Yanay & Antay
Comprehensive health, nutrition, supplementation, and routine protocol — designed from the formal diagnoses by Dr. Natalie Chow (Heartland Niagara Animal Hospital, May 19, 2026), IDEXX laboratory data, and veterinary nutrition guidelines specific to the Peruvian Inca Orchid (PSPP, Peruvian Hairless Dog).
Profiles of both dogs
YANAY
Clinical status
Active Malassezia dermatitis treatment. Complex skin condition with 5 diagnoses. Clean bloodwork. No parasites. Kidneys and liver fully normal.
ANTAY
Clinical status
Generally asymptomatic. Minimal skin issues (comedones + solar lentigines). ALT 206 elevation noted — Dr. Chow considers this likely a normal variant for an exotic breed, or diet-related. Recheck scheduled for August 2026.
Formal diagnoses (Dr. Chow, May 19, 2026)
Yanay — 5 diagnoses
| # | Diagnosis | Clinical support |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Malassezia (yeast) dermatitis, ventral neck | Cytology confirmed 1+ yeast |
| 2 | Chronic pruritus with secondary lichenification | Visual exam: thickened, leathery skin |
| 3 | Otitis externa secondary to excessive cerumen production | Wax buildup + large flakes both ears |
| 4 | Mild pododermatitis (hind paws) | Visible inflammation on hind feet |
| 5 | Suspected atopy vs. nutritional imbalance | Cytology showed pollen; diet correlation |
Antay — 2 diagnoses + 1 lab finding
| # | Diagnosis | Clinical support |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Follicular casting / comedones, dorsal neck and interscapular region | "Finger-like projections" between scapulae |
| 2 | Solar lentigines (sunspots) on body | Multiple hyperpigmented spots |
| 3 | ALT 206 U/L (ref 18–121) — monitoring | IDEXX chemistry May 20, 2026. Possibly normal for exotic breed. |
Realistic lifespan expectations (with optimal care)
The published 12–14 year average for PSPP is underestimated because it is based on a global population of approximately 1,000 dogs, most without modern dermatologic care or formulated nutrition. Comparable data from the Xoloitzcuintle (genetically related breed) show:
| Category | Published average | With optimal care | Documented case |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSPP medium | 12–14 yr | 15–17 yr | — |
| Standard Xolo | 13–18 yr | 16–18 yr | 20 yr |
| Toy Xolo | 15–18 yr | 17–19 yr | 20+ yr |
16–18 years with the current care protocol. Achievable 18–20 years if dermatologic management remains impeccable, diet is AAFCO-balanced, and breed-typical dental complications are prevented.
Factors that add lifespan (all under owner control):
- Optimal weight — overweight is the #1 factor reducing canine lifespan. Yanay borderline (BCS noted as normal with slightly tucked-in waist); Antay ideal.
- AAFCO-balanced diet — unbalanced home-cooked diets cause cumulative deficiencies that manifest at 7–10 years.
- Annual dental cleaning — periodontal disease is documented to reduce lifespan by 1–3 years.
- Intact skin barrier — chronic dermal infections in hairless dogs are entry points for systemic bacteria.
- Consistent daily exercise — 60–90 min/day. Both dogs already meet this.
- Reduced household toxins — pine oil, lavender, fragrances already removed ✓
- Annual bloodwork for early drift detection.
- Stress management — the Nov 2025 episode (3-week separation) appears to have been the trigger for Yanay's Malassezia. Minimize prolonged separations going forward.
Detailed energy calculation
Standard formulas: RER = 70 × (kg)0.75. For intact, active adults, MER = RER × 2.0. Hairless adjustment +12% in cold climate (Ontario winter) accounting for additional thermoregulation without coat.
Yanay (15.4 kg)
Antay (8.9 kg)
Macronutrient targets
Daily caloric distribution tailored to each profile. Yanay: skin-supportive (high omega-3, quality protein). Antay: liver-friendly (moderately reduced fat, antioxidants, adequate protein for lean mass).
| Macro | Yanay summer | Yanay winter | Antay summer | Antay winter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein 28% | 76 g | 85 g | 50 g | 57 g | 1 g = 4 kcal |
| Fat (Yanay 14% / Antay 11%) | 17 g | 19 g | 9 g | 10 g | 1 g = 9 kcal · Antay reduced for ALT |
| Carbohydrates 40–42% | 109 g | 122 g | 76 g | 85 g | 1 g = 4 kcal · low-glycemic |
| Fiber 5–8% | 5–9 g | 6–10 g | 3–6 g | 4–7 g | Mostly from vegetables |
| Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) | 1,300 mg | 1,300 mg | 700 mg | 700 mg | From fish oil supplement |
| Calcium | ~1,000 mg | ~1,000 mg | ~600 mg | ~600 mg | Target Ca:P ratio 1.2:1 |
| Phosphorus | ~800 mg | ~800 mg | ~500 mg | ~500 mg | From protein + vegetables |
Protein catalog — full options with nutritional profile
Data per 100 g cooked. Ranked by suitability for Yanay's and Antay's profiles. Rotate 3–4 proteins per week to minimize sensitization to any single antigen.
| Protein | Protein g | Fat g | Kcal | Omega-3 | Allergy risk | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild salmon, cooked | 22 | 13 | 208 | High | Low | Top choice — both |
| Sardines, canned in water | 25 | 11 | 208 | Very high | Low | Top — includes natural calcium (soft bones) |
| Mackerel, fresh | 19 | 14 | 205 | Very high | Low | Top — limit to 1×/wk (mercury) |
| Lean turkey, skinless | 29 | 7 | 189 | Low | Very low | Excellent novel protein |
| Rabbit | 29 | 8 | 197 | Low | Very low | Classic hypoallergenic option |
| Duck, skinless | 23 | 11 | 201 | Medium | Low | Novel protein, iron-rich |
| Lean lamb | 25 | 10 | 206 | Medium | Medium | Good but limit to 2×/wk |
| Cod / haddock | 22 | 1 | 105 | Low | Very low | Lean, ideal for Antay (low fat) |
| Whole cooked egg | 13 | 10 | 155 | Low | Very low | Biological gold standard |
| Lean beef (sirloin) | 26 | 8 | 183 | Low | Medium | Maintain but rotate |
| Chicken (elimination 4–6 weeks) | 31 | 4 | 165 | Minimal | High (#1) | Reintroduce after elimination trial |
| Pork | 26 | 12 | 218 | Low | Antay trigger | NO for Antay (acne correlation) |
Weekly protein selection
- Yanay (skin focus): 4 days fatty fish (salmon/sardines/mackerel) + 2 days turkey/rabbit + 1 day duck or lamb. Whole egg 2–3×/week as additional.
- Antay (liver-friendly): 3 days lean fish (cod + sardines) + 3 days turkey/rabbit + 1 day duck. No pork ever. Whole egg 2×/week.
Carbohydrate catalog
Slow carbs (low glycemic index) preferred. Avoid wheat and barley initially. Carbs provide energy, fiber, and prebiotics for gut flora.
| Carbohydrate | Carbs g/100g | Kcal/100g | Glycemic Index | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked sweet potato | 20 | 90 | ~63 (medium) | Vitamin A (beta-carotene), fiber, antioxidant |
| Cooked pumpkin | 12 | 49 | ~75 (med-high) | Soluble fiber, aids digestion |
| Cooked quinoa | 21 | 120 | ~53 (low) | Additional complete protein + magnesium |
| Cooked brown rice | 23 | 112 | ~68 (medium) | Sustained energy, B vitamins |
| Cooked steel-cut oats | 12 | 68 | ~55 (low) | Beta-glucans, anti-inflammatory |
| Cooked lentils (red/green) | 20 | 116 | ~32 (very low) | Plant protein + fiber · use in moderation |
| White rice | 28 | 130 | ~73 (high) | Only for diarrhea (highly digestible) |
| Wheat pasta | 25 | 131 | ~50 | AVOID initially (gluten allergen) |
Vegetable catalog
Vegetables provide fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and volume with minimal calories. Steam to preserve nutrients. Finely chop or purée (dogs poorly digest raw cellulose).
| Vegetable | Kcal/100g | Key nutrient | Specific benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steamed broccoli | 35 | Vit C, K, sulforaphane | Anti-cancer antioxidant, hepatoprotective (good for Antay) |
| Steamed spinach | 23 | Iron, vit K, folate | Anti-inflammatory · limit 2×/week (oxalates) |
| Cooked carrot | 35 | Beta-carotene | Vit A, eye health, fiber |
| Zucchini | 17 | Vit C, potassium | Low calorie, high water content |
| Steamed cauliflower | 25 | Vit C, glucosinolates | Anti-cancer, fiber |
| Green beans | 35 | Vit K, fiber | Ideal low-calorie filler |
| Celery | 16 | Potassium | Mild diuretic, hydration |
| Cucumber | 15 | Water, silica | Summer hydration |
| Ripe tomato | 18 | Lycopene | Only fully ripe · NO green (toxicity) |
| Red pepper | 31 | Massive vit C | OK in small quantities |
Fruits (small amounts, 1 tsp 2–3×/week)
Fat sources
Fats provide essential fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6), absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and palatability. For Antay with elevated ALT: moderate but do not eliminate — essential fatty acids are critical.
| Source | Fat/amount | Fatty acid type | When to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salmon oil (fish oil) | ~9 g per 1 tsp | EPA + DHA (omega-3) | Daily · only from Nordic Naturals supplement |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 14 g per 1 tbsp | MUFA (omega-9) | 1/2 tsp in food 3×/wk · skin health |
| Egg yolk | 5 g per yolk | Lecithin, good cholesterol, EPA | 2–3×/week whole egg |
| Intrinsic fish fat | — | Natural omega-3 | Inherent to salmon/sardines |
| Almond butter (no salt/sugar) | 9 g per tbsp | MUFA + vit E | 1/2 tsp occasional "treat" |
| Topical coconut oil on neck | — | — | NO Yanay (feeds Malassezia) |
| Oral coconut oil | 14 g/tbsp | MCT | Small OK · NOT while Yanay's skin is active |
| Sunflower oil | 14 g/tbsp | High omega-6 | Disrupts omega-6:omega-3 ratio · AVOID |
Absolutely toxic / forbidden foods
These can cause severe harm or death. Keep out of reach at all times.
Specific to each dog's conditions
- Coconut oil on neck (feeds Malassezia)
- Chicken (4–6 week elimination trial)
- High-fat dairy (cheese, cream)
- Wheat / wheat pasta (potential allergen)
- Commercial snacks with preservatives
- Beef liver in excess (high copper)
- Open Farm kibble if moving to 100% home-cooked (Dr. Chow decision)
- Pork permanently (acne correlation)
- Fried fats (hepatic load with ALT 206)
- Chicken (same elimination trial as Yanay)
- Copper-rich supplements without Rx
- High-glutathione foods without Dr. Chow OK
- Any herbal extract without vet approval (hepatic interaction)
- Acetaminophen / human ibuprofen (liver toxic)
Cooking methods — what preserves nutrients, what destroys them
| Method | Nutrient retention | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| Steaming | Excellent | Best method for vegetables. Retains vit A, C, E. No leaching of minerals to water. |
| Poaching (water simmer 70–85°C) | Very good | Ideal for fish (salmon, cod). Preserves omega-3. |
| Sous-vide / slow cooker on low | Excellent | 55–80°C preserves zinc, iron, B vitamins. Ideal for meal prep batch. |
| Low-temp baking (160°C / 320°F) | Good | OK for proteins on a tray. Not for delicate vegetables. |
| Boiling | Medium | Leaches B1, B2, B6, C into water. Workaround: use minimal water and reuse the broth in the meal. |
| Pressure cooking (Instant Pot, low) | Medium-good | OK but less temperature control. Keep times short. |
| Microwave | Poor | Uneven heat damages proteins. Only for reheating, not cooking. |
| Frying / hot oil | Very poor | NEVER for the dogs. Damages Antay's liver, oxidizes omega-3. |
| Grilling above 200°C | Poor + carcinogens | Forms HCAs and PAHs (carcinogens). Avoid. |
Cooking rules for their meals
- Protein: poach or steam at 70–80°C until cooked through. Fish: opaque all the way. Poultry: 74°C internal.
- Vegetables: steam 6–10 min until tender-firm. Chop fine or purée after.
- Carbs: cook in sufficient water, then drain or incorporate broth.
- Egg: hard-boiled or poached. Never raw (Salmonella risk + biotin binding).
- No salt, no seasoning, no added oil (except measured olive oil).
- Cool to body temperature before serving (~38°C). Never hot, never cold from fridge.
Daily recipe for YANAY (target 1,090 kcal summer)
Distribute across 2 meals (AM + PM). This recipe meets ~90% of macro targets; remaining 10% covered by supplementation (Balance IT premix completes the vitamins/minerals). Rotate protein daily following the weekly pattern.
Base daily template (sample day: fish + sweet potato)
| Ingredient | Grams | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Kcal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild salmon, cooked, skinless | 200 | 44 | 26 | 0 | 416 |
| Steamed sweet potato | 200 | 4 | 0.2 | 40 | 180 |
| Cooked quinoa | 100 | 4 | 2 | 21 | 120 |
| Steamed broccoli + carrot mix | 150 | 4 | 0.5 | 12 | 70 |
| 1 whole cooked egg | 50 | 6 | 5 | 0.4 | 75 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 27 |
| Fresh blueberries | 30 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 4 | 17 |
| Steamed spinach | 50 | 1.5 | 0.2 | 2 | 11 |
| Plain unsweetened yogurt (natural probiotic) | 25 | 1.5 | 0.8 | 1 | 15 |
| Nordic Naturals oil (omega-3 supp) | 2 ml | 0 | 2 | 0 | 18 |
| Balance IT Canine Plus (premix) | per calculator | — | — | — | ~5 |
| Homemade eggshell powder (if NOT using Balance IT) | ~1.5 g | — | — | — | 0 |
| DAILY TOTAL for Yanay | ~810 g | 65 g | 39 g | 80 g | ~954 kcal |
Option A: increase quinoa to 130 g (+36 kcal) + sweet potato to 250 g (+45 kcal) + slightly more salmon. Option B: add 1 tsp extra olive oil (+40 kcal). Option C: protein snack between meals — 30 g cold cooked turkey = 57 kcal. Salmon fat is already high — don't add olive oil on salmon days.
Weekly rotation for Yanay
| Day | Main protein | Carbohydrate | Vegetables | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | Salmon 200 g | Sweet potato 200 g | Broccoli + carrot | + egg + blueberries |
| Tue | Turkey 200 g | Quinoa 150 g | Zucchini + spinach | + olive oil 3 g |
| Wed | Sardines 200 g (no salt) | Sweet potato 200 g | Green beans + carrot | High omega-3 + natural calcium day |
| Thu | Rabbit 200 g | Brown rice 130 g | Pumpkin + broccoli | Novel protein day |
| Fri | Cod 200 g | Quinoa 150 g | Cauliflower + carrot | Low-fat day, balances the week |
| Sat | Turkey 150 g + lamb 50 g | Steel-cut oats 80 g | Spinach + celery | Protein blend |
| Sun | Salmon 200 g | Sweet potato 200 g | Mixed | Repeat base |
Daily recipe for ANTAY (target 720 kcal summer)
Same rules as Yanay but portions reduced to ~65% and fat moderately lower to reduce hepatic load (ALT 206). No pork ever.
Base daily template (sample: lean fish + sweet potato)
| Ingredient | Grams | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Kcal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked cod or salmon | 130 | 29 | 9 | 0 | 200 |
| Steamed sweet potato | 130 | 2.5 | 0.1 | 26 | 117 |
| Cooked quinoa | 60 | 2.5 | 1.2 | 13 | 72 |
| Steamed broccoli + zucchini | 100 | 2.5 | 0.3 | 7 | 45 |
| 1/2 whole cooked egg (3 days/week) | 25 | 3 | 2.5 | 0.2 | 37 |
| Blueberries (hepatic antioxidant) | 25 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 3.5 | 14 |
| Plain unsweetened yogurt | 20 | 1 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 12 |
| Nordic Naturals oil (omega-3 supp) | 1 ml | 0 | 1 | 0 | 9 |
| Balance IT Canine Plus (premix) | per calculator | — | — | — | ~3 |
| Homemade eggshell powder (alt) | ~0.8 g | — | — | — | 0 |
| DAILY TOTAL for Antay | ~490 g | 40 g | 15 g | 50 g | ~510 kcal |
Antay needs 720 kcal summer target. Base skeleton gives 510. Cover with: increase sweet potato to 200 g (+90 kcal) + quinoa to 100 g (+60 kcal) + add 30 g more protein (+60 kcal) = ~720 kcal exact. In winter add another 12% (sweet potato to 230 g, quinoa to 110 g).
Weekly rotation for Antay
| Day | Main protein | Carbohydrate | Vegetables | Hepatic notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | Cod 150 g | Sweet potato 180 g | Broccoli (hepatoprotective) | Low-fat day |
| Tue | Turkey 150 g | Quinoa 100 g | Zucchini + carrot | No egg this day |
| Wed | Sardines 100 g + cod 50 g | Sweet potato 180 g | Spinach + green beans | High omega-3 · natural calcium |
| Thu | Rabbit 150 g | Brown rice 90 g | Broccoli + carrot | Novel protein |
| Fri | Turkey 150 g | Quinoa 100 g | Cauliflower + celery | Sulforaphane-rich vegetables |
| Sat | Salmon 130 g | Steel-cut oats 60 g | Mixed | + whole egg |
| Sun | Cod 130 g | Sweet potato 180 g | Broccoli + blueberries | Clean antioxidant day |
Weekly batch prep (4 hours, 1×/week)
Cook for both dogs for 7 days, store in daily portions. Sunday afternoon is the best slot.
Typical weekly shopping
| Category | Combined quantity | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Wild salmon fillet | 1.2 kg | Costco / Whole Foods · frozen OK |
| Lean ground turkey | 1 kg | Any supermarket |
| Sardines in water, no salt | 4 cans (≈380 g) | Pantry |
| Cod fillet | 800 g | Fish counter · frozen OK |
| Rabbit (if available) or extra turkey | 500 g | Specialty butcher |
| Sweet potato | 2 kg | Any supermarket |
| Raw quinoa | 500 g | Bulk Barn / Costco |
| Broccoli, carrot, spinach, zucchini, green beans, cauliflower, celery | 500–700 g each | Fresh produce |
| Eggs | 1 dozen | Hormone-free if possible |
| Plain unsweetened yogurt, full-fat | 500 g | Dairy aisle |
| Fresh/frozen blueberries | 250 g | Fresh produce |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 250 ml (lasts months) | Pantry |
Cooking workflow (4 hours, parallelizable)
- 0:00 — Pre-prep: wash all vegetables. Cube small (3–5 mm). Fillet fish if needed.
- 0:15 — Oven on at 160°C: parchment-lined tray with salmon, no seasoning. 25–30 min.
- 0:15 — Pot 1: 250 g raw quinoa + 500 ml water. Boil, reduce to simmer, cover. 15 min.
- 0:20 — Double steamer: bottom rack sweet potato cubes · top rack broccoli/carrot/green beans. 12–15 min.
- 0:35 — Pot 2: ground turkey steamed or poached in water. 10–12 min until no pink.
- 0:50 — Cook cod: poach in simmering water 8–10 min until opaque.
- 1:00 — Rabbit: bake in covered tray at 160°C for 30 min covered, then uncovered 10 min.
- 1:30 — Hard-boiled eggs: 12 min in boiling water.
- 2:00 — Cool everything to room temperature on racks. DO NOT refrigerate hot (condensation = bacteria).
- 2:30 — Portion + pack: divide into 14 containers (7 days × 2 dogs). Label with masking tape + sharpie: "Yanay MON", "Antay MON", etc.
- 3:30 — Refrigerate 4 days the first ones, freeze 3 days the rest. Move freezer-to-fridge 24h before serving.
Storage rules
- Fridge (3–4°C): max 4 days for cooked. Cooked fish: max 2 days for safety.
- Freezer (-18°C): max 2–3 months. Label with prep date.
- Reheat: leave out 30 min before serving, or warm in water bath (warm water). NOT microwave.
- Serve at body temperature (~38°C). Lukewarm, not hot, not cold from fridge.
- Containers: glass with lid or food-grade BPA-free plastic.
Supplements — plan overview
A home-cooked diet, however carefully designed, has typical gaps in vitamins and minerals that food alone cannot cover: zinc, vitamin D, vitamin E, iodine, balanced copper, selenium, manganese, vitamin B12, vitamin K. Supplements cover those gaps AND deliver therapeutic doses of omega-3 that food alone cannot reach.
1 essential supplement (Balance IT) + 1 therapeutic (Omega-3) + 1 transitional (probiotic during Ketoconazole course). Everything else is optional based on response.
| Supplement | Priority | Yanay dose | Antay dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance IT Canine Plus | Essential | Per calc | Per calc | Permanent |
| Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet | Essential | 2 ml/day | 1 ml/day | Permanent |
| FortiFlora probiotic | Transitional | 1 sachet/day | — | 4–6 weeks |
| Vitamin E (liquid) | Antay | — | 100 IU/day | Until recheck |
| Eggshell powder (if not using Balance IT) | Alternative | ~1 g/day | ~0.6 g/day | Permanent |
| Milk thistle (SAMe) | Rx only | — | If Dr. Chow OK | 3-month trial |
| Glucosamine + chondroitin | Optional | 500 mg/day | 300 mg/day | Permanent |
1. Omega-3 (EPA + DHA) — Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet
EPA+DHA omega-3 reduces dermal inflammation (key for Yanay's Malassezia + atopy), supports hepatic function (key for Antay's elevated ALT), improves skin barrier in hairless dogs specifically.
Alternatives if Nordic Naturals not available
- Welactin Canine — EPA+DHA softgels. Solid reputation, more economical. Find on Chewy.
- Grizzly Salmon Oil — pure salmon oil, more natural. Find on Amazon.
- Vetoquinol Triglyceride Omega Supplement — veterinary-grade alternative.
- Do NOT use generic human cod liver oil without standardized EPA+DHA labeling.
2. Balance IT Canine Plus — the vitamin-mineral premix
Formulated by Sean Delaney, DVM, ACVIM (nutrition) at UC Davis. Covers the exact gap of home-cooked diets: vitamins A, D, E, K, B-complex, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, iodine, selenium, manganese, amino acids. The "Plus" version is heatable (can be baked), ideal for batch cooking.
1) Create free account at balance.it · 2) Select "Adult Maintenance Recipe" · 3) Enter each dog's weight · 4) Enter ingredients with grams · 5) System provides exact grams of Balance IT to add · 6) Print recipe and save. Repeat each time the composition changes significantly.
Professional alternatives
- Hilary's Blend Canine Supplement — popular alternative
- Wholistic Pet Organics Canine Complete
- Homemade eggshell powder — but covers only calcium, NOT the rest of vitamins/minerals. Would need 5–6 separate supplements to cover what Balance IT does in one.
3. Calcium — homemade eggshell powder (only if not using Balance IT)
Highly bioavailable calcium carbonate. 1 g eggshell powder ≈ 380–400 mg elemental calcium. If NOT using Balance IT (which already includes calcium), you need calcium supplementation to maintain Ca:P ratio of 1.2:1 with meat-heavy diets.
4. Probiotic — Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora
Yanay is on oral Ketoconazole for 14 days — this alters intestinal flora. A probiotic during and after protects the microbiome, reduces diarrhea/loose stools, and supports the skin-gut axis (balanced microbiome = more resilient skin). Strain Enterococcus faecium SF68 is the most-studied in dogs.
Alternatives
- Proviable-DC — multi-strain, also excellent
- Visbiome Vet — high CFU count, premium
- YumPro BiotiX
5. Liquid Vitamin E — Antay only (hepatic antioxidant)
Antay has ALT 206 (ref 18–121). Although Dr. Chow considers this likely a normal variant, vitamin E is a safe hepatic antioxidant and may help while we make dietary changes. Re-evaluate after the August recheck.
6. Optional supplements (consult Dr. Chow)
Glucosamine + chondroitin (preventive joint support)
Preventive against patellar luxation (common in breed). Dogs benefit most when started BEFORE clinical signs. At 3.5 years it's a good time to start.
Milk thistle (silymarin) — Antay only, only with Dr. Chow approval
Classic hepatoprotectant. Protects hepatocytes. Useful if ALT remains elevated at recheck. Request a written prescription from Dr. Chow on June 2 to potentially have it covered by Fetch (must be in Plumb's Handbook).
Zinc (skin-specific) — usually covered by Balance IT
Do not supplement separately if using Balance IT. Excess zinc is toxic to dogs.
How to administer ALL supplements (practical routine)
Supplements always go with food, never on an empty stomach. Food improves absorption of fat-solubles (A, D, E, K, omega-3) and reduces gastric irritation of the others.
Order and timing
| Moment | Action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| AM with food | Balance IT + Omega-3 + (Vit E for Antay) | Fat-solubles need dietary fat |
| AM with food + Ketoconazole (Yanay) | Ketoconazole separately: give first, wait 30 min, then food with supplements | Ketoconazole needs acidic pH — supplements don't interfere if separated |
| PM with food | FortiFlora probiotic (sprinkled on top) | Separated from Ketoconazole by 8–12h · fresh probiotic |
| Before any new supplement | Start at 50% for 3–5 days | Allows intestinal adaptation, detects intolerances |
Tricks if they refuse food with supplements
- Mix very thoroughly (especially Balance IT powder)
- Add 1 extra tsp of plain yogurt to mask
- Warm food slightly to body temperature (not hot)
- If rejected: try giving 30 min after a walk (hungrier)
- Last resort: pill pocket or cooked salmon to wrap capsules
Medication 1: Oral Ketoconazole (Yanay, 14 days)
Systemic antifungal. Treats Malassezia that topical cannot reach. Potentially hepatotoxic — hence the importance of baseline ALT (part of the rationale for the bloodwork in the Fetch claim). Not prescribed for Antay since his skin issue is mild.
The May 19 bloodwork is JUSTIFIED as diagnostic baseline pre-medication for Ketoconazole — primary argument in the claim. Veterinary standard of care requires baseline ALT before initiating Ketoconazole. This is medically necessary, not "preventive screening."
Medication 2: Cortavance spray (Yanay, 7 days)
Topical hydrocortisone aceponate — a controlled steroid for rapid inflammation + pruritus reduction while Ketoconazole + topical antifungal take effect.
Medication 3: ProHex-4 Mousse (Yanay, 14 days)
Topical antibacterial + antifungal mousse (chlorhexidine + climbazole). Reduces Malassezia + secondary bacterial load. Advantage: leave-on, no rinse.
Medication 4: Burrows ear drops (Yanay, indefinite)
2% aluminum acetate + 1% hydrocortisone — astringent solution with mild anti-inflammatory. Keeps ears dry, reduces cerumen + inflammation, prevents recurrent otitis.
Medication 5: Simparica Trio (both dogs, monthly, permanent)
Sarolaner + moxidectin + pyrantel chewable. Covers heartworm + 6 tick types + fleas + roundworm + hookworm in a single monthly tablet. Critical given frequent cross-border travel.
Feeding schedule
Two meals per day separated by 10–12 hours. Regularity stabilizes glycemia, supports regular elimination, and reduces food anxiety.
| Time | Action | Who |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00–7:30 AM | Short walk (10–15 min) — bladder/bowel | Both |
| 7:30 AM | Ketoconazole tablet (with small piece of cooked salmon or low-fat cheese) | Yanay |
| 8:00 AM | Main breakfast — 50% of daily ration + Balance IT + Omega-3 + Vit E (Antay) | Both |
| 8:15–8:30 AM | Apply Cortavance spray (while active) + ProHex mousse neck/shoulder | Yanay (while active) |
| 12:00–13:00 | Main walk (45–60 min) | Both |
| 14:00–15:00 | Optional light protein snack (30 g cooked turkey) | Yanay if hungry |
| 18:00 PM | Dinner — remaining 50% of ration + FortiFlora probiotic | Yanay (dinner with probiotic) · Antay normal |
| 18:30 PM | Apply Cortavance second dose + ProHex second application | Yanay (while active) |
| 20:00–21:00 | Short evening walk (15–20 min) — final elimination | Both |
| 22:00 PM | Bedtime · quick skin check (10 sec each) · lights out | Both |
Full day — visual timeline
15 min walk · bladder empty · stimulate bowel transit
Give 1/2 tablet with small piece of cooked salmon or cottage cheese. Wait 30 min before full breakfast.
Yanay: ~450 kcal from recipe + Balance IT + 1 ml Omega-3. Antay: ~360 kcal + Balance IT + 0.5 ml Omega-3 + 100 IU Vit E.
Cortavance spray (1 neck + 1 left axilla + 1 right axilla). ProHex mousse to neck/shoulder (1–2 pumps massaged). Elizabethan collar if prone to licking.
45–60 min · active pace · varied terrain · Antay can run · Yanay steady walk. Apply Nicte Cann Bloqueador Solar before if strong sun.
If hungry: 30 g cold cooked turkey for Yanay · 15 g for Antay · NEVER commercial snacks with preservatives.
Remaining 50% of recipe. Yanay: add 1 FortiFlora sachet + 1 more ml Omega-3. Antay: 0.5 ml Omega-3 + Balance IT (what wasn't given AM).
Cortavance second dose. ProHex second application.
20 min · calm walk · final elimination · soft street light
Quick skin inspection of both (10 sec each). Any new outbreak → photo. Lights out.
