As you may already know, my Pebbles has canine DCM. What is canine DCM? DCM stands for Dilated Cardiomyopathy. What that really means is an enlarged, weakened heart. What does the FDA dog food report mean for your Chihuahua?
I have suspected her diet of processed dog food for many years had something to do with it ever since I did the research for my book; “Sit, Stay, And Create Your Own”.
The number of cases of heart disease in Chihuahuas is increasing at a fast pace. Now the FDA has finally come out with a report revealing that diet may be the reason for this increase.
Veterinarians around the world, including the veterinary hospital where I work, have seen a rapid increase in heart disease in small dog breeds. Small dog breeds such as Chihuahuas were not previously considered to be predisposed to DCM.
The FDA’s Investigation
In July 2018, the FDA announced that it had begun investigating reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods, many labeled as “grain-free”.
“Many of these case reports included breeds of dogs not previously known to have a genetic predisposition to the disease.” ~ U. S. Food And Drug Administration
The FDA report stated that “most reports were for dry dog food formulations, but raw food, semi-moist food, and wet foods were also represented”. Below is a chart from the FDA report.
The FDA went so far as to name some of the popular brands that they are investigating. Some of these are very popular and considered “high-end” or “premium” dog food brands. Just a few listed were:
- Acana
- Blue Buffalo
- Rachel Ray
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Earthborn Holistic
- Natural Balance
- Orijen (what I fed my dogs for many years, thinking it was one of the best)
The above list is just the most popular brands. You can read the whole list HERE >>
Taurine And Canine Heart Disease
Taurine is considered an “essential” amino acid. The existence of a link between taurine deficiency and DCM in dogs has been known since1997—some dogs can’t supply their own taurine needs. National research indicates that taurine supplements may help with congestive heart failure.
Researchers aren’t exactly sure why taurine seems to help congestive heart failure (CHF). There is some evidence that it improves the function of the left ventricle, one of the chambers of the heart. Taurine might also improve heart failure because it seems to lower blood pressure and calm the sympathetic nervous system.
Do You Suspect Your Chihuahuas DCM Is Because of a Reported Dog Food?
The FDA is open to additional opportunities for collaboration and welcomes the submission of any information that may aid in our investigation. Detailed instructions for submitting case information can be found on “How to Report a Pet Food Complaint.”
What You Can Do
Only you can decide what is best for your dog. I will tell you that I now feed my dogs fresh and have since long before the FDA came out with this report because I personally don’t think processed dog food is the healthiest way to feed dogs for many reasons.
If you are considering switching your dog to fresh food, I recommend NomNom (now through ChiChis And Me get 50% off your first order!). Why? Because I have researched the company and their veterinarian nutritionist. I have worked with them for several years now and I trust them 100%. They really care about your dog!
They use restaurant-quality meats and fresh produce to prepare meals for you. They are made-to-order weekly in their own facilities according to your specific dog’s dietary needs. They are not “manufactured” elsewhere.
All meals are carefully formulated by a veterinarian nutritionist and are complete and balanced. They are routinely tested and contain supplemental taurine to prevent DCM or to benefit those that have it.
The best part? The cost is comparable with other “premium” dog foods on the market and it is delivered perfectly portioned for your dog right to your door. It really can’t get any more convenient than that!
Just give it a try, I think you will immediately notice a difference as I did in all three of my Chihuahuas! You can cancel anytime. Now only through ChiChis And Me get 50% off your first order!
Sources:
