C L I N I C A L E D U C A T I O N F O R N A T U R A L P E T H E A L T H

Interview with Dr Kersti Seksel

Nutraceuticals for osteoarthritis

Nutrition for skin, hair and claw

News, education and events

Autumn 2015 Vol 4

The entrails of animals are again revealing secretsGUTS

THE RIGHT

2 | Autumn 2015 Vol 4 Clinical Education for Natural Pet Health 3

Contents3 Research Update Latest evidence and research on natural diet and

animal medicines from the bioscience literature

4 Cover Story: The right guts Genomic sequencing is unravelling mysteries of the gut in small animals – its interplay with the immune system and our interdependence with its microbial population. How does probiotic therapy with commensal bacteria affect GI disease, metabolism and health?

7 Analysis & Opinion: Joint ventures A 2012 international review of supplements for improving clinical signs of osteoarthritis – updated with evidence published since

8 Treatment: The high-gloss finish The proteins, lipids and micronutrients necessary for healthy coat, skin and nail health are reviewed for their roles and whether there’s evidence for their supplementation

10 Interview: Seksel’s success As a leading veterinary specialist in behavioural

medicine, Dr Kersti Seksel is at the forefront of companion animal welfare advocacy and explaining what makes them tick. She looks into how nutrition and supplementation can affect behaviour

11 Education Meetings and opportunities to network, train, study and learn

Herb–nutraceutical combo eases arthritisA multiherb formula was found to improve the functional ability of dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) as early as four weeks after commencing therapy, a Quebec placebo-controlled randomised trial has found.

Interestingly, the second phase of the trial, another four weeks of treatment with a formulation of nutraceuticals such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and L-glutamine, resulted in even better improvements.

After 8 weeks of treatment with the products, accelerometers worn by the dogs showed they became more active, spending an additional 1.5 hours on daily life activities. “This increase in limb use led to dogs more willing to accentuate their limb support by an average of 1 kg … Nevertheless, the level of activity has to be low to moderate to avoid an exacerbation of lameness as reported after intense running,” wrote the researchers from Université de Montréal.

There were 26 privately owned dogs in the trial, and peak vertical force was its primary endpoint. The herbs included Devil’s claw, curcumin, willow bark and feverfew, and blood tests showed that the treatments did not affect platelet function.

Res Vet Sci 2014;97(3):574–81

Saving painsNonpharmaceutical approaches to controlling pain are becoming increasingly popular as owners and vets seek alternative therapies for pain control with minimal side effects and because multimodal treatment is superior to single-modal therapy.

A review of adjuvant modalities by physical rehab therapist Dr Lisa Corti at Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital found cold and heat therapies effective ancillary techniques to decrease pain in acute and chronic conditions, respectively, and easy and inexpensive to administer.

Dr Corti recommended acupuncture as part of a multimodal treatment plan for patients with pain due to OA, lumbrosacral disease, chronic disc disease and bone cancers.

Rather than just treating chronic pain associated with inflammation, newer therapies aim to reduce inflammation through tissue regeneration. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) promote tissue healing and regeneration at the site of injury.

“Although the evidence supporting the use of ESWT in dogs is currently unclear, but the use of PRP for osteoarthritis shows promise,” concluded Dr Corti.

Topics Compan Animal Med 2014;29(1):24–8

Sharing our pets’ petsNew DNA sequencing techniques have unearthed a wealth of

information about the human microbiome – the genome for the skin,

ENT, urogenital and GI microbiota – and how it interacts with our

health and diet [see overleaf]. However, little data on the microbiome of

companion animals exist despite them sharing living environment, food

and microbial populations with people and serving as potential vectors

for pathogens.

Researchers from the University of Illinois therefore reviewed nascent

research in the study of canine and feline microbiomes, and found that

although metabolic differences exist among host species, research

carried out in humans and other animal models may often be applied to

dogs and cats.

Disease studies have primarily focused on specific enteropathogens

such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Clostridium spp, which can be

present in both diseased and healthy animals. Also, most canine/feline

studies have focused on faecal DNA, which doesn’t indicate microbial

activity, measures of host health and accurate dietary information.

The phylogenetic structure and functional capacity of the microbiome

needs further research, along with activity and responsiveness of

microbes and how they affect host GI and metabolic diseases.

This will illuminate how antibiotics and other drug therapies, breed

and disease affect or are affected by the microbiome, which may

help improve diets, identify disease biomarkers and develop

targeted disease therapies.

Brit J Nutr 2015;113(Suppl S1):S6–S17

Probiotic mix treats IBDProbiotic therapy was pitted against standard combination therapy

in dogs with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in an open-label joint

US–Italian study.

