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Probiotics are among the most widely discussed supplements in pet health today, but what do they actually do and which pets benefit most? At iScreenPets, we believe in science‑led, personalised care. Probiotics can be valuable, but they are most effective when chosen and used intentionally.

### What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when given in adequate amounts, offer health benefits to your pet. Common probiotic strains include *Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus,* and *Saccharomyces*. They support health by:

- Competing with harmful bacteria
- Strengthening the intestinal lining
- Modulating immune responses
- Producing beneficial metabolites such as short‑chain fatty acids (SCFAs) 

### What the Research Shows

__Improved Digestive Health__
A 2020 [review](https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2019.00498) in Frontiers in Microbiology showed that prebiotic and probiotic interventions significantly improved stool consistency and reduced gut inflammation in dogs with gastrointestinal issues.

__Behavioural and Gut-Brain Benefits__
 A 2021 randomised [trial](https://doi.org/10.1186/s42523-021-00098-0) in healthy dogs found that synbiotic supplementation shifted gut microbial diversity and reduced occurrences of diarrhea 

__Dysbiosis and Microbiome Health__
The 2022 [review](https://doi.org/10.1111/vcp.13031) in Veterinary Clinical Pathology confirms the gut microbiome functions like a metabolic and immune organ. It also introduces the Dysbiosis Index—a quantitative tool that monitors microbial health over time 

### When Are Probiotics Most Useful?

Probiotics may be beneficial if your pet experiences:
- Chronic or intermittent diarrhoea
- Constipation or variable stool consistency
- Flatulence or signs of digestive disturbance
- Itchy or inflamed skin
- Stress-related behaviours
- Recent antibiotic or steroid treatment
- Or during life transitions such as diet changes or ageing

They may also be useful preventively in puppies, senior pets, or animals under stress.

### Choosing the Right Probiotic

Effective probiotics share these key features:
1. Strain specificity – e.g. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
2. Guaranteed CFUs at use date
3. Veterinary-formulated products
4. Proper storage instructions (refrigeration if needed)

At i-screenPets, we use microbiome testing to tailor your pet’s needs and recommend the most appropriate strains and doses.

### Why Testing Before Treating Is Essential

Giving the wrong probiotic or using a generic supplement without data may not only be ineffective, it may disrupt balance further.

i-screenPets recommends starting with a microbiome test to identify imbalances, inflammation, or dysbiosis. This approach allows us to recommend targeted interventions, monitor progress, and adjust when needed.

### The Takeaway

Probiotics have promising potential in modern veterinary care. But their success depends on choosing the right strain, dose, and timing, backed by data. With a test‑first, personalised strategy, probiotics can enhance gut health, immunity, and overall well being for your pet.

__Curious if probiotics are right for your pet?__
Start with a microbiome test from i-screenPets and get tailored insights to guide smarter, science‑driven choices.


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Probiotics can boost pets’ gut health and immunity when the right strains and doses are used. i-screenPets recommends microbiome testing first to ensure targeted, science-backed probiotic support for your pet’s wellbeing.

Probiotics for Pets: What the Science Really Says

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Inside your pet’s gut lives an entire ecosystem of microorganisms: bacteria, fungi, viruses and more, collectively known as the microbiome. Far from being just about digestion, this microscopic community plays a central role in immunity, metabolism, behaviour and skin health.

At i-screenPets, we empower pet parents with access to microbiome testing so they can make informed, proactive decisions about their animal’s care. Gut health is foundational to overall wellbeing, and testing provides insights you simply can’t see from the outside.

### What Is the Microbiome?

The microbiome refers to the trillions of microbes living primarily in your pet’s gastrointestinal tract. These organisms help break down food, synthesise vitamins, regulate inflammation and even communicate with the brain via the gut-brain axis.

