Category: Ask Our Experts

When it comes to your dog’s health, even small behavioral or physical changes can hint at something serious brewing beneath the surface. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common ailments in dogs—especially females—and can cause significant discomfort if not detected early. Understanding the symptoms can help you act quickly, sparing your pet from unnecessary pain and complications.

Here are five clear signs your dog may be suffering from a urinary tract infection and what you can do to help.

1. Frequent Urination or Accidents in the House

One of the first and most noticeable signs of a UTI is frequent urination. If your well-trained dog suddenly starts asking to go outside more often—or begins having accidents indoors—it could indicate bladder irritation or infection. This happens because bacteria inflame the urinary tract, making your dog feel the constant urge to relieve itself even when the bladder is not full.

What to do: Don’t assume it’s a behavioral issue. Note the frequency, and consult your veterinarian for a urinalysis to rule out infection or other underlying problems like diabetes or bladder stones.

2. Straining or Whining While Urinating

If your dog seems to struggle, squat for long periods, or whine while urinating, that’s a red flag. Pain during urination is one of the strongest indicators of a UTI. In severe cases, your dog might only pass a few drops of urine each time, suggesting an inflamed or partially blocked urinary passage.

What to do: Avoid delaying veterinary care. Blockages—especially in male dogs—can quickly become life-threatening. Immediate treatment with antibiotics or other interventions can prevent complications.

3. Blood in the Urine

Blood in your dog’s urine is a classic symptom of a UTI. The color might range from light pink to dark reddish-brown. Sometimes, it’s subtle and only visible when your vet performs a urine test. Blood in the urine results from irritation in the bladder lining caused by bacterial infection.

What to do: If you notice discoloration in your dog’s pee, collect a urine sample and schedule a vet visit immediately. This could also indicate other conditions, such as bladder stones or even kidney disease, so prompt evaluation is vital.

4. Excessive Licking of the Genital Area

Dogs instinctively try to soothe discomfort by licking the affected area. If your dog is persistently licking its genitals, especially after urination, it may be attempting to relieve pain or irritation caused by a UTI.

What to do: While occasional grooming is normal, excessive licking isn’t. Discourage the behaviour and get your dog examined to prevent further irritation or infection spread.

5. Strong Odor or Cloudy Urine

Changes in your dog’s urine—whether it’s a stronger smell, darker colour, or cloudy appearance—often signal infection. These symptoms occur because bacteria multiply in the urinary tract, producing waste that alters the urine’s composition and Odor.

What to do: Make note of the colour and smell when your dog urinates. A quick vet check-up with a urinalysis can confirm the cause and lead to effective treatment.

Treatment and Prevention Tips

If your vet diagnoses a UTI, the typical course involves antibiotics, increased hydration, and sometimes dietary changes. In recurrent cases, further testing may be needed to identify underlying causes such as bladder stones or anatomical abnormalities.

To prevent UTIs, ensure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, has regular potty breaks, and maintains proper hygiene— especially after outdoor walks. Switching to high-quality dog food can also support urinary tract health.

Final Thoughts

Your dog can’t tell you when something feels wrong— but subtle behavioral changes can speak volumes. By recognizing the early signs of a urinary tract infection, you can ensure timely treatment and help your furry friend stay healthy, happy, and pain-free.

Imbalance in cortisol hormone can lead to serious, life-threatening conditions, says Yung-Tsun Lo, DVM, PhD of Bioguard Corporation.

Cushing’s disease (also known as Cushing’s syndrome or hyperadrenocorticism) is a condition where a dog’s adrenal glands produce too much cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate many body functions. The adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, make several important hormones, with cortisol being one of the most well-known. Imbalances in cortisol—whether too much or too little—can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening health issues.

When cortisol levels are too high, dogs may show signs like drinking and urinating more than usual, increased appetite,  panting, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. This condition is fairly common, especially inmiddle-aged to older dogs.

What Causes the Disease?

There are three main types:

Pituitary-dependent (80 – 85% of all cases): A small, benign tumor of the pituitary gland in the brain may secrete excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone (AC TH), which in turn over stimulates the adrenal glands, leading to increased cortisol production.