Twenty pet dogs with idiopathic IBD were randomised to receive a

probiotic formula (four strains of Lactobacillus, two of Bifidobacterium

and Streptococcus salivarius ssp. thermophilus) or treatment with

prednisone and metronidazole for 60 days and followed-up after

30 days.

Histological and clinical IBD scores and CD3+ T-cells decreased in

both groups but regulatory T-cell markers such as TGF-ß+ increased

significantly more in the probiotic group. This is associated with a

protective effect, and normalisation of dysbiosis was also observed in

the probiotic group after long-term therapy.

PLoS ONE 2014;9(4):e94699

G uts – their health, integrity and efficiency as much as their

contents – is the guts of this autumn’s Pure Animal.

It might take guts to lead with a feature on the bowels of animal health too, but the gastrointestinal

tract (GIT) – once a great uncharted void whose internal workings veterinary internal medicine tried to illuminate through assaying faecal cultures – is now a hotspot of front-page, game-changing discoveries in bioscience, merging disciplines such as gastroenterology, immunology, endocrinology, neurology and psychology in the one tangled organ.

Since DNA sequencing laid bare the human genome, the microbiome – genetic material of a host and their commensal microorganisms – is now being unravelled to show the GIT to be a highly dynamic home for most of the immune system and more than bacterial and fungal ‘flora’ but archaea, protozoa and viruses. All compete for adhesion sites, optimal environments, nutrients and cofactors for survival and reproduction – and a shift in ratios of different microbes’ numbers can mean the difference between gastroenteritis, peptic ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome.

These multifarious, intricately interlinked ecosystems within us are repeated and shared among our companion animals, and research into the microbiomes of the dog, cat and horse is still at early stages. However, modulating GIT health is as established as feeding roughage, while supplementation with probiotics – ingestible yeasts and bacteria that confer a health benefit on the host – has for at least two decades shown GI, growth and immune benefits in pets, livestock and people.

But the body’s biggest organ, the skin – and by extension the hair on it – is also a rich site of microbiota that maintain epidermal pH, barrier permeability and moisture; even odour and texture. A markedly different environment to the GIT, the exterior layer is a self-renewing superstructure of amino acids building cross-linked, filamental proteins with hydrophobic lipids. Fatty acids, ceramides [see PAW Fact Sheet March 2014], B vitamins and minerals such as silica and zinc are partners in this process that self-differentiates hair from skin, pad, nail and hoof. The Treatment feature on page 8 reviews whether supplementation can change the external landscape as much as the internal.

Perhaps to show how hard it is to make evidence-based decisions when evidence is scant, the Analysis on page 7 focuses on a systematic review of nutraceuticals for treating the clinical signs of osteoarthritis (OA). With some interesting findings but by no means resounding clarity, such papers can only be works in progress while empirical experience – the often overlooked companion to evidence gathering and interpretation – guides clinical decision making.

Steven Chong

RESEARCH UPDATEEDITOR’S NOTE

The value of intestinal fortitude

Volume 4 – Autumn 2015 ISSN 2202-7505

EditorSteven Chong

Design & ProductionHogan Print

Editorial ContributorsAssociate Professor Catherine Mansfield, Dr Kersti Seksel, Dr Charmaine Tham, Steven Chong

PrintingHogan Print

DistributionCojo Post

Pure Animal is published quarterly by Blackmores Animal Health (ACN 009 713 437). It contains original articles and reviews written by professional editorial staff for veterinary clinic workers. The views expressed in Pure Animal are those of the original authors and not those of the magazine, Editor or Blackmores Animal Health. The publisher, authors and associated parties are not responsible or liable for the continued currency of the information or for any published errors, omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom.

© 2015 Blackmores LTD. All Pure Animal material is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted except for educational purposes and with consent of the publisher.

Latest research and evidence from around the world

4 | Autumn 2015 Vol 4 Clinical Education for Natural Pet Health 5

SUMMARY

DNA sequencing of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome in humans and animals has revealed its importance in the gut–brain axis and health.

research suggests a role in cardiovascular, autoimmune, GI disease and obesity.

to change the canine microbiome and have clinically beneficial but species-specific effects for GI disorders.

Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., can be synergistic compared to supplementation with single strains.

G astroenterology has never been the sexiest of veterinary specialties but insights from human and animal lab, genomic and clinical research has made the feculent one of the

most fascinating and fecund areas for reappraising biology, health, therapeutic intervention and even subjectivity anew.

It is described as a ‘world within’ but the complex ecosystem being discovered in the mammalian gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is on a par with cosmic descriptors in terms of estimated numbers of entities and their interrelationships, and what is yet to be discovered.

Over the past five years a steady stream of veterinary scientific literature has been published on the canine and feline GIT and its acute interactions with – if not pivotal role in and interdependence on – the immune system and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis [see Pure Animal Summer 2014;Vol 1:6].