When the microbiome is in balance, your pet thrives. But when that balance is disrupted, due to antibiotics, stress, poor diet or illness, it can contribute to issues such as:

- Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
- Food intolerances
- Skin inflammation or itching
- Anxiety and behavioural changes
- Weakened immune function

A 2021 review in Veterinary Clinical Pathology noted that the gut microbiome in dogs and cats functions like a metabolic organ, influencing not only digestion but systemic health. It highlighted that imbalances, or “dysbiosis,” have been associated with both gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal conditions.
 (PMC9292158)

### Why Microbiome Testing Matters

Microbiome testing gives pet parents real, personalised insight into their pet’s internal health. It removes guesswork and allows for targeted interventions.

Testing can help you:

- Identify imbalances in beneficial and harmful bacteria
- Detect overgrowths like Clostridium, E. coli or yeast
- Understand how well your pet is digesting and absorbing food
- Tailor nutrition, prebiotics, probiotics and lifestyle to support gut recovery

A 2020 [review](https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2020.01266) in Frontiers in Microbiology supports this, showing that prebiotic and probiotic interventions can significantly alter the gut microbiota, improving outcomes for pets with gastrointestinal issues.

### How Microbiome Testing Works at i-screenPets

Our test is designed to be easy and stress-free:
- Collect a small faecal sample using our at-home kit
- Send it to our accredited lab for microbial DNA analysis
- Receive your pet’s personalised report through our secure dashboard

Your results include:
- A breakdown of key bacterial populations
- Diversity scores to assess microbiome resilience
- Inflammation markers and gut health indicators
- Clear guidance on next steps including food, supplements and lifestyle

Optional veterinary support is available to help interpret your results and create a plan tailored to your pet.

### Who Should Consider Testing?
Your pet may benefit from microbiome testing if they have:

- Ongoing or intermittent digestive issues
- Frequent itching, skin flare-ups or ear infections
- Food sensitivities
- Anxiety or restlessness
- A history of antibiotic or medication use
- Or if you simply want to establish a preventative health baseline

In 2024, a large-scale [meta-analysis](https://doi.org/10.1093/ismejo/wrae201) of over 2,600 pet samples found that reduced microbial diversity and dysbiosis were linked to multiple chronic conditions in both dogs and cats.

### The Future of Pet Health Starts in the Gut
The microbiome is one of the most exciting and fast-evolving areas in veterinary science. By understanding what is happening inside your pet’s gut, you can support their health in ways that are proactive, evidence-based and truly personalised.

__Curious about your pet’s microbiome?__
Order your testing kit from i-screenPets today and take the first step towards deeper insight and better health.

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Your pet’s gut microbiome impacts digestion, immunity, behaviour, and skin health. iScreenPets’ microbiome testing reveals imbalances and guides tailored care with diet, probiotics, and lifestyle for optimal wellbeing.

Understanding Your Pet’s Microbiome: The New Frontier in Preventative Health

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At i-screenPets, we are advancing the future of companion animal care by bringing cutting-edge diagnostic tools into everyday clinical practice. Building on iScreen’s long-standing foundation in human health screening, we are redefining what is possible in preventative, personalised pet care.

Our veterinary diagnostics are designed by clinicians, for clinicians. All panels are grounded in peer-reviewed science, supported by experienced clinical pathologists, and built to align with best-practice workflows in general practice, integrative care, and specialist settings.

Veterinary teams can rely on:
- High-integrity testing including microbiome analysis, allergy screening, DNA profiling, and blood health panels
- Result interpretation support from veterinarians and clinical pathologists
- Reports that are concise, clinically actionable, and designed to guide decision-making
- Sample collection options that suit the realities of practice, whether in-clinic or supported at home
- Access to a platform that evolves with emerging research and veterinary needs

We are more than a testing provider. We are a collaborative partner in delivering evidence-based care. Whether your focus is early disease detection, chronic case management or personalised wellness programs, our diagnostics provide meaningful insight without adding complexity.

If you are looking for a trusted, progressive diagnostic partner with the tools and support to match your clinical standards, iScreenPets is ready to work with you.

### Veterinary FAQ

__Who is behind i-screenPets?__
i-screenPets is a partnership between i-screen, Australia’s leader in intelligent health screening, and Dr Nicole Rous, an integrative veterinarian with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. All tests are developed with veterinary input and supported by clinical pathologists.

