Dear Dedicated Dog Lovers,
Could Your Dog’s Digestive Troubles Be More Serious Than You Think?
Many dogs experience chronic digestive issues that disrupt their quality of life. If your furry friend is battling persistent symptoms like diarrhea, cramping, or bloating, have you considered whether it might be something more serious, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
While these conditions both involve inflammation in the digestive system, properly understanding and addressing them can make all the difference for your dog’s health and happiness.
There are two primary forms of IBD/IBS that affect dogs: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Both cause intestinal inflammation, leading to a range of symptoms that can be difficult to manage. Symptoms vary from continuous discomfort to periods of remission and flare-ups. For dogs with ulcerative colitis, inflammation in the large intestine can lead to bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and even fever. The key to managing this condition lies in reducing inflammation and promoting intestinal healing.
One of the most effective and natural treatments for dogs with IBS/IBD is enzyme therapy. Unlike medications, which often come with side effects, enzyme therapy targets inflammation, reduces pain, and supports healing without the drawbacks. Here’s how enzyme therapy can make a difference:
Why Enzyme Therapy?
Systemic enzyme therapy works in several ways:
Reduces Inflammation: Enzymes help calm the inflammatory processes that cause your dog discomfort.
Boosts Immune Support: Enzymes can stimulate immune function, helping your dog’s body better cope with inflammation.
Speeds Healing: Enzymes assist in tissue repair, bringing nutrients to damaged areas and clearing out waste.
For the best results, enzymes should be given both with meals and on an empty stomach, allowing them to work systemically.
Choosing an Effective Enzyme Formula
Not all enzyme formulas are the same, so it’s essential to choose the right one. Here’s what to look for:
Bromelain: Derived from pineapples, bromelain is a powerful enzyme that can split 30,000 chemical bonds per second, freeing up amino acids from proteins and helping reduce inflammation.
Papain: Found in papayas, papain works on a wide range of proteins, even more effectively than pancreatic enzymes, making it ideal for dogs with digestive challenges.
Systemic Enzyme Formulation: Unlike digestive enzymes, systemic enzymes need to be absorbed into the bloodstream. Look for enzymes in vegetarian capsules rather than tablets, as these capsules are often better designed to withstand stomach acid and reach the small intestine where they can do their work.
Cofactors and Coenzymes: These “helpers,” such as vitamins and minerals, are essential for enzyme function. Organic microalgae is an excellent source of these nutrients, maximizing enzyme activity and supporting overall health.
Supporting Your Dog’s Digestive Health Naturally
Helping your dog manage IBS or IBD naturally can provide them relief and improve their quality of life. Enzyme therapy, combined with a supportive diet and lifestyle, can be an excellent, side-effect-free approach to managing chronic digestive issues.
Ready to learn more about supporting your dog’s digestive health? Contact us at DogIBS for guidance on choosing the right enzyme formula and supporting your dog’s digestive wellness. Let’s help your furry friend find comfort and relief with natural solutions!
Information paraphrased from:
Cichoke, Anthony J. (1999). The Complete Book of Enzyme Therapy. Avery Publishing Group: New York. Pgs. 39-45.
With care of your canine companion,
Emanuela Visone, CFNC, CHC, CLC
Certified ONDAMED Practitioner
DogIBS NaturoPAWthic Healing
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