This research has extended the knowledge of the GIT as a purely absorptive, digestive and excretory canal to a dynamic frontier housing most of the immune system that communicates intimately with the endocrine and central nervous systems – the ‘second brain’.

We’re more microbial than human

The GIT is arguably more alive than any other organ in the body – at least 1010 cells of bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses coexist dynamically in a protective mucosal barrier lining the stomach, small intestine and colon [see diagram] – about 10 times more cells than that of the host.1

Only in the last decade has molecular-based DNA sequencing techniques, used in the human microbiome projects, begun to chart the microbial ecology of the GIT, ENT, skin and other body regions. The application of these techniques to describe the phylogenetic structure and functional capacity of the canine GI microbiome was first published in 2008.2

“The culture-based method identified only about 20 or so bacterial species but there has been an explosion of microbes discovered with DNA sequencing,” says veterinary gastroenterologist Associate Professor Caroline Mansfield of the Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Melbourne.

“The GIT mainly hosts the phyla Bacteroides and Firmicutes and viruses and phages actually outnumber bacteria 10 to one – the role of the GIT microbiota as a whole in veterinary medicine is unclear currently but in humans there may be potential in modifying the clinical course of cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases, IBS and obesity.”

T he modulation of human GI microbes by bacteria was established in the early 20th century by Nobel Laureate Ilya Metchnikoff, fellow Pasteur Institute scientist Henry Tissier

and German physician Alfred Nissle.3

The term ‘probiotics’ was not coined until 1965 by Lilly and Stillwell – in contrast to antibiotics, probiotics were defined as microbially derived factors that stimulate the growth of other organisms.3 The FAO/WHO later refined this definition to “live microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”.4

Associate Professor Mansfield points out that it is not always necessary for bacteria to be live. “Soluble and fermentation products may also be shed and mediate functions, and thinking in terms of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria is too simplistic – it’s a dynamic balance with other microbes,” she says.

Recent human research has shown that enhancing the beneficial components of the GI microbiota using probiotics represents a realistic therapeutic strategy in maintaining health and treating various GI disorders in humans, however companion animals have received less attention.5

A 2008 review of gene sequences demonstrates that the canine microbiota is closely related to, but distinct from, the microbiota of other mammals such as humans.6 Although some argue that a successful canine probiotic strain would ideally be derived from the canine GIT7, it has never been formally demonstrated that probiotic effects are species specific.5

“The research needs to further evaluate clinical utility of probiotics with dietary and other therapies in GI diseases in dogs and cats, looking not just at which bacteria work – but how,” says Associate Professor Mansfield.

“The evidence to date, however, suggests that probiotics are probably helpful for chronic diarrhoea in cats, acute but non-critical

gastroenteritis in dogs, and animal shelter outbreaks of acute diarrhoea that isn’t parvoviral or parasitic. And possibly helpful as adjuncts in IBD or preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.”

In the wake of probiotics, prebiotics – nonstarch carbohydrate-based ‘food’ such as inulin or oligofructose that nurture beneficial GIT microbes over harmful ones – have been developed, researched and are now a growing category in human and animal fortified ‘functional’ food products. Synbiotics, which pair a synergistic pre- and probiotic in the one product, have also enjoyed a recent surge of research activity in companion animals and livestock, much of it driven by the petfood and agricultural industries [see Fact Sheet February 2015].

Villi, tight junctions and mucus

Like the alveoli reticulating within the lungs, the surface area of the GIT is vastly extended by finger-like projections of villi lining the intestines, covered in a protective layer of mucus in which billions of commensal microorganisms thrive and compete for nutrients.

Each villus houses capillaries that in the small intestine absorb nutrients, and in the large intestine absorb water, and innumerable villi bristle from a contiguous single layer of epithelial cells linked by tight junctions.

“Epithelial cells continually sense the microbiota in the GIT, and produce IgA and antimicrobial peptides. Thus there is a constant ‘battle in our guts’ where bacteria populations self-regulate through competition, symbiotic amensalism, parasitism and predation,” Associate Professor Mansfield told Pure Animal.

The entrails of animals are again revealing secrets – this time

of the vast microbiota with its teeming probiotic bacteria

that modulate the immuno-endocrine systems, inflammatory

diseases and even behaviour.