__Are the tests evidence-based?__
Yes. All panels are designed using published veterinary and medical research, and results are interpreted within clinically relevant frameworks. We prioritise validity, reproducibility, and diagnostic integrity.

__Which labs do you use?__
We partner exclusively with NATA-accredited laboratories and established sequencing facilities to ensure quality and consistency across all test types.

__Can I get support interpreting results?__
Yes. All results include summary interpretations, and additional case support is available from our veterinary team and clinical pathologists. You can request clarification or consult on complex cases.

__Can I offer this in my clinic?__
Yes. Clinics can collect samples in-house or refer clients for at-home testing. We provide full onboarding support, training materials, and promotional content for your practice.

__Do these services compete with my care?__
No. We are here to support veterinarians with better data, not replace clinical relationships. Testing is designed to integrate with your diagnostic process and enhance personalised care.

__What tests do you currently offer?__
We offer microbiome analysis, blood health screening, and will soon launch allergy and DNA panels. All panels are tailored for veterinary use.

__Is there a wholesale or referral model?__
Yes. We offer both. Please contact us for onboarding and partnership options tailored to your clinic’s structure.

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i-screenPets for Veterinarians

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When it comes to protecting your pet’s health, knowledge is power. Just as we use regular health checks to stay on top of our own wellbeing, our pets deserve the same proactive care. At iScreen Pets, we empower pet parents with access to evidence-based testing to help you detect potential issues early and support your companion's health with confidence.

### Preventative, Proactive and Personalised

Most diseases in dogs and cats begin silently. Changes in kidney function, hormone balance or inflammation can build over time without any obvious signs. With the right tools, pet parents can intervene early and make informed decisions before those small changes become serious problems.

__Preventative screening helps you:__
- Detect subtle changes before your pet shows signs of illness
- Establish a health baseline for growing, ageing or newly adopted pets
- Personalise nutrition, supplements and lifestyle using real data
- Monitor chronic conditions and track progress over time

### Flexible Testing Options That Work for You

i-screenPets offers scientifically validated options to suit every household:

- Blood testing collected by your local veterinary clinic
- At-home testing using saliva, urine or faecal samples

Each kit includes easy-to-follow instructions designed for pet parents. Whether you prefer working through your regular vet or collecting samples at home, we make the process clear and accessible.

### What You’ll Learn

Each panel provides insights into your pet’s internal health. You can assess:
- Liver and kidney function
- Inflammation and immune markers
- Hormone and endocrine balance
- Digestive and microbiome health
- Nutrient levels including vitamin D and selenium

Results are available in your secure pet i-screen dashboard, with trend tracking, plain-language explanations and optional veterinary interpretation.

### Designed by Vets, Backed by Science

All i-screenPets health checks are created by veterinarians and processed in accredited pathology labs. That means reliable results and clinical relevance you can trust. For further support, optional follow-up consultations are available to guide your pet’s care journey.

### The Takeaway

Preventative care is one of the most powerful tools in long-term pet health. With i-screenPets, you are empowered to take a proactive role in your pet’s wellbeing using science, not guesswork.

### Ready to get started?

Explore our screening panels and take the first step toward a healthier future for your pet.

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Preventative screening helps pet parents detect early health issues, personalise care, and track progress. i-screenPets offers vet-designed, science-backed tests, at home or via clinic, to support long-term pet health with confidence.

Empowering Pet Parents: Why Preventative Health Screening Matters

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If your dog or cat suffers from constant scratching, licking, redness or recurring ear infections, allergies may be at play. But what many pet parents don’t realise is that these surface symptoms often reflect something deeper: immune dysregulation. While symptom relief has its place, true progress comes from understanding what’s happening inside the body - particularly in the gut and immune system.

### What Is Atopy and Why Is It So Common?

Canine atopic dermatitis is one of the most common chronic skin conditions in dogs. It’s an inflammatory, genetically linked condition triggered by environmental substances like pollen, dust mites or mould. In cats, allergic reactions may present as facial itching, overgrooming or ear inflammation.

We now know that atopy isn’t just “skin-deep.” Many affected pets also show signs of altered skin and gut microbiomes - pointing to a systemic condition.

