Submitted by Armen Hareyan on Dec 25th, 2007
Diet For Dogs
Veterinary scientists have found that a high protein, high fibre diet is more successful in weight loss programmes for dogs because it helps to create a feeling of fullness.
The research, by vets at the University of Liverpool's Small Animal Teaching Hospital, working with the Royal Canin Research Centre in France, has led to the development of a new diet food for dogs. Satiety Control, is now available for use in weight loss programmes for obese dogs, under the guidance of a veterinary surgeon.
Dr Alex German, head of the Weight Management Clinic, said: "Obesity is common in dogs and can lead to a range of illnesses and diseases, even premature death. Although treatment for weight loss has been in existence for some time it has not been without its problems. Simply reducing a dog's food intake and increasing exercise can lead to begging and scavenging, resulting in withdrawal from the programme.
"The new formula is a breakthrough for diet-based weight loss plans for dogs; if satiety is better, then improved compliance is likely to lead to greater success. This work may also be relevant for people as well as dogs. Increasing both dietary fibre and protein may help people on a dietary weight loss plan to control their appetite."
Vets tested three different diets: one high in protein with moderate fibre content, one high in fibre with moderate protein content and one high in both protein and fibre. Scientists tested the diets for satiety (feeling of fullness), digestibility and palatability - all vital components to ensuring the successful reduction of appetite.
The team found that a diet high in both fibre and protein was most effective in satisfying appetite, suggesting that their satiety effects may be separate but can be combined for maximum benefit. Importantly, this improvement did not come at the expense of either digestibility or palatability - a concern with some high fibre diets - which were unaffected.
He added: "With Christmas looming, a time where we tend to self-indulge, it is vital that we do not over-feed our animals with tit-bits and treats. Although owners feel that they should treat their animals they could in fact be storing up problems for the future."
Source:
Universities Of Liverpool 