The right guts

Medicine’s new frontier: biomes and biotics

REFERENCES: 1. Hooda S, et al. Animal Health Res Rev 2012;13(1):78–88. 2. Suchodolski JS, et al. FEMS Microbiology Ecology 66: 567–578. 3. Guarner F, et al. WGO Global Guidelines: Probiotics and prebiotics. World Gastroenterology Organisation, 2008. 4. Binns N. Probiotics, Prebiotics and the Gut Microbiota. International Life Sciences Institute. Belgium: ISLI Europe, 2013. 5. O’Mahony D, et al. Vet Microbiol 2009;139(1–2):106–12. 6. Ley RE, et al. Nat Rev Microbiol 2008;6:776–88. 7. McCoy S, et al. J Food Sci 2007;72:M94–M97. 8. Sauter SN, et al. Domes Anim Endocrinol 2005;9:605–22. 9. Baillon MLA, et al. Am J Vet Res 2004;65:338–43. 10. Pasupathy K, et al. Arch Tierernahr 2001;55(3):243–53. 11. Beasley SS, et al. J Appl Microbiol 2006;101(1):131–8. 12. Benyacoub J, et al. J Nutr 2003;133:1158–62. 13. Bybee SN, et al. JVIM 2011; 25: 856-860. 14. Rossi G, et al. PLOSOne 2014;9:e94699.

COVER STORYCOVER STORY

Commonly used vet probioticsProbiotic ‘cocktails’ have been shown to be more efficacious than single strains

in some situations where it may be beneficial to combine three or more.8

PROBIOTIC USES, EFFECTS Lactobacillus acidophilus immune response in healthy dogs9, growth

allergy symptoms in puppies10

L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus

Highly concentrated in healthy canine microbiota, competitively inhibits pathogens11

Bifidobacterium bifidum Several species in GIT, pathogen translocation5

Enterococcus faecium immune function in young dogs12

diarrhoea duration in cats13

L. delbrueckii ssp bulgaricus,Streptococcus thermophilus

Synergistic combination used to make yoghurt lactose intolerance in humans included with other Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium sp. in

VSL#3, which equalled prednisolone/metronidazole scores on histology and restored tight junctions in dogs with IBD14

1

2

3

45

67

1 Oesophagus

2 Liver

3 Stomach Helicobacter, Lactobacillus spp

4 Duodenum Eubacterium, Bacteroides, Clostridium Fusobacterium, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus spp.

5 Small intestine Bacteroides, Eubacterium, Fusobacterium, Clostridium spp, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, Helicobacter spp, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pasteurella, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter

6 Large intestine 109–1010 CFU/g of Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Fusobacterium, Peptostreptococcus, Eubacterium, Clostridium spp, Peptococcus, Lactobacillus

7 Rectum

I will deep etch this more acurrately once the hi res

version is purchased

CROSS-SECTION OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL BARRIER

CANINE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

6 | Autumn 2015 Vol 4 Clinical Education for Natural Pet Health 7

ANALYSIS & OPINION

A lthough not common in veterinary medicine, systematic reviews have become an established part of evidence-based medicine in human biosciences.1 Comprehensive,

scrupulously conducted and reported transparently, they have been heralded as an efficient means for time-poor practitioners to peruse distilled, quality scientific information.2

Researchers from Belgium, UK and Canada conducted this systematic review1 about the usefulness of nutraceuticals for improving clinical signs of pain or abnormal locomotion in horses, cats and dogs with osteoarthritis (OA), and found 22 controlled studies that met their criteria.

Marine-based supplements buoyed

The highest all-round strength of evidence of efficacy was demonstrated by diets supplemented with omega–3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), as demonstrated in four high-quality randomised controlled trials.3–6 The PUFA may lower arachidonic acid concentrations and alter the production of eicosanoids to less inflammatory forms.7 They may also reduce the expression of cartilage degrading enzymes, COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines.8

Green lipped-mussel powder (GLM; see PAW Fact Sheet June 2013) had a significant effect in three of four canine studies9–12 and because of this inconsistency, the researchers could not conclude a strong indication for its use. However, the null effect may have been because the dose was too low (10 mg GLM/day/kg) compared to the other studies of at least double this level. It should also be noted that since the systematic review, a fifth controlled study has been published that again found GLM to be effective for canine OA.13

Moreover, a high-quality study in cats showed a beneficial effect of a diet supplemented with GLM with omega–3 fatty acids and glucosamine.14

Synergy from glycosaminoglycans

Two compounds containing the substrates for cartilage tissue and synovial fluid, the glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate [see Fact Sheet July 2013], had contradictory results in dogs.15,16 In one of three studies performed in horses17 and the only one conducted in cats14, the nutraceuticals were part of a formula with other ingredients that might have contributed to the clinical effect.

However, there is evidence that GAGs may retard the degenerative process synergistically18, provide prophylaxis against synovitis19 and modulate the metabolism of articular cartilage.20 Moreover, synergistic effects of different nutraceuticals is regarded lately as a step forward in the management of OA21, and a 2014 prospective randomised controlled trial of 105 Labradors by the Spanish Guide Dog Foundation’s Veterinary Service used glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate with hyaluronic acid, collagen and gamma-oryzanol (antioxidant from rice bran oil).22

A third of the dogs in the control group developed radiographic evidence of elbow dysplasia compared to 18.5% in the orally supplemented group. Symptoms of dysplasia at 12 months differed between the treated (12.5%) and control (61.5%) animals, and were significantly different at 20 months.