Adrenal-dependent: A tumor (benign or malignant) on one or both adrenal glands causes excessive cortisol production.

Iatrogenic: This condition arises from prolonged or excessive administration of oral or injectable corticosteroids. Although corticosteroids are often prescribed for good medical reasons, using them in excess can end up causing harm.

What are the Signs of Cushing’s Disease?

Behavior Changes

• Drinking and urinating more than usual
• (seen in most cases)
• Increased hunger
• Heavy or frequent panting
• Tiredness or low energy

Appearance Changes

• Round, swollen belly
• Hair loss on both sides of the body
• Thin or fragile skin
• Hard lumps under the skin (due to calcium buildup)

Related Health Issues

• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections
• Neurologic symptoms like seizures or walking in circles
• Blood clots
• Sudden vision loss
• Gallbladder problems
• Diabetes

How is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of:

Physical Examination

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough assessment of your dog’s overall health, paying close attention to signs commonly associated with Cushing’s disease, such as increased thirst, panting, abdominal distension and hair thinning.

Blood Tests

Routine blood work helps exclude other conditions and provides insight into hormone levels, particularly cortisol, which is often elevated in affected dogs.

Urine Tests

The urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio is a useful screening tool. Elevated levels may suggest Cushing’s disease, though further testing is needed for confirmation.

Confirmatory Tests

Two specialized tests are commonly used to diagnose Cushing’s disease:

ACT H Stimulation Test: Evaluates the adrenal glands’ response to synthetic AC TH.

Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test (LDDST): Assesses how cortisol levels respond to a synthetic steroid, helping differentiate between pituitary and adrenal causes.

How is Cushing’s Disease Treated?

Treatment aims to manage the symptoms and improve the dog’s quality of life. Options include:

Medication

Drugs such as Trilostane (Vetoryl) or Mitotane are commonly prescribed to reduce excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands. These medications help manage clinical signs and improve quality of life.

Surgical Removal

In select cases, surgical removal of adrenal tumors may be considered, particularly when the disease is adrenaldependent and the tumor is localized and operable.

Radiation Therapy

For dogs with pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, radiation therapy may be available at specialized referral centers to target pituitary tumors and reduce hormone production.

What is the Prognosis of Cushing’s Disease?

With proper diagnosis and treatment, many dogs with Cushing’s disease can live comfortable lives for several years. However, it’s important to remember that Cushing’s is a serious condition and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.

Imbalance in cortisol hormone can lead to serious, life-threatening conditions, says Yung-Tsun Lo, DVM, PhD of Bioguard Corporation.

Cushing’s disease (also known as Cushing’s syndrome or hyperadrenocorticism) is a condition where a dog’s adrenal glands produce too much cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate many body functions. The adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, make several important hormones, with cortisol being one of the most well-known. Imbalances in cortisol—whether too much or too little—can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening health issues.

When cortisol levels are too high, dogs may show signs like drinking and urinating more than usual, increased appetite,  panting, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. This condition is fairly common, especially inmiddle-aged to older dogs.

What Causes the Disease?

There are three main types:

Pituitary-dependent (80 – 85% of all cases): A small, benign tumor of the pituitary gland in the brain may secrete excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone (AC TH), which in turn over stimulates the adrenal glands, leading to increased cortisol production.

Adrenal-dependent: A tumor (benign or malignant) on one or both adrenal glands causes excessive cortisol production.

Iatrogenic: This condition arises from prolonged or excessive administration of oral or injectable corticosteroids. Although corticosteroids are often prescribed for good medical reasons, using them in excess can end up causing harm.

What are the Signs of Cushing’s Disease?

Behavior Changes

• Drinking and urinating more than usual
• (seen in most cases)
• Increased hunger
• Heavy or frequent panting
• Tiredness or low energy

Appearance Changes

• Round, swollen belly
• Hair loss on both sides of the body
• Thin or fragile skin
• Hard lumps under the skin (due to calcium buildup)

Related Health Issues

• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections
• Neurologic symptoms like seizures or walking in circles
• Blood clots
• Sudden vision loss
• Gallbladder problems
• Diabetes

How is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of:

Physical Examination

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough assessment of your dog’s overall health, paying close attention to signs commonly associated with Cushing’s disease, such as increased thirst, panting, abdominal distension and hair thinning.