A 2020 study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that diet and microbiome composition strongly influence the progression and severity of canine atopic dermatitis

### The Gut-Skin-Immune Axis
Your pet’s gut is home to trillions of microbes that play a major role in immune regulation. When the microbiome is disrupted, by antibiotics, processed food, stress or illness, it can lead to leaky gut and increased inflammation throughout the body.

The skin often becomes the “warning light” for this internal imbalance. Research shows that pets with allergies frequently have reduced microbial diversity and signs of gut inflammation.

One review in Veterinary Clinical Pathology confirms this link, showing that microbial imbalance in the gut contributes to increased allergic sensitivity on the skin.

### Food or Environmental Allergy? Or Both?

Environmental allergens like grasses and dust mites are often blamed for flare-ups, but food sensitivities can also be contributing behind the scenes, especially when symptoms are year-round, affect the gut, or don't improve with environmental management alone.
To clarify the picture, our upcoming allergy panels will help identify:

- Sensitivity to common environmental triggers
- Food-related reactions to proteins or additives
- Inflammatory patterns linked to gut dysbiosis

This data allows us to move from reactive treatments to informed, targeted care.

### Why Guessing Isn’t Good Enough

Rather than relying on elimination diets or repeated courses of medication, testing can provide objective answers.

Through microbiome and allergy screening, we can uncover:

- Gut imbalances that amplify immune reactivity
- Signs of intestinal inflammation or poor digestion
- Specific sensitivities that are keeping your pet in flare-up mode

Armed with this information, pet parents can feel confident in the plan ahead and track real progress over time.

### A Whole-Body Approach to Allergy Relief

Managing allergies effectively means supporting the gut, calming the immune system and rebuilding the skin barrier. Our integrative approach includes:

- Prebiotics and probiotics to rebalance gut flora
- Anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega-3s and zinc
- Nutrition plans that eliminate triggers and support healing
- Strategies to reduce environmental exposure
- Regular re-testing to assess improvement

This layered approach not only reduces symptoms but also builds long-term resilience.

### Final Thoughts

Allergies in pets are complex, and chronic itching is only the tip of the iceberg. Immune imbalance, gut dysfunction and barrier breakdown often sit at the core. When we move beyond symptom control and uncover what’s really driving the reaction, we can finally help pets feel comfortable in their own skin again.

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Pet allergies often reflect gut and immune imbalances, not just skin issues. Atopic dermatitis is common and linked to diet, microbiome, and environment. Testing, nutrition, and probiotics can ease symptoms and build resilience.

Allergies in Pets: Unpacking the Immune Imbalance Beneath the Itch

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Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) can be polarising. While some dismiss it as speculative, when performed using high-quality technology and interpreted in clinical context, HTMA offers insight into long-term nutritional and toxin exposure trends, not just snapshot results.

### What Is HTMA?

Hair minerals testing evaluates a small hair sample to assess mineral and toxic metal content accumulated over the previous two to three months. Hair acts like a time capsule, showing what the body has stored, not just what’s circulating or excreted.

This can reveal:
- Essential mineral levels (e.g. calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper)
- Potential toxic exposures (e.g. lead, arsenic, cadmium)
- Mineral ratios that may reflect metabolic or adrenal stress

### Peer-Reviewed Evidence in Dogs

A scientifically published study in the Journal of Animal Research (2016) compared copper, iron, and zinc levels in canine hair and plasma. It found significant positive correlations (p < 0.01) between hair and plasma levels of copper and zinc, providing validation for hair’s ability to reflect internal mineral stores when professional testing methods are applied  .

### How HTMA Compares to Other Tests

Hair minerals testing adds value alongside biological testing methods by offering a longer-term view:

- Blood mineral levels mirror tightly regulated physiological conditions and may not reflect depletion.
- Urine tests capture recent elimination rather than stored exposure.
- Immunoglobulins (IgE, IgA, IgM) show immune function, not mineral status.

Hair minerals testing stands apart by offering insight into tissue trends—not transient levels.

### Why ICP‑MS Supply Matters

Not all hair minerals testing is equal. The accuracy of a hair minerals testing test depends on the lab methodology and analytical precision.

At i-screenPets, we use Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP‑MS), a highly sensitive technique used in clinical, environmental and nutritional research. ICP‑MS detects low-level trace elements with exceptional precision and broad range, outperforming older analytic techniques.

### When HTMA Is Most Helpful

- Chronic or unexplained skin, behavioural or neurological complaints
- Suspected environmental toxic exposure
- Nutritional stress or elimination diets over weeks-months
- Pets who cannot undergo frequent blood draws

It works best as part of a holistic testing strategy including blood chemistry, microbiome panels, allergy testing and clinical history.

### What HTMA Is Not

Hair minerals testing is not:
- A diagnostic tool for acute or infectious diseases
- A replacement for hormonal, immunological, or organ-specific testing
- Effective in isolation without clinical context

Its value lies in revealing trends, not diagnosing illness.

### The Bottom Line

Hair minerals testing isn’t fringe when done using validated technology and interpreted by clinical professionals. It offers deep insight into long-term mineral balance and toxic exposure, insights not captured by standard tests.

At i-screenPets, hair minerals testing is one of many diagnostic tools in your pet’s wellness toolkit. When integrated alongside blood panels, microbiome, allergy or DNA testing, it supports truly personalised and preventative care.

Interested in how HTMA could fit into your pet’s health journey?

Visit your i-screenPets portal to explore mineral and toxin screen options, or connect with our veterinary support team to see if it complements your pet’s current testing plan.

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HTMA reveals long-term mineral and toxin trends in pets. When done with quality labs like ICP‑MS and interpreted clinically, it adds powerful insight to holistic care - not hype.

Hair Minerals Testing in Pets: Insightful Tool or Over-Hyped?

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Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in your dog’s health. They support skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, nourish the joints, modulate immune responses and maintain brain and nervous system function. But how do you know if your dog is actually getting enough?

And did you know that too much omega-3, especially without the right nutritional balance, can cause harm rather than help?

Many pet parents add fish oil or sardines to their dog’s bowl hoping to ease itching, stiffness or anxiety. But without testing, it is impossible to know whether your dog needs more, less or something entirely different. The Omega-3 Index takes the guesswork out. It is a simple blood test that measures the amount of EPA and DHA, the two most important omega-3s, inside your dog’s red blood cells. This gives a reliable picture of their long-term omega-3 status over the past few months and helps guide dietary or supplement decisions with precision.

### Why omega-3s matter and why balance counts

EPA and DHA are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found primarily in marine sources like fish and algae. They are well known for their anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in the skin and joints, but their influence extends much further. These fatty acids support immune regulation, coat quality, gut-brain communication and cognition in ageing dogs.

Dogs cannot produce EPA or DHA in significant amounts and while plant-based oils like flaxseed contain ALA, the conversion rate to EPA and DHA is extremely low. Without oily fish or marine-based supplements, many dogs are significantly under-supplied, especially those eating dry or processed diets.

At the same time, commercial foods are typically high in omega-6 fatty acids from poultry fat, sunflower oil and grain-based ingredients. While omega-6s are essential, they compete with omega-3s in the body and tend to promote inflammation when unbalanced. The goal is not to eliminate omega-6, but to restore a healthier ratio. In most cases, that means increasing omega-3 intake in a targeted way.

### Too much of a good thing

Although omega-3s offer many benefits, they are also highly unsaturated fats and can be prone to oxidation. Giving high doses without sufficient antioxidant support, particularly vitamin E, can lead to increased oxidative stress. This may counteract the intended anti-inflammatory effect and in some cases make things worse. Dogs on high-fat diets or managing chronic inflammation may be especially sensitive.

Using the Omega-3 Index allows you to fine-tune supplementation to ensure it is both effective and safe. Rather than assuming more is better, you can make decisions based on the actual amount of omega-3 incorporated into your dog’s cells.

### The problem with guessing

Many people try to help their dog by adding a human omega-3 capsule to their bowl. In some cases that may help, but without knowing the baseline level or measuring the response, there is no way to know if it is doing what you hope. EPA and DHA content varies widely between products and few are tested for oxidation, stability or purity in animals.