Differences in lameness along with movement and swelling of the elbows between groups were observed after 12 months – the treated group had improved significantly by the last assessment and no adverse side effects were reported.22

References: 1. Vandeweerd J-M, et al. Systematic Review of efficacy of nutraceuticals to alleviate clinical signs of osteoarthritis. J Vet Intern Med 2012; 2. Marr CM, et al. Equine Vet J 2006;38:110–2. 3. Fritsch D, et al. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:1020–6. 4. Fritsch DA, et al. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:535–9. 5. Roush JK, et al. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:59–66. 6. Roush JK, et al. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:67–73. 7. Calder PC, Zurier RB. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2001;4:115–21. 8. Curtis CL, et al. J Biol Chem 2000;275:721–4. 9. Pollard B, et al. N Z Vet J 2006;54:114–8. 10. Bierer TL, Bui LM. J Nutr 2002;132:1634S–1636S. 11. Bui LM, Bierer TL. Vet Ther 2001;4:397–407. 12. Dobenecker B, et al. J Nutr 2002;132:1690S–1691S. 13. Rialland P, et al. Can J Vet Res 2013;77(1):66–74. 14. Lascelles BDX, et al. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:487–95. 15. McCarthy G, et al. Vet J 2007;174:54–61. 16. Moreau M, et al. Vet Rec 2003;152:323–9. 17. Keegan KG, et al. Am Assoc Equine Pract 2007;53:252–5. 18. Lippiello L, et al. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2000;381:229–40. 19. Canapp SO, et al. Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1552–7. 20. Johnson KA, et al. Osteoarth Cartil 2001;9:14–21. 21. Bottegoni C, et al. Carbohydr Polym 2014;109:126–38. 22. Marti-Angulo S, et al. J Vet Sci 2014;15(4):569–74.

Quality research into complementary medicine is still nascent

in veterinary science but there is sufficient evidence on

osteoarthritis supplements to enable a systematic review by

international researchers. Steven Chong reports.

Joint ventures with nutraceuticals

SUMMARY

nutraceuticals for improving clinical signs of pain or abnormal movement in horses, cats and dogs found 22 controlled studies.

of efficacy.

and a further published since 2012.

but a subsequent study of guide dog Labradors had positive results for the nutraceuticals combined with collagen, hyaluronic acid and an antioxidant.

Steven Chong, BA (Communications), is Editor of Pure Animal

8 | Autumn 2015 Vol 4 Clinical Education for Natural Pet Health 9

Key micro and trace nutrients for maintenance of nails, coat

and skin often slip under the radar due to widespread use of

commercial balanced pet foods, making deficiency-related

dermatoses rare. Does supplementation add extra resilience,

lustre or shine?

A s the largest organ of the mammalian body, the skin forms a protective barrier keeping moisture in and physical, mechanical and chemical insults out. Its outermost layer consists of layers

of terminally differentiated dead cornified cells on the epidermis surface;

in small animals, hair extends this protective barrier, while their skin

thinner than in humans.

Frank deficiencies of certain micronutrients involved in epidermal cell

turnover is known to cause dermatological problems that these days

are rare or respond to supplementation and/or dietary therapy. However,

will supplementation in animals without deficiencies produce aesthetic

effects over and above maintenance?

Keratin – the exterior protein

Protein is the macronutrient most commonly described as providing

‘building blocks’ for the body’s structural tissues – muscle, hair, skin,

bones and nails – with keratin, filaggrin, involucrin, ornithine, loricrin and

collagen some of the most abundant epidermal proteins.

Together, keratins and filaggrin constitute 80–90% of the protein mass

of a mammal’s skin.1 Keratinocyte cells produce keratins that assemble

into a weblike pattern of intermediate filaments, which are bundled

tightly by filaggrin and encased in a sturdy protein/lipid bag called the

cornified cell envelope, which comprise the remaining 10% of the skin’s

total mass.2

Keratins with different physical properties and activities recur throughout

the body’s tissues in varying proportions as polymers of amino acids –

the building blocks’ integral material.

Hair is composed of �95% fibrous, tough keratin rich in the sulfur-

containing amino acids methionine and cysteine, which crosslink to

confer additional strength and rigidity to part of the shaft.3

Nails, hooves and claws contain even less elastic keratins than in the

hair, with yet more sulphur-rich amino acids that provide a tougher,

filamentous structure.

Normal growth of hair and keratinisation of the skin thus create a high

demand for dietary protein and may account for 25–30% of the animal’s

daily protein requirement.4 Dogs can synthesise endogenously 13 of 23

identified amino acids – the 10 ‘essential’ amino acids that are sourced

from the diet (usually most completely from meat) are arginine, histidine,

isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine,

tryptophan, valine and, in cats, taurine.

