DNM Therapeutic Nutrition for the Microbiome

Course overview

Intestinal problems are one of the most common reasons dogs and cats are brought to their veterinarians and behavioral problems, like anxiety, are prevalent. Research has found that there is an influenceable connection between pet health and behavior and the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome consists of both beneficial and potentially harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, which affect energy balance, metabolism, intestinal cell turnover and behavior. An imbalance within the microbiome is associated with health and behavior related problems. Pets with intestinal upset often experience an imbalance of these bacteria, which can contribute to diarrhea, soft stools, or excessive gas. Chronic stress has been linked to gastrointestinal distress, predisposition to inflammatory bowel disease, suppression of the immune system, and may lead to increased incidences of integumentary diseases, and negatively impact the reproductive system. This course explores what the gut microbiome is, why it is important, and how this microbiome affects pet health and pet behavior, such as anxiety.