Do Vets Recommend Probiotics For Dogs
Yes, vets recommend probiotics for dogs.
Here is what Dr. Walker, DVM says: Yes, probiotics are recommended for dogs. I particularly recommend probiotics when there is a gastrointestinal disturbance, such as diarrhea secondary to eating something that they should not have, to reestablish normal/healthy gastrointestinal flora .
I recommend Honest Paws Pre+Probiotic because it comes in powder packages with chicken flavors that are usually palatable to canines and easy to add to each meal. I recommend using them once a day for 5 consecutive days if there is a GI disturbance, but they could be used daily long term in patients that have sensitive gastrointestinal tract.
Treating Diarrhea In Dogs
With the emergence of serious clinical research over the past decade into the natural, restorative effectiveness of probiotics, dog owners have found that probiotics also provide a safe, healthy alternative to fasting or antibiotics for treating dog diarrhea.
A type of natural, living bacteria that supplement the beneficial bacteria within your dogs system, probiotics are ingested orally and begin colonizing in a dogs intestinal tract within minutes of ingestion. As they colonize, they start readjusting the bacterial imbalance in the intestines that causes dogs to have diarrhea while reducing bacteria motility and increasing the amount of good bacteria for rapid relief from diarrhea.
Supplementing a dogs diet with probiotics can reduce the likelihood that the dog suffers diarrhea due to stress, chewing on outside debris or having an older, less vital immune system.
Ear Infections In Dogs
Canine ear infections are yeast infections that require immediate treatment. Signs of a possible ear infection in dogs include:
- Excessive scratching or pawing of the infected ear. The dog may also rub the ear against the ground or wipe it on the side of furniture
- Yellow, brown or bloody discharge that has a strong, foul odor seeping from the ear
- Redness, crustiness and swelling of the ear
- Head tilting and shaking
- Loss of balance
Dogs with floppy ears or hairy, inner ear canals are susceptible to suffering chronic ear infections. Once yeast cells take over in the moist, dark areas of a dogs ears, the ensuing ear infection continues spreading into the inner ear and eventually causes fluid build-up behind the eardrum. Unless treated, the eardrum can burst from fluid pressure and irreparably impair the dogs hearing.
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Can Probiotics Make Dog Ear Infections Worse
No, probiotics for dogs ear infection should not make the issue worse.
Probiotics are considered a safe product considering they are natural ingredients. Like any other supplement, probiotics can cause side effects in overly sensitive dogs. Luckily, the side effects are rare and mild and usually include GI-related issues.
You can decrease the risk of side effects by practicing a slow probiotic introduction start with a smaller probiotic dose and gradually increase the number of beneficial bacteria, allowing your dogs gut to get used to the new supplement.
Plano Paws Tummy Treats
Image courtesy Plano Paws
Plano Paws Tummy Treats are designed to help dogs with a variety of health issues, including allergies. The probiotics in this supplement can help to regulate your dog’s immune system and reduce their reactions to allergens.
The supplement also contains enzymes that can help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can help to improve your dog’s overall health and make them feel their best.
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Probiotic Miracle: The #4 Selling Pet Probiotic Disappoints
Probiotic Miracle markets itself as the number one selling canine probiotic. Our research indicates it is more likely the number four selling product on the market and well behind Purina, Pet Ultimate, and VetriScience products. Consumers of this probiotic tout it for clearing up eye, skin, and yeast conditions in addition to joint inflammation issues. A majority of users gave this product high ratings, although a small percentage reported a reduction in gas but ineffectiveness for other symptoms. Given that a small percentage of users had poor or mixed reviews, we would give it a C+,” however, the money-back guarantee bumps this product up to a B-.”
Ingredients: 2 billion CFU per serving, six strains of bacteria: L. acidophilus, B. animalis, L. rhamnosus, L. salivarius, L. fermentum, L. reuteri. Also contains pre-biotics. 100% natural, vegetarian, no gluten, no dairy, no soy, no fillers, no flavorings.
Probiotic Miracle does offer a 100% money-back guarantee, with guaranteed results against diarrhea, loose stool, and yeast overgrowth. However, this product requires time to build up in the system and the guarantee expires 60 days from product shipment.
People with multiple dogs with gluten allergies and issues with loose stool and yeast-related problems may want to try this product before trying one of the more expensive ones. Keep an eye on the calendar if you want to take advantage of the money-back guarantee.
Bens Story A Vets Case Study
Topical probiotics helped Ben, an eight-year old Newfoundland, when antibiotics stopped working.
The Problem
Ben presented with inflamed ears and clinical evidence of an infection in his left ear. This infection was effectively treated with an antibiotic ear preparation. Three weeks later he developed symptoms of another infection in his left ear.
Three different pathogenic bacteria were isolated from this ear: Escherichia coli, Staph. Pseudintermedius and Beta Haemolytic Streptococcus. An antibiogram showed that each of these bacteria were resistant to several antibiotics commonly used for ear infections.
