PET CHAT

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Is my dog happy having the same food every day, or should I change it up?

As adults, we’ve become accustomed to experiencing a broad spectrum of tastes and flavours across an ever-changing weekly menu. However, we offer the same mundane meal, in the same bowl in the exact location, to our pets daily. So, the question is, “Is my dog happy having the same food every day?” Are we unconsciously depriving our furry family members of the excitement of a different satisfying, nutritious meal every day, or are our pets happy with the repetitive daily routine?

First, it is essential to choose good-quality dog food formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional needs. Dogs have different dietary requirements depending on their age, size, and activity level, so selecting a food appropriate for your dog’s specific needs is important.

Next, look for a complete and balanced food that provides all of the nutrients your dog needs in the proper proportions.

Once you have selected a high-quality, balanced diet for your dog, it is generally fine for them to eat the same food daily. In fact, many veterinarians and pet nutritionists recommend a consistent diet for dogs, as it can help to prevent digestive issues and other problems.

Dogs generally do not get bored eating the same food every day.

Studies have shown that because they have less taste buds (1700) compared to humans (9000) they don’t appreciate different tastes like we do.

Another way to spice up their regular food is to add Hemp Seed Oil which has an array of health benefits for your pooch while also changing the texture and consistency of their food

You can also crumble green-lipped mussels to change their regular food, which has been connected to reduced joint pain and inflammation and improved dog mobility. Both these products as well as a range of premium dry food can be purchased online at www.petfoodaustralia.com.au.

Three things you need to know about pain: Education can be key to solution

Working as a health care professional, I see people in pain every day. Despite advances in medicine and science, pain levels continue to rise; with one in five Australians over 45 years of age suffering from chronic pain. Poor education about pain contributes to ongoing pain, so here are three things you need to know about pain.

Pain, tissue damage and pathology do not always correlate

Too often people get radiographic imaging and are instantly under the impression that the findings on the report are the reason behind their pain. For some patients imaging can provide evidence of a significant underlying pathology that can explain their pain and guide further treatment. However, in a large percentage of patients, imaging has no or little correlation with clinical findings and can provide a ‘red herring’. For example, studies have found that 70 per cent of the population have lower back degenerative changes shown on MRI but most are asymptomatic and not in pain. It is essential to find a correlation between symptoms and imaging results to consider the results significant.

Pain is from the brain

Pain doesn’t exist until the brain tells us it does. The brain protects itself from danger. Any situation your brain perceives as harmful will increase your likelihood of pain. However, the amount of tissue damage doesn’t always correlate with the amount of pain experienced. For example, have you ever got a big bruise but can’t remember how you got it? But then you get a tiny paper cut and it hurts a great deal. This is what makes pain so complex!

Perception of pain influences your experience

It is important to remember everyone experiences and perceives pain differently. Some people claim to have a high pain threshold however there is no accurate way to measure and compare pain tolerance.

Anxiety levels, past experience, culture and knowledge all influence perception of pain. This is important when considering how much you understand and know about your pain.

When someone has a better knowledge of their pain, they can develop effective coping strategies compared to those who don’t understand their pain.

I live in: Jordan Springs

Keagan