Leaky Gut Syndrome

Question:

Dr. Smith,
Hi,
I currently order the Gastriplex from you for my German Shepard. She has been doing wonderful on it for quite some time but it doesn't appear to be working anymore. She is on Eagle Pack dry food the fish blend and also eats Evanger canned chicken food. She has had problems with diarrhea since about 8 months old. I thought she might have leaky gut syndrome. She has not been diagnosed, it is so expensive to diagnose and also finding a vet that understands these issues is not easy. They just want me to give her rice. That is not going to solve the problem when it is on-going. I also started giving her digestive enzymes. She will be o.k. for a week and then it starts up again. I have also done a parasite cleanse just in case. She still has the problem. Can you suggest anything?
Thanks, Florence

Response:

Hello Florence,
Thank you for your inquiry to Holisitc Pet Info. It would be helpful to know how old your dog is presently because it does change how she should be treated. The longer and more chronic the incident the more treatment needs to be modified as the dog recovers.

Since you suspect this may be “Leaky Gut Syndrome” I will discuss treatment for this concern. First you need to remove toxins and allergens. Since chicken is one of the most allergenic proteins I would discontinue that and offer another protein source. Also detoxifing the liver to decrease the toxic load will help it re-establish a healthy system. Liver Aid with Milk Thistle should support the function of the liver and gall bladder.

Second is to replace digestive factors that are inadequate or abscent. L-Glutamine is an essential nutrient for optimal intestinal function during time of stress and the correction of Leaky Gut Syndrome.

Third is to repair: Zinc, Lecithin and Vit B5 are integral to the repair of intestinal mucosa damaged from disease, stress or diet. Canine Plus Senior contains the listed nutrients that support the GI repair process. Super EPA is also crucial for anti-inflammation of the cell lining of the intestines.

Lastly reinoculation with probiotic micro flora cultures creates healthy bowel ecology. Since Gastriplex seems to have decreased in efficacy you may want to try Vetri-Probiotics BD, these beneficial microorganisms compete with potential pathogens for nutrients and attachment sites thereby inhibiting bacterial overgrowth. I do recommend seeing an integrative/holistic vet to help you monitor your Shepard’s progress and follow-up on any further issues. Best of luck.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA

Follow up question:

Dear Colleen,
I ordered the products you recommended and have a question. Do I keep her on the Liver Aid with Milk Thistle every month or is this just to detox the liver once?
Thanks Florence

Response:

Hello Florence,
Since her issues have been chronic, treatment for liver detoxification should be ongoing. I recommend maintaining the supplements for 3-4 months and re-evaluate. 4 years of chronic bowel issues creates a heavy toll on the body and she may have to be supported with supplements for life.
Please keep us updated.
Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA