PawsAGoGo - Delivering Healthy Pet Products to your Door! 937.242.6679

Great Products - Great Prices - Raw Deal

2010-09-14T17:08:00.012-04:00

Vital Essentials is made with the finest ingredients that provide the essential, natural nutrition necessary for your pet's peak performance. Our nutritionally balanced raw pet food contains the optimum sources of dietary goodness and does NOT contain any fillers or grains.

BEEF INGREDIENTS
Beef, beef tripe, beef lung, ground beef bone, beef liver, beef heart, beef kidney, dried organic kelp, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, calcium carbonate, copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate, cobalt sulfate, choline chloride, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate (vitamin E), niacin, calcium pantothenate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, pyridoxine hydrochloride, biotin.

CHICKEN INGREDIENTS
Ground chicken with bone, chicken heart, chicken liver, dried organic kelp, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, calcium carbonate, copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate, cobalt sulfate, choline chloride, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate (vitamin E), niacin, calcium pantothenate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, pyridoxine hydrochloride, biotin.

GREAT DEAL:

60lb bulk boxes of 8oz patties (120 patties total) - only $150.00.

That's only $2.50 a pound for a complete, premeasured diet! This has all your lean meat, your bones for calcium, organ meat, kelp and vitamins!

FROZEN BEEF
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS:
Crude protein (min).......................16%
Crude Fat (min)............................. 10%
Crude Fiber (max)....................... 2.2%
Moisture (max)........................... 70.3%
Ash (max)...................................... 2.6%
Calcium (min)............................ 0.54%
Phosphorus (min)..................... 0.35%
Magnesium (max)..................... 0.03%

FROZEN CHICKEN
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS:
Crude protein (min)...................... 11%
Crude Fat, (min)........................... 9.5%
Crude Fiber (max)........................ 0.6%
Moisture (max).............................. 74%
Ash (max)...................................... 2.8%
Calcium (min) ............................. 1.3%
Phosphorus (min)..................... 0.43%
Magnesium (max) .................... 0.03%

Do you feed Pedigree???

2010-09-09T22:43:00.002-04:00

Have you ever looked at Pedigrees ingredients if you feed this food? Let me show you the beginning of the list....

Ground Whole Corn, Meat And Bone Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-product Meal, Animal Fat (preserved with BHA/BHT), Wheat Flour, Chicken, Rice, Dried Whole Peas, Dried Beet Pulp, Wheat Mill Run, Natural Flavor, Salt,

First - corn is a cheap filler and often a source of allergies for dogs. Corn products in dog food. The presence of corn products - particularly if they are high on the list of ingredients - may indicate that corn has been used instead of a more expensive alternative. About 25% of the corn produced in the U.S. today is genetically modified. Corn is more difficult to digest either by humans or dogs.

Followed by meat and bone meal - huh??? What kind of meat??? Roadkill? Skunk? Gerbil? Seriously - WHAT KIND OF MEAT???? and Bonemeal??? it's the bones from the animals they render for this food. Gross.

Corn Gluten Meal - Corn gluten meal in dog food. Corn gluten meal is a concentrated source of protein that can be substituted for costlier animal protein. In many bargain dry dog foods, corn gluten meal provides a large proportion or the total protein in the food rather than more digestible forms of protein such as meat.

Chicken by product meal - what is that? It could be anything including beaks, feathers, etc. It's NOT chicken or chicken meal. By products cause allergies. Meat by-products. Using an animal by-product (or more than one animal by-product) for a food's main protein source is indicative of a low-quality product. (i.e. chicken by-product). Animal by-products are any part of an animal not acceptable for human consumption. Ingredients listed as by-products are not required to include actual meat.

Generic fats or proteins. Animal fat can be just about anything; recycled grease from restaurants or an unwholesome "mystery mix" of fats. Animal protein is far inferior to beef protein or chicken protein.

Artificial preservatives. BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, and propylene glycol.

Wheat Flour - wheat is often a filler and a huge cause of allergies in dogs.

So as you can see, Pedigree is not a good food for your dog. Do your dog a favor and buy him/her an all natural food - you will feed less food, your dog will poop less (so easier yard cleanup) and your vet bills will be less. It's a win/win for you and your dog and your dog will love you for it!!!

Vital Essentials - all the ingredients you need for a rounded diet for your dog!

2010-09-09T00:28:00.001-04:00

Ingredients & Guaranteed analysis

Vital Essentials is made with the finest ingredients that provide the essential, natural nutrition necessary for your pet's peak performance. Our nutritionally balanced raw pet food contains the optimum sources of dietary goodness and does NOT contain any fillers or grains.
BEEF INGREDIENTS
Beef, beef tripe, beef lung, ground beef bone, beef liver, beef heart, beef kidney, dried organic kelp, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, calcium carbonate, copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate, cobalt sulfate, choline chloride, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate (vitamin E), niacin, calcium pantothenate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, pyridoxine hydrochloride, biotin.

CHICKEN INGREDIENTS
Ground chicken with bone, chicken heart, chicken liver, dried organic kelp, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, calcium carbonate, copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate, cobalt sulfate, choline chloride, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate (vitamin E), niacin, calcium pantothenate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, pyridoxine hydrochloride, biotin.

I have actually lost a dog because of Rimadyl... there are better alternatives

2010-09-09T00:12:00.002-04:00

QUOTE
Miracle Cure Can Be Deadly
The best-selling drug known as Rimadyl, which has enjoyed remarkable success as an anti-inflammatory medicine for pets, has been found to be deadly for some dogs, as witnessed by the FDA receiving more than 6,000 bad reaction reports about the drug manufactured by Pfizer. As a result, the FDA requested that Pfizer advise consumers in their advertising that death was a possible side effect. Pfizer refused and pulled their advertising, however they have included "death" as a possible side effect on the drug label. Plans call for a "Dear Doctor" letter to be issued to veterinarians and a safety sheet will be attached to pill packages.

Pfizer acknowledges a problem with some dog owners, especially the consumer group which mounted a campaign dubbed BARKS, for Be Aware of Rimadyl's Known Side-effects (including loss of appetite, wobbling, vomiting, seizures and severe liver malfunction). The drug company is reported to be contacting pet owners who have told their stories on the Internet, and is offering to pay medical and diagnostic expenses for some dogs who may have been harmed by Rimadyl.

Rimadyl sales continue to grow as does support from veterinarians. While the drug has proved helpful to many dogs with arthritis, it has proven deadly to some dogs. Make sure if your veterinarian prescribes Rimadyl that you thoroughly discuss the possible side effects so you can carefully monitor your dog's health. UNQUOTE

KANGEN WATER PT6 - Tiny.3gp

2010-09-07T23:35:00.000-04:00

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

2010-09-06T11:37:00.000-04:00

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Recalls,P&G Recalls Small Number of Bags of Cat Food From Stores in Loveland, Colorado

2010-08-30T14:55:00.001-04:00

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts P&G Recalls Small Number of Bags of Cat Food From Stores in Loveland, Colorado

2010-08-22T01:01:00.002-04:00

P&G at their best in usual - they shouldn't be in the pet business... seriously

2010-08-03T12:54:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: P&G Consumer Relations - 877-340-8823 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 877-340-8823 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
July 30, 2010

P&G Expands Voluntary Limited Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
CINCINNATI, July 30, 2010 - The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:PG) is voluntarily expanding its recall to include veterinary and some specialized dry pet food as a precautionary measure because it has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. No salmonella-related illnesses have been reported.

The following dry pet food products are included:

Product Name Version "Best-By" Dates UPC Codes
Iams Veterinary Dry Formulas All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes
Eukanuba Naturally Wild All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes
Eukanuba Pure All dry sizes and varieties 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes
Eukanuba Custom Care Sensitive Skin All dry sizes 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 All UPC Codes

The affected products are sold in veterinary clinics and specialty pet retailers throughout the United States and Canada. No canned food, biscuits/treats or supplements are affected by this announcement. A full listing of UPC codes can be found at www.iams.com.

These products are made in a single, specialized facility. In cooperation with FDA, P&G determined that some products made at this facility have the potential for salmonella contamination. As a precautionary measure, P&G is recalling all products made at this facility.

Consumers who have purchased the specific dry pet foods listed should discard them. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

For further information or a product replacement or refund call P&G toll-free at 877-340-8823 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 877-340-8823 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

(Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST).

About Procter & Gamble
Four billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers®, Tide®, Ariel®, Always®, Whisper®, Pantene®, Mach3®, Bounty®, Dawn®, Gain®, Pringles®, Charmin®, Downy®, Lenor®, Iams®, Crest®, Oral-B®, Duracell®, Olay®, Head & Shoulders®, Wella®, Gillette®, Braun® and Fusion®. The P&G community includes approximately 135,000 employees working in about 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

Media Contact: Jason Taylor 513-622-3205 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 513-622-3205 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

UPC CODES FOR P&G PET SPECIALTY PRODUCTS RECALLED ON JULY 30, 2010

EUKANUBA DOG BG PURE Item UPC
PURE TURKEY * 4 LB 0 19014 03191 7
PURE ADULT MAINTENANCE * 4.5 LB 0 19014 03958 6
PURE PUPPY GROWTH * 4.5 LB 0 19014 03949 4
PURE ADULT MAINTENANCE * 15 LB 0 19014 03953 1
PURE ADULT LARGE BRD * 15 LB 0 19014 03959 3
PURE PUPPY GROWTH * 15 LB 0 19014 03955 5
PURE TURKEY * 15 LB 0 19014 03192 4
PURE ADULT MAINTENANCE * 30 LB 0 19014 03952 4
PURE ADULT LARGE BRD * 30 LB 0 19014 03960 9
PURE PUPPY GROWTH * 30 LB 0 19014 03964 7
PURE TURKEY * 30 LB 0 19014 03193 1
EUKANUBA DOG CUSTOM CARE
CUSTOM CARE - SENSITIVE SKIN 5.5 LB 0 19014 01935 9
CUSTOM CARE - SENSITIVE SKIN 28 LB 0 19014 01936 6
EUKANUBA DOG DRY NATURALY WILD
ADULT SALMON & RICE 4 LB 0 19014 02780 4
ADULT TURKEY & MULTIGRAIN 4 LB 0 19014 02776 7
ADULT VENISON & POTATO 4 LB 0 19014 02783 5
ADULT SALMON & RICE* 9.5 LB 0 19014 02894 8
ADULT TURKEY & MULTIGRAIN* 9.5 LB 0 19014 02895 5
ADULT VENISON & POTATO* 9.5 LB 0 19014 02893 1
ADULT SALMON & RICE 15 LB 0 19014 02781 1
ADULT TURKEY & MULTIGRAIN 15 LB 0 19014 02778 1
ADULT VENISON & POTATO 15 LB 0 19014 02784 2
ADULT SALMON & RICE * 19 LB 0 19014 02897 9
ADULTTURKEY & MULTIGRAIN * 19 LB 0 19104 02898 6
ADULT VENISON & POTATO * 19 LB 019104 02896 2
ADULT SALMON & RICE 30 LB 0 19014 02782 8
ADULT TURKEY & MULTIGRAIN 30 LB 0 19014 02779 8
ADULT VENISON & POTATO 30 LB 0 19014 02785 9
All NATURALLY WILD SAMPLES 7 oz.
IAMS VETERINARY FORMULA CAT DRY BAG
WEIGHT LOSS RESTRICTED CALORIE 2 KG 0 19014 13720 6
INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE 5.5 LB 0 19014 15210 0
OPTIMUM WEIGHT CONTROL D 5.5 LB 0 19014 21305 4
RENAL MULTI-STAGE 5.5 LB 0 19014 21405 1
URINARY 0 - MODERATE PH/O 5.5 LB 0 19014 15510 1
URINARY S - LOW PH/S 5.5 LB 0 19014 14210 1
INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE 14 LB 0 19014 00859 9
WEIGHT LOSS RESTRICTED CALORIE 18 LB 0 19014 02236 6
URINARY S - LOW PH/S 20 LB 0 19014 14221 7
IAMS VETERINARY FORMULA DOG DRY BAG
INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE 5 LB 0 19014 12405 3
OPTIMUM WEIGHT CONTROL D 5 LB 0 19014 15105 9
WEIGHT LOSS RESTRICTED CALORIE 5 LB 0 19014 12205 9
RENAL EARLY STAGE 5.5 LB 0 19014 14410 5
JOINT 6 LB 0 19014 21006 0
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE FP 6 LB 0 19014 12106 9
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE KO 6 LB 0 19014 21106 7
PUPPY INTESTINAL LOW RESIDUE 8 LB 0 19014 12908 9
WEIGHT LOSS RESTRICTED CALORIE 14 LB 0 19014 12214 1
JOINT 15 LB 0 19014 21015 2
OPTIMUM WEIGHT CONTROL D 15 LB 0 19014 15115 8
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE FP 15 LB 0 19014 12115 1
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE KO 15 LB 0 19014 21115 9
INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE 15 LB 0 19014 12415 2
RENAL EARLY STAGE 15.5 LB 0 19014 02235 9
WEIGHT LOSS RESTRICTED CALORIE 28 LB 0 19014 12228 8
INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE 30 LB 0 19014 12430 5
JOINT 30 LB 0 19014 21030 5
OPTIMUM WEIGHT CONTROL D 30 LB 0 19014 15130 1
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE FP 30 LB 0 19014 12130 4
SKIN & COAT RESPONSE KO 30 LB 0 19014 21130 2
INT LOW RESIDUE BREEDER BAG 37 .5 LB 0 19014 12437 4
* Available in U.S. Only. All other SKUs are available in the U.S. and Canada.

