There has been a lot of chatter in the media recently regarding grain-free diets and the effect that it may have on our pets. In recent news, grain-free diets have been potentially associated with a heart disease called Dog Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Although there appears to be a link between the grain-free diets and this disease, it is not well established or understood at this time.
The most recent article published in the AVMA Journal by Lisa Freeman DVM, Ph.D. from Tufts University explains how the link between the diets and this particular heart disease has been especially observed in Golden Retrievers, but has affected all breeds and is associated with boutique brands, exotic ingredients, and grain-free diets.
We all would love a straight answer regarding the best diet for our pets, but at this time there are far more questions than answers. Our practice will be following Dr. Freeman’s recommendation of changing to a diet “made by a well- established manufacturer that contains standard ingredients (ex: chicken, beef, rice, corn, and wheat)”. We also recommend making these changes prior to observing problems.
As always, we are here to answer any of your questions.
UPDATED on 7.1.2019
In an update on its investigation into the potential link between certain diets and dog dilated cardiomyopathy, the FDA listed 16 pet food brands that have been named in 10 or more reports of the disease. These brands include:
- Acana
- Zignature
- Taste of the Wild
- 4Health
- Earthborn Holistic
- Blue Buffalo
- Nature’s Domain
- Fromm
- Merrick
- California Natural
- Natural Balance
- Orijen
- Nature’s Variety
- Nutrisource
- Nutro
- Rachael Ray Nutrish