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There can or will be times when it will be necessary for your pet to be prescribed antibiotics by your veterinarian, but what about probiotics? Should you stop supplementing your pet(s) with a probiotic (hopefully your pet is already on one!) until after the final round of antibiotics is complete? I used to believe the answer was yes, but after developing my own probiotic during a very difficult time when my dog Matty had to go on antibiotics due to his very severe injury, which completely fried his gut, I now believe that if he were on it while on antibiotics, the side effects of the antibiotic would not have been as severe, or if any. There is more and more research coming out supporting the theory that supplementing pets with probiotics even while on antibiotics can diminish any negative side effects of common antibiotic drugs such as Clavamox. In fact, ‘back in the day’, a doctor would have always prescribed a probiotic with an antibiotic- how that clinical practice got obsolete is beyond me.  A Reason To Pair Probiotics and Antibiotics: “This meta-analysis reached a similar conclusion as the 2006 meta-analysis: Probiotics appear to be effective in preventing and treating AAD in children and adults receiving a wide variety of antibiotics for a number of conditions. The results were also consistent with those of a new meta-analysis that looked specifically at one pathogen—and found a reduction of 66% in C difficile-associated diarrhea in patients taking probiotics with their antibiotics.” (Rodgers B, Kirley K, Mounsey A. PURLs: prescribing an antibiotic? Pair it with probiotics. J Fam Pract. 2013 Mar;62(3):148-50. PMID: 23520586; PMCID: PMC3601687.). AAD (antibiotic associated diarrhea) is a severe side effect of antibiotic use. When we were testing out Matty’s Blend probiotic formula way before it was Matty’s Blend, we found that although it did eventually correct the gut in a number of days from the damage of the antibiotics, it could have very possibly prevented the whole problem in the first place. That is why we recommend supplementing Matty’s Blend even while your pet is on an antibiotic, and yes, its great for cats too! Especially because of the gut anti-inflammatory ingredients it contains such as slippery elm bark, licorice root, larch and humic and fulvic acid, with strategically selected probiotic strains at the right dose and amount. “The use of probiotics is a promising approach for manipulating the gut microbiota to promote host health [20,21,22,23]. Studies have shown that probiotics exert prophylactic or therapeutic activities in a variety of diseases such as IBD, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, colon cancer, allergy, type 2 diabetes, and atopic dermatitis in humans [20,21,22,24]. With positive effects such as improving growth performance, promoting intestinal health, and enhancing resistance against infections, probiotics have been explored as promising antibiotic alternatives in animal production [25,26]. An increase in nutrient digestion and absorption, improvement in intestinal morphology, optimization of the gut microbiota and suppressed inflammation have been linked with the health benefits of probiotics in farm animals [23]. Species and strains belonging to Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, and Saccharomyces are commonly used probiotics in functional foods and dietary supplements.” |(Yang Q, Wu Z. Gut Probiotics and Health of Dogs and Cats: Benefits, Applications, and Underlying Mechanisms. Microorganisms. 2023 Sep 29;11(10):2452. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms11102452. PMID: 37894110; PMCID: PMC10609632.)  Clinical Pearl: Combine Matty’s Blend with Missy’s Chance that acts as a prebiotic to fast track your pets’ gut microbiome health! 
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 What are free radicals and why should we learn about them? Free radicals are important to understand as they pertain to our pets health and well being (and ours too actually), and it actually determines how well our pets age! So, yes, that important! In the technical term, a free radical is an atom or group of atoms that contains at least one unpaired electron. Electrons are particles that are negatively charged that typically occur in pairs, thus forming a chemically stable arrangement. If an electron is not paired, another molecule or atom can easily bond with it, causing a chemical reaction. Free radicals are very unstable, and can create dramatic changes in the body, they can cause a lot of oxidative damage, however, each free radical can only exist for a tiny fraction of a second, it’s really the damage that it leaves behind that can be irreversible, particularly damage to heart muscle cells, nerve and certain immune system sensory cells. Are all free radicals bad? Not all free radicals are bad, free radicals are typically present in the body in small numbers, biochemical processes naturally lead to the formation of free radicals, and under normal and healthy circumstances, the body can and does keep them in check. There are even free radicals the immune system makes (which is why we must always keep the immune system strong), that destroys viruses and bacteria. There are other free radicals that are involved in producing hormones and activating enzymes, we even need free radicals to produce energy and various substances that the body requires. When do free radicals become bad? Free radicals become a detriment to health when there is excessive free radical formation, this is where damage to tissues and cells can occur. It can also become a chain reaction, when the formation of a large number of free radicals occur it then stimulates the formation of even more free radicals, leading to even more damage. The presence of dangerously high number of free radicals in the body can even alter the way in which cells code genetic material. Changes in protein structure can occur as a result of error in protein synthesis and that is very bad, as the immune system can see this error as a foreign substance and try to destroy it. The formation of mutated proteins can eventually damage the immune system and can lead to cancers such as leukemia, as well we other diseases. In addition to damaging genetic material, protective cell membranes can be destroyed by free radical damage, and can upset the calcium levels in the body. There are many different factors that can lead to free radical damage in the body, some that are not always in our control, such as the environment and the polluted air we breathe (think chem trails, pesticides sprayed, cell phone towers), and some that are such as diet and stress. When the body obtains nutrients from the diet, it uses oxygen to create energy, it’s a process called oxidation. Oxygen molecules containing unpaired electrons are then released, and if they are released in too high numbers it can cause damage to the body. Oxidation occurs more readily in fat molecules than protein or carbohydrates. This is why it is extremely important to only feed quality food and supplements to our pets! I’m an extreme advocate for quality supplements as I have found some pet guardians, even though they feed a quality diet, supplement using poor quality supplements, which can actually undo what they are trying to do with the diet, for example, most omega-3 supplements on the market (like 99%) are already rancid before the bottle is even opened! When you offer rancid oils and supplements, it causes a lot of free radical damage in the body in a concentrated way, so you are then spending extra money on something that actually does the opposite of what you are trying to do!  