An
Ongoing Look at DCM and our Recommendations
regarding the recent FDA DCM Update:
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As promised, we are continuing to dig into the recent FDA
update on the possible connection of certain diets to a rise in the
incidences of DCM.
To recap, the FDA DCM update provided some quantitative data that helped
bring perspective to the issue. Although the update answered some
questions, and perhaps allayed some of our fears and misconceptions, many
questions remain unanswered. In the weeks since the update it seems that
everyone with an opinion has offered one. We have heard from the pet food
companies, veterinarians, the media, social media groups, neighbors, family
members, friends at the dog park, etc.
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HERE
IS WHAT WE KNOW
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DCM IS NOT NEW
Many large breeds are known to have genetic predispositions to DCM. Our
team at Cherrybrook, as experienced pet owners and breeders, have
experienced the pain of untimely loss from DCM.
DCM is not new, it existed long before grain-free foods.
We are all concerned that the rates of DCM appear to be rising, but it is
important to point out the FDA investigation has found no causal link
between grain free diets and DCM, we are encouraged that the food
companies, veterinarians and the FDA are working together in the spirit of
collaboration. Hopefully this will lead to actionable solutions.
GRAIN FREE DIETS ARE NOT EVIL
We go to great lengths to ensure that the foods we carry are healthy
options for all pets, including our own. We believe that most grain, particularly
corn, wheat and soy are not appropriate sources of nutrition for a
carnivore.
Many years ago, we decided to remove foods containing corn, wheat and soy
from our shelves and began offering grain free and raw options.
Grain free and raw diets are helpful in alleviating food sensitivities
which cause digestive issues and hot spots. In addition, grain free and raw
diets are beneficial in mitigating and combating a host of chronic health
conditions and diseases including obesity, diabetes, kidney disease and
cancer. We all understand that these health conditions are sharply on the
rise. We have seen health conditions improve when pets are fed grain free
diets.
GRAIN INCLUSIVE DIETS ARE NOT EVIL
While grain free diets are helpful to many pets, they are not a solution
for every pet. Though we do not carry foods containing corn, wheat or soy;
we do have many grain inclusive foods available on our shelves. The grain
foods we carry contain wholesome grains such as oatmeal, tapioca, millet,
rice, brown rice, quinoa and other whole grains. Many of the brands we
carry offer both grain inclusive and grain free options.
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WHERE
TO GO FROM HERE: OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
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ROTATE
When we looked closely at each of the DCM cases in the FDA Investigation,
we observed that many of the formulas fell into the Limited Ingredient or
single animal protein diets. This brings us to our first recommendation:
rotate the formulas you feed your dog. This will allow your dog to have
access to a broader amino acid profile from different animal proteins, and
animal-based proteins provide the best source of amino acids and taurine.
Rotating formulas, including rotating proteins, is particularly important
if you are feeding a limited ingredient diet.
GIVE FREEZE DRIED HEART, LIVER & TRIPE AS A TREAT
Pack some amino acid power into your dog’s day by incorporating freeze
dried organs like duck heart, chicken liver or mussels as a treat. Organ
meat provides a rich source of taurine.
CONSIDER FEEDING OR ADDING RAW TO YOUR PET'S DIET
This may be the right time to consider raw. We have several raw frozen and
freeze-dried food options available in our stores. These foods contain the
highest percentage of animal-based protein and are an excellent source of
nutrition for your pet. If you don’t want to make a full transition to raw
food, you can supplement your pet’s diet with a raw or freeze-dried patty
added to their current diet.
TO GRAIN OR NOT TO GRAIN
If your vet has recommended, or you think you would be more comfortable on
a grain-based diet, we encourage you to come in and talk to us. Once again,
there is no “one-size fits all” solution. We have a large selection of both
grain and grain free options and additional resources available in our
store to help you make the best choice for you and your pet.
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