Question: What are the differences in prebiotics and probiotics? Should I give them to my dog? What health benefits will he get? – Jill
Answer: The bacteria that live in your dog?s intestines are very important in many ways. Your dog needs a large amount of healthy bacteria to help digest food and make vitamins and nutrients to keep him healthy and strong. The bacteria are known as the ?gut microflora?.
Studies have shown that it is important to have a healthy gut microflora for animals to grow and prosper. Good bacteria can help support the immune system, which is important to help fight off infections. They can help to produce short-chain fatty acids and make your dog less likely to get intestinal upsets or diarrhea.
Probiotics are live bacteria that are ?gut friendly?. There are various known ?good? or helpful strains. They are available in powder form, capsules, and tablets. They are also found in some yogurt products.
Prebiotics are types of soluble dietary fibers that are food for the good bacteria. Some prebiotics are known for selectively feeding the good bacteria and starving out the bad bacteria.
Prebiotics and probiotics are gaining more support and attention for the important role they play in balancing the health of most animals. They are used in humans, dogs, cats, horses, birds, and small mammals.
Dr. Baker
Dr. Susan Baker
Baker Veterinary Clinic
1801 S. Congress Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
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Source: http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/pawshere/2012/12/20/should-dogs-get-prebiotics-or-probiotics/