Failure to provide sufficient levels of these amino acids results in the

cutaneous manifestations of protein malnutrition including brittle,

depigmented hair and nails, which is easily shed or crack and slow to

regrow, excessive scaling and thin, inelastic and hyperpigmented skin.3

Lipids – lubricants for skin

Lipids form the ‘cement’ between cells of the outermost layer of the

epidermis (stratum corneum – see diagram). They are synthesised by

keratinocytes from the intermediate products of metabolism or from

essential fatty acids supplied from the diet – supplementation with

linoleic acid (omega–6 PUFA) has been shown to result in reduced

transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in healthy dogs5 – and are packaged

in small organelles known as lamellar bodies.2

In response to signalling, such as an increase in calcium concentration,

lamellar bodies move up through skin layers and secrete their content

into the intercellular spaces. The lipids derived from the lamellar bodies

are then rearranged into intercellular lamellae positioned approximately

parallel to the cell surface.2

The high-gloss finish

Ceramide is a major lipid component of in the stratum corneum and accounts for 30–40% of lipids by weight [see also Fact Sheet March 2014]. Cholesterol, probably the most abundant lipid in the entire body, forms part of the intercellular lipid lamella to provide fluidity and flexibility to the membrane system. Free fatty acids also constitute the extracellular lipid ‘mortar’ and numerous dermatological studies have examined how structurally similar omega–3 and omega–6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can help maintain epidermal barrier function [see Pure Animal Summer 2015;3:4].

Zinc – linked to skin and coat

Zinc is critical in regulating many aspects of cellular metabolism, a number of which influence the maintenance of a healthy coat and skin. Zinc is a cofactor for a wide range of metalloenzymes and RNA and DNA polymerases so its presence is important in rapidly dividing cells, including those of the epidermis. Zinc is also essential for the biosynthesis of fatty acids, participates in both the inflammatory and immune systems and is involved in the metabolism of vitamin A.3

Supplementation of a balanced commercial diet with zinc (23.9 mg/MJ) and linoleic acid (3.6 g/MJ) produced significant improvements in coat gloss and scale compared with controls in 32 healthy adult dogs. When studied separately, there was no significant effect of either zinc or linoleic acid on these outcomes, nor on coat softness and optimum coat feel when supplemented together. TEWL decreased significantly during the study in all three supplemented groups, but not compared to controls.5

Frank dietary deficiencies of zinc are considered rare in dogs and have not been reported in cats. However, a relative deficiency may occur in some dogs when the availability of dietary zinc is reduced through

nutrient interactions (e.g. a diet high in cereal or calcium) or cases in which intestinal absorption of zinc is impaired from disease or genetic factors.3

Nasodigital hyperkeratosis can affect the nose and/or foot pads of older dogs with zinc deficiency, where keratin grows excessively and the cracked pads appear to have ‘keratin feathers’ around their edges.

Vitamins and minerals

Micronutrients and their role in skin and coat health are outlined in the table below, however a petfood company has sponsored studies involving other nutrients and botanicals, including:

Pantothenate, choline, vitamin B3, histidine and inositol were among 27 nutritional components screened for their ability to upregulate epidermal lipid synthesis. These micronutrients were fed to dogs at supplemented levels in a 12-week study and were able to significantly reduce TEWL after nine weeks.6

Aloe vera, curcumin, vitamin C and taurine increased canine fibroblast migration and decreased water diffusion across canine keratinocytes in vitro.7

biotin and other B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and pyridoxine) was fed to eight black Labradors. A significant improvement in coat feel and softness, and reduction in coat scale, were observed compared with controls.8

Skin-centric nutrients

MICRONUTRIENT ROLE IN SKIN AND COAT HEALTH

Vitamin A Epithelium renewal, important for keratinisation. Both deficiency and excess can hyperkeratinisation and scaling, alopecia, poor hair coat and susceptibility to microbial infections5

Vitamin B group3

Thiamine (B1) Hair growth, sebum production

Riboflavin (B2) Fat and protein metabolism – deficiency produces cheilosis and seborrhoea

Niacin (B3) Helps limit skin dehydration – deficiency black tongue, mucous membrane ulceration

Pyroxidine (B6) Aids in protein metabolism – deficiency dull, waxy unkempt coat with fine scales and patchy alopecia

Biotin (B7) Indispensable for synthesis of keratin – deficiency premature greying, dull dry fur, hair breakage and loss, dandruff, secondary inflammation with sloughing and itching9

Folic acid (B9) Helps digest and synthesise new protein, aids tissue growth and cell function

Copper Helps body use stored iron and produce pigment melanin. With zinc, copper aids in collagen/elastin production and protein synthesis