Do free radicals accelerate aging? Yes, excess free radicals do accelerate aging when the body produces more free radicals over time than scavengers, and that resulting imbalance contributes to the aging process. Which as we all know, our beloved pets don’t need help with that, they already age fast enough- that is why we take a dogs age and times it by 7. How do we effectively deal with excess free radical damage in the body, or slow down aging? Substances known as antioxidants neutralize free radicals by binding to their free electrons. Of course, not all antioxidants are created equal, and some have more specific purposes than others, for example, the antioxidant Coenzyme CoQ10 is especially beneficial for the heart. The antioxidant lutein is especially beneficial for the eyes (ocular health). There are water soluble antioxidants and fat soluble antioxidants. One of the most powerful antioxidant is called glutathione, which, if the body is overall healthy, it can make this antioxidant effectively, which the body actually needs to not only destroy free radicals but to detoxify and protect the body as well. To keep things simple, feed a fresh whole food diet, not kibble, as kibble goes rancid very quickly (before the bag is even opened unfortunately), add quality supplements yourself where you can control the quality of vitamins (also antioxidants), and of course, good quality fats, my personal favorite way of adding more antioxidants to my pets diet is by adding a quality greens powder to their food and a quality omega-3 supplement.   We all want to see our pets thrive for life, which means less vet visits and enjoying our pets to the fullest, while maximizing the quality time we share them. While some might say there are many paths to Rome when it comes to health, we need to stick with the laws and principles of health, which I will explain in further detail, but a good example for this would be; if our bodies are made up of 60% water, then consuming water on a daily basis at a percentage that replenishes the body to maintain that 60% will be suffice, if you get dehydrated even 2%, it will lead to physiological stresses on the body with symptoms such as headaches and organ depletion. Losing up to 11% of water from the body can even be fatal. So, hydrating the body on a daily basis with the appropriate amount of clean water is a health principle, it is a natural law, we are made up of water, and therefore, we need to consume water. For our dogs and cats, there are also such principles. If I feed my dog and cat, who are carnivores that thrive on meat and some vegetables, a high carbohydrate and dry diet, I am breaking a law (or principle) to their health. Why? Because I am feeding an animal a diet that it was never designed and meant to consume.  So, feeding a species appropriate diet will be the first and most important thing one can do to add life to years and years to life when it comes to their pets, a diet that is rich in bioavailable nutrition, anti-inflammatory, and proteins the dog or cat can have or tolerate, (not all proteins are beneficial to every dog and cat), some breeds tend to thrive on certain proteins while others do not, epigenetically speaking. The proper diet is key and crucial for thriving, no matter how much or how little you supplement, because you can’t out-supplement a bad diet. Next, seeing what your pet is lacking and supplying it. It can be as simple as adding a probiotic and digestive enzyme to their meals to help them digest and break down the food, such as with senior pets, as they get older they produce less enzymes, and so supplying your pet’s body with enzymes and a probiotic will help them to digest and break their food down properly to get the nutrition they need, which will get them to thriving. Another example would be, as your pets gets older, there will be natural cartilage and collagen breakdown, supplementing with either glucosamine and/or hyaluronic acid will help bring the pep back in their step, because you are supplying their bodies with what they need. Whatever is missing, we add. Another example would be supplying them with essential fatty acids like omega-3s, called essential because they don’t produce it in their bodies therefore they need to get it from outside sources. Super food concentrates add vitality back where diet falls short. The unique polyphenol properties actually help the body use food better, polyphenols help the micro biome utilize nutrition from concentrates. Here are just a few supplements proven to add vitality to your pet’s life and quite possibly, more (quality) years (these supplements were specifically studied for longevity) and have a very high ORAC value (high antioxidant value); -AFA E3 Live algae -Red algae -Wheatgrass -Phytoplankton -Spirulina -Medicinal mushrooms -Olive extract -Quality cold pressed oils such as a variety of omega-3s or olive oil. -Curcumin (extract from turmeric) -CoQ10 (Ubiquinol) -Ginseng -Astaxanthin Super food concentrates are a lot more efficient, and makes your pets more resilient. Again, aim for quality and organic as much as possible. However, to really understand optimal longevity we need to support the pathways and mechanisms to empower and improve health and vitality as our pet’s age.   Mitochondria & Aging What does the mitochondria do? The mitochondria is the engine of the cell, it is responsible for making ATP, which is a neurotransmitter at every synapse. It takes energy to heal! It is also responsible in determining the degree of inflammation and completeness of recovery and so much more. In one of our latest articles, we talked about the coined term, ‘Inflammaging’, age and systemic, cellular, and nuclear inflammation accelerates the mitochondrial breakdown of cells, this is chronic inflammation of course, as not all inflammation is bad, but it has been proven and shown that chronic inflammation will accelerate the aging process. This can happen in many ways, such as through a high toxin load (especially if toxins like heavy metals get inside of the cell), nutrient deficiencies, genetics, physiological stresses, aging, etc. Anything that damages the mitochondria of the cell, will lead to cell death, which will accelerate aging. All Paths Lead To Detox Those who know me know that I am very passionate about precision detoxing. Limiting and avoiding exposure to toxins, such as flea and tick medications, and over vaccinating is key to longevity, also be mindful of cleaning agents used to clean the house that can be very toxic to our pets. Also, don’t forget the water- If unfiltered water affects us in a negative way, then it will most certainly affect them as well, and I find most pet guardians forget about the accumulated dangers of unfiltered water for their pets. But what happens then if our pet(s) have already been toxified? Environmental and metabolic detox is needed, at least once a year. This will ensure that the immune system is not burdened, and all organ systems and drainage pathways are functioning optimally. As well as, protecting mitochondrial health from environmental and metabolic toxins, removing damaged mitochondria and damaged cells, initiating metabolic activation, and addressing accumulated damage and inflammation, hence increasing reliance in entire systems. Primary detox emunctories are; Liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, stomach and pancreas. Secondary detox emunctories are; Skin, mucus, nose, sex glands, nerves. Keeping these healthy and clean are extremely vital for the totality of health for your pets (and us too!). In conclusion, as long as we are honoring our pets by following their principles to health, and doing our part in making sure they get everything they need, physically, mentally and emotionally, then I believe we are doing our very best for them.   Missy’s Story As you all now, everything has a purpose and a story… When Missy was three years old, about 8 years ago, in the middle of winter, she got into an accident where she suffered a hip fracture. We think someone ski-doing on the property passing by might have accidentally hit her by not seeing her. I had at the time just read about the repairing effects of the AFA E3 Live algae, and knew that although she was an already picky eater (this was right before I switched her and her brother over to raw food), she would now definitely not eat, now that she was in pain (even with medication), so what I did was I made up a concoction of a complex that had this very special algae in it, and syringed it into her twice a day. Poor Missy had a green beard and a green chest for weeks! I knew I had to get it into her, as she was barely eating the amount she was supposed to, and she was in dire need of nutrients. To our amazement, within two weeks, she not only recovered, but bounced back, which that in and of itself was an understatement. She was even back to jumping our fence, and running around like she was a puppy again- we were just simply amazed. After that, I switched her and her brother over from kibble and wet food to raw, where they really began to thrive! I knew there was something very special about this algae, and 8 years later, Missy’s Chance is born- This truly gave her the chance to not only recover, but to thrive!  The Formula Missy's Chance is a 6-ingredient complex of: Phytoplankton 400mg Spirulina 320mg E3 Live AFA 150mg Wheatgrass Powder 50mg Red Marine Algae 40mg Rose Hips 40mg Missy’s Chance is a complete phyto-nutrition formula that will work as a functional whole food in the body. The right nutrition may send healthy messages to the epigenome to signal healthy gene expression, supporting an overall healthy immune system. This is an essential formula to any diet, whether you feed your pets dry, wet, cooked or raw. Functional nutrients, which means it is jam packed with bioavailable healthy promoting vitamins, minerals (both macro and trace minerals), antioxidants, phytonutrients (chemicals that are in plants), and so much more! Phytonutrients may work in a variety of mechanisms in the body in a very synergistic way, including; -Enhancing cell to cell communication -Enhancing immune response -Converting to vitamin A (retinol) -Repairing DNA damage -Detoxifying carcinogens -Liver support -Brings oxygenation to blood cells -Promoted apoptosis (causing cancer cells to die) *A special note regarding minerals: One of the most brilliant doctors in the health industry has said that minerals without being bound to proteins aren’t a bioavailable source to the body, so the very best bioavailable minerals in the world come from plants. Macro minerals are; Calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus and potassium. Micro minerals are; Copper, iron, zinc, manganese, and iodine. This formula is great for:
Short term effect: Fast nutrition, may promote better health, repair, more energy, and anti-inflammatory. Long term effect: anti-aging, longevity, vitality, may support a stronger immune system.
Moirig getting in on the photo shoot- He loves Missy's Chance!  Phytoplankton: This complete whole source of marine phytoplankton is a complete nutrition that goes directly to the cells, one can call it ‘cell food’, as it does not need to be broken down in the G.I. tract. A highly bioavailable source of nutrition, it is a single celled organism that is jam packed with phytonutrients, full complete profile of amino acids, trace minerals, chlorophyll, EPA, fatty acids, protein, carotenoids, antioxidants, vitamins and so much more!! Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA E3Live): This is the star ingredient in this formula, and this is why there is no other pet supplement on the market like Missy’s Chance! AFA is a blue-green algae that has been around for a very long time, it is one of the most primitive life forms on earth. It embodies a whole host of vitamins, including B-vitamins, antioxidants A, C and E, minerals, trace minerals, phytonutrients, amino acids and essential fatty acids. It has been shown to potentially have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties. One of the key active components to AFA is phycocyanin, which attributes to its immune supporting effect. Phycocyanin is what gives this incredible algae its blue pigment, whereas the green pigment may rejuvenate and strengthen blood via its rich chlorophyll content. This potent free radical scavenger may help to prevent some disease, may help to inhibit inflammation and may help to rev up stem cell production. The blue pigment is also a COX-2 inhibitor, and this particular enzyme is highly dominant in cancer cells. McGill University researchers found that AFA consumption in humans led to rapid changes in immune cell trafficking. In fact, just two hours after consuming 1.5 grams of AFA, 40% of the immune system’s natural killer cells migrated from the blood stream to the tissues to work on. An additional study in chickens showed that chickens