The Omega-3 Index shows whether your chosen supplement or diet is actually being absorbed and used. It provides a target range to guide dosage and gives you the confidence to adjust with purpose, not guesswork.

### Quality matters

Omega-3s are fragile. They degrade with heat, light and air exposure and can go rancid in storage or during processing. Rancid oils lose their health benefits and may even contribute to inflammation. Choosing a high-quality, marine-based supplement that is properly stored, regularly tested and clearly labelled is essential. If it smells strongly fishy or sour, it is probably not fresh.

### Which dogs benefit most

All dogs need omega-3s, but some need more than others. Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, joint disease, gastrointestinal inflammation, age-related cognitive decline and immune-mediated issues all increase demand. Dogs with poor coat quality, frequent itching or anxiety-like behaviour may also benefit. In these cases, maintaining a high-normal Omega-3 Index may support broader treatment goals and improve resilience.

### What about wholefoods

Wholefood sources can contribute to omega-3 intake as part of a fresh food plan or alongside supplements. Sardines in springwater, salmon, anchovies, fish skins and green-lipped mussels are all rich in EPA and DHA. These can be rotated into the diet several times per week, adjusted to match energy needs and introduced gradually to avoid digestive upset.

### Why testing matters

The Omega-3 Index measures what is actually being used in the body, not just what is going into the bowl. It reflects the proportion of EPA and DHA in red blood cell membranes, which mirrors long-term tissue status. This makes it one of the most accurate tools available for tracking omega-3 health in dogs.

For dogs already on omega-3 supplements, it shows whether the current plan is working. For those not yet supplemented, it offers a starting point. And for any dog with chronic health concerns, it allows for targeted, measurable intervention. Once optimal levels are reached, retesting every six to twelve months helps ensure your dog stays within the healthy range.

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Omega-3s support your dog’s skin, joints, brain and immune system, but guessing with fish oil may do more harm than good. The Omega-3 Index test shows if your dog is getting the right amount - safely.

Is Your Dog Getting Enough Omega-3s? The Power of the Omega-3 Index

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The thyroid gland may be small, but it plays a major role in your pet’s health. Responsible for regulating metabolism, energy levels, skin and coat quality, and even behaviour, the thyroid is one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of the endocrine system.

Thyroid disorders are surprisingly common in dogs and cats, especially as they age. And because the symptoms can be vague or gradual, many cases go undiagnosed for months or even years. Here’s what you need to know to stay one step ahead.

### What Does the Thyroid Do?

The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces two main hormones: T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). These hormones help control how fast the body burns energy, how warm it stays, how efficiently cells function, and how well the skin, coat, and nervous system perform.

To produce these hormones, the thyroid relies on adequate levels of iodine, an essential trace mineral typically sourced from the diet.

When the thyroid is either overactive or underactive, it can affect nearly every body system — often in subtle but significant ways.

### Thyroid Disease in Dogs

In dogs, the most common thyroid disorder is hypothyroidism, where the gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. This is most often caused by autoimmune thyroiditis — a slow, immune-mediated attack on the thyroid tissue that can begin long before hormone levels drop into the abnormal range.

Signs of hypothyroidism may include:
- Low energy or lethargy
- Unexplained weight gain
- Hair loss or poor coat quality (especially on the tail and flanks)
- Dry or flaky skin
- Cold intolerance
- Recurrent skin or ear infections
- Mental dullness or increased anxiety

Hypothyroidism is typically seen in middle-aged, medium to large breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, and Boxers — although any breed can be affected.

### Why autoantibodies matter

Testing for thyroid autoantibodies like TgAA (thyroglobulin antibodies) and T4AA (T4 autoantibodies) can help detect autoimmune thyroid disease in its early stages, before symptoms are obvious or hormone levels have declined. This is particularly useful in breeding dogs, high-performance animals, or those with borderline results.

### Thyroid Disease in Cats

In contrast to dogs, hyperthyroidism is the most common thyroid issue in cats — particularly those over 8 years old. This condition is usually caused by benign overgrowth of thyroid tissue, resulting in excessive hormone production.