Blood Tests

Routine blood work helps exclude other conditions and provides insight into hormone levels, particularly cortisol, which is often elevated in affected dogs.

Urine Tests

The urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio is a useful screening tool. Elevated levels may suggest Cushing’s disease, though further testing is needed for confirmation.

Confirmatory Tests

Two specialized tests are commonly used to diagnose Cushing’s disease:

ACT H Stimulation Test: Evaluates the adrenal glands’ response to synthetic AC TH.

Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test (LDDST): Assesses how cortisol levels respond to a synthetic steroid, helping differentiate between pituitary and adrenal causes.

How is Cushing’s Disease Treated?

Treatment aims to manage the symptoms and improve the dog’s quality of life. Options include:

Medication

Drugs such as Trilostane (Vetoryl) or Mitotane are commonly prescribed to reduce excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands. These medications help manage clinical signs and improve quality of life.

Surgical Removal

In select cases, surgical removal of adrenal tumors may be considered, particularly when the disease is adrenaldependent and the tumor is localized and operable.

Radiation Therapy

For dogs with pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, radiation therapy may be available at specialized referral centers to target pituitary tumors and reduce hormone production.

What is the Prognosis of Cushing’s Disease?

With proper diagnosis and treatment, many dogs with Cushing’s disease can live comfortable lives for several years. However, it’s important to remember that Cushing’s is a serious condition and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.

Flat-faced breeds (18+ in all) such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Frenchies and Shih Tzus may charm us with their squishy features—but their unique anatomy demands attentive, gentle, and proactive care. From breathing difficulties to heat sensitivity and dental issues, these dogs require specialized routines to thrive.

Understanding the anatomy

Here’s a diagram that illustrates the key anatomical factors behind breathing difficulties in brachycephalic dogs.

It highlights structures like the elongated soft palate, stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils), and compacted skull—all contributors to obstructed airflow.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you support their health and comfort:

Breathing & Airway Support

• Limit exertion: Opt for short walks and low-impact indoor play to avoid respiratory strain.
• Use a harness, not a collar: Prevent pressure on delicate airways and neck structures.
• Monitor for BOAS signs: Watch for snorting, gagging, or labored breathing—possible indicators of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.

Managing Heat Sensitivity

• Keep them cool: Employ fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats—especially during intense Indian summers.
• Time your walks: Avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours.
• Hydrate consistently: Ensure easy access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Dental & Facial Hygiene

• Clean skin folds daily: Gently wipe wrinkles with a damp cloth to prevent infections.
• Brush often: Crowded teeth heighten the risk of dental disease—regular cleaning is essential.
• Protect their eyes: Their shallow sockets are prone to injury and irritation.

Diet & Weight Control

• Feed specifically formulated food: Some food brands offer options tailored to brachycephalic needs.
• Maintain ideal weight: Extra pounds worsen breathing issues and joint stress.
• Try slow feeders: Help prevent rapid eating and excessive air intake.

Grooming & Skin Health

• Wrinkle care: Clean around the face and tail to prevent dermatitis and fungal infections.
• Gentle ear cleaning: Their narrow ear canals require routine attention with mild cleansers.
• Mild shampoos only: Avoid harsh products that could irritate their sensitive skin.

Veterinary Vigilance

• Frequent vet visits: Early detection of airway, spinal, or eye issues is vital.
• Evaluate surgical options: In severe BOAS cases, procedures like soft palate reduction or nostril correction may be recommended.
• Choose well-equipped clinics: Facilities with advanced imaging provide better diagnostic accuracy.

Lifestyle & Comfort

• Elevated sleeping positions: Head elevation can ease nighttime breathing.
• Minimize stress: Anxiety exacerbates respiratory problems—calm environments are key.
• Travel mindfully: Air travel poses serious risks—many carriers restrict flat-faced breeds.

Dr Jyotika Sangale and Dr D J Kalita of Zenex Animal Health mention the significance of alternative medicines to manage inflammation and damage of tissues. FOR TISSUE HEALING

In dogs and cats, chronic enteropathies, impaired gut integrity, microbiome imbalances, as well as various tissue injuries are very common. These conditions may represent a continuous load of endotoxins, which may result in the development of diseases that are attributable to chronic inflammation. Management of such inflammatory conditions or damaged tissues can be a challenging endeavour. The contemporary scientific community has recognized the significance of alternative medicines derived from natural sources especially proteolytic enzymes and flavonoids in the management of inflammatory conditions and repair of damaged tissues.

The use of natural plant-derived compounds as supplements to conventional medicine in small animal medicine is becoming popular. Enzymes, especially proteolytic enzymes and flavonoids of plant or natural origin exert many beneficial properties and have been explored for numerous pharmacological effects. The combination of proteolytic enzymes and flavonoids supplements demonstrate a more complete spectrum of action as compared to NSAIDs against initial symptoms of inflammation.

Stages of Wound Healing

When a pet experiences an injury or wound, the body initiates its intrinsic healing mechanisms. This process encompasses several stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The hemostasis phase, which occurs immediately following injury, aims to halt bleeding. During the inflammatory phase, the body dispatches white blood cells to the affected area to combat potential infections and eliminate foreign materials.

During the inflammatory phase, proteolytic enzymes play a pivotal role. They assist in the removal of debris and damaged tissue from the wound site, facilitating the growth of new tissue. Additionally, these enzymes contribute to the reduction of inflammation at the wound site, which is a natural response to injury.

Various beneficial properties of few such natural enzymes flavonoids, plant extracts and probiotics which are well demonstrated in various in-vitro animal model studies as well as in human subjects are given below:

Bromelain: Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme extracted from the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus), with sources including the stems and fruits of the pineapple, as well as by-products such as the core, crown, and peel. The potential therapeutic value of bromelain is due to its biochemical and pharmacological properties, and the main ingredient in crude bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme termed glycoprotein, which is in addition to minerals, protease inhibitors, organic acids and organic solvents. It has been shown that bromelain downregulates COX-2 and PGE-2 expression levels in vitro & in-vivo studies. Bromelain activates the inflammatory mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, interferon (INF)-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in mouse macrophage and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These results indicated that bromelain can potentially activate the healthy immune system.

Clinically, bromelain has been employed as an anti-inflammatory agent for soft tissue injuries, chronic pain and surgical wound care. Currently, bromelain is utilized to manage post-surgical wounds, alleviating pain and swelling. Additionally, bromelain acts as an effective fibrinolytic agent, preventing blood coagulation.

Trypsin: Trypsin or chymotrypsin is a widely used oral proteolytic enzyme combination to hasten repair of traumatic, surgical and orthopedic injuries. It shows high bioavailability without losing its biological activities as an anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, fibrinolytic, antioxidant and anti-infective agent. These properties facilitate the repair process. Trypsin reduces inflammatory edema, oxidative stress and tissue destruction, which facilitates healing.

Papain: Papain, an endolytic cysteine protease enzyme from the papaya (Carica papaya L.) latex, catalyzes the breakdown of proteins by hydrolysis. Studies have shown that Papain possesses diverse beneficial properties in addition to digestion. It is nowadays offered as an anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulant and fibrinolytic agent. In addition, papain was reported as an anti-biofilm and anti-plaque agent. It has been shown to be as effective as aspirin in several studies. It

is a natural treatment for wounds after surgical procedures, as well as burns, bedsores and skin ulcers. Papain aids in elimination of fibrin layer of wound or tumors or fibrous tissue or breaking up deadly blood clots and thereby allowing the body access to the softer, more vulnerable tissues.

Rutin: Flavonoids represent a significant class of phytochemicals. A notable attribute of these compounds is their antioxidant capacity. Rutin, also known as Rutoside or Vitamin P, is a bioflavonoid that exemplifies these characteristics. Chemically, Rutin is a glycoside, consisting of the flavonolic aglycone quercetin and the disaccharide rutinose. The pharmacological effects of Rutin demonstrate the most substantial inotropic responses. Its therapeutic properties include antihistaminic and antiulcer effects, as well as antioxidant, cytoprotective, vasoprotective, anticarcinogenic, neuroprotective and cardioprotective activities. Additionally, Rutin has shown efficacy in combating cirrhosis, thereby exhibiting hepatoprotective properties.

