About Dr. Carol Hughes
Dr. Carol Hughes of Biome4Pets is a leading expert in the canine microbiome and and has studied profiles of dogs for over 14 years.
She did a gut microbiology degree course at Aberystwyth university, which was run by some of the world’s leading gut microbiologists and focused on the relationships between the bacteria and how the microbiome could be manipulated to improve health.
From that learning, Carol and her team began to further define Biome4Pets to focus on how to manipulate and restore the microbiome and make it resilient. This led into a further 4 years of research relating to inflammation of the microbiome, which still continues today. Carol has been involved in this area of research with Bangor and Aberystwyth Universities since 2009.
Founded in 2018, Biome4Pets is a leader in pet health innovation, applying microbiome science to enhance animal wellbeing. By integrating advanced research with practical, veterinarian-guided solutions, they help pets thrive. Central to their approach is one of the largest canine microbiome databases in Europe—not merely a number, but the bedrock of the precision and understanding behind their work.
Program
Day 1 – The science of the Microbiome and Canine Health
- Introduction to the canine microbiome: what it is, how it functions, and why it matters
- How the microbiome develops – early life colonisation, maternal transfer, diet, environment and antibiotics
- Microbiome diversity and resilience: what creates a healthy microbial ecosystem
- Dysbiosis: how modern lifestyle factors disrupt microbial balance
- The microbiome and immune regulation
- Links between the microbiome and chronic disease:
- Allergies and skin disease
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Chronic infections and immune dysfunction
- Diet as a primary driver of microbiome composition
Day 2 – Behaviour, clinical implications and practical interventions
- The gut–brain axis: communication between the microbiome, nervous system and immune system
- Microbial influence on neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA
- Implications for behaviour, stress responses, anxiety and cognitive function
- Understanding prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics: mechanisms and evidence
- Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT): emerging research, clinical use and limitations
- Interpreting microbiome testing: what it can and cannot tell us
- Practical strategies for improving microbial health in dogs through diet, lifestyle and targeted interventions
When?
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 February 2027
Location
de HALL
Korenmolenlaan 4
3447 GG Woerden
The Netherlands
www.dehall.nl
Centrally located in the Netherlands, near Utrecht. Easily accessible and free parking. Within walking distance of Woerden train station.
Registration
Please note the cancellation conditions (in Dutch) here.
