We all have pets that at one time or another have issue having productive bowel movements, but how can we help?
Here are a few steps to help our pets have better Bowel movements:
- WATER helps lubricate, so we must have good clean water always available. Water is essential for various physiological functions in dogs: 1.Digestion: It aids in breaking down food and facilitating nutrient absorption. 2.Temperature Regulation: Water helps regulate body temperature, especially since dogs cannot sweat like humans, and 3. Waste Removal: It assists in the removal of waste products from cells and supports overall cellular function by maintaining blood volume and nutrient transport.
- Next is FIBER – Fiber provides several benefits for dogs: Digestive Health: It adds bulk to move food through the intestinal tract and promotes healthy bowel movements, Energy for Intestinal Cells: Some types of fiber can be fermented in the intestine, creating short-chain fatty acids that provide energy to intestinal cells.
- Weight Management: Insoluble fiber can help dogs maintain or lose weight by increasing food volume without adding many calories.
- Anal Gland Health: The increased bulk in stool helps stimulate anal glands, reducing the risk of impaction.
What are the types of fiber?
- Types of Fiber 1. Insoluble Fiber: Examples: cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin's They in weight management, add bulk to stool, help with constipation. 2. Soluble Fiber: Examples: chicory, inulin, pectin's, psyllium, beet pulp They help promote growth of beneficial gut bacteria, help with some types of diarrhea. As general guideline, aim for about 5% fiber in the diet and adjust based on your dog's needs. AMS research suggests that the optimal crude-fiber level for healthy dogs ranges from 1.4 to 3.5%
- Sources of Fiber Good sources of fiber for dogs include: Green leafy vegetables, prebiotic-rich vegetables Beet pulp (moderately fermentable fiber)- must remove skin before processing!! Psyllium husk powder (as a supplement if needed). Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, and their digestive systems are adapted for a more meat-based diet. Therefore, the fiber content in their food should be carefully balanced and not excessive.
I can help you with your dogs eating plan, fiber and any issues you may have - especially itching and allergies in your pet.
You can contact me at:
www.dakotally.com/contact
linney@dakotally.com
