- D - Glossary Terms

 

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DEFICIENT

Deficient is an inadequacy, meaning the lack of some necessary quality, characteristic, or element, such as a deficient diet. 

 

DEHP

DEHP is the abbreviation for di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate which is a manufactured chemical that is commonly added to plastics to make them flexible. DEHP is identified as toxic under the Canadian Envinronement Protection Act, 1999. It is on the list of ingredients that are prohibited for use in cosmetic products. Regulations limit the use of DEHP in soft vinyl toys and child-care articles.

 

DEHYDRATED FOOD

Dehydrating, in food processing, is a form of preservation in which moisture is extracted from a product thereby inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. Dehydration is one of the oldest methods of food preservation and was used by prehistoric peoples. Dehydration equipment varies in form with different food products and includes tunnel driers, kiln driers, cabinet driers, vacuum driers, and other forms. Compact equipment suitable for home use is also available. A basic aim of design is to shorten the drying time, which helps retain the basic character of the food product.

 

DEHYDRATION & SYMPTOMS

Dehydration is the harmful reduction in the amount of water in a body, caused by the loss or fluid being greater than the amount of fluid being taken in. In this state, the body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions. Thirst isn't always a reliable indicator of the body's need for water; many don't feel thirsty until they are already dehydrated. Some symptoms of dehydration are extreme thirst, less frequent urination, dark colored urine, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, sunken eyes and cheeks, listless, irritability, dry mouth and tongue

 

DENTAL HEALTH

Dental health and oral health refer to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system. Dental care and health for pets is often overlooked but is a leading contributor to overall health and longevity for pets. Good dental care is critical for pets in varying ways, such as, preventing tooth loss, preventing bad breath, preventing oral pain, preventing organ damage, preventing worsening dental disease, and more. Good dental care will ensure the structures supporting teeth stay healthy and keep their teeth in place while also keeping gums healthy. Removing plaque from their teeth can prevent the harmful bacteria found in plaque from entering a pets bloodstream which can ultimately spread to their heart, kidneys, and liver. The spread of bacteria is called bacteremia which can damage organs and make pets quite sick. Staying on top of things can prevent existing dental disease from becoming severe. Regular exams are important, supplements and diet may play an important role, daily brushing is essential in preventing bacteria build-up.

 

DIGESTION

Digestion is the process of breaking down food into substances the body can use for energy, tissue growth, and repair.

 

DIGESTIVE TRACT / GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT (GI TRACT)

The digestive tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. The hollow organs that make up the GI tract are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus. The liver, pancreas, and gallbladder are solid organs of the digestive system. 

 

DL- METHIONINE

DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid. This means that it must be obtained through the diet in adequate quantities to meet the body's needs. It cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet or supplements. This amino acid is involved in the synthesis of proteins and other important compounds, including neurotransmitter dopamine and the antioxidant glutathione. It is also involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing compounds, which are important for the formation and maintenance of various tissues, including skin, hair, and nails. This amino acid has a crucial role in many biological processes in the body, including the defence of oxidative stress, support protein synthesis, supporting liver health, antioxidant properties, supports wound healing, supports mood and mental health. Main food sources of DL-Methionine are meat, fish, dairy, eggs, soy, nuts and seeds, whole grains, beans and legumes, spirulina, fruits and vegetables.

 

DVM (DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE)

A DVM, a vet, is a medical professional who practices veterinary medicine. They manage a wide range of health conditions and injuries in non-human animals. Veterinarians play a role in animal reproduction, health management, conservation, husbandry and breeding and preventive medicine like nutrition, vaccination and parasitic control as well as biosecurity and zoonotic disease surveillance and prevention.

 

DYNAMIC NUTRITION PLAN

Pets have diverse needs and many factors come in to play to determine the most beneficial plan including age, life stage, activity level, and special conditions. Dynamic Nutrition Plans are meant to be continually monitored, reviewed and altered as needed. Shifts in age, weight, life stage, activity level, or emergence of special conditions are just a few things that may cause a need to alter a pets plan to ensure they receive optimal nutritional. 

 

 

 

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