Amla extract: Amla, scientifically referred to as Phyllanthus emblica (also known as Emblica officinalis), has been recognized for its therapeutic properties since ancient times. The seeds of Amla have demonstrated potential in alleviating conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, while the juice is employed for ocular health. The anti-inflammatory efficacy of Amla is attributed to its capacity to suppress various enzymes that trigger inflammation, including COX-1 and COX-2. By diminishing the activity of these enzymes, Amla reduces the synthesis of molecules responsible for swelling and pain, positioning it as a promising natural alternative for managing inflammatory disorders.

Oral Probiotic: Oral probiotics initiate a series of systemic responses that can enhance wound healing indirectly. Researchers have identified various anti-pathogenic mechanisms employed by probiotics that aid healing process. These mechanisms include inhibition of pathogen adhesion, competition for binding sites, access to nutrients, production of anti-pathogenic substances, antagonistic actions, stimulation of epithelial barrier integrity and modulation of immune responses. Probiotic strains of Bifidobacterium longum and B. coagulans exert a variety of beneficial effects, including modulation of the microbial composition, alteration of immune responses and metabolism.

Use of natural and alternative medicine is a promising approach in improvising medical challenges. Proteolytic enzymes and flavonoid preparations are receiving increased medical acceptance. Combination of such phytochemicals have been found to exert anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic and antioxidant effects through myriad mechanisms that include favourable modulation of inflammatory mediators, enhancement of plasmin levels, reduced leukocyte migration to injury site and suppression of the formation of reactive oxygen species. These actions have been demonstrated in multiple in vitro and animal models. Further, the beneficial effects of the combination on inflammatory markers have been reported from multiple clinical studies. Till date there are limited published reports of their use in pet and farm animals, such formulations can be a very useful candidate for faster healing of damaged tissue in various disease conditions including injury, wounds, skin, and coat problem and to restore other bodily functions in pet animals.

This disease can affect humans also. It spreads through the urine of infected animals, says Yung-Tsun Lo (D.V.M., Ph.D) of Bioguard Corporation.

Canine leptospirosis is a bacterial infection in dogs caused by spiral-shaped bacteria known as leptospires. This disease can affect both pets and humans (it is zoonotic) and is particularly concerning because it can lead to severe illness or death in dogs if left untreated. While cats can also be infected, they tend to be more resistant to the disease and are much less likely to require hospitalization.

The bacteria thrive in moist environments and water. They are typically spread through the urine of infected animals, including rodents, livestock, and other wildlife, which can contaminate water, soil, and food sources.

Transmission

Leptospirosis is more commonly found in warm, humid climates with high annual rainfall, but it can occur anywhere, especially after heavy rain or flooding. Dogs typically contract leptospirosis through contact with water contaminated by infected urine, especially from stagnant or slow-moving sources such as puddles, ponds, or lakes. The bacteria can also spread via urine-contaminated soil, bedding, or food.

Various animals can transmit leptospirosis through their urine, with rodents and small mammals like rats and raccoons being the most common carriers. However, almost any mammal, including humans, can spread the bacteria. Infected or carrier dogs can also serve as sources of infection.

The Leptospira bacteria enter the body through ingestion, broken skin, or mucous membranes (such as the eyes, nose, or mouth). The incubation period—the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms—is typically about one week.

Symptoms

Leptospiral infection in dogs can lead to varying degrees of illness severity, influenced by factors such as the infecting strain, geographical location, and the dog’s immune response. Some dogs may show mild symptoms or none, while others can experience severe illness or potentially fatal complications, often due to kidney damage.

Common signs of leptospirosis include:

• Fever and shivering
• Lethargy and weakness
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle pain or stiffness
• Increased thirst and urination
• (indicating possible kidney involvement)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
•  

In severe cases, leptospirosis can lead to kidney failure, liver damage, lung disease, or bleeding disorders.