Signs of hyperthyroidism in cats may include:
- Weight loss despite a healthy or increased appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Increased thirst and urination
- Rapid heart rate
- Poor or unkempt coat

Hyperthyroidism can place significant strain on the heart and kidneys, making early detection essential. Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical signs, physical exam, and blood testing — most commonly Total T4.

### Total vs Free Hormone Testing — What’s the Difference?

In human medicine, it’s common to measure free T3 and free T4, which reflect the unbound, biologically active hormones. But in veterinary practice, total T3 and T4 are usually used as a screening tool.

That’s because:
- Thyroid disorders in pets tend to cause large, detectable shifts in total hormone levels
- Total hormones are more stable and less affected by stress or sample handling
- Free hormone testing in animals is more technically challenging and less commonly used outside of specialist settings

TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is another useful marker, particularly in dogs, to help determine whether low T4 is truly due to hypothyroidism or another illness affecting hormone levels.

### Iodine and the Thyroid: Too Much of a Good Thing?

Iodine is crucial for thyroid hormone production, but balance matters. Both deficiency and excess can lead to thyroid dysfunction. Some pet parents are cautious about feeding seaweed-based dental supplements like Ascophyllum nodosum, which are naturally rich in iodine. While these can offer oral health benefits, it’s helpful to monitor iodine levels — especially if you’re using multiple supplements or feeding a restricted diet.

Urinary iodine testing offers a non-invasive way to understand your pet’s recent iodine intake.

### When Should You Consider Thyroid Testing?

While your vet will guide you based on individual history, thyroid screening is especially worth considering if your pet:

- Is a dog over 6 or a cat over 8
- Shows signs like weight gain/loss, fatigue, or coat changes
- Belongs to a breed with known thyroid risk
- Has behavioural changes or recurrent infections
- Is a breeding or performance dog (where early detection matters)
- Is taking seaweed-based supplements or on a limited-ingredient diet

### Empowering Pet Parents With Better Data

With advances in diagnostic testing, it’s now possible to take a more proactive and holistic approach to thyroid health. Tools like Total T4, T3, TSH, autoantibodies, and urinary iodine allow for earlier detection, personalised care, and peace of mind — whether your pet is already showing signs or you’re just staying ahead.

Understanding how the thyroid works — and what can go wrong — is a powerful step in supporting your pet’s lifelong health.

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Thyroid health is vital for your pet’s metabolism, energy, and behaviour. Learn how early testing and balanced nutrition can detect and manage thyroid disorders in dogs and cats before symptoms escalate.

Understanding Your Pet’s Thyroid: What Every Pet Parent Should Know

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Vaccines play a critical role in protecting our pets from serious diseases — but how do we know when they actually need a booster?

That’s where titre testing comes in. This simple blood test helps answer one of the most important questions in preventative care:

Is your pet already protected?

### What Is a Titre Test?

A titre (pronounced “tight-er”) is a measurement of the antibodies your pet has developed against a specific virus — most often from prior vaccination. These antibodies are a marker of immune memory and indicate that the body is ready to defend itself if re-exposed.

In pets, titre testing most commonly applies to the core diseases:
- Dogs: Canine Parvovirus, Distemper Virus, and Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
- Cats: Feline Panleukopenia Virus (also called feline parvovirus)

A positive titre confirms your pet is still protected and likely does not need a booster at that time.

### Does a Titre Replace the Full C5 Vaccination?

Not entirely. In Australia, the C5 vaccine includes:
- C3 core components: Parvovirus, Distemper, Adenovirus
- + Kennel cough components: Bordetella bronchiseptica and Parainfluenza virus

Titre testing covers the C3 portion only — the serious, potentially fatal viral infections that generate strong, lasting antibody responses.

However, kennel cough vaccines do not create long-lasting immunity, and no titre test currently exists for them. Immunity to Bordetella and Parainfluenza is short-lived and primarily local (mucosal), not reliably reflected in blood antibody levels.

So while titres are a gold standard for C3 immunity, they don’t cover kennel cough, and a C5 vaccine may still be required for boarding or daycare.