that were fed the blue-green algae had greater anti-tumor cell activity compared to those that went without. AFA is also highly rich in carotenoid antioxidants such as lycopene, beta carotene, lutein, which helps to prevent disease and reduce inflammation. Also, a wonderful source of EPA and DHA omega-3s, which further helps to reduce inflammation, strengthen and stabilize cell membranes, speed up healing and assist in production of white blood cells that eat up bacteria in the body, and produce pathogen fighting antibodies. AFA is also an excellent source of heme iron, which is required by the body for the production of antibodies, as well as zinc, which increases natural killer cells, increases macrophages activity and is responsible for the reproduction of DNA. It also helps the body to detoxify heavy metals and balances blood sugar. On top of everything, AFA is also one of the highest natural sources of PEA (phenylethylamine). This antioxidant works through the endocannabinoid system, where it has a positive effect on mood, and overall feelings of well being. PEA also improves attention span, concentration, memory and stress.  Spirulina: This wonderful ancient, blue-green algae grows in warm, fresh water, and takes its name from the spiral shape of its strands! Spirulina gets its deep green color from chlorophyll and its blue color from phycocyanin (C-PC), a strong antioxidant compound with anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-cancer and hepato-protective qualities (liver protecting properties). Phycocyanin (C-PC) possesses potent antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to selectively inhibit pro-inflammatory COX-2 Pathway, which is extremely important as it relates to cancer, because COX-2 activity increases malignant tissue. C-PC, much like EPA & DHA, has been shown to suppress the COX-2 enzyme, decreasing inflammation and pain of osteoarthritis. In a study done in 2000, (Reddy et al., 2000), C-PC was even shown to be an even more potent COX-2 inhibitor than a class of NSAID drugs introduced by a couple major pharmaceutical companies. In a 2013 and 2009 study, spirulina was shown that it was a rich source of important nutreints like, chlorophyll, carotenoids, phytonutrients, B-complex vitamins including B-12 and vitamin E, vitamin K, a very wide array of bioavailable minerals, gamma linoleic acid, and superoxide dismutase (a powerful free radical scavenger). Spirulina is also very high in protein, at anywhere between 65% to over 70% protein, which is actually more protein per weight than by any other food. Just an oz. of spirulina can equal to be 16 grams of protein. The protein in spirulina is actually way more bioavailable than (up to 4x more) than beef per gram! Protein is important because it provides the structure for joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, muscle fibers, organs and collagen. An alage where you get both micro and macronutrients! Wheatgrass: Wheatgrass is also another wonderful source of nutrients, such as, vitamins, minerals (both macro and micro), proteins, chlorophyll, enzymes and phytonutrients. Wheatgrass is not only nutritive, but it is also detoxifying, especially in the intestines, which is the largest hollow space in the body. It may also aid in digestion, helping the body to break down food and absorb nutrients, thus increasing energy. A 2017 study Trusted Source found that wheatgrass has an inhibitory effect on proliferation of cells in oral cancer. This means it may stop the cells from multiplying and spreading. It may be due to its high chlorophyll content. Wheatgrass may also lower myelotoxicity that is caused by chemotherapy. Myelotoxicity reduces bone marrow function and can increase your risk for infection. Red Algae: Red algae is in this formula predominantly for it’s unique anti-aging properties. Naturally high in vitamin C, red algae is wonderful for skin cellular health. Naturally a great source of a full spectrum of minerals, (both micro and macro). Red algae is also chalk full on wonderful vitamins, minerals, amino acids, special antioxidants called polyphenols that are very powerful and anti-aging, thyroid health, gut health, immune system health and bone health. Red algae contains mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), sulfated polysaccharides, carotenoids, and polyphenols which may provide protection against UVB and UVA rays. Red algae is also a great source of vitamins A and C. Rose Hips: Rose hips were added to this wonderful formula for the vitamin C and bioflavonoid component, which is another class of phytonutrients, including anthocyanin, which give berries their pigment. Very potent antioxidants that helps to protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which research shows it can block tumor activity. Rose hips are extremely high in vitamin C, catechins, quercitin, and ellagic acid, and a diet rich in these compounds can help lower inflammation and oxidative stress. Bioflavanoids were strategically added to this formula to help further with absorption of the wonderful components these greens have to offer. It makes this already highly bioavailable formula even more bioavailable.  Not all greens supplements are created equal, we all know the saying, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’, but not if that apple is a GMO product and laced with pesticides. This product was tested for contaminants and heavy metals, potency testing, microbiology contamination testing, is 100% human grade, in a glass jar, and harvested only from pristine environments. To buy Missy's Chance click here.  “Inflammaging” is a word coined from inflammation and aging. It describes the connection between age-related inflammation and the aging process in pets. Is all inflammation bad, and does every type of inflammation lead to aging? The answer is no. Acute inflammation is a protective response Acute inflammation is not a bad thing. In fact, it is a necessary protective response that helps the body heal and repair. In the short term, inflammation is a natural process within the healing process following triggers such as injury, chemical toxins, microbial infection and free radical damage. How chronic inflammation becomes inflammaging Chronic inflammation at the cellular level is different. It should not continue unchecked. If it does, this chronic state of low-grade inflammation can contribute to premature aging and chronic diseases, including autoimmune diseases and other autoimmune disorders. Chronic inflammation occurs when tissues and organs continue to receive inflammatory signals that cause them to overreact and prevent the inflammatory cycle from being completed. A major part of keeping inflammation in check is modulating cytokine activation. In simple terms, this means supporting a healthy balance between pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines by promoting balanced T-helper cell activity. T-helper cells are a class of lymphocytes, or white blood cells, that help coordinate the immune system response to inflammation and other threats. A balanced profile of T-helper cells is crucial for immune defenses, immune function and healthy tissue homeostasis. When one system in the body is compromised, it can affect others as well. For instance, we know there is a strong gut-brain axis and a gut-lung axis. Everything in the body is interconnected. When chronic inflammation is present, free radicals and reactive oxygen species can also contribute to oxidative stress and oxidative damage. The right anti-inflammatory components, including antioxidants, can play an important role in helping to counter those negative effects. The most common type of inflammation I see is in the gut. That is no surprise when a poor diet contains inflammatory pet-food ingredients such as corn, wheat gluten and meat meals, which I do not consider digestible. The gut microbiota and the wider gut microbiome are part of this interconnected system. When inflammation takes hold, it can shorten the telomeres of DNA strands and contribute to premature aging. The good news is that herbs such as astragalus have also been shown to lengthen DNA telomeres.  What research says about inflammaging in dogs and cats Veterinary medicine is paying more attention to how the immune system changes as pets live longer. Immunosenescence describes age-dependent changes in immune function, while inflammaging describes persistent, low-grade inflammation. The two can overlap when an aging immune system responds less effectively to new threats but allows inflammatory signals to remain active. A veterinary review reported age-related changes in cell-mediated immunity, including differences in T-cell populations and reduced lymphocyte responses. It also found increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by blood monocytes in senior cats. However, the authors emphasized that pet-specific inflammaging research remains limited. [1] More recent research measured IL-6, IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha in healthy dogs of different ages and sizes. Inflammatory profiles changed across the dogs' lives, but the pattern was not identical to that commonly reported in humans. [2] Human research can suggest possible mechanisms, but it is not proof of what happens in every dog or cat. Inflammaging is best understood as a framework rather than a diagnosis. It helps researchers explore connections among aging, chronic inflammation, nutrition, body condition and the gut microbiome. It does not mean every senior pet is inflamed or every age-related condition has the same cause. Mechanisms behind inflammaging in pets The molecular mechanisms behind inflammaging are interconnected and still being studied. With immunosenescence, different types of immune cells change and the immune response may become less precise. The body may respond less effectively to new threats while continuing to release pro-inflammatory molecules that are no longer helpful. Cellular senescence may also play a role. Senescent cells have stopped dividing but remain in tissue, where some release cytokines and other inflammatory signals. If they accumulate faster than the body can clear them, they may contribute to chronic inflammation and interfere with normal tissue repair. Mitochondria, which help cells produce energy, may become less efficient with age. Increased reactive oxygen species can overwhelm antioxidant defenses and create oxidative stress. Damaged cells may then release more danger signals, creating a vicious cycle between tissue damage and inflammation. The gut microbiota, body fat, infections, stress, genetics and existing health conditions may all influence these pathways. That is why there is no single prevention strategy or one-size-fits-all anti-inflammatory diet for every pet. When there is chronic stress in the body A stressed pet is an inflamed pet. Chronic stress can shorten telomeres and feed a vicious cycle of inflammation in the body. Stress promotes higher Th2 levels and lowers Th1 levels, which increases Th17 levels and then increases the self-tissue response. To help mediate T-helper cell balance, one would first look at rebalancing healthy Th1 cell activation, modulating the Th2 immune response and balancing immune function at the cellular level. For example, during dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, the intestinal lining becomes a factory for inflammatory cytokines. The appropriate response is to raise natural killer cells in the body to combat that inflammatory state. By working in stages, once T-helper cells are supported in a balanced state, they can also help promote a balanced immune response. Proper T-cell polarization may help resolve inflammation, kill tissue infections and hollow-organ infections in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, sinuses and bladder, and quiet the autoimmune response. The role of body weight, movement and chronic stress Body fat is metabolically active and can release substances that affect inflammatory pathways. Obesity in dogs and cats has been associated with persistent low-grade inflammation and chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis and diabetes. Maintaining an appropriate body condition is therefore an important part of supporting healthy aging. Regular activity can help preserve muscle, mobility and quality of life, but appropriate exercise differs by animal. Short walks, gentle play, scent games or controlled activity may help, depending on the pet's health. When pain, heart disease or another condition is present, an activity plan should be adjusted with veterinary guidance. Predictable routines, sufficient rest, comfortable sleeping areas and species-appropriate enrichment may help reduce chronic stress. The goal is not to remove every short-term stressor, but to prevent ongoing distress from affecting sleep, digestion, behaviour and overall health. The gut microbiome and age-related inflammation The gut microbiome is the community of microorganisms in the digestive tract. It interacts with the intestinal lining, nutrients and the immune system. When this community becomes unbalanced, a state known as dysbiosis, inflammatory signals may increase. Researchers are exploring how age-related changes in gut microbiota may influence immune function and the gut-brain axis, but the relationship in dogs and cats is still being defined. Microbiome changes can be a cause, consequence or companion to another problem. Probiotics, fermented foods and major diet changes should therefore not be treated as universal cures. Possible long-term effects of unchecked inflammation Here are just a few examples of the health conditions and age-related conditions that may be associated with inflammation