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Is your pet food causing your dog to have a potentially fatal disease?

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Could the food you are feeding your pets potentially be taking their lives? There's a chance, and many pet owners have no idea.

While you certainly would do anything to protect your dog, an investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found a possible link between certain dog diets and a deadly heart disease known as dilated cardiomyopathy,' also known as DCM.

A recent trend of feeding animals certain ingredients such as kangaroo, duck, and lamb, may be putting dogs at risk.

While you might think you can wait until symptoms of DCM begins to show themselves, this is likely to be ineffective. This deadly disease can go undetected for long periods of time. However, subtle symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and lethargy may indicate your pet has it.

If you are currently feeding your dog these foods or pet foods that contain them, it is suggested you consult your veterinarian to learn about the potential risks.