Ingredients Information Panel

Hypro Petcare has provided you with Ingredient Information so you can browse at your own free will and see what exactly goes into our products, why we use such ingredients, and the essential nutritional benefits they have on your pet.

Amino Acids

Protein is one of the most important parts of dog food, as well as one of the least understood by the average dog owner. Most people have the misconception that the amount of protein the food contains is the important factor. However, the important factor is: How much of the food's protein can be used by the animal consuming it.

To determine the amount of usable protein, we must first break protein down into its component parts. These parts are called amino acids. There are two classifications for amino acids of dietary protein; (1) essential - those that the dog's own body cannot manufacture in sufficient quantities and (2) non essential - those that the dog's own body can manufacture in sufficient quantities. It is the presence, balance and quality of the essential amino acids that determines the bio-nutritive value (% of usable protein) of the protein in a dog's feeding program.

All the amino acids, both essential and non-essential, have very specific nutritional jobs within the dog's body; such as the building of the muscle tissue, the regulation of antibodies within the immune system, and the transfer of nerve impulses etc.

The essential amino acids and some of their functions for a dog are:

ARGININE: This essential amino acid stimulates immune system response by enhancing the production of T-cells, has a protective effect of toxicity of hydrocarbons and intravenous diuretics, is related to the elevated ammonia levels and cirrhosis of the liver by detoxifying ammonia, and induces growth hormone release from the pituitary gland.

HISTIDINE: This essential amino acid releases histamines from body stores, is associated with pain control, is associated with arthritis, and widens small blood vessels; thus aiding early digestion by stimulating stomach acid secretion.

LYSINE: This essential amino acid promotes bone growth in puppies, stimulates secretion of gastric juices, and is found in abundance within muscle tissue, connective tissue, and collagen.

METHIONINE: This essential amino acid assists gall bladder functions by participating in the synthesis of blue salts, helps to prevent deposits and cohesion of fats in the liver due to lipotropic function, is related to the synthesis of choline, balances the urinary tract pH (in its dl form), and gives rise to Taurine (an important neuroregulator in the brain).

PHENYALANINE: This essential amino acid stimulates chaleceptokinin enzymes and thus is related to appetite control, increases blood pressure in hypotension, works with minerals in skin and hair pigmentation, gives rise to Tyrosine, and produces adrenalin and noreadrenalin.

THREONINE: This essential amino acid regulates energy draw requirements, works with Phenylalanine in mood elevation or depression and skin pigmentation, manufactures adrenalin, and precurses Thyroid hormone.

TRYPTOPHAN: This essential amino acid produces Serotonin that induces sleep, precurses the vitamin Niacin in treating and preventing pellagra, and is a vasoconstrictor that appears to aid in blood clotting mechanisms. Studies indicate a lack of tryptophan and methionine together can cause hair/fur loss.

VALINE, (ISOLEUCINE AND LEUCINE): These essential amino acids work together and are classified as "branched-chain" amino acids. The three combine to regulate the protein turnover and energy metabolism, are stored in muscle tissue, and are released to be converted into energy during times of fasting or between meals.

Animal Fat (also referred to as Tallow)

Animal fat is a great source of fatty acids. These essential fatty acids (EFAs) are those that are necessary for health, but cannot be synthesized by the body. Therefore, it is important to supply the body with EFAs through one's daily dietary intake. EFAs are also called vitamin F or polyunsaturates. They are important ingredients for the growth and maintenance of cells. The body utilizes essential fatty acids for hormone production, specifically for the production of prostaglandins, which aid in reducing hypertension. Essential fatty acids offer many positive effects for your pet, including the nourishment of skin and hair/fur; reduction of blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels; prevention of arthritis and inflammation; and the reduction of the risk of blood clotting. Furthermore, essential fatty acids help protect the body from cardiovascular disease. Animal fat provides your dog with sufficient energy.

Anti-oxidants

Antioxidants are substances or nutrients in our foods which can prevent or slow the oxidative damage to the body. When the body cells use oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals (by-products) which can cause damage. Antioxidants act as "free radical scavengers" and hence prevent and repair damage done by these free radicals. Health problems such as heart disease, macular degeneration, diabetes mellitus, cancer etc are all contributed by oxidative damage. Antioxidants are important for your dog as it may also enhance immune defense and therefore lower the risk of cancer and infection.
Antioxidants found in our products are:

Vitamin A,
Vitamin C,
Vitamin E,
Selenium.

Biotin

Biotin is necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids, and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. It plays a role in the Citric acid cycle, which is the process by which biochemical energy is generated during aerobic respiration. Biotin not only assists in various metabolic reactions, but also helps to transfer carbon dioxide. Biotin is also helpful in maintaining a steady blood sugar level. Biotin plays a large role in maintaining the healthy skin and hair of your dog.

