Pet Digest

🐾 Taurine Supplements for Dogs: What You Need to Know No FDA Approval? No Problem—Here’s What Pet Parents Should Understand Taurine is one of the most talked-about nutrients in the dog world today—especially for owners concerned about Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Many pet parents want to supplement taurine, but quickly discover that in the United States, there are no FDA-approved taurine supplements specifically for dogs. So what gives? And what are your safe, holistic alternatives? Let’s break it down. --- ⚖️ Why No FDA-Approved Taurine Supplement for Dogs? The FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration) does not currently approve taurine as a veterinary drug. Here’s why: Taurine is considered a dietary supplement, not a prescription drug. Most dogs synthesize taurine on their own, so it hasn’t traditionally been viewed as “essential” in canine diets. Approval requires clinical trials, which are expensive and often only pursued for drugs treating widespread, urgent diseases. 🐕‍🦺 Tha...

🍲 Thinking About Homemade Dog Food? Here’s Why You Should Talk to an Expert First Making homemade meals for your dog might feel like the ultimate act of love. You get to handpick every ingredient, avoid fillers, and control the quality of your pup’s diet. But while the intention is great, homemade doesn’t always mean healthy— unless it’s done right. Before you start cooking for your canine, here’s why speaking with a veterinary nutritionist or expert is a critical first step. 🧠 Dogs Have Very Specific Nutritional Needs Unlike people, dogs require a balanced ratio of nutrients that supports their breed, size, life stage, and activity level. A well-meaning homemade recipe can fall short on key nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, or essential fatty acids. 📖 Source: American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN) ⚠️ Nutritional Deficiencies (or Excesses) Can Harm Your Dog Feeding an unbalanced diet over time can lead to: Calcium deficiency → bone deformities or fractures E...