Monday, February 18, 2008

The Tips That Could Save Your Pets Life

Article Title: The Tips That Could Save Your Pets Life
Author: Elise Rogers

As humans become increasingly aware of the many benefits of
fiber, they may begin to wonder if fiber has any health benefits
or adverse effects on their pet's health system. Most people
know that fiber aids the gastrointestinal system with the
passing on of digested food out of the body. So, how does it
help dogs?

So, what exactly is fiber? Fiber is composed of several
different kinds of compounds, all of which are forms of
carbohydrates. Popular sources of fiber found in dog food
include some of the following: rice hulls, corn-based products,
soybean hulls, cellulose, beet pulp, bran, peanut hulls, pectin,
and citrus pulp, to name a few. Almost all carbohydrates provide
some sources of fiber.

Though most dog food providers do not intentionally put extra
dietary fiber into their food, they are there in the form of
carbohydrates. Fiber, in moderation, can prove to be beneficial
to your pet. Fiber is known for promoting colon health, it can
aid in weight management for heavy dogs, it aids in diarrhea and
constipation, and it is also known to benefit dogs with diabetes
mellitus.

If your dog is becoming increasingly pudgy or heavy, you may
want to consider slightly increasing their fiber intake. Fiber
is known to act as a "filler"; that is, it gives dogs the
feeling of fullness after eating. If you are trying to help your
dog lose a bit of excess weight, try feeding them smaller
portions and slightly increasing their fiber intake. Before you
attempt this though, it is always best to contact your local
veterinarian to discuss the proper weight loss plan for your
pet; too much fiber has proved to be more harmful than helpful
in dogs if it is used improperly or in excess.

Fiber can also help dogs with diabetes mellitus. This common
metabolic disease is present when the pancreas stops producing
insulin, thus inhibiting the proper production and fluctuation
of blood sugar levels. Research has shown that dogs that are
given diets that intentionally incorporate fiber are prone to
experience less blood sugar fluctuation.

Most people are aware that fiber aids in the prevention of
constipation. Fiber is water absorbent, thus it adds bulk to
digested contents in the intestinal tracts. This encourages
movement in the intestinal tract and aids in returning
regularity to the digestive system and the elimination of waste.

It is important to remember, though fiber has many benefits to
people and pets, it also has a few downsides. Fiber may cause
flatulence, increased stool quantity or size, or a loosening of
stool consistency.

Awareness of fiber has raised questions in pet owners about the
benefits of fiber for their pets. When considering changing your
pet's diet to one that contains more fiber, it is important to
be familiar with fiber itself, its uses, its benefits, and its
unpleasant effects. If you have any questions about your dog's
diet, contact your veterinarian. They will be more than happy to
help you find the best diet for your pet!

About The Author:
http://www.discount-pet-mall.com/pet-supplies/dog-beds/
http://www.discount-pet-mall.com/pet-supplies/elevated-dog-feeders/

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