[Sarah B]

Yes, chicken is in most foods, especially the grain-inclusive ones. Even Victor has chicken fat; but I’ve read that dogs don’t necessarily react to fat even if there is a chicken allergy. Hope it works out and your dog is a fan!

[Sarah B]

Joanne that’s terrible about the dog who suddenly died. It seems very likely that cases of DCM (genetic or potentially diet-related) are underreported.

[Sarah B]

Also to respond to Joanne – he has been on Zignature for a year, but has been on one of the “problem” brands’ grain-free formulas his whole lifetime: first Earthborn Holistic, then Taste of the Wild.

Victor’s grain-inclusive formulas look promising – also Diamond Holistic. The vet thinks he has a chicken allergy (I’m not so sure) which is why he’s been on a limited ingredient diet to begin with.

[Sarah B]

The FDA report acknowledges that there may be a higher awareness among certain breed owners, such as golden retrievers, because of breed-specific online groups that allow for sharing of information. That fact doesn’t seem to entirely account for the high numbers of goldens but it could be a factor. I agree with Anon that cost of testing could definitely impact which cases are attributed to this trend; also who is most inclined to allow a necropsy and tissue samples from their beloved pet to be part of research.

I appreciate everyone’s suggestions. I think I’m going to try out a grain-inclusive food that’s in the 3.5+ category here. Also looking for lower legume concentration and added taurine (Zignature has no added taurine). I’m slightly freaked because I *have* noticed my 3-yr-old dog being more winded at the park, even on days when it hasn’t been overly hot. My daughter remarked recently that he’s been panting more when he’s resting. So maybe a trip to the vet for those expensive tests is in order…… 😬

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