CANIDAE Pet Foods - We Came to Party

2010-07-31T14:55:00.000-04:00

CANIDAE Pet Foods - Jigsaw

2010-07-31T14:29:00.000-04:00

Who Dat Dog??

2010-02-23T11:55:00.002-05:00

Notes from Dr. David McDonald..

2009-11-26T15:41:00.000-05:00

"Dr David McDonald , a medical doctor in private practice, president of the Liberty Health Group, involved in integrated medicine, served as a Lt Colonel in the Army ...spoke on the merits of Original Limu with no dollar interests, nothing to gain and speaking from his knowledge and research results only to educate people on achieving better health through a nutritional approach.

In America today , doctors have little nutritional training and don't want to put the efforts to do the research for many reasons and therefore cannot educate their patients on this subject. In 1920 , eating was enough to get what nutrients the body needs, but now , the soil no longer contains those nutrients so supplementation is absolutely a necessity. The powerful nutrients called antioxidants are the soldiers in our bodies that protect us against the onslaught of disease.

Limu Moui, a brown seaweed, is grown in an area virtually free on contaminants , soaks up all the nutrients of the sea which consists of many great minerals, polysaccharides, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and so much more. Taking all the supplements that are in Limu would be impossible. The colloidal suspension of the product in the liquid is easily absorbed by the body. A delivery system of dried fucoidan in a capsule simply will not work in the body as the Limu Moui does and that has been proven by cases where people have used the capsules. All seaweed is not created equal, Researchers in Canada found that the seaweed on the NW was heavily contaminated with heavy metals.

The Limu Moui is a perfect food that does not compete with anything else. It is in it's natural state and meets the body's needs perfectly. It addresses the root cause of the health issues in America today. Often the root cause is the same for many diseases and illness."

PawsAGoGo - Delivering Healthy Pet Products to your Door! 937.242.6679: My family's story this week with Limu

2009-11-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

PawsAGoGo - Delivering Healthy Pet Products to your Door! 937.242.6679: My family's story this week with Limu

My family's story this week with Limu

2009-11-26T14:54:00.003-05:00

Well, I did it - I finally signed up to be a distributor for Limu. ya!!!
David is on vacation this week and he wakes up Monday morning with the sniffles and a sore throat. David rarely takes vacation so we both said "you have GOT to be kidding!!!" I told him to do Limu immediately and double up on it - quickly! He listened - and by the next morning - his cold was gone. Today is Thursday and he's fine. Yesterday morning I woke up with the sniffles and listened to my own advice... I doubled up on my limu intake... this morning I was still sniffling a little bit, I did my usual blu frog (yummmm), an hour later did a shot of Origional Limu and now it's 3:00pm and no sniffles at all and I feel great.

I've made sure Victoria has been deligent about taking Limu since she's around kids all day long - last thing I need is for her to get sick. So far, so good! No sniffles, no sore throats nothing. If you are around kids all day, I'd definately recommend Limu!

Did you all know I had a puppy who had parvo when he was 6 weeks old? His name is Kody and he's half Weim and half Golden Retriever. Yes, you can believe he is sweet, soft and very golden, and a bit neurotic ROFL! But, knowing he had a rough start, and that parvo pups are prone to seizures when they get older, we do what we can to keep him healthy. He now gets Limu on top of his food daily. Did I mention it slows his eating down? He likes the taste (yes he told me) but for some reason, thinks about it more while eating LOL. I put Limu on top of his food but some dogs will just lick it out of a bowl straight!

Btw, I have a client who's BEAUTIFUL greyhound had throat cancer, had surgery for it, but think it's coming back. I told them about Limu and they will be giving her Limu for it's cancer fighting properties. I'll keep you updated on how that goes!

Ok, that's my family update on Limu for the week!

www.thelimucompany.com/petlover

What Limu has done for me (Marianne)

2009-11-26T14:32:00.002-05:00

After the success of Limu with my daughter and husband, I knew I had to try it. I started with Origional Limu and did at least one shot a day. I started noticing that I had more energy. Being that I deliver dog food all day, and have to lift sometimes 40 - 50 lbs at a time, over and over... I needed all the energy I can get throughout the day. THEN... I discovered that Limu now had BLU FROG... wow! I had never been into all those energy drinks out there ... knowing most of them are a hyped up version of Mountian Dew and sugar ... but the minute I saw it was by Limu, I was sold. I tried one and ordered a case immediately. I had tried things in the past that had energy boosters in them, etc and they made my heart race too bad - to the point that my doctor and myself both thought I was having a heart attack! (Considering my brother died two years ago from a heart attack, you can imagine my concern!) Limu's Blue Frog not once ever made my heart race. It just gave me some amazing energy - I could drink one in the morning with some form of protein (like a hard boiled egg), and be good to go all day! 10pm at night and I'm still going...

So what has this done for me? Well other than the energy levels, I am losing weight and my triglyceride levels are decreasing. I litterally have to remind myself to eat during the day and even then, have to make sure I eat enough for my body to be burning calories properly. It satisfies my hunger and cravings... I crave chocolate much less than I used to. (Wait - is that a good thing???) But, my body is reacting well to Limu. I've lost 24lbs so far, I'm not suffering from PMS and the days of me being depressed are getting better (hey it's been a rough two years since my brother died). The energy I have daily is amazing and I never had this kind of energy before. Will I continue on Limu? You bet...

Why my husband loves Limu

2009-11-26T14:18:00.003-05:00

After the miraculous disappearance of my daughters warts due to Limu, my husband decided he wanted to give it a try. He started on it and within a week or so, I noticed he was coming home with energy left over from the day. I wasn't having to beg him to do his "honey do " list. Now, I can name 30 women off the top of my head that would love just that aspect of it! He was energetic, fisky, wanted to have fun again instead of coming home and plopping in front of the tv. I noticed how much energy he was having - and wasn't dawning on me that it was related to the Limu. He pointed out he had been really good about taking Limu - and said "Perhaps it's the Limu" ... it clicked... well DUH! I said LOL... Thanks Limu!!!

www.thelimucompany.com/petlover

Why I believe in Limu

2009-11-26T13:54:00.002-05:00

Four years ago, we started noticing my daughter had a wart on her hand. One wart spread - two years later, she had 20. The doctor kept saying that her body would recoginize it as a foreign being in her body and fight it eventually. Well, it didn't. Keep in mind, my daughter loves natural food over junk food anyday - she loves veggies, fruits, etc. Offer my daughter a chocolate bar and she'll ask you for a tomato. So it's not like her body was full of toxins from foods, etc. She's good at washing her hands, etc. SO...

The doctor tells us to use some of the over the counter treatments... which entail putting salicylic acid based products, putting bandaids on them while that works, and praying it works. Well it did not. Imagine trying to keep bandaides on the hands of an active 9 year old girl. NOT.

Her next step was to have them frozen off.... I knew there had to be another solution. Besides being painful, it would not address the issue of the virus that caused these warts in her to begin with!

So, I brought home two bottles of Limu, put them in the fridge and requested my daughter try it. Well, after a few days, she noticed the warts starting to get smaller. This was encouraging enough to keep drinking it. Some days (ok probably most days), she only got one shot of it in her (2 ounces) but that was enough. She drank the two bottles (and loved the flavor!) and by the time she was finished with the two bottles, the warts were COMPLETELY gone. No scars, no pain, no bandaides.. just GONE. It's been two years now, and the warts are still GONE. No recurrance, nothing. Just nice looking hands that an 11 year old is not embarrassed to have around her friends ;)

So this is WHY we believe in Limu - I'll post more stories on why we continue to believe in Limu...
To get yours... follow this link www.disoverlimu.com/petlover

Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays - Pet Articles - Articles - Pet Travel Center

2009-11-21T16:34:00.000-05:00

Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays - Pet Articles - Articles - Pet Travel Center: "Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays

'Tis the season for glitter, tinsel, toys, and delectable food. But did you know all of these things can be hazardous — even deadly — to your pet?
Gift wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and faux snow are pretty to look at and may be particularly intriguing to your pet, but they can also be swallowed or caught around your pet's neck. Tree tinsel and small parts from children's toys can also end up in the wrong mouth and become lodged in the throat, causing your pet to choke to death.
Be sure to hang tree decorations out of reach, as ornament hooks can also be a choking hazard. And make sure your Christmas tree is well secured. Cats are inquisitive and love to climb. They can easily become entangled in strands of lights, knocking the tree over.
Holiday plants such as mistletoe, holly and poinsettia can be deadly to animals. Make sure these are well out of reach of pets. Holiday candles should also be kept out of harm's way.
While there may be plenty of food in your home this time of year, avoid feeding your pet things such as turkey or other types of poultry that may have bones. And never give your pet chocolate. A substance called theobromine is in chocolate and can be toxic to pets.
Be careful when winterizing your automobiles. Spilled anti-freeze can have a sweet taste to pets, but can be especially dangerous if ingested, even fatal. The location of other household chemicals should be checked to be sure they don't pose a potential hazard.
By keeping these tips in mind and using common sense, you can help keep your pets safe during the holidays."

Household Hazards

2009-11-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

Just like for a toddler, your home can be full of hazards for your pets. This is especially true if you have a new puppy or kitten, but even adult pets can get injured or ill in your home.

Flavored medications: Beware of flavored medications. While this may make administering medications to your pet (or your child) much easier, they are temptations for even the best behaved. If your dog eats his entire bottle of arthritis medication, he is not going to be pain-free for a longer time period, he is going to be SICK! Overdoses of even mild or over the counter medications can cause liver damage, kidney damage, upset stomach, and sometimes can be fatal.

Over the counter medications: While it may be tempting to try and treat your pet yourself until you can get an appointment with your veterinarian, avoid this temptation. Did you know that acetominophen (Tylenol) is lethal to cats? Cats lack an enzyme to break the acetominophen down into components that can be excreted from the body. The acetominophen damages the red blood cells in the body and if this damage is not treated immediately (within 3 hours after administration), your cat could die. Medications often contain hidden components. For example, Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate both contain salicylates, derivatives of aspirin. While an appropriate dog sized dose won’t hurt, excessive amounts could cause GI ulceration, the opposite of what you’re trying to accomplish. Also, cats can’t tolerate salicylates so don’t ever give them aspirin, Pepto, or Kaopectate.

