Abstract: | A higher survival rate and faster wound healing in dogs on a controlled and well-balanced diet have been demonstrated when compared with those not under dietetic control. Electrophoretic comparison of serum proteins was carried out in two groups of dogs. The first was on a well-controlled and well-balanced diet; the second group received an uncontrolled diet. The dogs in Group 2 had a lower concentration of total proteins, and globulins, especially gamma-globulins, were diminished; however, the serum albumin was higher. The albumin/globulin ratio was 0.93 in Group 1 and 2.07 in Group 2. Serum electrolyte levels also showed some slight differences. Sodium and potassium levels were higher in well-nourished dogs, while chloride and bicarbonates were slightly lower. |