We’ve had lots of questions lately about grain free food and its relation to DCM. Check out our full blog posts for our thoughts on this issue but this is our abbreviated take. 👇 Here’s what we know: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is quite rare. Of the 77 million dogs in this country, the FDA report references 560 cases (that’s .000007 percent!) While we take this issue seriously, it’s important to put it into perspective. While the FDA is saying there may be a link to grain free diets, it acknowledges that we don’t know what is causing this disease. Further, they aren’t advising a change in diet based only on the information that’s been gathered to this point. We think it’s irresponsible for the FDA to call out specific brands without actually knowing what’s causing DCM, and confuse consumers by suggesting they make no changes in their pet’s diet. Also, it’s not actually the absence of grains: What’s being studied is the presence of peas, lentils and potatoes.🥔🍠 #DCM has been studied since 1999 (20 years ago!), well before “grain-free dog food” was on our radar. There are many reasons to go with a grain-free diet. A low carb diet that is high in moisture and animal-based protein is ideal for your pet. Carbs are often difficult for dogs to digest, and tend to make stools larger and smellier. Carbs and starches break down into sugar, which can lead to weight gain, inflammation, diabetes and cancer. Dogs get limited nutritional value from eating carbs, and there is evidence to suggest such a diet may reduce absorption of certain nutrients. If your dog is doing well on a high quality grain-free food, there is no reason to stop feeding it to her. We do suggest rotating brands of food and regularly adding whole foods to your pet’s kibble. 🐐🍒🥚 🐟🥬🥩 Feel free to ask us for recommendations! We’ll be adding an assortment of nutrient-dense, high-moisture options to compliment your dogs kibble. Keep your eyes peeled for our new freezer area dedicated to healthy add-ons!❄️👀❄️ If you do decide to try a grain-inclusive variety, Green Tails Market carries several varieties. We’re happy to help you find one for you and your dog! 😊🌈🐕 #greentailsdog #holisticpetsupply https://www.instagram.com/p/B1KPKv0py5c/?igshid=6sbr4e44qaiy
