Mount Pleasant Pets 2021-22

HHH MP PETS www.MtPl easant . Pet | www.MPVet s . Pet | www. f acebook . com/MPpet s F E A T U R E local independent pet stores, for example, likely spend a tremendous amount of time reviewing foods and getting to know their suppliers. They tour facilities and meet with the food developers. They ask important questions – things we consumers want to know. And they bring these answers back to us so we can make well-informed decisions for our pets. Jennie Dudley, owner of award-winning Hairy Winston Pet Boutique & Grocery, is disheartened and frustrated by the onslaught of inaccurate information people are receiv- ing. She stated, “I do not think there is one perfect food for all dogs. We sell food with and without grain. Every dog is different and so are their nutritional needs. Most impor- tantly, we talk with the owner and get a history of the pet before recommending any food.” According to the FDA, “DCM is a disease of a dog’s heart muscle and results in an enlarged heart. As the heart and its chambers become dilated, it becomes harder for the heart to pump, and heart valves may leak, which can lead to a build- up of fluids in the chest and abdomen — congestive heart failure. If caught early, heart function may improve in cases that are not linked to genetics, with appropriate veterinary treatment and dietary modification.” Cardiologist Dr. Jacobson of Veterinary Specialty Care also weighed in: “I understand it is quite frustrating for clients these days to digest the abundance of information revolving pet nutrition. To complicate this, the issue itself is not borne out. There appears to be an epidemic of heart dis- ease in dogs that, historically, did not appear to be afflicted. Ultimately, given the fact that we don’t yet understand why boutique exotic grain (BEG) diets are affecting some dogs, and because DCM is a life-threatening disease, I recom- mend reconsidering the diet until we know more. “Potential symptoms of heart disease include exercise in- tolerance or periods of weakness and respiratory signs such as coughing, difficulty breathing and fainting. If noted, a consultation with your family veterinarian is advised,” he added. Fast-forward to July 2020. An independent, peer-re- viewed benchmark study was conducted, reviewing pub- lished research of more than 150 sources. From this, it was determined that there is no definitive link between grain- free foods and DCM. The source reports were found to be incomprehensive, and data used was inconsistent across the board, resulting in skewed findings. Will the FDA backtrack or explain its knee-jerk condem- nation of grain-free brands? Probably not. Does the topic warrant further review by veterinary professionals? Abso- lutely. When it comes to our pets, we need accurate infor- mation so we can make the best decisions for their health and well-being. There is a sea of information available, and only you will know your comfort level in deciphering the data — just as only you can choose to work with your veterinarian and nutrition expert to determine what’s best for your pet. Some pets thrive on a raw diet, while others prefer a home-cooked diet, and others do well with prepared kibble. In some cas- es, pets require grain-free diets to keep their allergies at bay, and in other cases, it’s a personal choice made by caregiv- ers. Before you rush out to change your pet’s food, talk to trusted resources so you can make the best decision for your furry family member. U This brief article is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. 3001 Rivertowne Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843.277.9043 | Crescent CareVet.com Mount Pleasant’s newest small animal veterinary provider. Free First Exam