Ben was admitted for sedation and full assessment of his ears. His ear canals were swollen, and both contained a thick, yellow, smelly discharge.
Bens ears were thoroughly cleaned, and he was treated with a combination of antimicrobial products . He was also treated with anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the pain and discomfort of his severe ear infection.
Ten days later his ears looked much better although his left ear was still a little inflamed. A further swab revealed a profuse growth of Staph. pseudintermedius again and a moderate growth of Alpha Haemolytic Streptococcus. Both bacteria were resistant to Marbofloxacin.
The Solution
The vet , decided at this stage to trial Provilans LUCAA+ Pet Probiotic Ear Care preparation. The spray was applied to both ears twice daily.
The Outcome
Four months later, he has not suffered any further ear infections.
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Probiotics For Dogs Reviews
Whether you shop at Petbarn, PETstock, My Pet Warehouse, Pet Circle, or perhaps your local pet shop, youll find a range of probiotics for dogs on offer.
Ill skirt over a few of the common brands with a little bit of information on each. Theyre mostly all very similar but youll find some have a little quirk to entice you .
Dont worry too much though, as all will be beneficial to your dog.
So here we go, some :
How To Get Rid Of A Dog’s Yeast Infection
First, you have to pinpoint the underlying cause is it an overactive or under-reactive immune system? If youre not sure what the underlying issue is, take the quiz for a personalized recommendation.
The immune system needs to be harmonized either brought up in the case of a low immune system, or brought down in the case of a hyperactive immune response .
You need to focus on diet first and foremost and then take these steps to harmonize the immune system.
For the hypersensitive or overactive immune response, i.e., allergies
Step 1 Support the gut by adding probiotics & prebiotics to the bowl
Just like the community found in your dogs mouth, your dogs gut microbiome is responsible for vitally important functions, including keeping yeast in check.
With upwards of 85% of the immune system in the gut, a healthy microbiome goes hand in hand with a healthy immune system which is why adding healthy bacteria like probiotics does so much for your dog.
Therapeutic levels of probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, can flood the gut to competitively inhibit yeasts growth, helping to rebalance the gut microbiome.
If your pup is experiencing yeast infections in the skin or ears, that could also have come from the gut, meaning it started in the gut and invaded the rest of the body, so adding therapeutic probiotics can help combat that yeast by increasing the numbers of normal beneficial bacteria to restore balance to the microbiome.
For the underactive or weakened immune system
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What To Do If Your Dog Is Suffering From Ear Problems
If you think your dog may be suffering from ear problems then the most important first step is to take a trip to your vet.
Ear conditions are very unlikely to clear up on their own and the longer it remains untreated then the harder it is to clear up the problem. Its true that some breeds of dogs ones with long dangly ears such as Springer Spaniels are more prone to ear problems than others.
Dogs which spend a lot of time in water may also suffer from regular ear problems, as well as dogs with allergies. If your dog is the kind of breed that is susceptible to ear problems or has long ears make it a part of your grooming routine to check their the ears regularly. Keep the ears clean and if you spot a problem contact your vet to see if they think you further investigation is needed.
If you have any questions or concerns about your pets health, contact your local Calder Vets branch.
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Can Dogs Eat Yogurt And Other Foods With Probiotics
Some human foods, like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut, have live cultures that may benefit some dogs.
Be sure to read the labels of human foods carefully to select plain, unsweetened varieties that do not contain artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is toxic to animals.
Limit quantities of probiotic foods for dogs to these ranges:
-
1 teaspoon per day for small dogs
-
2 teaspoons per day for medium-sized dogs
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How To Use Probiotics For Dogs
You may wonder, what probiotic can I give my dog?
There are now a number of different types of probiotics supplements made for dogs/pets that are available online and in pet food stores. These include:
- Powdered probiotics, which can be added to your dogs food each day
- Probiotics in commercial foods. These may be referred to as direct-fed microbials, which are regulated by AAFCO
- Refrigerated capsules or liquid, which can be broken open if need be and added to your dogs meals or homemade dog treats
- Freeze-dried probiotics
- Probiotic chews
Are human probiotics for dogs safe?
In most cases, yes. Some people choose to give their dogs the same probiotic supplements they take themselves, although the dosage may need to be adjusted depending on the size of the dog. Its usually safe to give human probiotics in a full dosage to dogs weighing 40 pounds or more, but less needs to be given to dogs that weigh less. A sign that your dog is taking too high of a dose if is it starts experiencing diarrhea/loose stools. That being said, some veterinarians recommend that pet owners opt for a probiotic that is specially made for dogs, since these should contain the most effective strains and doses.
Do dogs need probiotics every day?
Finally, consider giving your dog probiotics in the natural form of fermented foods, such as cultured veggies, or goats milk yogurt or kefir, which are usually safe for dogs to eat.