### Will Kennels Accept Titre Results?

Not always — and this can be frustrating. Despite growing awareness and support from veterinary bodies, many boarding facilities and councils still require proof of annual C5 vaccination as a blanket policy.

This is usually due to:
- Insurance requirements
- Risk management policies
- Limited understanding of titre testing

However, many progressive facilities will accept lab-verified titre results, especially when accompanied by a vet-stamped certificate and covering letter. It’s always worth checking well in advance and advocating for your pet’s individual care.

### How Reliable Are Titre Tests?

In dogs, a positive titre for parvovirus, distemper, or adenovirus strongly correlates with immune protection.

In challenge studies, dogs with protective titres remained healthy even when directly exposed to these viruses years after vaccination.¹

Because these are systemic viral diseases, circulating antibodies play a major role in defence. If antibodies are present, the immune system almost certainly retains strong memory.

So in dogs:
- ✅ Positive titre = protected
- ❓ Negative titre = may still be protected, but a booster is often advised

In cats, it’s a bit more complex:
- Panleukopenia titres are reliable indicators of protection
- But Herpesvirus and Calicivirus immunity is less well-reflected by blood titres, as protection relies more on mucosal and cell-mediated immunity
- Because of this, titre testing is less commonly used in cats — and often limited to panleukopenia

### Why Not Just Vaccinate Again?

If vaccines are safe, why bother testing?

Because the goal of vaccination is to build immune memory, not to repeatedly trigger the immune system once memory is established.

While most healthy pets tolerate vaccines well, unnecessary immune stimulation may not be ideal — especially for:
- Pets with chronic disease or allergies
- Animals with autoimmune conditions
- Pets with a history of vaccine reactions
- Seniors or integratively managed pets

### Is There Evidence That Over-Vaccinating Can Be Harmful?

Yes — though much of the concern remains theoretical or observational, particularly in pets. We do know:

- In humans and lab animals, repeated immune stimulation is linked to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation
- In veterinary medicine, over-vaccination has been associated with:
-   Autoimmune thyroiditis
-   Haemolytic anaemia
-   Skin flares, behavioural changes, and general inflammation in sensitive individuals

That’s why the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) recommends vaccinating “no more often than necessary”, and supports titre testing as a valid alternative.

### What a Titre Test Can (and Can’t) Tell You

Can do:
- Confirm your pet’s protective immunity for core viruses
- Help avoid unnecessary boosters
- Support exemption requests (in some cases)
- Offer peace of mind for immunocompromised or reactive pets

Can’t do:
- Assess kennel cough immunity
- Measure T-cell or mucosal immunity
- Predict future vaccine response

### When to Consider Titre Testing

Titre testing is ideal for:
- Adult dogs due for a C3 booster
- Senior pets or those with chronic conditions
- Dogs with previous vaccine reactions
- Puppies, 2–4 weeks post-final vaccine, to confirm immunity
- Breeding animals
- Pet parents seeking a minimal, tailored approach to vaccination

### How Is It Done?

Titre testing involves a simple blood draw, analysed by a veterinary laboratory. At iScreenPets, our Prevention Screen – Titres uses accredited lab-based testing for:

- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Adenovirus

Results are clear, quantitative, and include a downloadable PDF to share with your vet, kennel, or council.

### Final Thoughts

Titre testing isn’t anti-vaccine — it’s pro-informed care.

It empowers pet parents to protect their dogs from deadly disease without over-vaccinating. It respects immune memory. And it opens the door to more individualised, evidence-based veterinary medicine — the kind that sees the animal, not just the calendar.

At this stage, we recommend annual titre testing, as there isn’t enough data to reliably determine how long a high antibody level persists in every individual. Some dogs may retain protective titres for years, while others drop off more quickly. Annual monitoring provides confidence and documentation — especially if required for daycare, boarding, or council compliance.

That said, some guardians — in consultation with their vet — may choose to test less frequently if results have remained consistently high.

Because when it comes to immunity, more isn’t always better — but smarter always is.

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Titre testing helps determine if your pet is still immune from past vaccinations - avoiding unnecessary boosters and supporting safer, more tailored preventative care.