The connection between our dogs is indescribable - not only emotionally, but also physically. So you will also notice if your dog's well-being is impaired.
Everything revolves around the gut. No matter whether your dog is big or small, young or old - the gut is the central organ for health. And if it's out of balance, the consequences can be serious.
In this article, we'll go through the following topics to help you tackle any gut issues:
- Importance of the gut for dog health
- Symptoms of a disturbed intestinal flora
- Causes of a disturbed intestinal flora
- Intestinal rehabilitation: what is it?
- Prebiotics and probiotics
- Duration and dosage of an intestinal cleanse
- Feeding during an intestinal cleanse
Importance of the gut for a dog's health
Digestion and nutrient absorption
The intestine is the place where digestion takes place. This is where food is converted into nutrients that are then absorbed by the body. Healthy intestinal function is therefore essential for the effective absorption of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
Immune defense
A large part of the immune system is located in the intestine, as it is home to a large number of lymph cells. The intestinal mucosa is colonized by an enormous amount of good and bad bacteria, which together form the intestinal flora. This flora is crucial for the defense against pathogens and parasites. However, it only functions optimally if it is in a balanced state. In a healthy balance, the intestinal flora is able to produce substances from the ingested food that are necessary for the development and maintenance of the dog's body tissue.
Production of vitamins
The good bacteria are able to produce vitamin K and important B vitamins, which are vital for the dog.
Influence on well-being and behavior
According to studies, intestinal health can also influence a dog's behavior and mood. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin are produced in the intestinal flora, which play a key role in regulating mood.
Symptoms and causes of disturbed intestinal flora
Many dog owners are familiar with this: their beloved four-legged friend occasionally suffers from digestive problems. His behavior changes, he appears limp and shows signs of discomfort, such as flatulence, diarrhea or loss of appetite.
Antibiotics, stress and an unbalanced diet often lead to a disturbed intestinal flora in dogs. However, it is difficult to find out the exact reason for your dog's intestinal problems.
Of course, you would want to spare your dog this hardship. It's difficult, because sometimes he can feel better, then worse.
Every dog is different and you may want to agree with that. It is understandable that you are worried. Maybe it's a chronic illness or something more serious?
To find out the real causes, the first port of call is the vet.
If you are one of the few vets who don't give your dog a first-time injection and a few chemical tablets for digestion, then you are in good hands. If this is not the case, you should agree with the vet to treat the causes rather than the symptoms.
Your dog may struggle with his intestinal problems again if he is given medication. On the other hand, a natural solution such as intestinal cleansing will ensure that your dog's intestinal health is maintained in the long term.
Intestinal rehabilitation: what is it and why can it help?
In order to bring the intestinal flora back into balance, the beneficial intestinal cleanse makes a valuable contribution to the animal so that the dog can return to its original best form.
The intestinal cure is a two-stage process that involves cleansing the intestines and rebuilding the intestinal flora. Prebiotics and probiotics are indispensable helpers that nourish and strengthen the good bacteria in the gut.
When is a natural intestinal cleanse useful for dogs?
The duration and exact composition of the intestinal cure vary depending on the individual needs of the dog. Expert advice and consultation with a vet is recommended.
A natural intestinal cleanse is helpful after
- Vaccinations
- antibiotics
- cortisone
- Intestinal flora-damaging medication
- giardia
- a chemical worming treatment
- all gastrointestinal complaints
Cleansing the intestines with
restoring the intestinal flora with prebiotics and probiotics
You may be familiar with yogurts with bacterial cultures. These are probiotics that improve the microbial environment in the gut.