Dec 31, 2024
Podcast Summary: "Doctors Take the Mic - Grain-Free Dog Foods and Heart Disease"
Dr. Gloria Wu discusses a concerning link between certain grain-free dog foods and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart failure. The FDA investigated 16 brands, including Acana, Zignature, Taste of the Wild, and Blue Buffalo. These foods substitute grains with lentils, peas, or chickpeas, potentially causing unexpected heart disease, even in small breeds like Beagles and Springer Spaniels. Veterinarian cardiologists suspect this trend stems from misconceptions about grains in pet diets. Dr. Wu advises choosing established brands like Mars or Nestle Purina to ensure safety. Stay informed about your pet’s nutrition to protect their heart health.