Calcium

Calcium plays an important role in building stronger, denser bones and keeping bones healthy. Approximately ninety-nine percent of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. The rest of the calcium in the body has other important uses, such as some exocytose, especially neurotransmitter release, and muscle contraction. Long-term calcium deficiency can lead to rickets and poor blood clotting, it can lead to osteoporosis, in which the bone deteriorates and there is an increased risk for fracturing. Calcium not only is important for strong bones, but is also beneficial with activating enzyme action and in helping with normalizing the contraction and relaxation of the heart muscles.

Chicken

Chicken is a significant source of daily requirements of protein, niacin, B-6, B-12, vitamin D, iron and zinc. Chicken, as one of the main sources of animal protein, contains all nine essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized in the body (histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine). These proteins are essential as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Choline

Choline is a complex vitamin that is included in the Vitamin B complex group. This nutrient plays an important role for the proper functioning of the liver, metabolism of fats and protein, and is essential for overall growth.

Cobalt

Cobalt is an essential trace mineral required by the body for blood formation. It is an integral part of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin), a vitamin essential for producing red blood cells and maintaining the nervous system. Cobalt activates several metabolic enzymes and is necessary for myelin formation (an insulating layer found around nerves) and thyroid hormone production, supports red blood cell production, and is essential for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, the synthesis of proteins, the production of DNA and RNA, and the conversion of folate to its active form.

Copper

Copper is an essential trace mineral that is involved in numerous biochemical reactions in the body?s cells. Copper is a component of multiple enzymes, is involved with the regulation of gene expression, mitochondrial function/cellular metabolism, connective tissue formation, as well as the absorption, storage, and metabolism of iron. Copper is also involved in the development of immune cells and immune function in the body.

Egg (whole)

Whole egg provides a wealth of essential components that are required for a healthy pet. Eggs are a great source of high quality protein. In fact, eggs are regarded as having the perfect protein regularly seen as the example against which all other food proteins are measured. Consuming eggs gives rise to strong and healthy bones. The high sulphur content and presence of many vitamins and minerals means that eggs help in the promotion of healthy hair and nails. Antioxidants such as selenium that is found in egg, curbs damages caused by unrestrained oxidation in the body and thus helps prevent blood clots and heart problems. According to various researches, egg can facilitate in weight loss and helps keep your pet in shape.

Folic Acid

Folic acid also known as Vitamin B9 or Folate, is essential for the formation, maturation and multiplication of red blood cells. It is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells. This is especially important during periods of rapid cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy. Folic acid helps in the building of antibodies which prevent and heal infections. It also plays a key role in the health of skin, hair and coat of your dog.

Garlic

Garlic provides the greyhound with many benefits. Garlic is a powerful antimicrobial and antibiotic and is effective in fighting various forms of internal and external bacteria, viral, or fungal infections, including parasites. Garlic can enhance liver function by helping the liver to eliminate toxins from the body is effective at preventing blood clot formation in the vascular system. It can also reduce cholesterol levels and fat build up in arteries. Therefore, in older greyhounds garlic proves to be an excellent cardiovascular tonic. Garlic will assist the immune system and will reduce colds, whilst keeping biting insects and flies away from their coats.

Iodine

Iodine is a trace mineral that converts to iodide in the body. It is an important component of Thyroxin. The body uses iodine in the production of thyroxin, an important hormone that increases metabolic rate and regulates growth. The condition of hair, skin, nails and teeth can be improved by consuming proper amounts of iodine.

Iodised Salt

Dietary iodine is needed to make essential thyroid hormones. Not enough iodine in the diet can lead to mental retardation and stunted growth. Good sources of iodine include iodised salt.

Iron

Iron is a vital mineral that is necessary for many functions in the body including formation of haemoglobin (red blood cells), brain development and function, regulation of body temperature, muscle activity and catecholamine metabolism. Lack of iron directly affects the immune system; it diminishes the number of T-cells and the production of antibodies. Iron is a component of myoglobin, the cytochromes, catalase and certain enzyme systems.

Iron is fundamental for binding oxygen to the blood cells. The central function of the iron is oxygen transport and cell respiration. Providing red meats for your dog provides the richest source of iron and is also the most readily utilised by the body.

Manganese

Manganese is an antioxidant nutrient that is important in the breakdown of amino acids and the production of energy. It is necessary for the metabolism of Vitamin B-1 and Vitamin E and it activates various enzymes which are important for proper digestion & utilization of foods.

Manganese is a catalyst in the breakdown of fats and cholesterol. It helps nourish the nerves and brain, is necessary for normal skeletal development, and helps to maintain sex hormone production and to regulate blood sugar levels.

Meat & Meat By-Products (derived from beef)

The benefits of using meat and meat by-products, is that it increases energy, provides essential fatty acids, improves the product palatability, enhances nutrient utilization (fat soluble vitamins), improves pet performance by promoting strong muscles and skeletal system. It can also contribute towards a healthier skin and coat for your dog.

Mutton

Mutton as a feed ingredient provides a great source of high quality protein. It contains unsaturated fats which is good for your dog. The zinc and iron concentrations found in mutton is more easily absorbed than from other sources. It helps with development and growth, healing and for maintaining a healthy immune system. Mutton is also a good source of B Vitamins, which is necessary for metabolic reactions in the body.

Niacin

Niacin (Nicotinic Acid / Vitamin B3) is a water-soluble vitamin that participates in many metabolic functions, all of which are important in the release of energy from carbohydrates. Niacin is essential in the metabolism of carbohydrates (to produce energy), fats, and proteins. Niacin works closely with vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, and biotin to break the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food down into energy.

Niacin also assists in antioxidant and detoxification functions, and the production of sex and adrenal hormones. Niacin lowers cholesterol by preventing its buildup in the liver and arteries. Niacin moves fat from tissues for fat metabolism, burning it for energy. It promotes healthy skin, the health of the myelin sheath (the protective covering of the spinal nerves), and good digestion, where it is also vital for the production of hydrochloric (stomach) acid. It is an aid in protecting the pancreas, and is necessary for the health of all tissue cells.

Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids play an important role in many significant physiological functions including blood pressure, blood clotting, nerve transmission, the inflammatory and allergic responses, the functions of the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and the production of other hormones. Every cell in the body is surrounded by a cell membrane composed mainly of fatty acids. The cell membrane allows the proper amounts of necesseary nutrients to enter the cell, and ensures that waste products are quickly removed from the cell. To perform all the functions optimally, the cell membrane must maintain its integrity and fluidity. By consuming omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, your pet's body cells will maintain water and vital nutrient intake needed for good health.

Pantothenic Acid (B5)

Pantothenic Acid, also known as vitamin B5, is part of the B complex. This vitamin is essential for a wide range of bodily functions, including the production of fats, neurotransmitters, hormones, haemoglobin, and other important molecules that are involved in growth, reproduction and normal functioning of the body.
Pantothenic acid also helps the body absorb and utilize vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and vitamin C.
The vitamin is a precursor of coenzymes that are part of important chemical reactions in the body necessary for the production of energy from food.

Phosphorous

By using phosphorous we enhance the nutritional value. Many people fail to realise that phosphorous is an essential mineral for human and animal life. Phosphoric acid is commonly used in dentists to assist in the cleaning of teeth. It is fundamental to growth, maintenance, and repair of all body tissues and is necessary (along with calcium and magnesium) for proper growth and formation of bones. In addition, the body utilizes phosphorous in protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, enzyme activation and as a component of nucleotides and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that helps the kidneys function normally. It also plays a key role in cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle contraction, making it an important nutrient for normal heart, digestive, and muscular function. A dietary intake of potassium may help in preserving bone mass.

Poultry by-product meal

Poultry by-product meal is used as a natural high source of protein. Poultry by-product meal usually consists of rendered parts of poultry carcasses, bones, meat and other poultry parts.

Selenium

Selenium is especially important in the body?s ongoing battle against free radical damage. In the body, selenium is the source of selenoproteins, which are essential anti-oxidant enzymes and are important in protecting the cells from the damage that unchecked free radicals can do. Selenoproteins also serve to strengthen the body?s natural immune system and also helps to produce anti-bodies.

Taurine

Taurine is necessary for proper maintenance and functioning of skeletal muscles. It is an essential dietary requirement for feline health which is beneficial for blood pressure. The absence of taurine in felines has been known to cause eye problems and slow degenerative retina damage that eventually can lead to permanent blindness (condition known as central retinal degeneration). Other problems associated with taurine deficiency is hair loss and tooth decay.

Vegetable oil

The use of vegetable oil is crucial for preserving the taste, aroma, vitamins and properties of the oven baked kibble. The beneficial health effects of using vegetable oil are due to both its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and its high content of anti-oxidative substances. The fatty acids play an important role in the rejuvenation of cardiac cells because they are essential fuels for mechanical and electrical activities of the heart.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A, is a fat soluble vitamin that helps form and maintain healthy teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, mucous membranes, and skin. It is also known as retinol because it produces the pigments in the retina of the eye. Vitamin A promotes good vision, especially in low light. It may also be beneficial for the purpose of reproduction and breast-feeding.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) is essential for the body to be able to use carbohydrate as an energy source as well as for metabolising amino acids. Vitamin B1 enhances circulation and optimizes cognitive activity and brain function. It is also essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system. As a coenzyme, thiamin plays a key role in energy production, conversion of glucose to fat. Every cell of the body requires vitamin B1 to form the fuel the body runs on, that is ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is required by the body to use oxygen and the metabolism of amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates. Vitamin B2 is further needed to activate vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), helps to create niacin and assists the adrenal gland. It may be used for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration, and growth.
Supplementing with Vitamin B2 may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of cataracts. Vitamin B2 is required for the health of the mucus membranes in the digestive tract and helps with the absorption of iron and vitamin B6. Although it is needed for periods of rapid growth, it is also needed when protein intake is high, and is most beneficial to the skin, hair and nails.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is fundamental for proper functioning of the cells of the nervous and muscular system. It aids in the production of DNA and RNA, the body's genetic material. B6 also helps in the movement of sulfur-containing molecules around the body, as that is very important for hormonal balance and elimination of toxic substances through the liver. It is required for the proper absorption of vitamin B12; as well as for the production of red blood cells (haemoglobin).

Vitamin B6 also helps increase the amount of oxygen carried by haemoglobin. B6 also acts as an "anti-stress" vitamin because it improves the activity of the immune system, and develops the body's ability to resist stressful situations. It helps maintain the health of the lymphoid system (thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes) that produces white blood cells in the body. Vitamin B6 is also very important for the conversion of tryptophan (an amino acid) to niacin (vitamin B3). B6 also helps maintain the blood glucose (sugar) within a normal range. When caloric intake is less, the body uses vitamin B6 to help convert stored carbohydrate or other nutrients to glucose to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin with a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and for the formation of blood. It is one of the eight B vitamins. It is involved in the metabolism of every cell of the body, especially affecting DNA synthesis and regulation, but also fatty acid synthesis and energy production.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, otherwise known as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is responsible for many functions in the body. Vitamin C works as an anti-oxidant and protects the body from free radicals, which can cause heart disease and cancer. It is responsible for producing collagen. Collagen is present in your bones and muscle, and is what holds al the bodily cells together.

Vitamin C is significant to the immune system, as it strengthens the body's immunity, as it helps with the healing process of wounds, scrapes and bruising.

It is interesting to mention that dogs treated with snakebite in the Australian bush are usually injected with Vitamin C. The vitamin being an antioxidant is required for the synthesis of collagen steroids and carnitine within the body. Vitamin C also assists in the maintenance of the immune system and in detoxification of various drugs and toxins by the liver. It is these benefits that may reduce the severity of the bite, however, just how effective high doses of Vitamin C plays in snakebites is unknown. Vitamin C should not be used as the sole treatment for snakebite. Vitamin C could be of added benefit during snake season.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that is essential for promoting calcium absorption in the stomach and maintaining adequate serum calcium and phosphate concentrations to enable normal mineralization of bone and prevent hypocalcemic tetany. Without sufficient levels of vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle or even misshapen. Vitamin D has other roles in human health, including modulation of neuromuscular and immune function and reduction of inflammation. Many genes encoding proteins that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis are modulated in part by vitamin D.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is essential for protecting body tissue from the damage of oxidation by neutralizing free radicals in the body that cause tissue and cellular damage. It is important in the formation of red blood cells and also contributes to a healthy circulatory system. Vitamin E is also vital for the prevention of cholesterol which can lead to heart disease. Promotes a strong healthy immune system.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin needed to produce blood-clotting factors, such as prothrombin, that prevent unchecked bleeding or hemorrhaging throughout the body. It also helps strengthen the body's bones and capillaries.

Wholegrain cereals (includes cereal by-products)

Wholegrain cereals are a rich source of many essential vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. The typical cereal food is: 
Low in saturated fat but is a source of polyunsatured fats, including omega 3 linolenic acid.

• Cholesterol free.
• High in both soluble and insoluble fibre and resistant starch.
• An excellent source of carbohydrates.
• A significant source of protein.
• A good source of B-complex vitamins, including folate.
• A good source of many minerals, such as iron, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and zinc.
• A good source of antioxidants and phytochemicals that can help lower blood cholesterol levels.

Wholegrain cereals contain many different phytochemicals that have been linked to significant health benefits. These phytochemicals include:

• LIGNANS: can lower the risk of coronary heart disease, and regress or slow cancers in animals.
• PHYTIC ACID:  reduces the glycaemic index (GI) of food, which is important as dogs and cats can get diabetes (diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus) just like humans, and helps protect against the development of cancer cells in the colon.
• SAPONINS, PHYTOSTEROLS, SQUALENE, ORYZANOL & TOCOTRIENOLS: have been found to lower blood cholesterol.
• PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS: have antioxidant effects.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in every cell in the body. It stimulates the activity of about 100 enzymes, substances that promote biochemical reactions in the body. Among its many functions, zinc helps maintain a healthy immune system, is needed for wound healing, helps maintain sense of taste and smell, and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, puppyhood, adolescence and throughout all the stages of your dogs adult life. Zinc has proven to be exceptionally helpful in the development of the reproductive system.