Foods: Many people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but it is relatively unknown that some dogs may be susceptible to a grape or raisin toxicity. Though it is not yet fully understood, some dogs develop irreversible kidney failure after eating a snack of grapes or raisins. Another relatively unknown toxicity is onions or garlic. This potential toxin is much more dangerous to cats than to dogs, but can affect dogs as well. Cats that ingest onions or garlic can develop anemia, called Heinz body anemia. Check labels carefully, the use of baby foods that contain onion powder can cause this type of anemia. Garlic is more potent than onions for causing this syndrome.

String/yarn/curling ribbon: Cats are notorious for ingesting long stringy things. There are probably not very many practicing veterinarians out there who haven’t removed a linear foreign body, aka curling ribbon and the likes, from a cat’s intestinal tract. Occasionally, a loop of whatever stringy thing they are ingesting will get caught on the tongue, giving away the diagnosis. Sometimes, though, the diagnosis is slightly more elusive and radiographs may need to be taken. Unfortunately, if your cat is diagnosed with a linear foreign body, the only treatment is surgery. Even if the end is still in your cat’s mouth, pulling it out is not an option. Don’t ever fashion a cat toy from curling ribbon, you will be spending a small fortune on surgery, instead of a minimal amount on an appropriate toy!

Electric cords: These are not usually a problem except for puppies and maybe kittens. Puppies will sometimes chew on electric cords (what don’t they chew on??) if they are left unattended or don’t have an alternative to use for teething. The danger exists if the cord is plugged into the outlet. Electrocution is a real possibility. This is one of the many reasons that crate training your puppy is so beneficial, it not only keeps him from messing up your house, it keeps him safe and sound.

Plants: There are really just way too many plants that are toxic to pets to discuss them here. Some of the more common ones include most varieties of lilies, aloe plants, philodendron, and diffenbachia. If you have a pet that just won’t leave your plants alone, make sure to check with your veterinarian about potential toxicity. Maybe a friend that doesn’t have any pets would be willing to adopt your toxic plant.

Cleaning products: Most cleaning products are toxic to pets or people if they are ingested. Most pets won’t eat cleaning products because they taste bad. The internet rumor about the demise of a dog that licked its paws clean of Swiffer WetJet cleaning fluid is absolutely false. First of all, antifreeze causes kidney failure, not liver failure which was the cause of the dog’s illness. Second of all, all products that are used to clean have some sort of statement to this effect on the packaging. It is probably best to keep your pets (and kids) away from all cleaning products because they can certainly be irritating to the skin and mucus membranes and are certainly harmful if swallowed.

Antifreeze: While most people don’t keep antifreeze in their home, they may keep it in the garage. Antifreeze tastes sweet and many pets will be tempted to lick it up if spilled on the floor or leaking from a car. The metabolism of the antifreeze within the body causes severe kidney damage and failure. If you see your pet lick antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately, there is an antidote. Unfortunately if you don’t witness the event and your pet develops symptoms because of the antifreeze ingestion, it is usually too late to provide treatment.

There are many household items and products that can be hazardous to your pet. It is important that you check with your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Read the labels carefully and let your vet know everything that is in the product you are asking about. Better yet, take the product into the office and have your veterinarian look at it for you. Sometimes generic packaging can be confusing and multiple medications are often packaged into one convenient pill. This can be a huge problem for your pet. Protect your pets from household hazards, they’re depending on you for it.

Fat cats are not healthy cats

2009-11-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

I'm sure you saw pictures of "Princess Chunky", the 44 pound stray cat (male, despite the name) that made headline news after he was left at a shelter in New Jersey. Even if your cat is not even close to the size of this mammoth cat, a few extra pounds mean a lot for such a small creature.

Cats that are overweight are much more likely to develop joint problems and arthritis. Unfortunately, the medical options to manage these debilitating conditions are not available for cats as for dogs. Also, cats that do respond to treatment with various medications will respond even better if some of the excess weight is removed.

Overweight cats can develop Type II diabetes, just like overweight humans. These cats will respond to diet and exercise, but the weight has to come off or the diabetes will not be resolved.

While most cats don't take to a halter and leash for a walk around the block, some might. Some cats love chasing balls or laser pointers or feathers tied to sticks. Figure out which toy motivates your cat to move and make a point of exercising your cat daily. Some cat owners will build outdoor enclosures filled with climbing structures to encourage their cats to move around and play.

Start your cat's weight loss program with a trip to your veterinarian for a thorough checkup.

Winter Care

2009-11-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

Winter is a great time of the year with lots of fun to be had by all. However, there are some hazards associated with this special time of the year. This article will help you be more prepared for winter with your pets.

Extreme weather
Beware of extreme cold. Although your pets have a natural fur coat, they need shelter from wind and cold. This is even more important if there is any wet weather such as sleet or snow. Keep your pets indoors if you can. If not, make sure that you have a sturdy shelter built that your pets can get inside. It should be protected from the wind, dry, and insulated. Straw makes good bedding inside a doghouse. Cats are notorious for climbing inside cars to try and get to the warm engine block. Honk your horn prior to starting your engine to scare any cats that might be sleeping inside.

If there is snow on the ground, it can get stuck to the fur between your dog’s toes. The sensitive skin and pads on the bottom of the feet can be irritated and can even be frostbitten. Ears are also susceptible to frostbite, especially thin ears that stand up, such as Doberman Pinscher ears.

When it is very cold, water freezes quickly. If your pet lives outdoors, make sure that you buy a heated water bowl. You will still need to check the water frequently, to ensure that the heater is keeping it from freezing, but it will make your job of providing fresh, accessible water a lot easier. Frozen ponds can be a hazard also, especially on warm days when the ice may become thin. Just like for people, falling through the ice is particularly hazardous for animals. Hypothermia sets in rapidly. Some dogs are able to tolerate cold water in the winter, especially Labrador Retrievers that are used to swimming in cold weather.

Toxic substances
Antifreeze is an extremely dangerous substance for dogs and cats. Even a few licks of spilled antifreeze can cause kidney failure and death. When a pet drinks the antifreeze, it is absorbed through the gastrointestinal system into the bloodstream. When the kidneys attempt to filter the by-products of the antifreeze, it results in crystal formation in the kidneys. These crystals fill up the kidney tissue and damage it permanently. Keep pets away from any spilled antifreeze. If you suspect that your pet consumed some antifreeze, immediate veterinary attention is necessary. There are antidotes that can be given to counteract the effects, but they must be administered immediately after ingestion (or very soon after).

Some ice melt substances can cause illness if ingested, depending on the ingredients. They can also cause irritation to the skin and mucus membranes. If your pet comes into contact with one of these substances, contact your veterinarian to find out what to do. Make sure you have the label accessible so you can read the active ingredients to our vet.
Mistletoe is very toxic to pets, especially the berries. Make sure that any mistletoe that you use for decorating is well out of the reach of pets (and kids!). Symptoms of mistletoe ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and even convulsions.

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, two substances that are toxic to dogs in high amounts. Milk chocolate has low concentrations of these two substances, but baking chocolate is very concentrated. Even if a pet eats milk chocolate, they can still suffer from chocolate poisoning if they eat a large enough quantity. Even if they don’t have chocolate poisoning, they often suffer from vomiting and diarrhea associated with eating this high fat treat. Don’t leave dishes of candy on the coffee table for your pet to consume or you’ll likely be making an emergency trip to the veterinary office.

Holiday decorations, like tinsel or curling ribbon, are especially dangerous to cats. Cats will ingest these substances, which then can become lodged in their stomachs or intestines, causing severe illness. Often, surgery is required to remove these foreign bodies. This is usually quite expensive, and can be life-threatening.

Keeping your pets safe anytime of the year is your responsibility. Do your best to protect your pets from seasonal hazards and have a safe, happy holiday season.

Senior Cats need Special Care

2009-11-17T18:00:00.001-05:00

Is your cat getting older? With good care, cats can live into their late teens even twenties. The percentage of older cats in the US is increasing. Many cats, especially older cats, do not receive the preventive care that they need.

Older cats undergo some common changes such as behavior changes, decreased ability to digest nutrients, brittle nails and a decrease in the quality of the skin and coat. It is recommended that older cats get two checkups each year, at 6 month intervals. The reason for this recommendation is the more rapid aging that occurs in cats than in humans and the amount of changes that can occur over a 12 month period.

Diseases or medical conditions often begin developing during middle age and if detected early, are much easier to manage than if they are detected later in the course of the disease.Diseases that are commonly diagnosed in older cats may begin years before they are actually obvious to the casual observer. Lab testing can detect subtle changes that may lead to earlier intervention and better management of these diseases. Common diseases in older cats include: diabetes, chronic renal disease, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis.

Good quality nutrition is important to the overall health of your pet. Sometimes older cats will develop dietary intolerances to particular ingredients or foods and a diet change may be necessary. Remember never to "starve" your cat into a diet change, this can lead to fatty liver disease which is an extremely severe medical condition.

If your pet cat is middle aged or older, talk to your vet today about setting up a preventive health plan to keep your cat happy and healthy for years to come.

Dental Care for Your Pet

2009-11-16T18:00:00.000-05:00

Puppies and kittens are born with deciduous, or baby, teeth. These teeth tend to be very sharp and also somewhat fragile. They begin falling out at about 12 weeks of age, starting with the small front teeth called incisors. Many people do not notice when their pets lose their baby teeth because they are either swallowed or caught in a chew toy. Your veterinarian should examine your puppy or kitten's mouth at every check-up to make sure that the baby teeth are falling out appropriately. If an adult tooth comes in and the baby tooth doesn't fall out, this is called a retained deciduous tooth. This tooth can cause problems for the health of the adult teeth and needs to be removed. Retained deciduous teeth are commonly removed while your puppy or kitten is anesthetized for spay or neuter surgery.

The best way to prevent your dog or cat from developing dental disease as they get older, is to start young. Adult dogs have 42 teeth and adult cats have 30 teeth that need care and attention. Most puppies and kittens will allow their teeth to be brushed regularly to remove plaque before it turns to tartar. Pet dental kits are available to make this easier on everyone involved. Do not use your own toothpaste, because the foaming agent can cause your pet to have an upset stomach. Feeding a hard kibble diet, choosing appropriate treats, and brushing the teeth will help keep your pet's mouth healthy and fresh.

Does your pet have doggy or kitty breath? This may be a sign of dental disease. All pets have a distinct odor to their breath, affected by what they eat. This should not be a foul or offensive odor, though. If it is, there may be some underlying dental disease acting as the culprit. Look at your pet's mouth. If you see a yellow, orange, or brownish material stuck to the surface of the teeth, you are most likely looking at tartar. If the gums are red along the edge of the tooth, this is a symptom of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Visible tartar on the surface of the tooth is only part of the problem. If you can see the tartar, it is also on the surface of the tooth under the gum (where you can't see it). This is what starts the process of gingivitis. Inflamed gums bleed more readily than healthy gums. This can allow access of bacteria that live in the mouth into the bloodstream. If bacteria enter the bloodstream, serious health problems can result. Bacteria tend to settle on the heart valves (causing damage and murmurs), in the kidneys (causing renal compromise), and in the liver (causing hepatic disease). Gingivitis can be treated with veterinary care, but the more advanced disease called periodontitis is permanent. At this point, the structures supporting the teeth have been damaged and control is all that is possible. Prolonged dental disease makes these serious health concerns all the more likely, while increasing the chance of your pet losing teeth.

Regular veterinary care for your pet, including a dental exam, can stop the progression of dental disease. Routine dental prophylaxis involves general anesthesia (preceded by blood tests), ultrasonic scaling of the teeth, and polishing of the teeth. Sometimes antibiotics are used prior to, during, and after the procedure to help prevent bacteria from causing any illness. Antibiotic usage is usually determined on an individual basis and is based on the severity of the dental disease.
While some pets have healthy teeth and mouths for their entire lives without any dental care, most pets need regular dental care. For these pets, regular brushing (5-7 times per week), as well as regular veterinary care will help maintain good dental health. Take care of your pet's mouth to help keep him as healthy as he can be.

Should You Worry About Bird Flu and Your Pet Cat?

2009-11-15T18:00:00.000-05:00

Avian influenza H5N1 is still making headline news. A recent press conference given by United States Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns, Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton, and Secretary of Health and Human Services Michael Leavitt, indicated that the United States is monitoring the migratory bird populations very closely for the arrival of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the United States. There are many strains of avian influenza, but the current concern is over highly pathogenic avian influenza, or the H5N1 strain.

Early detection is the key to preventing the spread to commercial poultry operations in this country. Humans can only contract the disease from very close contact with infected birds or by consuming the uncooked meat of infected birds. Properly handling and preparing the meat of infected birds will prevent the transmission of the virus to human.
Cats are able to contract avian influenza by consuming infected birds. It is not yet very well understood whether or not dogs can become infected with the virus. Cats that are allowed outdoors will be more likely to catch a sick bird because of its limited ability to escape. If the bird is infected with H5N1, the cat can also become infected. The transmission of the virus from cat to cat is not well understood and it is thought that the virus can’t be passed from cat to human.

Avian influenza in its highly pathogenic form has the potential to mutate into a form that can be transmitted from human to human. BUT, avian influenza H5N1 in its current form is unable to be transmitted from one human to another, except in very rare circumstances.

In countries where H5N1 has been identified in the bird populations, it is being recommended that all pet cats be kept indoors at all times. This is not a bad recommendation in the United States either, where indoor cats have an expected life span of about 18 years and outdoor cats have an expected life span of about 18 months, not because of avian influenza, but because of other threats to their health and safety.

Pet Nutrition 102

2009-11-14T18:00:00.000-05:00

A follow-up to Pet Food Nutrition 101, this article discusses specific dietary features for specific groups and even for individual breeds of dogs and cats.

DOGS
Large and giant breed dogs, such as Mastiffs, Great Danes, and German Shepherds (to name a few) should be fed with several factors in mind. One is the risk of bloat for these dogs. There are no known ingredients linked to cases of bloat, except for one. Even in this case, very specific circumstances surround the link between bloat and citric acid. Some pet foods contain citric acid as a preservative. The only time this ingredient is problematic is when the food is fed soaked in water. When fed dry, there is not a correlation between citric acid and increased incidence of bloat episodes.

Your large or giant breed dog does not need to be fed a protein-restricted diet. This is a common misconception that can actually be harmful. Feeding a diet that contains adequate protein levels helps your dog maintain a lean body mass for ideal health and condition. Feeding quality protein sources in moderate levels, 20-28% is ideal. Fat levels should be low to moderate (8-14%), also to help these large dogs maintain a healthy body condition and lean body mass. This may vary based on activity level and age of your specific pet, ask your veterinarian.

Added nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, L-carnitine, taurine, and antioxidants may be beneficial to your big dog’s health. Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring substances that are found in healthy joints. When a joint is damaged or inflamed, glucosamine and chondroitin have additional activity in the joints to protect the cartilage. Feeding a diet that contains added levels of these nutrients may protect the vulnerable joints of large and giant breed dogs.

L-carnitine and taurine are two nutrients that are relatively new on the dog food scene. L-carnitine is a vitamin-like nutrient and taurine is an amino acid. Both are useful for maintaining proper heart muscle function. In some cases of dilated cardiomyopathy, taurine and L-carnitine may be used as a treatment. This disease is more common in large and giant breeds, particularly Doberman Pinschers, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds, and Great Danes.

We all know about antioxidants for our own health and the same applies for our dogs. Most of also know that antioxidants help protect the cells from normal aging changes. As we age, our rate of cell damage and death increases. This can partially be blocked by the usage of antioxidants. Because large and giant breed dogs age more rapidly than smaller dogs, they may benefit from early and higher levels of supplementation of antioxidants. Vitamin E and selenium are two of the most common antioxidants being bolstered in pet foods.

Schnauzers are susceptible to pancreatitis, much more than other breeds of dogs. Pancreatitis simply means inflammation of the pancreas. It is not necessarily caused by an infection, and usually is not. Pancreatitis is often triggered by the feeding of a high fat meal or something that the dog is not accustomed to. Schnauzers, however, may suffer from pancreatitis without an obvious trigger. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Veterinary attention is critical, this disease can be life-threatening. Feeding a lower fat diet may be helpful in preventing pancreatitis and any dog that has suffered from pancreatitis should be fed a low fat diet.

Boxers are known for their high incidence of various types of cancer, or neoplasia. Although we don't know of a cancer prevention diet, it may be helpful to feed a diet that is high in antioxidants and contains added omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are used in many cancer treatment programs and may have some protective effects.

Toy breed dogs and some small breed dogs have terrible trouble maintaining good dental health. This is due in part to the conformation of the mouth and teeth and in part to the thought that these tiny dogs simply can’t chew a dry kibble dog food. Encouraging these tiny dogs to chew up their kibble will help scrape the surface of the teeth, removing plaque before it can become tartar. There are plenty of small enough dog foods out there that even the tiniest of dogs should be able to chew and swallow appropriately.

Bedlington Terriers are a relatively uncommon breed, but suffer at a very high frequency from copper storage disease. This genetic disease causes an abnormal build-up of copper within the liver. All diets contain copper, in excess of the level that these dogs can eliminate it. Diet will have very little effect on this disease.

Many small breeds have a higher incidence of mitral valve heart disease, especially as they get older. This disease eventually progresses to cardiac insufficiency and failure. There are not any dietary guidelines for preventing the disease, but restricting the sodium intake once congestive heart failure has developed will help make the treatments more effective.

CATS
There are not too many diet responsive diseases in cats that are specific to individual breeds, but there are some worth mentioning. Persian and Himalayan cats are more likely to form calcium oxalate stones than other breeds of cats. Dietary prevention of these stones is accomplished by feeding a diet with moderate calcium and magnesium content and by alkalinizing the urine. However, most adult cat formulas are formulated to acidify the urine. Kitten formulas are not acidified, and may be a good option for your Persian cat. Persian cats are also more likely to suffer from a genetic disease called polycystic kidney disease, or PKD. Diet will not prevent this disease, but feeding a high quality prescription diet for kidney health may be recommended for these cats.

Hairballs affect many cats. Longhaired cats are more likely to suffer from chronic hairball disease, but any cat can suffer from this disease. When cats groom, some of the hair is removed and swallowed. The hair stays in the esophagus or in the stomach and causes irritation, until it is vomited back up. Fiber ingredients can greatly decrease the incidences of hairballs. Insoluble fiber ingredients like powdered cellulose, bind the hair in the stomach and pull it through the intestinal tract. The hair is passed out in the stools, and is not vomited up.

FLUTD, or feline lower urinary tract disease, is a common problem affecting many cats of all breeds. This disease has many factors that contribute to it. Stress in the environment, including any changes, often induces the disease in susceptible cats. Diet changes are one of the physical stress events that can instigate the disease. Feeding a diet that keeps the urine pH moderately acidic and has controlled magnesium content will be helpful, but not wholly preventative. Offering multiple water sources, including fountains and maybe even canned food will help even more. Maintaining an environment that is as low-stress as possible will benefit the susceptible cat. Breed specific nutrition is not a common concept, as some dogs or cats of all breeds need diets to address certain medical or health conditions. However, working with your veterinarian will help you select the most wholesome diet for your pet’s lifelong health and wellness.

Pet Nutrition 101

2009-11-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what the best food to feed your pet is? Or even how to choose from the many options available today? Well, this article is designed to help explain the important nutritional features of a good quality diet. Feeding a good quality food will have a positive impact on the health of your dog or cat.

It is often said that “Pets use the nutrients in the food, not the ingredients.” This is quite true, but the ingredients provide the nutrients, so these are important as well. Having a basic understanding of pet nutrition and the nutrients provided by various ingredients will help you make an educated decision on which diet is best for your pet. Don’t forget, though, that a diet that has a perfect label or apparently perfect nutritional content may not necessarily work for you pet. Don’t despair, a little trial and error will help you find the best food for the health of your cat or dog.

The guaranteed analysis is a required part of the pet food package. This must list the protein, fat, fiber and moisture content in the food. It is important to know these values, but other important nutrients don’t have to be listed. These include ash, calcium, phosphorus, and fatty acids. When examining a pet food package, notice how many nutrients are guaranteed. A diet that has many guaranteed nutrients, above and beyond the four required, is a higher quality, more consistent product.

For example, ABC Kibble may have a guarantee of the following: 21% protein minimum, 9% fat minimum, 4% fiber maximum and 10% moisture maximum. As you can see, this doesn’t tell you a whole lot about the food inside the bag. The protein content of a food is expressed as a minimum value. This means that the food in this bag has at least 21% protein. Most foods stay relatively close to their minimum expressed on the package. So, it is unlikely the ABC Kibble has 30% protein, but probably has 21-22%. Fat is also expressed as a minimum, while fiber and moisture are expressed as maximums.

Protein is important for the overall health of your dog or cat. Proteins are broken down into amino acids during digestion. The individual amino acids have unique and essential roles within the body. Arginine, leucine, and phenylalanine are a few examples of amino acids that are essential for dogs and cats. Taurine is an amino acid that is essential for cats, but must be supplemented, as most protein sources don’t contain high enough amounts to meet cats’ needs. Without taurine, cats can develop blindness and heart failure. This is one of the primary reasons that cats should eat cat food and not dog food, as many dog foods do not have added taurine.

Meat proteins provide a more ideal amino acid profile than do grain proteins, such as soybean meal or corn gluten meal. However, vegetable protein sources are sometimes used to supplement meat proteins because of their low ash content, especially when the meat protein is high in ash.

Look at the label for a dry protein source, or a meal. Fresh meats provide less than 20% protein to a dry diet because of the high moisture content. So, fresh meats are great because they are low in ash and improve the taste of the food, but need to be supported by a dry protein source. Chicken by-product meal is the lowest ash meat protein source available. It is made from the internal organs of chickens as well as a small amount of meat and bone. Chicken meal is higher in ash, being made from rendered chicken necks and backs, including the bones. Lamb meal is higher in ash than chicken meal, as the bone content is higher. Finally, meat meal (or meat and bone meal) is the highest ash ingredient, and considered to be a poor quality ingredient.

Fat is another critical nutrient for a dog or cat's overall health. Most fat sources provide high levels of omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are essential nutrients for maintaining healthy skin. However, high levels of omega-6 fatty acids can be detrimental to the health of your pet, when they are not balanced with omega-3 fatty acids. Look for sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, fishmeal, and flaxseed. When omega-6 fatty acids are not balanced with omega-3’s, they promote inflammation within the skin, joints, and gastrointestinal tract.

Not all fibers are "fillers" as many people think. Carefully selected fiber sources are vital for the health of the gastrointestinal system. Some sources of fiber, such as beet pulp and chicory root, actually enhance the health of the GI tract by providing energy to the cells of the colon and the “good” bacteria that reside throughout the GI tract. These ingredients are often referred to as “prebiotics”.

FYI: Did you know that all of us (humans as well as pets) have some “bad” bacteria, such as E.coli and Salmonella, residing within our GI tract? The numbers are kept very low by the “good” bacteria, except when something disturbs this normal balance. Feeding a diet that contains a prebiotic, such as dried chicory root, helps maintain this normal balance. When a pet suffers from diarrhea, we often will detect these pathogenic organisms in higher than normal numbers. This does not necessarily mean that your pet ate something that contained these bad bugs, but simply that the normal flora of the GI tract was upset and the “bad” bacteria were allowed to overgrow.

