What is the gut microbiome?

All animals, including dogs and people, have millions of bacteria in their guts. These ‘friendly’ gut bacteria help your dog to digest food as well as provide natural defences against the invasion of potentially harmful microbes. The bacteria inhabiting the intestines are referred to as the gut microbiome. We are learning more and more about the benefits of a healthy microbiome, but we do know that it has a huge impact on the overall well-being of our dogs.

What are probiotics for dogs?

Probiotics can be used to top up the levels of ‘friendly’ bacteria and improve the gut microbiome. This can be particularly helpful if your dog suffers from a digestive disorder, or their gut flora has been disturbed by medication. Probiotics are live microorganisms often given to dogs as a supplement. They may come in powder, paste or tablet form with bacteria specific to improve the gut health of dogs. However, some high-quality diets have probiotics included in their recipes, which can save owners from having to administer any separate treatments, depending on their dog’s needs.

What are prebiotics for dogs?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibre sources that can increase the number of specific bacteria populations. As these bacteria metabolise prebiotics, the by-products made can have local anti-inflammatory effects on the gut lining and produce energy for your dog. Dietary fibres can also help improve stool consistency, improve the mucus lining of the digestive tract as well as helping improve the health of cells in the intestines. Simply put, prebiotics help good gut bacteria to grow and multiply. Prebiotics are therefore often given at the same time as probiotics.

Are pre and probiotics good for dogs?

Yes! Pre and probiotics for dogs can be excellent at improving digestive health. They are often used to: Help treat sudden onset, uncomplicated diarrhoea cases Prevent stress-induced diarrhoea Manage chronic gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease) alongside medication and dietary changes Increase levels of gut bacteria following courses of antibiotics Probiotics and prebiotics are considered very safe for dogs. Their proven benefits mean that even healthy dogs could show an improvement in gut health, with decreased flatulence and improved stool consistency.

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Five Tips for Enjoying Autumn Walks with Your Dog

Amy Gossling

November 8, 2024

As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend. October is National Walk Your Dog Week, and it’s the perfect opportunity to make the most of your walks this autumn. Here are five essential tips to ensure both you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. Prioritise Visibility with Reflective Gear 2. Bring Along Delicious Treats 3. Stay Alert for Blue Algae and Moss 4. Avoid Tempting Leaf Piles 5. Prepare with a Grooming Kit and Towel Conclusion

1. Prioritise Visibility with Reflective Gear

As the days grow shorter, visibility becomes key. Equip both yourself and your dog with reflective gear to ensure you’re seen by drivers, especially during early morning or evening walks. This simple step can significantly enhance your safety during autumn strolls.

@yearsuk It’s #nationalwalkyourdogweek so here are 5 tips to make your autumn walks fun 🐶🐾 #dogwalking #top5 #dogtok #dogwalker #autumn ♬ original sound - Years.com

2. Bring Along Delicious Treats

What’s a walk without a few rewards? Treat your dog to some tasty goodies along the way. We recommend trying the delightful harvest rewards from Years, which are sure to please your pup. These treats not only motivate your dog but also add a fun element to your outdoor adventures.

3. Stay Alert for Blue Algae and Moss

While walking near lakes and rivers, be cautious of blue algae and rock moss. These can be toxic to dogs if ingested or if they swim in contaminated water. If your dog enjoys splashing about, make sure to keep an eye out for these hazards to ensure their safety.

4. Avoid Tempting Leaf Piles

Autumn leaves can be incredibly inviting for dogs, but be mindful of what might be hiding underneath those vibrant piles. Sharp objects can be concealed within the leaves, posing a risk to your dog’s paws and overall safety. Keep your furry friend away from these tempting mounds to avoid any nasty surprises.

5. Prepare with a Grooming Kit and Towel

If your dog loves to swim or run through muddy puddles, it’s wise to have a grooming kit and towel handy. These essentials will help you clean up your pooch after a fun day out, ensuring they look and feel fabulous once again. A quick wipe-down can prevent dirt from being tracked back into your home, too!

Conclusion

With these tips in mind, you and your dog can enjoy all that autumn has to offer while staying safe and healthy. Remember to take your Years treats and cherish the moments spent together during your autumn walkies. Happy walking!

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