Diagnosis

Leptospirosis can be difficult to diagnose because its clinical signs often resemble those of other diseases, and a dog’s vaccination history may not be clear. Veterinarians usually rely on a combination of clinical signs, blood tests, and urine tests to identify possible cases.

To confirm the diagnosis, additional testing is often required. This may include PCR testing, which detects the DNA of the Leptospira bacteria, and microscopic agglutination tests (MATs) to measure antibody levels. In some instances, chest X-rays may also be conducted to check for

pulmonary haemorrhage.

Treatment

Leptospirosis is usually treated with antibiotics and supportive care. In the initial stages, hospitalization is often necessary to provide intravenous (IV) fluids and manage electrolytes. Additional treatments may include medications to protect the gastrointestinal system, relieve nausea and pain, provide nutritional support, and regulate blood pressure. Prompt treatment is crucial to reduce the risk of severe organ damage.

Prevention

Preventive Measures for Leptospirosis:

1. Vaccination: Leptospirosis vaccines are available and highly recommended, especially in areas with a high risk of infection.
2. Restrict access to stagnant water: Keep dogs from drinking or swimming in water sources that may be contaminated.
3. Rodent Control: Minimize exposure to rodents near your home and yard to reduce the risk of infection.
4. Routine Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups and preventive care are essential. Although leptospirosis can be severe, it can be effectively prevented with the right precautions.

The Rise of Home-Cooked Pet Food

In the heart of Hollywood, where iconic signs and stars dominate the landscape, a storefront delivers a surprisingly down-to-earth message: dogs deserve real food. At Just Food for Dogs, the clientele may walk on four legs, but their dining experience rivals that of their human companions. The shop bustles with activity as dogs sample fresh, made-daily recipes while their owners stock up on personalized meal plans.

One such shopper is Sarah Rector, accompanied by her French bulldog, Lulu. She is placing her usual order of beef with russet potato and venison with squash. “I feel so much better giving Lulu this food instead of traditional commercial kibble,” she said. “I know she’s getting top-notch ingredients that support her health and overall well-being.” Though Rector and her husband do not have children yet, they treat their two French bulldogs as cherished family members. “It feels like we’re feeding our kids,” she added with a smile.

While this might seem like just another Hollywood wellness trend, the movement is rooted in a broader transformation within the pet food industry—an industry now worth an estimated $50 billion in the U.S. alone. Carey Tischler, president of Just Food for Dogs, says this isn’t a passing fad. “Recent studies show that 82% of pet owners view their animals as part of the family, even as children. That shift is driving real change in how people think about pet nutrition.”

Joe Ovalle, guest experience manager at the store, echoes that sentiment. “All of our meals are USDA-certified for human consumption. This is genuinely human-grade food,” he said proudly. To prove his point, he sampled a spoonful of their fish and sweet potato dish. “Honestly? It tastes like ceviche,” he laughed.

The cost may raise eyebrows—it can be double the price of traditional dry dog food—but advocates argue the long-term benefits far outweigh the price tag. And if you are preparing the meals at home, it may even be more cost-effective than buying high-end pet food brands.

Pet nutritionist Christine Filardi, author of Home Cooking for Your Dog, believes that feeding dogs freshly prepared food is not a luxury—it is a return to their biological roots. “For tens of thousands of years, dogs thrived on prey animals and table scraps. Commercial pet food is a recent invention. I’m simply guiding people back to what their pets were meant to eat,” she explained. Her book offers practical recipes built around three core components: animal protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. For those who like to spoil their pups, she also includes recipes for treats like bacon and cream cheese muffins.

Whether you are buying it from a specialty store or whipping it up in your own kitchen, the message is the same: real food leads to real results. Fresh, natural meals have been linked to healthier, longer lives for pets, with fewer trips to the vet and increased vitality and happiness. And that happiness spreads.

“They give us so much unconditional love and loyalty,” said Filardi. “The least we can do is make sure they’re well fed and well cared for.” In an era where pets are increasingly seen as full-fledged family members, feeding them food that is made with care, quality, and love might just be the new standard. For many dog owners, it is not about spoiling—it’s about doing right by the ones who give us so much.