Pet Digest

The Small Intestine — Where Nutrients Are Absorbed After leaving the stomach, food moves into the small intestine — the longest part of your dog’s digestive system and the key player in nutrient absorption. It’s where all the hard work from the mouth, esophagus, and stomach pays off. What Is the Small Intestine? The small intestine is a long, twisting tube divided into three parts: Duodenum: Where stomach contents mix with enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver. Jejunum: The main site of nutrient absorption. Ileum: Absorbs vitamin B12, bile salts, and whatever else wasn’t absorbed earlier. How Digestion Happens Here Enzymes from the pancreas break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into tiny molecules your dog’s body can absorb. Bile from the liver helps emulsify fats, making them easier to digest. The small intestine is lined with millions of tiny finger-like projections called villi and microvilli . These structures increase surface area dra...

Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Diarrhea is a common digestive issue in dogs that can range from mild to serious. While many factors can cause diarrhea, diet and nutrition are often key contributors, as well as vital tools in treatment and prevention. Common Nutritional Causes of Diarrhea Sudden diet changes: Abrupt switching of foods can upset gut flora and digestion. Food intolerances or allergies: Proteins like beef, dairy, or grains may trigger reactions. High-fat or spicy foods: Can overwhelm the digestive system. Low fiber intake: Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and gut health (see Understanding Fiber ). Contaminated or spoiled food: Introduces pathogens causing gastrointestinal upset. Supporting Gut Health Through Nutrition Choose Easily Digestible Foods Foods with moderate protein, low fat, and gentle carbohydrates help soothe the gut and r...

Understanding Fibre: Part 3 of Canine Nutrition Essentials Understanding Fibre: Part 3 of Canine Nutrition Essentials Welcome to Part 3 of our deep dive into the 7 Essential Nutrients in Canine Nutrition . Today, we focus on fibre — a key yet often misunderstood component of your dog’s diet. From digestion and gut health to weight management and immune support, fibre plays multiple vital roles in holistic canine wellbeing. What Is Fibre? Dietary fibre consists of the indigestible parts of plant foods that pass through the digestive system largely intact. Unlike proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, fibre is not broken down for energy but serves other important functions, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. In dogs, fibre can be classified into two main types: Soluble fibre — dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance. It slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fibre — does not dissolve in water and adds b...