Moisture is not really a nutrient of importance to your pet, but simply a factor within the food. The only time moisture is of real concern is if it is too high in a dry pet food. Elevated moisture levels may allow mold to grow within a bag of food, obviously not a desirable situation. No pet food can be 100% dry matter. The moisture value is used to calculate the dry matter content of nutrients within a food. This way, we are able to compare the total nutrient content of various foods on an equal basis, called the dry matter basis. For example, if a food contains 8.5% moisture and 20% protein on an as-fed basis, then this same food contains 21.9% protein on a dry matter basis. You can use dry matter values to compare foods with differing moisture content, such as a dry food versus a wet food.

Ash and the minerals associated with ash may not be included on the packaging, but are vital to the health of your pet. Ash is the non-combustible part of the diet. So, when the food is put in an ash oven, and cooked at a high temperature, the ash is what is left. It is made up of minerals, particularly calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These minerals come mostly from the bone content of the dry meat protein sources.

We already mentioned that chicken by-product meal is the lowest ash meat protein source, and meat and bone meal is the highest ash meat protein source, so you can ascertain that diets made from chicken by-product meal have lower ash content than diets made from meat and bone meal.

High ash pet foods will not only be less digestible, resulting in greater feeding amounts and more waste in the yard or litter box, but also may be detrimental for the health of your dog or cat. Phosphorus content of high ash diets will be high and high phosphorus can damage the kidneys. Because kidney disease is a very common disease affecting pets today, and because it is difficult to detect kidney disease until it is quite advanced, it is important to do all that we can to protect the health of our pets’ kidneys. Check the phosphorus content of your food before you buy. For an adult dog, look for diets containing 0.8%-1.0% phosphorus, the lower the better. For adult cats, 0.7%-0.9% is a good value to look for. If it is not included on the package, contact the manufacturer to find out what the amount is.

Vitamins and minerals are very important to your pet’s health. Because most pets eat the same food everyday, it is important that the food meets all of their needs. Most pet foods are formulated to meet or exceed the minimum nutritional requirements of vitamins and minerals. Inspect the packaging to see if there are guarantees for any of the critical vitamins or minerals.

Calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin E are some important nutrients that you should watch for. Calcium and phosphorus should be present in controlled amounts to protect the health of the organs, especially the kidneys. Selenium and vitamin E are important antioxidants that protect the health of the immune system and all of the cells within the body from oxidative damage (normal effect of daily metabolism).

Non-essential, but beneficial ingredients are garnering a lot of attention these days. Beta-carotene, lycopene, L-carnitine, taurine (for dogs), and glucosamine and chondroitin are just a few nutrients that are beginning to appear on pet food labels.

Beta-carotene and lycopene are antioxidants that most people have heard of in regards to their own health. They have the same beneficial effects as other antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin E, namely to protect the cells of the body from oxidative damage. The long term benefits are thought to include: a healthier immune system, a healthier heart, and cancer prevention.

L-carnitine is a vitamin-like nutrient that serves several purposes. It is thought to protect the health of the heart while also helping the body convert fat to energy.

We already discussed taurine, an essential amino acid for cats. However, many people do not know that some dogs may also benefit from taurine supplementation. Taurine may protect some dogs from a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (most dogs don’t require this nutrient as they manufacture taurine from two other amino acids: cysteine and methionine). Lamb tends to be lower in cysteine and methionine than other protein sources, so manufacturers are now adding taurine to lamb based diets.

Finally, glucosamine and chondroitin are added as joint care nutrients. These two substances are present in healthy cartilage and are diminished when there is damage to the joints. They may be able to help repair and soothe damaged cartilage and diminish joint pain. If these nutrients are included in the ingredient panel, look for a guaranteed amount in the Guaranteed Analysis, to ensure that there are adequate amounts being added to the food.

Pet food companies are not trying to confuse or mislead you, but they are trying to sell their product. Making a package look pretty may take the place of providing critical information. However, any reputable pet food company should be willing to talk with you regarding the nutrient content in the foods they manufacture. Request the full nutrient specifications to help you decide if a particular food meets your pet’s needs. The internet is a great place to gather information, but be critical of the information you read. Anyone can put anything on the web and what is there may not necessarily be accurate.

Reputable companies formulate their foods for the best health of your dog or cat.

Depending on what breed of dog or cat that you have, there may be specific nutrients that are important to watch for. Read our companion article, Pet Nutrition 102, to learn more about specific nutrient requirements for some of the individual breeds of pets.

Nutrition for the Cancer Patient

2009-11-12T18:00:00.000-05:00

Cancer is a disease that most of us are familiar with. We are either survivors or know someone who is a survivor or someone who lost the battle with this dreadful disease. Most of the cancers that affect people can also affect our beloved furry companions. As dogs and cats live longer and longer, they are more likely to develop cancer.

Recently, investigations into dietary effects on the survival of pets battling cancer have been made. There is some interesting study about certain cancers and how they are affected by nutrition.

Pets with cancer often develop a condition called cancer cachexia. This simply means that the pet is losing body condition despite adequate calorie intake. Pets that are undergoing chemotherapy may not feel very well and may not eat as well as they should. Chemotherapy in pets is much different than it is for humans. Much lower doses are used so they don’t lose their hair and are seldom ill with vomiting. Keeping pets that are ill (no matter what is causing their illness) in good body condition helps them recover more quickly.

Composition of the diet plays a role in this equation. Cancers are most able to use carbohydrates as an energy source, so low carbohydrate diets are best for cancer patients. Diets are made up of protein, fat, moisture, ash, fiber, and carbohydrates. In traditional pet foods, carbohydrates make up the biggest percentage of the diet. If we lower the percentage of carbohydrates, we must add higher percentages of some other category or categories. We don’t want to raise the ash or fiber, so this leaves protein, fat, and moisture. Most dry pet foods are less than 10% moisture to help prevent mold from developing in the bag. So, raising the moisture is not really an option either. Protein and fat are typically the two nutrients that are present in higher quantities. This helps the patient by restricting carbohydrates that are available to the cancer. Increasing the fat content helps provide more calories to the pet to help prevent cancer cachexia. Fat is also the nutrient that cancer cells are least able to use for energy.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for keeping many systems of the body in ideal condition. These important substances are known to inhibit the growth of tumors and enhance the body’s ability to fight the cancer by stimulating the immune system. Many pet foods contain ratios of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids of 5:1 to 10:1. Recommended for cancer patients is a ratio as low as 3:1. Therefore, a supplement of omega-3 fatty acids may be required.

Arginine is an amino acid that is essential for cats and conditionally essential for dogs. This means that cats must obtain arginine from their diets, while dogs require it in their diets only in certain situations. Cancer may just be one of those situations. Arginine enhances the immune system by stimulating T-cells (one of the types of cells that is responsible for attacking foreign invaders). The mechanism behind this is not very well understood. Arginine may also suppress tumor growth, like omega-3 fatty acids.

Vitamins may affect cancer as well, particularly the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E. The Vitamin A family may be responsible for impeding the cancer’s ability to develop new cells. Vitamin C is a water- soluble vitamin that has been studied extensively. Despite the numerous studies, there is little scientific proof that vitamin C is as effective as many people believe. Vitamin E is the most promising of the three vitamins, with scientific proof that it interferes with cancer and enhances the immune system.
Minerals have beneficial and detrimental effects on the cancer patient. Selenium and zinc have the ability to block the development of cancer in rodents. Iron is required by most cancers to grow and multiply. So, restricting iron intake may help slow the process.

It is critical to provide the patient with adequate calories and nutrition to maintain body condition. This may not be possible without other methods of feeding (besides oral). Tubes can be placed into the esophagus, stomach, or directly into the small intestine to provide nutrients directly to the gastrointestinal tract. This is especially true in cases of mouth cancer or facial cancer. Working closely with a veterinarian to develop a treatment plan is critical. Focusing on nutrition is just as important as the surgical or medical treatments that are involved.

Nutrition and Care for Your Senior Dog

2009-11-11T18:00:00.000-05:00

Older dogs have special nutritional needs. Feeding mature dogs a diet that is specifically designed to meet these needs will help them live longer and healthier.

Changing Energy Requirements

During the adult years, your dog’s required calorie intake will very likely decline. Feeding a diet that has less fat and fewer calories will help maintain a healthy body condition.

L-carnitine is a vitamin like nutrient that has some marvelous effects within the body. Not only is it responsible for helping to regulate blood sugar, it helps the body convert fat into energy. This is beneficial for helping your older dog stay lean and fit.

In recent studies, lean body condition throughout life is directly linked to the length of life and to the quality of life. Keeping your dog lean will help him live longer and healthier. Follow the feeding guidelines on the package closely and take into account all extras, such as biscuits or table food or chew treats. Make sure you subtract the calories included in these extras from your dog’s daily energy requirement. Your veterinarian will be able to help you calculate your dog’s daily calorie requirement.

Protecting the Body from Aging Change

Antioxidants have captured a lot of media attention recently. As our pets metabolize the food that they consume, their bodies produce free radicals. Free radicals are oxygen particles that have an electronic charge attached. As our pets get older, the formation of free radicals increases.

The problem with the increase in free radicals is that these pesky particles charge around within the body and damage healthy cells. While we are unable to stop the aging process with antioxidants, we can counteract some of the damage being done by free radicals. Antioxidants are very effective at neutralizing the free radicals, making them unable to damage the healthy cells.

Two of the most prominent antioxidants in pet nutrition are vitamin E and selenium. Feeding a diet that contains both of these important antioxidants is beneficial for your maturing dog.

Controlling Arthritis Pain

Another ailment that commonly plagues our mature dogs is arthritis. There are many medications that can help relieve the pain of arthritis, but there are also some effective natural therapies.

Glucosamine and chondroitin have been studied and proven to be effective in alleviating the discomfort of mild arthritis. These naturally occurring compounds help block inflammation within the joints and help keep the joint fluid healthy, providing proper cushion within the joint. Feeding a diet that contains glucosamine and chondroitin may allow you to improve your dog’s mobility without administering a daily supplement.

Heart Healthy

We already mentioned L-carnitine and its ability to help the body convert fat into energy, promoting a lean body condition. Another feature of this nutrient is its ability to help the heart muscle work more efficiently, which is particularly important in older dogs.

Taurine is an amino acid that is required by cats. We have recently learned that some dogs may also have a dietary requirement for taurine.

Dogs manufacture their own taurine from two other amino acids, cysteine and methionine. Some dogs are less efficient at using these two amino acids to make taurine, and may require more of these two amino acids to make enough.

Lamb is lower in cysteine and methionine than other protein sources. So, when you have the combination of a dog that is inefficient at manufacturing taurine and a diet that is made from lamb, you may end up with a taurine deficient dog. Taurine deficiency in dogs causes the same type of heart disease that it does in cats, dilated cardiomyopathy or DCM.

The Magic of Fatty Acids

Fatty acids play a role in several aspects of ideal nutrition. Omega-6 fatty acids are present in all pet foods, contributed by the primary fat source (such as chicken fat). Omega-3 fatty acids have to be provided by a special ingredient, and because they are not listed as a required nutrient by AAFCO, many pet food companies do not add an omega-3 fatty acid source.

Flaxseed is a natural plant source of omega-3 fatty acids. This ingredient should be added at the appropriate level to produce the ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. This ratio lies between 5:1 and 10:1.

Many people know that fatty acids help keep the skin and the hair coat healthy. What people often aren’t aware of are the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on other systems within the body. Omega-3 fatty acids can control inflammation in the skin that is associated with skin allergies. They also can help control joint inflammation associated with arthritis, promote healthy kidney function, and may have a role in the prevention of some cancers.

A Healthy Gut

A dog with a healthy gastrointestinal system will enjoy better overall health. The right types of fiber in the right amounts will help your mature dog have a healthier gut.

Dried chicory root and beet pulp are also known as prebiotics. The digestion of prebiotics produces short chain fatty acids, or SCFA’s. These SCFA’s serve as the energy source for the cells in the intestines as well as for the beneficial bacteria throughout the digestive tract.

As dogs age, their ability to digest certain nutrients may be compromised. With the inclusion of ingredients such as dried chicory root or beet pulp, mature dog formulas will help your older dog have a healthier digestive system.

