Cherrybrook DCM Update & Recommendations

An Ongoing Look at DCM and our Recommendations
regarding the June 2019 FDA DCM Update:

As promised, we are continuing to dig into the FDA update on the possible connection of certain diets to a rise in the incidences of DCM.

To recap, the FDA DCM update provided some quantitative data that helped bring perspective to the issue. Although the update answered some questions, and perhaps allayed some of our fears and misconceptions, many questions remain unanswered. In the weeks since the update it seems that everyone with an opinion has offered one. We have heard from the pet food companies, veterinarians, the media, social media groups, neighbors, family members, friends at the dog park, etc.

HERE IS WHAT WE KNOW

DCM IS NOT NEW
Many large breeds are known to have genetic predispositions to DCM. Even experienced pet owners and breeders have experienced the pain of untimely loss from DCM.

DCM is not new, it existed long before grain-free foods.

We are all concerned that the rates of DCM appear to be rising, but it is important to point out the FDA investigation has found no causal link between grain free diets and DCM, we are encouraged that the food companies, veterinarians and the FDA are working together in the spirit of collaboration. Hopefully this will lead to actionable solutions.

GRAIN FREE DIETS ARE NOT EVIL
We go to great lengths to ensure that the foods we carry are healthy options for all pets, including our own. We believe that most grain, particularly corn, wheat and soy are not appropriate sources of nutrition for a carnivore.

Many years ago, we decided to remove foods containing corn, wheat and soy from our shelves and began offering grain free and raw options.

Grain free and raw diets are helpful in alleviating food sensitivities which cause digestive issues and hot spots. In addition, grain free and raw diets are beneficial in mitigating and combating a host of chronic health conditions and diseases including obesity, diabetes, kidney disease and cancer. We all understand that these health conditions are sharply on the rise. We have seen health conditions improve when pets are fed grain free diets.

GRAIN INCLUSIVE DIETS ARE NOT EVIL
While grain free diets are helpful to many pets, they are not a solution for every pet. Though we do not carry foods containing corn, wheat or soy; we do have many grain inclusive foods available on our shelves. The grain foods we carry contain wholesome grains such as oatmeal, tapioca, millet, rice, brown rice, quinoa and other whole grains. Many of the brands we carry offer both grain inclusive and grain free options.

WHERE TO GO FROM HERE: OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

ROTATE
When we looked closely at each of the DCM cases in the FDA Investigation, we observed that many of the formulas fell into the Limited Ingredient or single animal protein diets. This brings us to our first recommendation: rotate the formulas you feed your dog. This will allow your dog to have access to a broader amino acid profile from different animal proteins, and animal-based proteins provide the best source of amino acids and taurine.

Rotating formulas, including rotating proteins, is particularly important if you are feeding a limited ingredient diet.

GIVE FREEZE DRIED HEART, LIVER & TRIPE AS A TREAT
Pack some amino acid power into your dog’s day by incorporating freeze dried organs like duck heart, chicken liver or mussels as a treat. Organ meat provides a rich source of taurine.

CONSIDER FEEDING OR ADDING RAW TO YOUR PET'S DIET
This may be the right time to consider raw. We have several raw frozen and freeze-dried food options available in our stores. These foods contain the highest percentage of animal-based protein and are an excellent source of nutrition for your pet. If you don’t want to make a full transition to raw food, you can supplement your pet’s diet with a raw or freeze-dried patty added to their current diet.

TO GRAIN OR NOT TO GRAIN
If your vet has recommended, or you think you would be more comfortable on a grain-based diet, we encourage you to come in and talk to us. Once again, there is no “one-size fits all” solution. We have a large selection of both grain and grain free options and additional resources available in our store to help you make the best choice for you and your pet.

Link to the FDA June 26, 2019 Update

For your convenience, we’ve compiled a directory of responses from our brands on this issue. Find your brand below to learn more:

ORIJEN

ACANA

ZIGNATURE

TUFFY'S

MERRICK

FROMM

TASTE OF THE WILD

NATURAL BALANCE

As we dig deeper into the FDA update, Cherrybrook will be providing more information.
Our Store team members are always available to help answer your questions regarding pet food choices.