embrace the chilly adventures together, and enjoy the unique joys that winter brings you and your furry friend. Stay warm, stay safe!
Bloat is no joke, and the stakes are higher when you’re dealing with larger breeds. So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s chat about how we can proactively ensure our big buddies steer clear of this deadly condition! No fluff, just the stuff that matters.
In this topic, I’m covering 5 ways to prevent bloat in big dogs.
What is Bloat in Dogs?
Bloat, scientifically known as gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV), is like the canine version of a stomach nightmare. Picture this: your big, lovable goofball is happily going about the day when suddenly, things take a twist – literally.
The stomach fills up with gas, fluid, or air, causing it to swell like a balloon. That’s not even the worst part. That inflated stomach can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply and playing havoc with your pup’s well-being and internal organs.
It’s a serious medical emergency, and our oversized companions are particularly prone to it.
It is believed that around 20% of dogs over 100 lbs will experience this in their lifetime. That’s 1 in 5!
So, in a nutshell, bloat is the kind of party we want to avoid in the doggy digestive system. Stay with me, folks – we’re just scratching the surface.
What Are The Signs that a Dog is Bloating?
If you are at all concerned that your dog is bloating, you must visit a veterinarian ASAP. Mere minutes can be the difference between life and death, even if your pet has had a gastropexy (more on this later).
Here are the signs of bloat in dogs:
Swollen Belly: Keep an eye out for a rapidly expanding midsection, a sure sign something’s amiss.
Unproductive Vomiting: If Fido’s trying to vomit but nothing’s coming up, it’s a red flag.
Restlessness: Excessive pacing, unable to find a comfy spot – a sign of discomfort.
Excessive Drooling: More slobber than usual can signal a problem in the belly department.
Difficulty Breathing: Labored breathing or rapid panting – breathing should never be a struggle.
Pale Gums: Check those gums – if they’re losing color, it’s time to act fast.
Collapse: In severe cases, your buddy might collapse – an emergency.
1. Keep Your Pup Happy to Prevent GDV
Statistically speaking, anxious, nervous, and aggressive dogs are more likely to bloat. Regarding the risk of bloating in our colossal canines, temperament plays a surprising role.
Why is this? A confident pet tends to keep the digestive system in harmony, while the anxious types might unknowingly set the stage for gastric drama.
Think about a time when you were nervous. Did you get the classic symptoms of “bubble gut”? Anxiety causes digestive issues in humans and pets!
Anxious, fearful, and aggressive dogs tend to gulp their meals down. This is a form of stress that may increase their risk of bloat.
Here are some common sense ways to reduce stress, anxiety, and aggression in your pet:
Choose Good Breeders: Temperament is largely genetic. Nervous, flighty, anxious, and aggressive dogs often receive these traits from their parents.
Routine Rules: Dogs love a schedule. Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and play – predictability is their happy place.
Cozy Safe Spots: Create a haven where your pet can retreat when the world feels overwhelming. A comfy bed or cozy corner works wonders.
Exercise Galore: A tired dog is a happy dog. Regular walks and playtime help burn off excess energy and keep anxiety at bay.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats and affection. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building a chilled-out attitude. Ditch the outdated intimidation-based training methods that instill fear.
Gentle Introductions: Socialize smartly. Gradual introductions to new people, pets, and environments can prevent stress-triggered meltdowns.
Mind Games: Keep those brains buzzing with puzzle toys and games. Mental stimulation is a secret weapon against boredom-induced anxiety.
Consistent Rules: Be clear on the rules and stick to them. Consistency breeds confidence, reducing uncertainty and stress.
Managing meals and feeding habits is a key to bloat prevention in dogs.
Your dog should not consider mealtime a speed-eating contest! Encourage slow, stress-free meal times by offering more frequent meals and feeding from puzzles and slow feeder bowls.
I love this stainless steel slow feeder because it holds 4 cups and can be properly washed and sanitized (so you prevent chin acne). The Kong Wobbler is also a huge hit in our house! It’s easy to fill, fun to use and only allows the dog to eat a few kibbles at a time.
Discourage your big dog from inhaling their meals. If you have a dog that also tends to resource guard food (snarling, growling, and snapping), manage the environment to prevent that behavior and the anxiety that comes with it.
Never feed a single large meal, as it increases the risk of bloat. We recommend offering 2-3 meals/day instead.
Because big dogs tend to have sensitive digestive systems, you may find that slow eating and more frequent meals help resolve chronic loose stools, too!
3. Surprising New Science – Movement After Meals is Good!
It’s long been promoted that large and giant breed dogs should rest before and after meals to prevent bloat. It turns out, this might be nothing more than an old wives tale! Worse, resting after meals may have the opposite effect than intended.
A fascinating discovery has emerged that challenges conventional wisdom—movement after meals may play a crucial role in preventing bloat
While the subject is still under scrutiny, early findings suggest that moderate exercise following meals could aid in reducing the risk of bloat by as much as 50%.
It’s important to approach this evolving insight with cautious optimism, acknowledging the need for further research to solidify these claims.
However, I believe this makes a lot of sense. After a big meal, a lot of people will move or walk. This helps the digestive system do its job and move things along. We want our dogs to digest their food, not have it hang out in their stomach pulling on their gastric ligaments.
Rest doesn’t prevent bloat, no matter how much people want to believe it does. Most dogs who present to the veterinarian with bloat/GDV were resting when symptoms began.
Take a common sense approach to this. Don’t run a marathon after a large meal, but there is no need to lock down all movement, either.
4. Meat Meals & Fresh Foods to Reduce Bloat in Dogs
Research shows that feeding kibble with rendered meat or bone meal as a main ingredient can reduce the risk of bloat. It is also believed that adding canned or fresh foods to the diet plays a key role!
In the pursuit of promoting optimal health for Great Danes and other large-breed dogs, the choice of diet emerges as a critical factor.
For example, Royal Canin Giant Breed dog food was researched and developed to reduce the risk of bloat in dogs over 100 lbs. It is a formula based on a rendered meat and bone meal, with large kibble pieces that encourage slow eating.
Here are links to other foods that are recommended for feeding large and giant breed dogs. Look for a named meat meal in the ingredients list!
Canned foods and fresh foods can also be added to the diet to promote good digestion and health. While the exact mechanism behind this is unknown, studies do show that dogs fed only kibble are at a higher risk of bloat.
When adding fresh foods, stick to the 90/10 rule. Unbalanced foods must make up 10% or less of the diet. For dogs under age two, 5% or less is a safer ratio.
Most canned food is balanced, so it can make up a larger portion of the overall intake. Just Food for Dogs is also a great way to add fresh foods that are balanced!
For fresh options straight from your kitchen, consider the following:
Plain yogurt (in moderation, use sparingly for dogs under the age of 2)
It may be tempting to overdo it with the beautiful fresh foods or to even go all in and start making your pet food in your kitchen. However, we caution heavily against doing this. Most home-cooked diets are nutritionally deficient (or worse, dangerously high in certain minerals and vitamins). This will lead to more health problems than it helps! Read here for more information on homecooked food for dogs.
5. Gastropexy & Bloat in Big Dogs
Gastropexy is the single proven method for reducing complications associated with bloat in dogs.
A “Pexy” refers to a surgical procedure in which the stomach is affixed to the abdominal wall. This simple stomach tack serves as a preventive measure against bloat, preventing the stomach from potentially flipping over, a condition known as torsion.
When performed by a skilled veterinarian, this minor yet life-saving procedure aligns with statistically improved outcomes for larger dog breeds, making it a prudent choice for their well-being.
While the procedure may not eliminate the possibility of bloat, it significantly lowers the chances of torsion, providing peace of mind for both dog owners and their beloved, large canine companions. Veterinarians who work in emergency medicine overwhelmingly support this procedure, which should be done at 18-24 months of age.
Consulting with a veterinarian about the potential benefits of gastropexy for specific breeds and individual dogs is always advisable.
It is typically done during routine spay and neuter or dental cleaning surgeries. Work with an experienced veterinarian who has done the procedure many times!
No matter what, always listen to your veterinarian. Enjoy your pet and don’t stress! Bloat is going to happen or it’s not, it’s much more important to know the signs of dog bloat and be ready with emergency funds to treat it.
Unfortunately, you can do everything right and still have a dog experience bloat. Don’t beat yourself up, and don’t stress. Dog’s lives are short compared to ours, and we must enjoy them while they are here with us!
Leave a comment below! Has your dog experienced bloat?
