Is rice, i.e. cereals, good for a dog’s diet? Is it just a filler or a valuable source of nutrients?
Gluten, a group of proteins which is in most cereals, causes allergic or autoimmune reactions. However, rice, similarly to corn, is one of the gluten-free cereals. They are much better for dogs (as well as for people) as they are easier to digest.
Rice is even the most valuable basic feed material of plant origin for dogs. Therefore, we can see it in their bowls very often. And not only to satisfy their hungry tummies. Besides highly digestible carbohydrates and starches, rice also contains a great number of vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, E), minerals (potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, silicon, selenium, calcium and others) and 8 essential acids. It is also suitable for dogs and cats with allergies or diabetes.
Therefore, you will find it in hypo-allergenic and other special kinds of feeds. In high-quality pet food, you should only see one kind of starchy feed material (rice, corn, potatoes).
With regard to the nutrients, the best kind of rice is wholewheat. The cover layers of grains are missing in white rice, but these contain a great number of vitamins. The amount of fibre is the same; however, wholewheat rice is more difficult to digest.
If you prepare it for your dog on your own, no matter if it’s white or wholewheat rice, cook it for a long time as it makes it easier to digest. However, it is a good idea to soak it in water during a night (at least 9 hours), with a drop of lemon juice or another acidic component in a perfect case. This way, preservation enzymes are released from the grains (they prevent early germination and preserve the nutrients for growth), the grains are “activated” which increases their digestibility and the eater gets more minerals and proteins from them. It also shortens the boiling time – and boiling destroys some vitamins.
Should your pet eat rice? Personally, I like it a lot and I also give it to my pets.
If you’re thinking about starting canistherapy with your four-legged friend, but you don’t know whether you would manage, here you will find a brief overview of the characteristics your dog is supposed to have and what he should all know.
Dermatological problems are one of the most frequent reasons of veterinary visits. Cats often suffer from them as well. A skin problem may appear due to several reasons and you may not notice it immediately. Also because of the time that cats devote to...
Toxocariasis is the most frequent parasitosis in dogs and cats. If we want to keep both ourselves and our pets safe, regular deworming is necessary. Do you know what’s behind this disease and how it’s transmitted?
If you’re thinking about getting a rabbit, maybe you will find handy a bit of advice how to house him at home. A rabbit has certain needs as any other animal and it’s up to us, the owners, to make its life as comfortable as possible.
Holiday time is approaching fast and maybe you’re considering where to go with your four-legged friend. If you’d like to go camping, there are certainly many things you should consider. You have to plan and pack not only for yourself, but also for your...
Zoonoses are diseases common to both animals and humans. Are you interested in how such a disease can be transmitted, which ones are we at risk of in the Czech Republic or how to defend against them?
Guinea pigs are one of the most common pets that parents get for their children. They are considerably less demanding to take care of than cats or dogs. They stand out among rodents because of their sociable nature, willingness to snuggle and they are...
I have already written about dogs and how they (don’t) feel pain. So let’s look at cats. It is often not very simple to recognize. But the early recognition of the problem is important for their health and well-being.
Last time, I explained that allergy to fur as such does not exist. I wrote about allergens, the symptoms of allergy and the breeds that are hypoallergenic. Today, I will share with you how to cope with the allergy without giving your pet away.
Did you know that the concept of "allergy to fur" is actually a nonsense? The hair itself are not the only allergens. So what exactly is the person allergic to if he/she is allergic to dogs/cats and does he/she have to get rid of the animal immediately...
No matter that the surgery is minor, each brings certain risks. It is also a mental and physical burden for the animal. I wrote down several tips how you can eliminate the risks and the burden as much as possible.
This is really what this sport is about – herding balloons. The aim is the same as for herding sheep, get all the balls into the gate. And do not be mistaken, treiball is not only for herding dogs. You can do this sport with dogs of any race, size and...
