The Pursuit of Longevity: Are we impacting our dog’s comfort and welfare

I see a growing number of dog owners becoming captivated by the idea of extending their pets' lives through alternative approaches to care. The word “longevity” is used alongside supplements, pet food and other dog products and it’s become a fantastic marketing tool to sell products and services in the dog world. While this pursuit of longevity is rooted in love and the desire to provide the best for our four-legged companions, it can sometimes lead to choices that inadvertently compromise their immediate comfort, welfare, and even long-term health. In this article, we’ll explore some of these practices, their potential risks, and the importance of balancing proactive care with scientifically validated methods.

Feeding Methods: Balanced Nutrition Matters

One of the most significant areas where owners strive to enhance their dogs’ health and longevity is through diet. However, the pursuit of a “natural” or “ancestral” diet can sometimes veer into unsafe territory, especially when feeding practices are not based on sound nutritional science.

Raw Diets and the Risks of Imbalance

Raw feeding is a trend that has gained immense popularity. Proponents argue that it mimics the natural diet of wild canines, but there are key differences between wolves in the wild and domesticated dogs living in our homes. Raw diets, if not properly balanced, can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies or excesses. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of poorly planned diets, as their rapid growth demands precise amounts of calcium, phosphorus, protein, fats and other nutrients. Over time, imbalanced diets can result in skeletal abnormalities, poor growth, IBS issues and even organ damage.

In addition to the risks of imbalance, raw diets also carry the danger of bacterial contamination. Pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli can harm not only the dog but also pose a risk to human family members.

The Trend of Fasting Dogs

Another growing trend in canine nutrition is fasting, often inspired by human health practices like intermittent fasting. While fasting might have anecdotal benefits for some humans, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for dogs. Dogs metabolise food differently, and their unique dietary needs mean regular feeding is essential for maintaining blood sugar levels, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with certain medical conditions. Extended fasting periods can cause unnecessary stress, gastrointestinal upset such as reflux, and metabolic disturbances.

The Fear of Conventional Medicine

A significant portion of the longevity movement in pet care is marked by a deep distrust of conventional veterinary medicine. While skepticism and seeking second opinions are healthy practices, outright rejection of proven treatments can lead to unnecessary suffering and worsening of medical conditions.

Vaccinations and Preventative Care

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventative medicine, protecting dogs from life-threatening diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Yet, some pet owners choose to forgo vaccinations due to fears of adverse reactions or the belief that natural immunity is sufficient. While adverse vaccine reactions can occur, they are rare and generally mild compared to the devastating consequences of the diseases vaccines prevent. Skipping vaccinations puts not only individual dogs at risk but also contributes to outbreaks that endanger the broader pet population.

Pain Relief and Anti-Anxiety Medication

Pain management and anxiety relief are other areas where conventional medicine often meets resistance. Owners may avoid medications like NSAIDs, opioids, or anti-anxiety drugs due to concerns about side effects or dependency. However, untreated pain can lead to chronic stress, behavioral issues, and a diminished quality of life. Similarly, dogs suffering from untreated anxiety may experience severe distress that affects their physical and emotional well-being.

Medications like Apoquel and Cytopoint, which are used to manage allergies and immune-mediated conditions, often come under fire for being “chemical” or “artificial.” While these medications do have potential side effects, they are rigorously tested for safety and efficacy. For dogs suffering from severe allergies, these treatments can provide significant relief and a better quality of life. Instead some owners opt for supplements, switching diets again and again instead of trying to give their pet the relief they need.

The Risks of Pseudoscience and Homeopathy

The rise of pseudoscience in the pet care community has led many owners to turn to homeopathic remedies and unproven alternative therapies. While the allure of “natural” solutions is understandable, it’s crucial to recognise the limitations and potential dangers of these approaches when used in place of evidence-based medicine.

Parasite Control: A Critical Health Measure

Worming and flea treatments are often replaced with homeopathic remedies or “natural” alternatives that lack scientific validation such as rabbit ears, grapefruit seed extract and garlic. While some herbal products may have mild repellent effects, they are generally ineffective at eradicating infestations or preventing serious diseases transmitted by parasites. For example, heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal if left untreated and is easily preventable with veterinarian-recommended medications.

Delaying Treatment for Serious Conditions

Relying solely on unproven remedies can lead to delays in diagnosing and treating serious medical conditions. Chronic conditions like arthritis, skin infections, or endocrine disorders often require targeted treatments that only conventional medicine can provide. Delaying proper care in favor of “home remedies” can worsen the condition and prolong the dog’s suffering.

Striking a Balance: Evidence-Based Care and Holistic Approaches

The key to supporting our dogs’ longevity and well-being lies in a balanced approach that combines the best of both worlds: evidence-based veterinary medicine and thoughtful, holistic care.

Building a Collaborative Relationship with Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian is your best ally in ensuring your dog’s health. Regular check-ups, open communication, and a willingness to discuss concerns about medications or treatments can help create a care plan that addresses both immediate needs and long-term health goals. If you’re interested in exploring alternative therapies, discuss them with your vet to ensure they complement conventional treatments safely.

Understanding Your Dog’s Individual Needs

Every dog is unique, with specific dietary, medical, and emotional needs. Avoid one-size-fits-all trends and prioritise your dog’s individual requirements. Whether it’s a tailored diet, personalised exercise routine, or targeted medical care, the goal should always be to enhance your dog’s quality of life.

Staying Informed and Skeptical

The internet is rife with advice on pet care, but not all of it is accurate or safe. Seek information from reputable sources, such as board-certified veterinarians, peer-reviewed journals, and trusted animal health organisations and professionals. Be wary of anecdotal evidence and testimonials, which can be compelling but are not substitutes for scientific proof.

Conclusion: Prioritising Quality of Life

In our quest to extend the lives of our beloved dogs, it’s essential not to lose sight of their immediate comfort and welfare. While it’s natural to explore new ways to enhance their health, these efforts should never come at the expense of evidence-based care and a balanced approach. By prioritising scientifically validated practices and working closely with trusted veterinarians, we can ensure that our dogs enjoy long, happy, and healthy lives filled with comfort and love.