Calcium Important regulator of protein synthesis in the epidermis, including enzymes that form insoluble proteinpolymers. Extracellular calcium ions are also important for cell–cell adhesion and epidermal differentiation10

Selenium Works synergistically with vitamin E and copper to contribute to elasticity

Silicon Fundamental to cross-linking mechanism in collagen and elastin11

REFERENCES: 1. Nemes Z, et al. Bricks and mortar of the epidermal barrier. Exp Mol Med 1999;31:5–19. 2. Baroni A, et al. Structure and function of the epidermis related to barrier properties. Clinics Dermatol 2012;30(3):257–62. 3. Watson TDG. Diet and skin disease in dogs and cats. Nutr Dis 1998;128:2783S–2789S. 4. Scott DW. What’s new on canine dermatology? In: Proceedings of 12th Annual Congress of European Society of Veterinary Dermatology, Barcelona, Spain, 1995:163–5. 5. Marsh KA, et al. Effects of zinc and linoleic acid supplementation on the skin and coat quality of dogs receiving a complete and balanced diet. Vet Dermatol 2000;11:277–84. 6. Watson AL, et al. Dietary constituents are able to play a beneficial role in canine epidermal barrier function. Exp Dermatol 2006;15(1):74–81. 7. Fray TA, et al. A combination of aloe vera, curcumin, vitamin C, and taurine increases canine fibroblast migration and decreases tritiated water diffusion across canine keratinocytes in vitro. J Nutr 2004;134(8 Suppl):2117S–2119S. 8. Marsh KA. Improving the coat condition of dogs. WALTHAM Focus, Focus on Skin and Coat Special Edition 1999:29–30. 9. Frigg M, et al. Clinical study on the effect of biotin on skin conditions in dogs. Schweiz Arch Tierheilkd 1989;131(10):621-5. 10. Hitomi K. Transglutaminases in skin epidermis. Eur J Dermatol 2005;15:313–9. 11. Osiecki H. The Nutrient Bible. BioConcepts Publishing: Eagle Farm, Brisbane, 2002.

TREATMENTTREATMENT

SUMMARY

of widespread feeding with balanced complete foods, some nutrients are important in maintaining integrity and cell turnover in the epidermal layer.

filaggrin and collagen are the most abundant proteins; different proportions of amino acids within these proteins affect structure, with sulphurous methionine and cysteine giving extra rigidity to hair and nails.

extracellular ‘mortar’ between the corneocyte cells, and zinc is important in areas of high cell turnover.

of dogs and found to improve markers of epidermal moisture loss and coat quality.

CROSS-SECTION OF THE EPIDERMIS

10 | Autumn 2015 Vol 4 Clinical Education for Natural Pet Health 11

Your guide to training and

education in integrative veterinary

medicine in Australia and overseas

EDUCATION

EventsMARCH

23–27 6th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference & 27th Conference of VAMCommonwealth veterinarians meet on the themed of ‘Providing holistic solutions to changing global challenges: threats and opportunities for veterinarians’

CPD 1 Vet Ed pointWhere Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

http://www.cvaconference2015pcvc6.com

25 Applying ECGs in General Veterinary Practice webinarVeterinary cardiologist Dr Niek Beijerink explains when to use ECG, how to read it and what to look out for. Common case scenarios and new technology also profiled

CPD 1 VetEd points Where www.pawevents.com

APRIL14 MOVE webinar – Small Animal

Dr Shona Reese reviews diagnostic imaging

Where Goto.murdoch.edu.au/CVE

16–17 Pharmacology SymposiumA focus on practical issues to consider when administering drugs to animals

CPD 12 Where Rydges World Square, Sydney NSW. www.cve.edu.au

19–22 VNCA Conference 2015Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia’s 21st annual conference features four streams of presentations and workshops plus AGM and trade exhibition

Where Pullman Albert Park Hotel, Melbourne VIC. www.vnca.asn.au

MAY2, 3 Medical Plus – Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound

Workshop, Workshop of essential ultrasound skills

Where Murdoch University, Perth WA. sales@medicalplus.com.au

3 Canine Internal Medicine All about physical examination – unusual problems, diagnosis, common pitfalls and treatment options

CPD 6Where Mercure Grosvenor Hotel, Adelaide SA. www.cve.edu.au

12 MOVE webinar – Small AnimalCommon toxicological emergencies presented by Sarah Purcell

Where Goto.murdoch.edu.au/CVE

15 Approaches to Bones and JointsWorkshop on commonly used surgical techniques to bones and joint in the forelimb and hindlimb

CPD 14.5Where www.cve.edu.au

16–17 Cardiorespiratory ConferenceDifferential diagnosis between heart failure and respiratory disease via history and physical examination, interpreting radiography

CPD 12

Where Pullman Brisbane King George Square, Brisbane QLDwww.cve.edu.au

MAY (Continued)

24 Animal welfare workshopAVA and NZVA members and non-members explore common values around animal welfare. Facilitated by strategic thinker Dr Mark Strom

Where Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

24–29 Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference 2015Five-yearly Australasian event of more than 200 scientific sessions and 130 local and international speakers. Presented by the AVA and NZVA.

