How to Recognize and Treat Thiamine Deficiency in Dogs
When a dog doesn’t get enough vitamin B1 he may suffer from thiamine deficiency. This can be caused by eating food that doesn’t have a high absorption rate or eating an unbalanced diet. Dietary changes can assist in restoring your canine to good health. Here’s how to recognize and treat thiamine deficiency in dogs.
Instructions
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Take inventory of your dog's symptoms. When you call your vet it’s important to be able to accurately describe symptoms. Dogs that suffer from thiamine deficiency may experience weakness, trouble walking and paralyzed eye muscles.
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Call your vet to make an appointment. If your dog experiences the symptoms of thiamine deficiency an evaluation is needed. Describe your symptoms to the office and schedule an immediate appointment.
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Request tests for thiamine deficiency. This may include urine and blood tests and x-rays. Your medical provider should be able to make a diagnosis with the test results.
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Change your canine’s diet if need be. Unfortunately not all dog food is created equally and digestibility and balanced nutrition is critical to preventing thiamine deficiency in dogs. Ask your vet for a recommended dog food.
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Monitor your canine’s condition closely once you bring him home from the animal hospital. Any changes should be reported to your medical provider immediately.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid dog foods that contain sulfites. We’ve heard that eating processed foods isn’t good for humans but they’re also unhealthy for our dogs. Stay away from over processed foods that contain sulfites.
Don’t ever allow your canine to eat raw fish because this can be a cause of thiamine deficiency, as well as other health problems. Many dog owners don’t allow their dog to eat raw fish but their sticky paws find their way into the trash.
