Why the dog's immune system now starts in the intestines
In autumn, many dogs' everyday lives change noticeably. Shorter days and walks in wet and cold conditions place new strains on your immune system. From a veterinary perspective, it is worth taking a look at an organ that many pet owners do not initially associate with infections: the intestines. A large proportion of the body's immune cells are associated with the intestinal lining. Veterinarian Thomas Backhaus from “Das Gesunde Tier” explains why a stable microbiome plays a role right now and which autumn factors can put a strain on digestion. According to the expert, prevention does not only begin when the dog is already showing symptoms.
Berlin. With autumn, many things change for dogs at once and pet owners often focus on the obvious: wet fur, cold paws and the question of whether their dog needs a coat. From a veterinary perspective, however, an animal's resistance is determined elsewhere. “A large proportion of the immune cells are connected to the intestinal mucosa. The intestine also forms an important barrier between the body and substances from the environment,” explains veterinarian Thomas Backhaus, an expert in integrative veterinary medicine. The intestinal microbiome – the community of microorganisms living there – is in close contact with the immune system and influences, among other things, barrier function and immune regulation. Autumn doesn't suddenly make the intestines more important, but it does change the stress. A stable intestinal barrier and a balanced microbiome can be a good basis for the immune system to respond appropriately. However, the vet warns against expecting too much: “A healthy intestine is not a protective shield against every infection, but it is an important part of a well-functioning immune system.”
Wetness, change of feed, medication:
What the microbiome demands in autumn
The factors that affect the intestinal microbiome have now been well studied. These mainly include feeding changes, medications – especially antibiotics -, illnesses, stress and changes in everyday life. Spoiled or hygienically problematic food can also play a role. In the fall, several of these points often come together. There are also environmental factors that are typical for the time of year: moisture and organic material promote the occurrence of mold, which can put a strain on the skin and respiratory tract, especially in sensitive or allergic dogs. Seasonally, this is no coincidence, as mold spores spread outdoors mainly in late summer and autumn, especially when dry, windy weather alternates with periods of rain. “For sensitive dogs, it is particularly worth paying attention to intestinal health, feeding and general resistance in the cool season,” says the veterinarian.
These signals are often overlooked in everyday life
A weakened resistance rarely manifests itself as a classic cold in dogs. More often, there are inconspicuous changes that last for weeks: recurring skin or ear problems, itching or red skin, frequent watery or irritated eyes, recurring digestive problems, changes in stool consistency or appetite. Decreasing coat quality, less energy and enthusiasm for playing, or an unusually long recovery time after stress or illness can also be indications. Because such observations occur individually in everyday life, they are often treated separately: the ears are cleaned, the food is changed, the skin is cared for. From a veterinary perspective, however, it is the overall picture that is crucial. At the same time, Backhaus urges caution when interpreting: Symptoms of this type can have very different causes, such as allergies, parasites, infections or other illnesses. They are therefore not a reliable “immune system test”. The cause should be clarified by a veterinarian, especially if symptoms recur. “You can't recognize resistance from a single symptom. What's more important is whether symptoms keep recurring or whether a dog takes an unusually long time to recover from them,” explains Backhaus.
Prevention means stability – not constantly new measures
From the vet's point of view, the most important basis is a needs-based, well-tolerated and, if possible, constant diet. Frequent and unnecessary food changes should be avoided, especially for sensitive dogs. Fiber, for example through a specially tailored feed or as a targeted supplement, for example in the form of acacia fiber powder, can serve as a substrate for the intestinal microbiome and support normal intestinal function. Sufficient exercise, rest and sleep as well as a daily rhythm that is as consistent as possible are also part of good health care, as is avoiding unnecessary stress. Medications and chemical agents such as dewormers or antiparasitic agents should be used according to veterinary indications and according to the actual urgency, not according to the calendar. For dogs with recurring digestive problems, Backhaus advises against trying out different supplements on your own. It makes more sense to first look at feeding and possible causes in a structured manner, for example as part of nutritional advice or veterinary advice. On this basis, targeted support could also make sense, for example with probiotics or a treatment for the intestines.
About the company
“The Healthy Animal” stands for holistic animal health with a focus on nutrition, intestinal health and individual advice. The company offers food, supplementary feed, care products, test kits and digital advice for dogs and cats. The basis is the 5‑E™ health concept developed by veterinarian Thomas Backhaus, which does not look at animal health in isolation, but rather considers nutrition, intestines, organ connections and individual needs together. “The Healthy Animal” draws on over 50 years of veterinary experience, an interdisciplinary team of experts and its own veterinary practice. Through DGT MEDICAL, the company also offers individual online veterinary and nutritional advice. The products are developed or manufactured in Germany and are aimed at pet owners who want to holistically support their animal's health, feeding and everyday life. Further information at www.dasgesundetier.de.
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