Human beings and animals have what is known as a microbiome, an ecosystem made up of both good and bad bacteria living in the gut and the other openings of the body. When the body's microbiome remains in balance, your pet stays healthy, in a good mood, and remains full of energy. Any imbalance could cause health issues to the host, including weight gain, diabetes, and cancer.


So, why is the microbiome important to your pet’s health? A healthy collection of good bacteria inside the intestinal tract keeps your pet’s digestive system in excellent condition.  The term “microbiome” refers to the population of approximately 1,000 types of yeasts and bacteria that live in an animal’s body. It is believed that bacteria exceed an animal’s cells by 10 to 1, with the majority of these bacteria staying in the large intestine. These microscopic organisms are in charge of the digestion of plant fiber, the breakdown of toxins, the production of essential vitamins, and protection against the growth of harmful bacteria.

A number of things can cause an imbalance in the microbiome, including a poor diet, stress, and overuse of prescription drugs such as anti-inflammatories and steroids. Imbalances in the gut microflora have been associated with gastrointestinal disorders, neurological issues, hypothyroidism, anxiety, skin conditions, Lyme disease, kidney and liver issues, chronic ear infections, various types of cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma.

The good news is it is possible to improve your pet’s microbiome.

A simple addition of potato fiber to your dog's meal can show significant changes in your pet's microbiome. Dog owners looking for inexpensive dog food additives can include potato fiber in their pet's diet to help them stay healthier.  Additionally, your pets can be fed high-nutrition meals, antibiotics, and digestive enzymes to promote a healthy home for the new microbiome. Another great way to improve a dog’s microbiome is to carry out fecal transplants.  It is also called MBRT or microbiome replacement therapy. Feces from a healthy dog who has received no antibiotics, or other drugs and has followed  a healthy diet during its life is used for the transplant.