Dog Health News

A study published in 2023 in Scientific Reports examined how metronidazole affects the gut microbiome of dogs. Researchers found that the antibiotic significantly reduced microbial diversity, which began recovering within a week after treatment.

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are among the most frequent health concerns encountered in canine medicine. These conditions affect the digestive system, encompassing everything from the oesophagus to the colon, and can manifest through various symptoms that significantly impact a dog's wellbeing.

In a recent study by Pereira et al. (2021), researchers investigated the impact of two different zinc sources—zinc sulphate and zinc proteinate—on the faecal microbiota of adult Beagle dogs. Additionally, the study examined whether the inclusion of a multi-enzymatic complex derived from Aspergillus niger fermentation affected the microbiota. This experiment was motivated by previous findings that organic zinc sources may be more bioavailable than inorganic ones, which could be further influenced by dietary constituents like phytates. However, little was known about how these zinc sources and enzyme additives interact with the gut microbiota of dogs.

Recent advancements in high-throughput sequencing techniques have allowed researchers to gain unprecedented insights into the microbial communities living in symbiosis with dogs. These communities, collectively known as the microbiome, play crucial roles in canine health and disease.

Digestive disorders in dogs can be particularly distressing for both pets and their owners. Whilst our pets cannot verbalise their discomfort, there are several telling signs that indicate potential digestive issues requiring attention. This guide explores the primary indicators of gastrointestinal disturbances in dogs and provides insight into when veterinary intervention may be necessary.