Heart Disease in Dogs - 3 Foods To Avoid
Did you know that nearly 30% of all dogs over the age of 7 develop heart disease?
Heart disease in dogs sometimes can be inherited from birth, but most heart disease is acquired.
The term for heart disease is called Cardiomyopathy.
And the two prevalent types are either the dog's heart mitral valve fails to close properly or the muscular walls of a dog's heart become thinned and weakened.
Both these conditions will cause a dog to develop an enlarged heart and ultimately heart failure.
Most vets will give the dog heart meds which help control the valve and regulate the beating of the heart.
However, these meds only work for a short time (usually a month to a year) before the dog's heart fails.
In addition, the heart meds are very taxing on the dog's kidneys and may cause kidney failure.
So what can you do to prevent heart disease in dogs?
The best advice is to feed your dog properly by eliminating animal fat, sugar, and added salt.
Sodium is a big factor in heart disease, so you need to feed your dog a low sodium diet that will help decrease fluid retention.
Heart Disease In Dogs - Foods and Supplements You Need
Most commercial dog foods contain too much sodium and sugar along with artificial ingredients and preservatives.
Beware of the ingredients like "chicken by-products" or the like.
A dog's diet should consist of 40% protein, 30% fiber and 30% starch. Raw dog food like organic chicken, raw vegetables, and fruit are good to feed your dog.
Here are recommended dog foods that will help against heart disease in dogs.
Fourth, your dog should not drink tap water, but drink distilled water instead. Tap water contains fluoride and other chemicals which is not good for the dog's heart.
Two important additives you should get are L-Carnatine And Taurine. These two are amino acids that are vital for a dog's heart.
Many dogs who have heart disease are lacking in both Taurine and L-Carnatine.
Also, fish oil and coenzyme Q10, may have some beneficial effects preventing heart disease.
Recommended Supplement To Help Prevent Heart Disease In Dogs
Nutrition Strength Taurine For Dogs
Nutrition Strength Taurine for Dogs, Support for a Healthy Heart Function, Resist Inflammatory Diseases, with Coenzyme Q10 to Help Manage Heart Failure and DCM in Dogs, 120 Chewable Tablets
Heart Disease In Dogs - Causes And Symptoms
Symptoms:
- Coughing: Especially during or after exercise.
- Fatigue: Unwillingness to engage in regular activities.
- Breathing difficulties: Labored breathing or rapid panting.
- Reduced appetite: Reluctance to eat or weight loss.
- Fainting or collapsing: In severe cases.
Causes:
- Genetics: Certain breeds are predisposed to specific heart conditions.
- Age: Older dogs are more susceptible.
- Obesity: Excess weight can strain the heart.
- Poor diet: Nutrition plays a crucial role in heart health
Preventative Methods:
- Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule routine veterinary examinations to detect early signs.
- Balanced Diet: Provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet to maintain a healthy weight.
- Regular Exercise: Promote physical activity suitable for your dog's breed and age.
- Heartworm Prevention: Administer preventive medications to protect against heartworm disease.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor; manage portion sizes and avoid excessive treats.
- Genetic Screening: For breeds prone to specific heart issues, consider genetic testing.
- Stress Management: Minimize stressors and provide a comfortable, safe environment.
- Regular Dental Care: Poor dental health is linked to heart disease; brush your dog's teeth regularly.
- Avoid Toxins: Keep harmful substances, such as certain plants and chemicals, out of reach.
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