when it is left unchecked over the long term: · Allergies · Autoimmune diseases and autoimmune disorders · Arthritis · Cancer · Cognitive issues and cognitive impairment · Diabetes · Heart disease · Gastrointestinal issues · Kidney and liver disease · Skin disorders · Urinary tract disorders Possible signs pet guardians may notice Chronic inflammation does not have one unmistakable symptom. The affected area and underlying cause will influence what a pet guardian sees. Changes that deserve attention may include: · Recurring vomiting, diarrhea, gas or changes in appetite · Persistent itching, skin irritation or repeated ear problems · Stiffness, limping, reluctance to jump or reduced mobility · Lower energy, reduced interest in play or slower recovery after activity · Unexplained weight gain, weight loss or loss of muscle · Changes in sleep, house-training, social interaction or cognitive behaviour · Dental pain, inflamed gums, bad breath or difficulty eating None of these signs proves that a pet has inflammaging. They can occur with infections, allergies, pain, dental disease and many other conditions. New, persistent or worsening changes should be discussed with a veterinarian rather than managed through diet or supplements alone. How veterinarians assess inflammation No single blood test diagnoses inflammaging in a dog or cat. A veterinarian considers the pet's history, diet, medications, body and muscle condition, behaviour and physical examination. Blood work, urinalysis, imaging or other diagnostics may then be used to investigate an underlying disease. C-reactive protein and other acute-phase proteins can act as inflammatory markers in dogs, but they do not identify a specific cause. Their meaning depends on the pet's symptoms and other test results. The goal is to identify and treat the underlying condition, not simply label the pet as inflamed. [4] Understanding the aging process To really understand healthy aging, we first have to see that aging is not simply an automatic result of time passing. Rather, it is the result of events that happen in cells, regardless of the tissue or organ system to which those cells belong. Some things accelerate the aging process, while others work in the opposite direction and may help slow age-related decline. For example, supplementing with an oil that contains omega-3 fatty acids but has gone rancid can actually promote free radical damage and oxidative stress in the body. Make sure you buy supplements from highly reputable companies. What does this mean? Physiological stress = inflammation = accelerated aging Diet, inflammation and healthy aging This is why quality foods and supplements are so important to a pet's overall health. By quality foods, I mean a species-appropriate diet that feeds pets what they were designed to eat: whole foods without GMOs; antibiotics or growth hormones used in food-production animals; pesticides; synthetics; or fillers. We know that sugar promotes inflammation and the aging process, and it is no different for our pets. In my view, an anti-inflammatory diet should avoid foods that promote inflammation and premature aging, including: · High-glycemic carbohydrates · High-starch carbohydrates · Low-quality proteins · GMOs (genetically modified foods) · A highly processed diet containing chemical additives, artificial colours and preservatives · Gluten · Sugars · High-lectin foods such as lentils and peas (unless sprouted) · Wheat · Soy · Corn All these foods can prematurely age our pets. Let us also remember that dogs and cats are carnivores, so these foods are not appropriate to feed anyway. As pet guardians, we want to do everything we can to slow the aging process, which also means keeping chronic inflammation in check. Functional foods that may support healthy cells I believe we must first feed functional foods that promote happy, healthy cells. These are foods that serve as antioxidants, enhance the immune system response and cell-to-cell communication, detoxify carcinogens, repair DNA damage, cause cancer cells to die and are easy to digest. Examples include: · High-quality proteins · Cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and bok choy · Greens rich in phycocyanin and phytonutrients, such as spirulina, AFA E3 Live algae, wheatgrass, barley grass and phytoplankton · Foods high in vitamin C, such as berries, apples and rosehips, in moderate amounts · Gluten-free grains such as quinoa or millet · Bone broth · Quality bee products such as honey, pollen, propolis and royal jelly · Healing herbs such as slippery elm, licorice root, curcumin, garlic in moderate amounts and ginger · Herbs that have been shown to lengthen telomeres, such as andrographis and astragalus · Medicinal mushrooms · Red algae such as astaxanthin · Cold-pressed oils that provide quality fatty acids Supporting overall health throughout a pet's life I am also a firm believer in detoxing the right way to lighten the load that toxins such as heavy metals and pesticides place on the body and immune system. I believe a heavy toxin load can have a significant impact on overall health, accelerate aging and promote chronic inflammation. When pets are fed and supplemented appropriately, they can thrive throughout their lives and radiate good health. In fact, it is not uncommon for my customers to tell me that strangers who meet their senior pets cannot believe how old they are. Now that has to feel good - and don't we all want that for our pets? I get interviewed on the topic of Inflammaging! Check it out; carnevoremountain.com/blogs/latest-blog/what-is-inflammaging-in-pets-an-interview-on-aging References 1. Day, M.J. Ageing, immunosenescence and inflammageing in the dog and cat. Journal of Comparative Pathology. 2010. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20005526/ 2. Jimenez, A.G. Inflammaging in domestic dogs: basal level concentrations of IL-6, IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha in healthy dogs of different body sizes and ages. Biogerontology. 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37195482/ 3. Laflamme, D.P. Companion Animals Symposium: Obesity in dogs and cats: What is wrong with being fat? Journal of Animal Science. 2012. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21984724/ 4. Heilmann, R.M. and Steiner, J.M. Clinical utility of currently available biomarkers in inflammatory enteropathies of dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30222209/ 5. Zicker, S.C. Nutrition and Aging in Dogs and Cats. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38625530/ 6. American Animal Hospital Association. A Watchful Eye: Recognizing Senior Pet Health Problems. 2024. https://www.aaha.org/resources/a-watchful-eye-recognizing-senior-pet-health-problems/ For educational purposes only. This article is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet or supplements.