Feed Your Senior Dog for Optimal Health

Protect the health of your maturing dog with good nutrition and good veterinary care. Senior check-ups are recommended at 6-month intervals. Your veterinarian will be more likely to detect a health problem and correct it before it becomes more serious if you are taking your pet in for a veterinary visit at least two times a year.

Holiday Doggie Cookies!

2009-11-10T23:43:00.003-05:00

Folks, these doggie cookies smell and taste as good as they look! Great to reward your doggies or as gifts for loved ones! These come boxed just like you see them and are wonderful stocking stuffers!!! Buy them for your dogs, coworkers, YOUR BOSS!!! People love it when you remember their pets!!! Order early though - these will go fast! www.PawsAGoGo.com

Obesity in Pets - What Can You Do?

2009-11-10T20:25:00.004-05:00

Is your pet overweight or even obese? Obesity in pets is an epidemic that mirrors the problem in the human population. Data gathered in 2002 by the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that 40% of pet dogs in the United States were either overweight or obese. More recent data gathered about middle aged pets (those between 5 and 12 years of age) suggests that in this group, the number is 50% or higher. Unfortunately, many pet owners do not recognize that their pet is not in ideal body condition.

Obesity is harmful to the health of your pet dog or cat. When pets are obese, their fat cells actually product substances that increase inflammation within the body. This is especially detrimental within the joints and can contribute to the breakdown of healthy joint cartilage. In some breeds of dogs, this excess weight can contribute to orthopedic problems such as ruptured cruciate ligaments in the knees and disk disease in the back. These problems require surgical correction and recovery is more difficult because of the extra weight that the dog is carrying.

Overweight and obese cats are more likely to develop diabetes than cats that are in ideal body condition. This occurs because the fat cells in obese cats produce a hormone that is responsible for the inability of the body to properly respond to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Just like overweight humans, overweight cats can develop diabetes that is responsive to weight reduction and dietary management. These cats may not require insulin therapy once their weight is decreased.

So, what is the best approach to managing your pet’s body condition? The first step is to enlist the help of your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can teach you how to evaluate your pet’s body condition. The ideal is lean body condition. Because we are so accustomed to seeing our overweight pets, we may think that our overweight pets are ideal and our pets that are in perfect body condition are too “skinny”. The ribs should not be visible, but should be very easily felt when running your hands along your pet’s ribcage. From the side, your pet should have a tucked up abdomen (no flab hanging down from that kitty’s belly) and if your pet is standing up and you are looking down on them, there should be an obvious waist between the end of the ribcage and the beginning of the hips. If your pet is found to be above the ideal body condition score, your veterinarian can help by calculating the required calorie intake for your pet to achieve the ideal condition. The point that is critical to understand is that on a 9 point body condition scale, a 5 is ideal and every point above 5 indicates a 10-15% increase over ideal. Obesity is diagnosed when a pet is more than 20% over ideal and it is quite possible that pets are not recognized as obese when they truly are.

Modification of your pet’s diet, along with increased activity, should help your pet return to a healthier condition in short order. It is very important for you to record all foods that are being fed to your pet, and I mean ALL! Weight gain occurs when calories that enter the body are greater than calories that are being utilized. This is a simple concept that seems to be quite difficult to understand. Your veterinarian will be able to calculate the proper number of calories that your pet should consume in order to lose weight. Unfortunately, this number may need to be modified to individualize the program to your pet so be patient if immediate success is not achieved. Diet change to a low calorie, weight-reducing diet will likely be necessary to achieve desired results. High protein, low carbohydrate formulas are especially useful for weight management in cats, but may also help overweight dogs.

Increasing your pet’s activity is very beneficial. However, some pets are so overweight, that any exercise is a real challenge. In some areas, water therapy and water exercise might be an option. Sometimes diet and exercise need just a little help. Well, help will soon be available in the form of new medication. Slentrol, being launched by Pfizer Animal Health, worked in a clinical trial (combined with diet and exercise) to reduce weight by 11% in one half of the participating dogs. It is important to change your dog’s diet prior to beginning the medication. Slentrol suppresses your dog’s appetite and will decrease food intake by 50%. In most dogs, it did cause vomiting, but this side effect was usually mild and limited to one or two episodes. Also, many of the dogs in clinical trials did have mild liver enzyme elevation, which resolved when the medication was discontinued. Your dog should receive a complete physical examination and prescreening labwork prior to beginning the medication. The therapy can continue for up to a year.

Omega Fatty Acids and Your Dog and Cat

2009-03-08T18:27:00.002-04:00

THE SHORT VERSION...What Are Omega Fatty Acids?Omega fatty acids are in a class of dietary fats that have highly significant effects on the individual consuming them. They are composed primarily of carbon and hydrogen with a small amount of oxygen. Fatty acid requirements of felines are slightly different from the canine’s but both depend upon high quality fat sources in their diets. Over the past twenty years a tremendous amount of research on humans and animals have proven that Omega fatty acid intake in proper ratios and quantities effects a wide range of biochemical actions. Clotting factors, neurological development, cell membrane integrity and function, immune competence, energy generation and fat metabolism are just some of the metabolic activities directly affected by Omega fatty acids.

Omega3 fatty acid, Omega6 fatty acid and Arachidonic acid are the three main fatty acids impacting the health status of dogs and cats. Dogs must eat Omega6 fatty acid in their food in order to survive; and from this single source the other two fatty acids can be created within the dog. Cats need both Omega6 fatty acid and Arachidonic acid and according to some nutritionists they even require an Omega3 fatty acid in their diet in order to survive.

What Are The Sources Of Omega Fatty Acids?
Omega-6 fatty acid is found in safflower, sunflower, corn and evening primrose oils and Borage oil. Linoleic Acid, which is one kind of naturally occurring Omega6 fatty acid, is found in common pet-food ingredients such as corn and chicken fat and is a required nutritional component of the canine and feline diet. Omega3 fatty acids are derived from plant and animal sources. Fish oils, especially cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and herring, and in animals that feed on these fish, are the primary dietary sources of Omega3 fatty acids. Omega3 fatty acids are also found in oils from some plants such as canola and flaxseeds. Walnuts, freshly ground wheat germ, and soybeans also contain significant amounts.Arachidonic Acid (AA), an essential fatty acid for felines, is present in some fish oils, pork fat and poultry fat.Sources of both Omega3 and Omega6 fatty acids are dried beans such as great northern, kidney, navy and soybeans. Certain fish are very rich in EFAs. The body can convert EFAs from fish more easily than fatty acids from other sources.

What Do Fatty Acids Do In The Body?
Fatty acids are precursors to many highly active and influential chemicals that play a role in modulating a variety of biochemical pathways. Immune function, energy production and utilization, cell membrane strength and function, reduction and/or stimulation of inflammation are but a few of the activities attributed to derivatives of fatty acids. The production of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins and eicosanoids has profound effects on the health status of the dog and cat… and human.

Why Are They Important?
Without certain fatty acids in the diet mammals simply would not survive; they are as essential to life as water or oxygen. Only through ingestion of a select few fatty acids in the diet are dogs, cats and us able to live and thrive. Conversely, if only poor quality fatty acids are available via the diet, or if high quality fatty acids are present but in minimal amounts or in improper ratios dogs, cats and humans will not thrive. No truer phrase has been uttered than that which states, “we are what we eat” when it comes to the influence fatty acids have on health status. Provide your dog or cat a diet that has low levels of fatty acids, or poor quality fatty acids, or fatty acids that have been degraded by exposure to air, high temperatures or harmful chemicals and the animal will surely suffer the consequences. Research has demonstrated that changes in the dietary fatty acids actually modify the fatty acid composition of the cell membrane. Any changes in the cell membrane lipid composition changes the cell function. Eicosanoids derived from Arachidonic acid (AA) tend to increase inflammatory processes compared to eicosanoids derived from (GLA) gamma-linolenic acid or (EPA) eicosapentaenoic acid.In dogs and cats the most obvious sign of fatty acid deficiency is the presence of flaky skin with a greasy, odoriferous character and a hair coat that is coarse and lusterless. Joint pain or discomfort is highly probable and the dog will scratch at itself; skin and ear infections are common. Cats tend to have thin, flaky skin and dull yet greasy coats that mat easily. Less visible but no less real is dulled immune competence. Every cell in the body is challenged and will fail to achieve optimum functionality when fatty acid deficiency is present. Practical evidence of these deficiencies is seen every day in small animal veterinary practice when patients are presented that are being fed poor quality diets. Pet owners are often truly amazed when they observe the transformation dogs and cats experience when their poorly nourished pet is placed on a high quality meat based diet that contain proper amounts of unprocessed fats along with proper amounts of protein and lesser percentages of grain based carbohydrates.

Orijen Pet Foods - Grain Free

2009-03-08T17:13:00.004-04:00

THE BIOLOGICALLY APPROPRIATE CONCEPT

Witness the trend of high-carbohydrate “holistic" pet foods that feature fashionable ingredients— more often for their consumer appeal than for any nutritional benefit to the dog or cat.
ORIJEN REPRESENTS A NEW DIRECTION IN PET NUTRITION: BIOLOGICALLY APPROPRIATE.
The concept is simple: include the fresh, whole foods that nature evolved dogs and cats to eat (in correct ratio and quantity), and exclude ingredients like cereal grains that are not part of the natural diet.

High-protein, low-carbohydrate and grain-free, ORIJEN features fresh regional ingredients in a Biologically Appropriate ratio of 70 percent meat, 30 percent fruit and vegetables and zero grain (70/30/0).

The metabolism of cats and dogs is naturally evolved to operate on a largely carnivorous diet, and by better matching the natural diet, ORIJEN promotes peak health in cats and dogs of all breeds and life stages, nourishing them as Nature originally intended. ORIJEN is a new direction in pet nutrition: BIOLOGICALLY APPROPRIATE.

See our white paper document: The Biological Food Concept

Simply put, there is no better dried pet food in the world at any price.

“Although life styles have changed, the digestive systems of cats and dogs haven’t changed for hundreds of years”
As a Biological Food, ORIJEN adopts a simple nutritional philosophy: Follow Nature.
By closely matching the foods that dogs and cats are evolved to eat, ORIJEN provides them the nourishment that Nature originally intended.
(See our White Paper Document: The Biological Food Concept).
Carefully prepared in the heart of Alberta’s rich farmlands, ORIJEN is made from fresh regional ingredients in unique grain-free and meat-based formulations that match the biological needs of cats and dogs.
As the peak health of cats and dogs depends upon nourishment they derive from quality meats - not from grains or plant proteins - ORIJEN has the highest meat inclusions of any dry pet food, providing the same natural balance and diversity of fresh meats that cats and dogs would naturally find hunting in the wild.
With fresh ingredients raised under clean skies on Canada's rich farmlands - or fished from cold, pristine freshwater lakes and clear pacific seas - ORIJEN provides the ultimate nourishment for dogs and cats.
Take a few minutes to browse through our website and learn about the Biolgical Food concept and we think you'll agree: Biologically Appropriate ORIJEN is the natural and delicious way to ensure a long and healthy life for your dog or cat.

To purchase visit www.Pawsagogo.com

Read more at http://www.orijen.ca/

2009-02-15T10:35:00.000-05:00

Making Your Home Pet Allergy Free for Holiday Guests

Author: Mike Krause

It won’t be long before families will be gathering together to celebrate the many holidays that fall in the last two months of the year. Windows will be washed, tablecloths ironed, and cakes cookies and pies baked in preparation of the arrival of out-of-town guests. Thoughtful hosts and hostesses will plan seating arrangements well in advance to make sure that dining partners get along. No arguments this year.

But what do you do if Aunt Sally is allergic to the dog or Uncle Bill can’t be anywhere near Fluffy the cat? What about the guest that has environmental allergies like dust mites, pollen or molds? Can you make your home as welcoming to them as your other guests?

