The happiness, health and well-being of our dogs are always at the front of a pet owners mind. However, from time to time, our pets can experience digestive issues that can cause discomfort and affect their overall health. Whether it is caused by a scavenging pup who ate something they really shouldn’t or seemingly out of the blue with no identifiable cause, a pet with an upset tummy can be a worrying time.

Digestive upset can manifest as symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation, gas, bloating, a general upset tummy or even vomiting. While seeking veterinary advice is always recommended, fortunately, there are measures we can take to support their digestive system from home. Along with a balanced diet, one such avenue is the use of pre and probiotics. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of our dogs’ digestive health and explore the benefits of pre and probiotics,

Understanding an upset tummy in Dogs

Dogs’ digestive systems can be easily disrupted by various factors, including dietary changes, stress, infections, allergies, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food – hands up who has a scavenger! And as fun as that bin-raid may have been, the resulting upset tummy can leave our canine friends feeling uncomfortable, lethargic, and unwell. It is important to address these issues promptly to restore their digestive balance and well-being. One such way is by using a digestive support, such as Omniflora, which is loaded with pre and post biotics, adsorbing agents, simple amino acids and electrolytes. In a nutshell it is packed full of tummy friendly ingredients!

The Role of Pre and Probiotics:

Pre and probiotics are increasingly recognised as valuable tools in promoting and maintaining optimal digestive health in dogs. Just as we are encouraged to take our daily Yakult, we now know that we can also be supporting our dogs and cats in a similar fashion. So, what are pre and probiotics?

Probiotics: Probiotics are the “friendly” bacteria that naturally reside in the gut. These live microorganisms support digestion and nutrient absorption, maintaining optimal health. By maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria, probiotics can support immune function, improve stool consistency, and help prevent harmful bacteria from thriving.

Prebiotics: Prebiotics are specialised fibres that serve as a food source for the friendly bacteria already present in the gut. They help stimulate the growth and activity of these beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacilli. Essentially, prebiotics act as nourishment and food for the probiotics, aiding in their effectiveness.

Why is Omniflora so beneficial?

Omniflora is a handy pre and probiotic supplement available as a paste or tablets that can safely be given to your pet in their time of need. Along with high quality pre and pro biotics, Omniflora also boasts simple amino acids, adsorbing agents and electrolytes.

Simple Amino Acids:

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, essential for multiple functions in the body. When a dog experiences digestive upset, the absorption and utilisation of nutrients can be compromised. Simple amino acids, such as glutamine can provide a readily available source of nutrition and energy to support the healing and regeneration of the gastrointestinal lining. Amino acids can help repair damaged tissues, enhance nutrient absorption, and promote overall gastrointestinal health.

Electrolytes:

Electrolytes are minerals, including sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, that play crucial roles in maintaining proper hydration, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Digestive upset, particularly in cases of diarrhoea or vomiting, can lead to electrolyte imbalances due to excessive fluid loss. Replenishing electrolytes is vital to restore hydration and maintain the proper functioning of bodily systems. Electrolyte supplements or solutions can help replace lost minerals and support optimal function.

Adsorbing Agents:

Adsorbing agents, such as activated charcoal or clay substances like pectin, are known for their ability to bind and remove toxins, pathogens, and other harmful substances from the gastrointestinal tract. In cases of digestive upset caused by ingesting toxins or contaminated food, adsorbing agents can help reduce the absorption of harmful substances and assist in their elimination from the body. They can also help alleviate symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting by reducing the irritants in the digestive system.

How does Omniflora help?

• Restoring Gut Flora Balance: Omniflora contains a blend of carefully selected probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium subtillis, known for their ability to replenish beneficial bacteria in the gut. By restoring the balance of gut flora, it helps optimise digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Strengthening Immune Response: A significant portion of a dog’s immune system resides in the gut. Omniflora supports immune function by promoting a healthy gut environment. The presence of beneficial bacteria can enhance the gut’s ability to defend against harmful pathogens and boost the overall immune response.
• Alleviating Stress-Induced Digestive Issues: Dogs can experience digestive disturbances due to stress and anxiety. Omniflora’s probiotics can help modulate the gut-brain axis, potentially reducing a stress-related upset tummy and promoting a calmer disposition.

Remember, while these supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, it is always best to seek professional guidance from a vet to ensure the correct and safe use of these additives in your dog’s treatment plan.