In partnership with AnimalBiome, leaders in canine microbiome research, Embark Veterinary now offers tests and supplements designed to support dogs’ digestive and oral health.
What is the microbiome?
Both humans and animals have a community of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms that live inside the body. Collectively called the microbiome, these microorganisms play important roles in maintaining health. When these communities of microbes are disrupted, the resulting imbalance can cause health issues.
Why is Embark partnering with AnimalBiome?
At Embark, our mission is to end preventable disease in dogs. Our combined microbiome research with our partners at AnimalBiome brings us closer to achieving that mission, helping veterinarians and pet owners provide personalized care for dogs.
Like Embark, AnimalBiome is founded and led by scientists. With a foundation in research, AnimalBiome is now the leader in microbiome science for companion animals. Their team is made up of pet owners, scientists, and veterinarians committed to using science to improve dog health through their DoggyBiome™ brand of products.
“Our DNA testing has already helped over 1 million dog owners decode their pets’ breeds and screen for genetic health conditions. We’re always looking for new ways to help pet parents provide their dogs with the best possible care.
That’s why we’ve partnered with AnimalBiome, leaders in canine microbiome research. AnimalBiome has helped tens of thousands of pet parents and veterinarians monitor and improve their dogs’ digestive and oral health. Together, we’ll study how breed impacts digestive and oral health, and eventually deliver the holistic care that all dogs deserve.”
—Ryan Boyko, Cofounder, Embark Veterinary
We’re excited about the new opportunities that will be possible through this partnership. Together, we’re committed to helping dogs lead longer, healthier lives.
What can the microbiome tell us about dog health?
Microbiome science is a promising area of research that has many potential implications for canine health.
The gut microbiome plays important roles, including creating nutrients, modulating the immune system, and preventing pathogenic infections. An imbalanced gut microbiome is associated with several long-term health conditions, such as those affecting the heart, kidney, brain, and endocrine system.
The microbiome tests available today use widely validated genetic sequencing techniques. Assessing a patient’s microbiome is becoming more standardized and trackable with the establishment of healthy reference intervals (Suchodolski, 2021).
The microbiome offers a detailed way to personalize care for dogs by understanding the factors that affect their digestive health. By knowing how the canine microbiome affects gut health, we can identify which dogs might be predisposed to digestive health challenges, learn how to prevent digestive upset, and ultimately improve canine health.
Learn more about how the microbiome affects dog gut health as well as their oral health.
Which microbiome products does Embark offer?
Embark now offers the following microbiome tests and supplements, powered by AnimalBiome. They are available directly on our website.
- Gut Health Test
- Oral Health Test
- Gut Maintenance Plus supplement
- Gut Restore supplement
- S. boulardii + FOS Powder
- ImmuneShield™ with EpiCor® Chews
- Gut Cleanse Powder
Learn more about the different types of gut health supplements for dogs with Embark veterinarian Dr. Kari Cueva.
How will microbiome data contribute to research at Embark?
Scientists know that the microbiome is associated with a range of health conditions in dogs. Through this partnership with AnimalBiome and ongoing research at Embark, we aim to uncover the relationship between a dog’s DNA and their microbiome.
Are certain breeds predisposed toward microbiome imbalances? How can we detect and prevent digestive issues from occurring? These are the questions that further research can help us answer.
The best way Embark customers can contribute to this type of research is by filling out their dog’s Annual Health Survey. This information helps our scientists make new discoveries that can help improve the health of all dogs.