Of course you can! With a little extra work and advance preparation everyone can enjoy the holidays together without the worry of a trip to the emergency room or a mad scramble for the inhaler.

If your guest has a pet allergy, they are sensitive to a protein that is found in the saliva and urine of your cat or dog (bunnies, hamsters, gerbils and horses can also cause allergy problems). This protein gets spread to the skin and fur of the animal when they clean themselves or empty their bladder. The protein dries to the fur or skin (dander) and is shed when the dander is shed. Because the problem is a protein, it can be denatured or rendered harmless. You just have to know what to do and how to do it.

It is best if you can begin preparations several weeks in advance. But if not, don’t panic you can still prepare. As soon as possible, close the door to the bedroom in which your guests will sleep to keep the pets out of the room. Two to three weeks before the visit, begin wiping your pet down once a week with one of the Allerpet formulas. While they mak one for all pets, we recommed the special formulations for dogs and cats. The cat formula can also be used on small mammals such as rabbits and hamsters.

These products are 100% safe for your pet and are made of ingredients that will denature the proteins that are already on the pet. In addition, the residual action will help denature the additional proteins collected when the pet cleans them self. You can read more about Allerpet here.

Now two to three days before your guests arrive, thoroughly vacuum all fiber surfaces. This includes carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, curtains and draperies. Wipe down all hard surfaces such as furniture and damp mop floors.

You don’t want to do this just before your guest arrives, as most of what we call “cleaning” is really taking settled particles and throwing them up in air directly into the breathing space.

After everything is cleaned, go back over the fiber surfaces with a denaturing spray such as the ADS or ADMS sprays made by Alkaline Laboratories. These sprays use organic and inorganic agents to neutralize the protein from animals, dust mites, mold, and pollens. It is not necessary to saturate the fiber. A light misting will do just fine. The surface should dry within 15 minutes. If not you put on too much. The ADS is the stronger solution, as it contains tannic acid. Tannic acid is one of the most effective denaturing agents on the market.

However, you must be careful in its use. It is not appropriate for water sensitive fabrics such as silks, wools, and Haitian cotton and can discolor white fabrics.

If you have any of these fabrics or are concerned about the tannic acid, then use the ADMS spray. It does not contain tannic acid. The Alkaline labs produce a wide range of allergen control denaturing agents and you can read more about ADS, ADMS, and the other products they make at Allersearch Labs.

The day before your guests arrive, put clean sheets on the bed, vacuum the room, and don't forget to close the door again to keep out the pets. Lightly mist all the fabric chairs, sofas and other fabric surfaces once again with the ADS or ADMS spray and wipe the pet down again with Allerpet.

When guests arrive, keep the pets and guests separated as much as possible. I know, cat's go where cats want to go. After you handle your furred family member, be sure to wash your hands before giving hugs or handshakes with the allergic family member.

Lastly, sit back and relax knowing that you have made your home as safe as possible and enjoy the company of your pet-sensitive guests. Happy Holiday...

About the Author:

Mike has been in the indoor environmental business for over 10 years. He has owned and operated and air duct cleaning and decontamination business, a water purification business, and is currently one of the owners of

The Allergy Store

. He makes his home in South Florida.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/making-your-home-pet-allergy-free-for-holiday-guests-567858.html

Laurie Denger talks about some of the products we carry...

2008-12-20T19:31:00.000-05:00

Most pet owners don't understand pet food ingredients
By By Laurie Denger
Staff Writer
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Since my dalmatian Daphne was diagnosed with severe kidney problems, I have been trying to find out all I can about her nutrition and what I should be feeding her.
Suddenly, or perhaps more accurately, since many cats and dogs were poisoned by contaminated pet foods a year ago, there is a lot of interest about what we feed our companions. Each day, it seems, I get information about companies providing healthy or organic or raw or frozen foods for pets.
A recent survey by Wellness brand of natural food and treats showed that only 38 percent of the people they questioned said they understand all the ingredients listed on dog or cat food labels.
They think they know what is in the food, but do they? The same survey said 91 percent of those cat and dog owners don't want their pets' food to contain ingredients that cause allergies or food intolerance. Another 66 percent want to only feed natural pet food.
Wellness advises some tips for pet owners looking for good pet nutrition. The ingredient should have:
Real meat as the first ingredient, not meat or poultry byproducts.
No commonly identified allergens (e.g. wheat, wheat gluten, soy).
No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Ingredients you recognize, like de-boned chicken, whole fish and wholesome fruits and vegetables.
Natura Pet Products, a company that bills itself as a "manufacturer of healthy pet food," has created Innova Flex, a canned dog and cat stew product that allows pet owners to feed their companions the food alone, mixed with dry food or with homemade pet food.
Each Innova Flex formula provides at least 125 percent of each essential nutrient's required level, according to company info. That's because when people add human or home-cooked food to pet food, it can lead to deficiencies. The company says adding chicken breast to commercial food, for example, can add protein and amino acids but could fill up the animal with protein and not enough other minerals and vitamins.
Natura has developed a feeding calculator that makes recommendations about adding human food to a pet's diet, allowing pet owners to select food and combine it with Innova Flex, dry or wet food and take into consideration the pet's age, weight and body condition.
For more information, visit innovapet.com/flex or www.naturapet.com.
And then there's Halo Purely for Pets, founded by Andi Brown, who discovered first-hand how making nutritional changes can make a difference. Her cat, Spot, had digestive issues and skin irritations until she replaced her "premium" cat food with natural ingredients, now known as "Spot's Stew" and formed her company.
The pet food is available across the nation in specialty stores, and major retail outlets. Visit www.halopets.com for more information.
And The Honest Kitchen is another company that makes nourishing products they describe as 100 percent natural, made with love and, surprise, dehydrated. The food comes in dry form that can be mixed with warm water and other ingredients like vegetables, cooked meats, fruit or raw meaty bones.
Founder Lucy Postins believes that pets deserve the same quality food as their owners so they use 100 percent human grade ingredients, which retain their color even when dehydrated. They contain no byproducts, added salt or sugar, chemical preservatives, artificial color or flavor and no beet pulp, rice, wheat, corn or soy — common allergens for dogs that cause skin, ear and hair loss problems.
For more information, call (866) 4-DRY-RAW or visit www.thehonestkitchen.com.

Car Sickness

2008-12-12T15:38:00.001-05:00

By David the Dogman

The first thing to realize when dealing with car sickness is that in 95 percent of cases it is stress related and not motion related. The most powerful memory imprint of any dog's brain is probably the car ride when it was taken away from all it ever new to be safe and secure, its litter mates and its mother. The most traumatic memory a young dog has is in relation to a ride in a car. So it's not surprising that subsequent rides in a car should evoke very strong mental and subsequent physical trauma.

The solution is very simple. If the dog has been sick in a car then estimate how long it was in the car before it was sick, say 20 minutes? Find a park about 5-10 minutes from home, preferably one just around the corner, even one within walking distance that the dog has been to before.... but this time drive there. Ideally have someone else in the car too, to soothe the dog and distract him from the ride. Keep him happy all the way to the park. When at the park do all the enjoyable things that the dog loves, fetch the ball, chase the Frisbee, frolic with dad, etc. The stay at the park doesn't need to be that long.... just as enjoyable as possible. Then drive the dog home soothing him all the way again and when home make just as much fuss of the dog as you did at the park. Finish the session with his meal or a treat if time and conditions permit.

This exercise is repeated several times a day or daily if time is limited. Once the dog is enthusiastic to go in the car then the length of the trip is lengthened slightly to 10-15 minutes etc. Once you can drive with the dog for 30 minutes with no signs of stress or anxiety then you have the problem pretty much licked. Some dogs may take a little longer than others. The idea is for as many happy repetitions as possible to overwrite the initial mental imprint the dog has from its youth (or whatever other event caused the initial trauma).
I have had a (client's) dog that suffered from chronic carsickness totally 'cured' (if that is the right term) in 3 days. That was with five car trips per day over the three-day period. The owners were impressed (even if I say so myself) and I am still getting referrals from them as a result.

This method has always worked, but I have heard of one dog that was sick due to some kind of balance problems and this method didn't work for it. A trip to the vet after the method failed brought the problem to the surface. But if it only works for 95 percent of the dogs it's used on then I think it's quite successful!

Train with trust not fear.

David the DogmanAuthor of David the Dogman's A-Z Guide to Dogs ISBN 8489954089 also available via http://www.thedogman.net

Christmas Health Care Tips for Pets

2008-12-12T15:06:00.002-05:00

Christmas is a time of peace, joy and celebration. Part of planning for a happy holiday season is the adequate preparation of the home to ensure the safety of family, friends, and pets. Pets are mischievous and their curiosity can get them into trouble! Some of the concerns listed below may seem a little far-fetched to the reader, but veterinarians do deal with these unfortunate accidents during the holiday season, and pets do not always come out of these episodes well, so serious consideration should be given to prevention.

Tinsel, String and Decorative Wrapping:
Tinsel used as a tree decoration and fancy ribbons used on presents are pleasing not only to our eyes, but to the eyes of our four-legged companions (especially cats). String used to tie a turkey or roast is also tempting to our pets' taste buds. If any of these items are ingested by your pet, they may become lodged in the digestive tract and require surgical removal. To avoid these problems during the holiday season, avoid tinsel unless you can keep the pet out of the room with the tree. Also keep those nicely decorated Christmas gifts out of your pet's reach and ensure that your pet doesn't get too involved in preparation of Christmas dinner!

Christmas Trees:
To help your pet avoid injuries, ensure that your Christmas tree is firmly set in place. A playful or curious pet may run into or climb the tree, knocking it over. If the pets have access to the tree room, suspending support wires to ceiling and walls, and keeping the tree in a corner of the room are helpful preventive steps. If using a real Christmas tree, be sure to avoid the use of chemicals in the water. Pets may drink this water and become ill. Note that glass ornaments can be dangerous if they fall from the tree and break. Shards of sharp, fine glass can become imbedded into the pads, or in the skin between the toes, or perhaps even be chewed on! Keep them off the ends of branches where traffic passes, or avoid them altogether.

Ornamental Plants:
Ornamental plants such as poinsettas, holly, and mistletoe, found around the house during the holiday season, may be toxic to pets if ingested and should be kept out of your pets' reach. The ingestion of holly is most commonly associated with digestive upset and nervous system depression. American Mistletoe produces quite severe irritation of the digestive tract, as well as whole body symptoms including low heart rate and temperature, difficulty breathing, unsteadiness, excess thirst, and sometimes seizures, coma, and even death. The ingestion of poinsetta leaves generally results in mild to moderate digestive upsets. If it is impossible to keep your pets and plants apart, there are a variety of spray products on the market designed to keep pets away from sprayed areas.

Christmas Chocolates:
Chocolate, a common addition to any festive occasion, is loved by people and pets, especially dogs. In fact, dogs develop a "chocolate-seeking behaviour", seeking this delicacy wherever it can be found. Chocolates contain stimulants including theobromine and caffeine. These are present at especially high concentrations in unsweetened bakers chocolate. One ounce of unsweetened baking chocolate is enough to cause chocolate toxicity in a small dog. Milk chocolate contains about 1/7th to 1/10th the amount of toxic compounds of baking chocolate, but can easily be a source of toxic levels especially in smaller dogs. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and heart irregularities. Therefore, DO NOT leave chocolate unsupervised or within easy reach of your pet over the holidays. Note also that chocolates contain fat, and if a large quantity is consumed, irritation of the pancreas can also occur.

Pet Toys and Presents:
When choosing that special Christmas gift for your pet, it is best to avoid toys that consist of string or that contain small, potentially removable objects such as bells. Pets can easily ingest these objects and surgery may be required for their removal. When purchasing chew bones such as rawhides for your dogs, be sure to purchase the appropriate size. Small-sized chewy bones should not be given to large breed dogs. Large pieces may be swallowed whole resulting in stomach upset, or sometimes they will choke on the pieces. Some forms of animal-based chews are potential sources of harmful bacteria, such as salmonella.