Why Does My Dog Have Yeast
Yeast overgrowth in dogs can manifest in a rash , ear infection, or bad smell on the body. For whatever reason, your dog’s body has become imbalance. Yeast can overgrow or turn into an infection almost anywhere on the body of your dog’s health is not kept in check.
Probiotics are the answer to stopping recurring yeast infections. *
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Nutramax Proviable Kit For Cats And Small Dogs
The Proviable-KP kit restores healthy intestinal balance by providing 10 Proviable-DC sprinkle pills in addition to the Proviable-KP paste.
Prebiotics are complex carbohydrates that can be used as a food source for our probiotic strains. This aids in the growth of the 7 probiotic strains that help protect the intestinal tract’s flora from harmful bacteria.
The Vets Letter Of Recommendation
Of course, Mylo, Pongo and Ben may still be having antibiotics and surgeries without their vets recommendation. Richard Doyle says:
My name is Richard Doyle and I am a director at The Wylie Veterinary Centre in Upminster, Essex. We are a RCVS-accredited Small Animal Veterinary Hospital. We have been successfully treating and/or preventing superficial bacterial infections in our patients using the LUCAA+ range of probiotic animal care products .
Typically, conditions we treat include surface pyoderma including pyo-traumatic pyoderma , superficial bite wounds, otitis externa, bacterial conjunctivitis, lick granulomas, intertrigo and atopic dermatitis. These products contain three commensal bacillus species which competitively inhibit pathogenic bacteria without the need for antibiotics and without the risk of developing antimicrobial resistance. These commensal species also digest organic material, so we also use the Allergy Spray as an adjunct to more conventional treatments for atopy to limit antigen exposure.
Contact us for more information: Call or email today.
Stockists options are available for like minded partners.
LUCAA+ Pet Probiotic Ear Care helps your dogs or cats ears become healthier and stay healthier. Please use sensible caution and always consult your vet if your dog has signs of infection or you are unsure. If your dog is on antibiotics, our recommendation is to finish the full course first.
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Symptoms Of A Canine Ear Infection
The most common symptoms for an ear infection are itching, ear discharge, redness, pain, swelling, smelly odor from the ear and head shaking. Whenever there is an accumulation of bacteria and moisture, there is a good chance for a bacteria or fungal ear infection, or a yeast one in the dog ear.
Infections can affect the outer, middle or inner ear of a dog. Infections of the inner ear can spread to the central nervous system and can ultimately led to death. Since there are two forms of canine ear infections, it is important to discern which type since treatments are different.
Petz Park Probiotic For Dogs With Hemp Seeds
PETZ PARK Probiotic at the time of writing costs more per gram than Big Dog, but based on feeding recommendations should last up to 2 months .
It contains hemp as a unique selling point, but when we look at the ingredients we find it contains a range of grains in the mix oats, barley, rye, corn, more oats, soya beans, millet, buckwheat.
Fair enough, it contains some nice ingredients too, such as spirulina, alfalfa, barley and wheat grass, quinoa, calcium, and kelp, but given the amount of grains I dont think its as good value for money as Big Dog Probiotics.
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Which Otc Medications Are Safe For Dogs
If your pup isnt feeling well, you could be tempted to give him medication from your medicine cabinet, but in many cases, this isnt safe. Many human drugs can cause dangerous side effects in dogs. However, there are a handful that are generally considered safe for dogs. See our article on which OTC medications are safe for dogs to learn more.
Best Overall: Natures Farmacy Dogzymes Probiotic Max Dog Supplement
In our review, the overall best probiotics for dogs is Natures Farmacy Dogzymes Probiotic Max Dog Supplement because it is microencapsulated to protect the live organisms from the acid in your dogs stomach so it has better viability to give your pet the results you want. Plus it tastes great.
Natures Farmacy Dogzymes includes the good bacteria you look for in a probiotic, plus it adds enzymes and prebiotics to further aid your pets digestion. Enzymes are the active ingredients in live foods that help your dogs cells absorb nutrients and perform important chemical reactions. Prebiotics are the fibers that feed the good bacteria , so they can survive and thrive inside your dogs digestive tract and do their job.
There are two basic types of probiotics, treats and powders. Natures Farmacy gives you a powder you can mix into any liquid or your pets food. Its also made in the USA.
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How To Choose Probiotic For Yeast Infections In Dog: The Buying Guide
How do you choose the probiotic for yeast infections in dog? You must consider many things, such as the brand name, price, and product quality. In addition, you should also consider whether it is suitable for your needs or not.
So how do you choose the right probiotic for yeast infections in dog? Here are some tips that you can use to help you find a good product:
What you Should Keep in Mind When Buying probiotic for yeast infections in dog
When shopping for a probiotic for yeast infections in dog, there are several things to consider. You need to think about the quality of the product, the price, and even how much it will benefit your life. However, you also need to keep these factors in mind:
