Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 12/28/2010

Question
Hi. I have an 18 month old bulldog with congestive heart failure. He is on lasix but fluid continues to accumulate in his abdomen and his lungs.(he looks bloated) The vet recommended a low sodium diet and I am having trouble finding the best food. Is Core Wellness Reduced Fat or Core Wellness Ocean Formula a good choice? Do you have any recommendations?

Thanks

Answer
Hi: Cari, Yes, a low sodium diet is a must for pets with CHF.   My clients have done well on the following -  
Cook up 1 cup of Ground Chicken or Ground Turkey each day-   ***( NO Red meats )

Place 1/2 cup of this cooked meat on top of Life's Abundance Weight Loss Low Fat dog food....
This is lower in sodium and excellent for pets with Kideny and Heart disease.
They will send it right to your door:  Fresh - no worries about quality.

SEE here:
No artificial flavors
No artificial colors
No corn or corn gluten
No wheat or wheat gluten

http://www.lifesabundance.com/Catalog/ProductDetail.aspx?realname=20066428&Produ...(Pet_Base)

Also, you can feed 1/2 - 1  can of low salt green beans every day.  ( or rinse well if you can't find the canned low salt )


For a Treat:  ( besides the green beans)****

The Life's Abundance folks also make a great Low Fat/ "No junk"  treat:

Excellent - give 2 per day :
http://www.lifesabundance.com/Pets/Treats/WholesomeHearts.aspx?realname=20066428


You can use the Wellness products, I have not used that brand with CHF or Renal patients.

I have mainley used the Wellness products with pups or older dogs.
To be safe, you may want to just order the Life's Abundance.... ( they give you a taste gurarantee and 30 day money back guarantee...)  Prices are about the same.


Don't miss a dosage of the Water pill ( Lasix)  ---  That is your life line.


I wish you best wishes for 2011.....  Light exercise, good foods and medications from your Vet are the answer.

Keep me posted

Marie Peppers LPN MA
mtnmom@gci.net