Weekly routine
| Day | Special action |
|---|---|
| Monday | Burrows ear drops (1/2 dropper each ear) · weigh Antay and Yanay if scale available |
| Wednesday | Burrows ear drops (second weekly application) |
| Thursday | Photo of Yanay's neck, same angle, same lighting (visual tracking) |
| Friday | Burrows ear drops (third application) |
| Saturday | Photo of Antay (full skin + interscapular area for comedone tracking) |
| Sunday | Batch prep 4h (cook food for the week) · check supplements remaining · order refills if needed · review Apple Reminders |
Monthly routine
| Day of month | Action |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Simparica Trio both dogs · mark calendar · photo of empty package (tracking) |
| Day 7 | Weigh both dogs · log it · if >5% change, adjust calories |
| Day 15 | Full skin review · photo if changes |
| Day 28 | Verify supplement stock (Balance IT, Omega-3, FortiFlora) · order refills 5–7 days before running out |
What to observe and track (daily / weekly / monthly)
Each day
- Appetite (ate all, partial, refused)
- Energy (low / normal / hyper)
- Water intake (approximate ml)
- Stool (count, color, consistency 1–7 Bristol)
- Urine (color, frequency)
- Excessive scratching / licking
- New skin outbreaks
Each week
- Weight (pet scale or household scale)
- Photo of Yanay's neck (same angle)
- Photo of Antay's skin (interscapular)
- Paw status (Yanay pododermatitis)
- Ear wax/dryness (Yanay)
- Breath and teeth (plaque, odor)
- Average week energy
Each month
- Compare photos month-over-month
- Weight trend (up/down)
- Plan adherence (% days)
- Monthly total cost (food + supps + meds)
- Review upcoming vet appointments
- Verify microchip registration valid
When to call the vet urgently
- Vomiting 2+ times in 12 hours · or vomit with blood
- Bloody or very dark diarrhea
- Yellow color in gums, eyes, or skin (jaundice — hepatic emergency)
- Extreme lethargy, won't stand, no food or water for 12+ hours
- Seizures or uncontrollable tremors
- Torn skin with blood or yellow/green pus
- Breathing difficulty · persistent cough
- Facial swelling / hives (food anaphylaxis)
- Blue/purple gums (hypoxia)
- Accidental supplement or medication overdose
- Skin worsens rather than improves after 7–10 days of treatment
- New itching in a different area
- Loss of appetite 2–3 days
- Significant weight change (more than 5% in a week)
- Question about medication or supplement interaction
- Any unexpected side effect of treatment
Roadmap — Week 1 (Tue May 26 – Mon Jun 1)
- Order Balance IT online
- Order Nordic Omega-3
- Yanay day 8 Ketoconazole
- Yanay day 8 ProHex
- Cortavance last day
- No more Cortavance
- Continue Keto + ProHex
- Burrows ear drops
- Photo of Yanay's neck
- Keto + ProHex
- Buy batch ingredients
- Keto + ProHex
- Burrows ear drops
- Photo of Antay
- Keto + ProHex
- Receive Balance IT
- Receive Nordic Omega
- Batch cooking 4h
- Setup containers
- Photo comparison
- Simparica Trio dose 1
- Start Omega-3 50%
- Last night of Keto
Roadmap — Week 2 (Tue Jun 2 – Mon Jun 8)
- Yanay appt 11 AM
- Bring this protocol
- Request Rx omega-3, milk thistle
- Request treatment letter for Fetch
- Day 1 diet transition: 75% old / 25% new
- Omega-3 full dose
- 75/25 day 2
- Burrows ear drops
- Photo of Yanay
- 75/25 day 3
- Submit Fetch claim (combined May 19 + Jun 2)
- 50/50 day 1
- Photo of Antay
- 50/50 day 2
- Weekly batch cooking
- 50/50 day 3
- Weigh both dogs
Roadmap — Week 3 (Tue Jun 9 – Mon Jun 15)
- 25/75 day 1
- 25/75 day 2
- Burrows ear drops
- Photo of Yanay
- 25/75 day 3
- 100% new diet
- Weigh both
- 100% day 2
- Photo of Antay
- Batch cooking
- Weekly review
- Yanay skin review (1 month from start)
Roadmap — Week 4 (Tue Jun 16 – Mon Jun 22)
- 100% new diet established
- Burrows ear drops
- Photo of Yanay (compare with day 1)
- General observation
- Weigh both
- Report month 1 results
- Photo of Antay (4 weeks)
- Batch cooking
- Verify supp stock
- Reintroduce chicken in small quantities · observe skin
Protocol v1.0 · compiled May 26, 2026 · based on: Heartland clinical summary May 19, 2026, IDEXX labs May 20, 2026, Fetch policy WAG0544553-02 / WAG0544554-02, veterinary nutrition research for PSPP/Xolo
Update after: June 2 appointment, Antay August ALT recheck, November heartworm recheck