CPD up to 28 VetEd points

Where Brisbane Convention and Conference Centre, Brisbane QLDwww.conference.ava.com.au

29 AVAPM Exclusive Insights WorkshopA look inside a variety of successful practices – benchmarks, marketing, HR, staff incentives, etc. and how to assess staff production values

CPD 12 VetEd points

Where Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

29 ASAVA Small Animal Veterinarians WorkshopLimited-capacity workshop on latest advances in open wound management and complex wound closures

CPD 9.5 VetEd points

Where Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

29–30 Australian Veterinary Acupuncture Group – Geriatric and Orthopaedic PatientsAcupuncture, prolotherapy, trigger point and rehab techniques by Dr Michelle Tilghman

CPD 17 VetEd points

Where Greencross Vets Indooroopilly QLDwww.acuvet.com.au

31 Gastrointestinal Surgery – Tips and TricksIntensive seminar by Prof Philip Moses on surgical conditions and techniques involving feline and canine GIT: exploratory laparotomy and abdominal biopsy, enterectomy

CPD 6

Where Hyatt Hotel Canberra ACTwww.cve.edu.au

JUNE

9 MOVE webinar – Small AnimalProfessor Giselle Hosgood on wound management

Where Goto.murdoch.edu.au/CVE

10–19 AVAPM New Business Model workshopsDarren Osborne, Director of Economic Research from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, presents one-day workshops on client and practice-focused management

Where Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth

Kersti is widely published in scientific journals, magazines, text books, and regularly contributes to broadcast and print media. She is the author of Training Your Cat, behaviour columnist for Dog’s Life and a consultant to Veterinary Information Network (VIN) in the USA.

Your interest in animal behaviour began while working overseas. Where were you and which particular animal and behaviour sparked that interest?

I was working in the UK doing locums when I learnt that more animals were euthanized or surrendered every year because of their behaviour than died of other causes and this distressed me as it was an area that we were not taught about at University and I could do nothing to help them. Although I was taught lots of things to help make the physical lives of animals better I could not help them with their emotional lives or mental health issues.

Is dietary therapy effective for any behavioural problems you commonly see?

Diets can be very helpful in some cases, mainly those with cognitive dysfunction. Combined with mental and physical exercise it has been shown to improve memory and thus quality of life.

Have you had much clinical success with nutraceutical supplementation?

We do not use them commonly but omega fatty acids can be helpful for those animals with anxiety disorders and skin issues.

Our cover story is on gut microbiota and how its composition is being found to affect immunity and endocrinology. There is some research in mice and humans on how probiotic therapy affects behaviour – do you know of any in companion animals or noticed any effects anecdotally?

We know animals with anxiety disorders often have GI disturbances as well as skin problems and so we treat the physical signs as well as the emotional signs of mental health issues. I am aware of some cases where they have been helpful in managing pets with anxiety issues.

Dr Kersti Seksel, BVSc (Hons), MRCVS, MA (Hons), is a

Registered Veterinary Specialist, Behavioural Medicine, a Fellow

of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in Animal

Behaviour, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary

Behaviourists and a Diplomat of the European College of

Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine – Behavioural

Medicine Companion Animals. She is an adjunct senior

lecturer at Charles Sturt University and honorary associate

at The University of Sydney, where she tutors in behavioural

medicine for the Centre for Veterinary Education.

Seksel’s success

INTERVIEW

Digestive issues in companion animals are all too common nowadays due to our modern lifestyle (poor diet, stress, antibiotics, immature animals, travels and change of environment). PAW by Blackmores has a multi-strain, multi-species probiotic and wholefood powder which helps maintain the everyday digestive health of dogs, cats and other companion animals.

For further information call 1800 803 760 or visit www.pawbyblackmores.com

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Multi-strain (Lactobacillus acidophilus; L. delbrueckii subspecies bulgarius; L. plantarum; L. rhamnosus;

Bifidobacterium bifidum; Enterococcus faecium; Streptococcus salivarius subspecies thermophilus)

Multi-species (dogs, cats and other companion animals)

Micro encapsulation technology to resist the strong acidity in the stomach

60 Million CFU (Colony Forming Units) per 2g

With fermented superfoods (Alfalfa, Spirulina, Quinoa) to provide fibre and

easily absorbed nutritional support and great palatability

Includes a 4g measuring scoop to easily sprinkle onto pet food.

Dispensing Kits availableupon request.

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