FIV can be divided into three stages:
1) Acute infection/stage (3-6 months):Usually very mild symptoms of recurrent fever, anorexia, lethargy and lymphadenopathy. 2) Subclinical infection/stage (months to years):Usually no clinical signs shown in infected cats, but the disease is progressing. 3) Chronic clinical infection/stage (months to years): The clinical signs and symptoms are;
The best way to prevent this disease is by avoiding having your cat come into contact with wild and feral cats, and sufficiently making sure your cat’s immune system is in tip top shape. Some ways to get your cat’s immune system functioning sufficiently (and by keeping it that way) are;
This is a progressive disease, and the average (so far recorded) lifespan from diagnosis to death is about 5 years. As mentioned, the best preventive it to limit or avoid contact with wild feral and free-roaming cats, and to test all new additions to the cat’s household. FIV has not been found to grow in human cells, so it is not contagious or infectious to humans. Always consult your vet prior to starting any new diet/supplement regimen, especially if your cat is on medications. Canine Viral Distemper (CVD) is a disease classified as a pansystemic disease.
It is a highly contagious and viral disease of canines and other carnivores, that being said, depending on the strain of the virus, it varies in virulence from mild to fatal. Although the name suggests it only effects dogs, CVD can effect cats as well as other carnivores such as ferrets. Although the disease can infect pets of all ages, the most common age range is between 3 to 6 months of age. CVD is a paramyxovirus that is one of a group of RNA viruses that are predominantly responsible for acute respiratory diseases, and are usually transmitted through airborne droplets. Most routine cleansing agents and disinfectants such as bleach can destroy the virus, including heat, in the environment. Transmission: CVD is transmitted through aerosolization of body secretions. The virus has several strains and varies in virulence from mild to fatal, which suggests that the severity will be dependent on the animals’ immune system. Clinical signs of infection are usually associated with the presence of secondary infections, although encephalitis and other neurological signs may be caused by the direct effect of the virus on neurons. Clinical Signs: -Fever -Cough -Pneumonia -Mucopurulent nasal and ocular discharge -Anorexia -Vomiting -Diarrhea -Dehydration -Ataxia, circling, blindness -“Chewing gum” seizures (clonus) -Muscle twitching -Abdominal pustules -Hyperkeratosis of foot pads -CDV is the most common cause of seizures in dogs younger than 6 months. Diagnosis: Physical examination and history at your vets’ office, which may include a serology (rising titers in paired serum samples). FA test to detect the virus in epithelial cells that are collected from the conjunctiva (or other mucous membranes). It’s also important to note that neurological signs can appear within weeks or even years after the actual infection. Treatment: According to AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), there are no cures for distemper, only a vaccination prevention program. However, treatment typically consist of supportive care and efforts to prevent secondary infections and mitigate symptoms such as control vomiting, diarrhea, and combat dehydration by administering fluids. Natural Alternatives: Although there is no cure for CVD, these natural remedies might help to assist the immune system;
If you notice any one of the above signs and symptoms, or suspect your pet has contracted distemper, seek veterinary assistance immediately.  What is this funny sounding word and why is it special enough to be included in our probiotic? What is it and how does it work? Larch is a special type of plant fiber (highest concentration in Larch tree bark) and a specific polysaccharide that ferments in the gut and colon, as it is resistant to digestion by enzymes in the upper GI tract and helps the good bacteria grow (such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillis acidophilus), while inhibiting the bad bacteria in the gut, which then produces short chain fatty acids like butyrate and propionate. This wonderful plant fiber has been traditionally used as natural medicine, not just for the benefit of the digestive tract, but it has been used for colds, infections, ear infections, and has been shown to prevent cancer cells in the liver from growing. There are numerous studies published on Larch for immune health, one study published in 2016 has shown that larch, “…is capable of enhancing natural killer cells and macrophages as well as the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In humans a clinical study demonstrated that larch arabinogalactan increased the body’s potential to defend against common cold infection. Larch arabinogalactan decreased the incidence of cold episodes by 23 %.” The study cited also showed various objectives in the trial, including immune responses after vaccinations with blood serum levels tested showing immunoglobulin levels. “The researchers demonstrated that the preparation selectively enhanced the antibody response to vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae and observed an increase in pneumococcal IgG antibodies of various pneumococcal antigens.”. “These results taken together suggest that larch arabinogalactan can improve immunity by decreasing infections and improving immunoglobulin response following a standardized immune challenge. Doses used in these trials suggest that larch arabinogalactan may improve immune response at a dose as low as 1.5 g/d taken for several weeks; however, more consistent results have been obtained at a dose level of 4.5 g/d over several weeks. This was seen both on vaccine models and on infection-prevention models.” Interestingly enough, larch is broken down and then absorbed through numerous pathways in the body, including GALT tissue (Gut Associated Lymphatic Tissue), and via portal veins, thus producing Butyrate, Acetate and Propionate in the body.  Larch can, similarly to other gut-fermented polysaccharides, potentially act indirectly through the microbiota dependent mechanisms i.e. rebalancing gut composition, which produces short-chain fatty acids, and/or have a direct effect on the immune system after passage from the gut lumen through the GALT.  An in vivo study on dogs showed that supplementing with larch arabinogalactin at an oral dosing for 10 days showed increase in the number of circulating white blood cell counts, namely neutrophils and eosinophils (a type of disease fighting white blood cell).
In conclusion, we have strong evidence showing how larch has its effects both directly and indirectly on the immune system, and its efficacy on the microbiome make it a fantastic prebiotic. There are also studies showing its efficacy towards; asthma, liver disease and cancer, constipation, ear infections, flu and pneumonia. No matter what your pets’ diet, supplementing with larch has its advantages, and we encourage you to try it especially if your pet is prone to digestive disturbances and immune challenges. Matty’s Blend contains 490mg/scoop of Larch as well as other wonderful prebiotics! Tip: Larch is amazing for our feline friends as well- Matty’s Blend can be safely administered to cats. Cited Reference: Research article- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4828828/  It is well known that over 70% of the immune system is in the gut, the microbiome really is the heart and core of our health and our pets are no different. Ways for our pets to have a healthy microbiome:
So, why feed the microbiome?
What Is Peyer’s Patches? We all know that the lymphatic system is part of the immune system, but what if I told you that there is lymph tissue in the gut! Known as Peyer’s Patches, there is lymph tissue in the small intestine, also known as GALT (Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue). The primary function of the small intestine is the digestion and assimilation of food and nutrients, and during this process it will also be exposed to food antigens, bacteria, viruses, fungi and other pathogens. More than 70% of the immune function in the body is in the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue a.k.a GALT. Located in the intestinal lining, GALT consists of lymphocytes, macrophages, Peyer’s Patches, and lymph nodes. Back to Peyer’s Patches, technically lymphoid follicles in the small intestine, they consist of a layer of specialized epithelial cells, called M cells, which are above follicles containing B and T lymphocytes. M cells trap antigens from the gut, similar to the action of the rest of the immune system, and present them to the lymphocytes in the follicles below, which offers an efficient immune response to invading pathogens or food antigens. Cool eh? So as we can see, our gut health is pretty important, and that is no exception to our pets! But wait, there is more… Nourishing of this special gut associated lymphoid tissue has other benefits such as;
The gut is also the largest hollow space in the body, where toxins can accumulate, fester and weigh down the immune system, which is another reason why we need to make sure our pets have a healthy microbiome. In comes Matty’s blend…  Matty’s Blend
This formula was exclusively tested and shown to improve gut barrier function and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in the gut tissue. Probiotics exert their beneficial effects through various pathways, including production of inhibitory substances and short chain fatty acids, enhancing the growth of favourable endogenous microbes, shifting the composition of gut microbiota, competition of epithelial colonization sites and stimulating host immune responses. In addition, lactic acid bacteria are known to produce a variety of antimicrobial agents, such as acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, ethanol, lactic acid, and bacteriocins, which can inhibit the growth of certain spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. There are many pet probiotics on the market, and not all are created equal. Some have sugars and fillers added to them, and others have really good sounding ingredients in the blend, that actually end up canceling out the effectiveness of the species of probiotic, and some are just simply not enough of a dose for it to be effective. Matty’s blend is yeast and sugar free, no fillers, and no unnecessary ingredients that compromises the probiotic blend. Every ingredient was specifically chosen because it helps the colonization of the blend, not hindering it. Matty’s probiotic blend has been tested to exert beneficial effects in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs leading to an increase in fecal consistency. Pair it with synergistic prebiotics (that won’t compromise the species blend) and you have a winning symbiotic formula. “No matter what protocol is chosen, nourishing, supporting and stabilizing the gut is the heart of every protocol”. –L.J.  Just saying the word ‘Fast’ can put some people in a frenzy, especially when it comes to their pets. Fasting is very healthy and beneficial to the body, it gives our system that ‘re-boot’ it needs, a chance to get rid of dead tissues, cells, and toxic buildup, cleansing us from the inside out. The body was designed to use these sick cells and debris for fuel while we are in fast mode, which is how we can go periods of time without taking in food. The truth is that wolves and coyotes self-fast in the wild, sometimes by choice, sometimes not, but all in all, fasting is very beneficial for the immune system. There are many studies also showing that fasting promotes longevity and reduces inflammation, in fact, Mount Sinai researchers discovered that fasting reduces inflammation and other chronic inflammatory diseases without affecting the immune system’s response to acute infections. ‘ “Caloric restriction is known to improve inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, but the mechanisms by which reduced caloric intake controls inflammation have been poorly understood,” said senior author Miriam Merad, MD, PhD, Director of the Precision Immunology Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Working with human and mouse immune cells, Dr. Merad and colleagues showed that intermittent fasting reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cells called “monocytes” in blood circulation. Further investigations revealed that during periods of fasting, these cells go into “sleep mode” and are less inflammatory than monocytes found in those who were fed.’ (Dietary Intake Regulates The Circulatory Inflammatory Monocyte Pool. 2019. Merad). Not only that, fasting has been shown to regulate hepatic cells and other organs in the body, including the microbiome. Who shouldn’t fast?
How often? General guideline is once a week, either intermittent or full day fast. There are actually many different ways to fast your dogs, and there is no one size fits all. One way of fasting is to fast all meals for an entire day. Another way is to fast intermittently, which means fasting only one meal that day. Another way, which I sometimes employ is to just throw my dogs a bone that day, or fast them from meat, and only feed them vegetables.
I would say the best way to begin fasting is by beginning slowly, and see how your dog does, perhaps that’s by fasting for only one meal a week and going from there. We now know that the benefits of fasting outweigh the negative, it might be challenging in the beginning to see what works best for your dog (and you), because it can also be psychologically challenging for some pet guardians to employ it, perhaps thinking that they are starving their dogs, but dogs were made to fast, because that is how they used to survive in the wild. Food for though.  |
AuthorLucy is an avid pet mom; with dogs, cats, goats and horses to keep her busy! All of her pet 'kids' are fed a species appropriate diet with proper supplementation so she can watch them thrive. Her expertise and experience lie in nutraceutical supplementation and is a health advocate for proper diet and nutrition. Her other passions in life are schutzhund and equestrian riding. 
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