Table Scraps:
Feeding pets table scraps and other foods that are high in fat content may cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), a potentially life-threatening situation in companion animals. This is a potential problem any time that table scraps are fed but is more prevalent during the holiday season. Avoid feeding raw meat and bones to pets at all times of the year. There are many zoonoses (diseases shared by people and humans) potentially contaminating raw meat and bone products. You, your family members or your pet could become ill with these conditions. Sharp bone fragments are also a common source of intestinal puncture or blockage requiring surgical treatment, so never offer bones.

Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca

Hartz Mountain Corporation Voluntarily Recalls One Specific Lot of Nationwide Chicken-Basted Rawhide Chips Because of Possible Health Risk

2008-10-20T21:22:00.002-04:00

Contact:John Mullane(914) 712 9150

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- October 20, 2008 -- The Hartz Mountain Corporation, Secaucus, NJ is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Chicken-Basted Rawhide Chips due to concerns that one or more bags within the lot are potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall.
Salmonella can cause serious infections in dogs, and, if there is cross-contamination caused by handling of the rawhide chips, in people as well, especially children, the aged, and people with compromised immune systems. Healthy people potentially infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. On rare occasions, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and can potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product involved is 4,850 - 2 pound plastic bags of Hartz Chicken-Basted Rawhide Chips, lot code JC23282, UPC number 3270096463 which were distributed to a national retail customer. While the normal testing that Hartz conducts through an independent outside laboratory did not detect the presence of Salmonella in any Hartz rawhide products, sample testing conducted by another laboratory did indicate the presence of the bacteria in a sample bag of the Chicken-Basted Rawhide Chips. Hartz is aggressively investigating the difference in test results and the potential source of the problem.

Although Hartz has not received any reports of animals or humans becoming ill as a result of coming into contact with this product, Hartz is taking immediate steps to remove the product from all retail stores and distribution centers. Dog owners who purchased this product should check the lot code on their bag, and, if the code is not visible, or if the bag has lot code JC23282 imprinted thereon, they should immediately discontinue use of the product and discard it in a proper manner.

Consumers can contact Hartz at 1-800-275-1414 with any questions they may have and to obtain reimbursement for purchased product.

Detoxification Information

2008-10-20T21:18:00.001-04:00

When changing the diet, your pet may experience symptoms termed "detox."

Like the majority of pets in this fast paced world of convenience items, your pet has probably been fed a commercial diet for most of its life to date. Commercially manufactured foods are filled with additives, sugars, preservatives, dangerous chemicals, etc. In addition, perhaps your pet has been sick for a while and has been given antibiotics or medicine. Now you are going to start feeding a fresh, raw, "natural" diet.

During the transition and for a short time period afterwards, you may notice that your pet becomes sick. All pets react differently to the new diet depending on their age, health, and how long they were given commercial diets. Your pet's symptoms may range from non-existent, to mild to severe. Some symptoms you might notice are: diarrhea, vomiting, itchy skin, oozing skin, ear infections, eye discharge, anal gland problems, etc. These reactions are the body's way of ridding itself of accumulated toxins.

Do not be alarmed if you notice some of these things happening to your pet at first. This is a classic example of something that must get worse before it can get better. The body is healing itself from the inside out. Once the detoxifying process is concluded, these symptoms will disappear and you will have a healthier, happier pet. The symptoms should not last more than 2 weeks, provided your pet is relatively disease-free at the beginning. Pets with histories of health related problems may experience longer episodes of detox. If these detoxification symptoms should persist or become violently worse it is important to seek the help of your holistic veterinarian.

During the detox time, it is also important to bathe your pet weekly or even more often if the skin is badly infected. Bathing is a good way to clean the skin and wash the toxins away. Use a mild, gentle, shampoo and remember to rinse very well.

Always keep fresh, pure drinking water available.

The following information is from Dr. Pollak's article titled "Healing Episodes" (also sometimes referred to as Healing Crisis). It covers the detoxification process well:
"Upon switching to a more nutritious diet, physical and behavioral improvements can be dramatic or gradual depending on the state of the animal's health. Severe nutritional deficiencies and toxic states have been known to mimic almost every known disease in veterinary medicine. In chronic conditions, some developing over several generations, improvement in health can take months or years. A pet's ability to respond to high protein diets may require the individual animal "transitioning" through periods of purification or detoxification. Malnutrition and the toxic condition of the animal fed commercial diets can result in the inability to digest and assimilate basic food components of the fresher, more wholesome type we are describing here. The body will sometimes expel these accumulated poisons during periods of diarrhea, hair loss, or scaling of skin. These periods are known as Healing Episodes. Though these situations are not necessary, they are not uncommon. The body will cleanse itself of these toxic agents before it can assimilate more healthful nutrients to regain a higher state of balanced health.

During these Healing Episodes, the animal's immune system continues to react to remaining toxins and poisons until a more gentle, balanced diet can complete the transition to a more resilient internal state. These periods, during which time the animal can have diarrhea, loss of some of its coat, and appear transiently sick, are really signs of a more vital life force finally shedding disease more completely. The situation is an important sign indicating a transitioning to a state of greater Wellness. The frequency, intensity and duration a Healing Episode is totally dependent on the individual animal's health, nutritional state, age and breed. Each animal will react differently during the transitioning to a more nutritious healthier diet. Not always will there be signs of purification. We can rest assured that as long as the animal is clear eyed, bright and full of energy of life, these periods (should there be any) will quickly pass and the need for medical intervention is almost never. As concerned pet owners seek out these more wholesome natural food sources, we can anticipate occasional brief detoxification episodes. Finding professional or lay support that understand the process of Healing Episodes will help make the transition for the owner easier and less filled with fear and doubt."

The information presented on this page was written by J. Boniface and T. Nowak, (c) Copyright 1998, all rights reserved.

Why Cats Need Canned Food

2008-10-13T17:09:00.002-04:00

By Jean Hofve, DVM
Cats are true carnivores, requiring a meat-based diet for optimal health. Their natural diet is prey such as rodents, lizards, insects, and birds. These prey consist primarily of water, protein and fat, with less than 10% carbohydrate (starch, sugar and fiber) content. Cats are exquisitely adapted to utilize fat and protein for energy. They are not at all like dogs and people, who are adapted to use carbohydrates for energy.

When feeding our companion cats, the most logical strategy is to feed the diet that most closely mimics the natural prey diet. A homemade diet is an excellent way to accomplish this. Feeding more (or only) canned food is another way--one that is often easier for people to deal with. Canned foods are higher in fat and protein, and lower in carbohydrates, than dry foods. Their high water content increases the cat's overall fluid intake, which keeps the kidneys and bladder healthy. The higher fat contributes to skin and coat health. Because the ingredients are more easily digested and utilized by the cat's body, canned foods produce less solid waste in the litterbox.

Another feature of the cat's natural diet is variety. A hunting cat doesn't one day decide to eat only purple finches! He will eat any small prey he can catch: chickadees, mice, grasshoppers, robins, or rabbits. Likewise, we should feed our cats a variety of foods. Variety keeps cats from becoming finicky and food-addicted, lessens the chance of dietary excess or deficiency of any single nutrient, and may prevent the development of food intolerances, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. Feeding the same dry food year after year greatly increases the risk of these problems. With canned food, it is easy to vary the flavors and protein sources.
Dry food typically contains 35-50% carbohydrates, mostly as starch. (The new "grain-free" foods may be as little as 20% carbohydrate). This is necessary because the equipment that makes dry food requires a high-starch, low-fat dough for proper processing. Cereal grains provide an inexpensive and plentiful source of calories, which allows manufacturers to produce foods containing adequate calories at an affordable price. A few dry foods provide less carbohydrates, in some cases substituting starchy vegetables and soy for cereal grains; but they are still heavily processed and just as dehydrating (if not more so) than regular dry food.
Adult cats need 2-3 times more protein than dogs. Yet dry cat foods generally supply only about 1/3 more protein than dry dog foods—about 30-35% in dry cat food compared to 20-26% for the average dry dog food. "Kidney" diets for cats in renal failure are even more restrictive with 26-28% protein (such diets should never be fed to normal cats; they will cause muscle wasting as the cat breaks down its own body for protein). Canned cat foods contain 45-50% protein, and canned kitten foods may contain up to 55% protein. (All percentages calculated on a dry matter basis.)

Cats are attracted to food that has a strong meat or fat flavor. Pet food manufacturers go to great lengths to make their starch-based dry foods palatable to cats. They may coat the kibbles with fat or with "animal digest," a powder made of chemically or enzymatically digested animal by-products. The result may be a cat who overeats, not because he's hungry, but because he loves the taste of the food and doesn't want to stop. (I think we've all been there!)
Dry food is very dehydrating. Our feline friends descend from desert-dwelling wild cats who are well adapted to limited water resources. Their ultra-efficient kidneys are able to extract most of their moisture needs from their prey. However, the end result is that cats have a very low thirst drive, and will not drink water until they are 3-5% dehydrated (a level at which, clinically, a veterinarian would administer fluid therapy). Cats eating only dry food take in only half the moisture of a cat eating only canned food. This chronic dehydration may be a factor in kidney disease, and is known to be a major contributor to bladder disease (crystals, stones, FUS, FLUTD, cystitis). Caution: adding water or milk to dry food does not solve the problem; and the fact that there are always bacteria on the surface of dry food means that adding moisture can result in massive bacterial growth--and a very upset tummy.

The high heat used in processing dry food damages (denatures) the proteins in the food. The resulting unnatural proteins may trigger an immune response that can lead to food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease.
There is increasing evidence that carbohydrates (starches and sugars) in dry food are simply not metabolized well by many, if not most cats. While obesity is caused by many factors, the free-choice feeding of dry food to a relatively inactive cat is a major player. Obese cats are prone to joint problems, liver and kidney disease, and diabetes.

Recent research has shown that high-carbohydrate diets are to blame in most cases of feline diabetes. Many overweight cats are carbohydrate-intolerant, and should be fed low-carbohydrate diets (think "Catkins" diet!). This means canned food. Experts are now recommending canned kitten food as the primary treatment for diabetes. Many diabetic cats can decrease or even eliminate their need for insulin, simply by changing to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. Ultimately, canned food may be even more beneficial as a preventative for this devastating disease.

Overweight cats may greatly benefit from a switch to an all-canned diet. Stick to foods containing 10% or less carbohydrate. Many all life stages and kitten foods fit this requirement. Carbs are usually not listed on the label. However, all you have to do is subtract the other ingredients from 100% to get an estimate of the carb content. Most cats lose weight more efficiently on a canned food than dry food diet. Even though they're often eating more calories, these diets are much better suited to the unique feline metabolism.

If your cat is not used to eating canned food, add it to the diet slowly in small amounts. It is so different in composition from dry food that it may cause tummy upset at first.
If a cat won't eat canned food, it's usually because of a dry food addiction, or because he isn't hungry enough to try something new. Start by putting the cat on a meal-feeding schedule, leaving dry food out only an hour each, morning and night. Once he's accustomed to the schedule, put a little canned food down first. Most cats will be willing to try it at that point.

Quality is just as important with canned cat food as any other type of food. If possible, buy the food in a larger can, and store leftovers in a glass jar in the refrigerator.

Dry food is a great convenience and may be necessary in some cases when the guardian is gone long hours or cannot feed on a regular schedule. But at least 50% of the diet (preferably 100% if you want to ensure optimum health!) should be a high-protein, high-moisture, low-carb diet such as canned or homemade food. Your cat will be healthier, and while you'll spend a little more on food up front, ultimately you'll save hundreds, if not thousands, on veterinary bills!

Mars Petcare US to stop production of food at facility involved in salmonella scares.

2008-10-06T20:52:00.000-04:00

Posted: Friday, October 3, 2008, 1:27 p.m., EDT

Since a nationwide voluntary recall was issued by Mars Petcare US on Sept. 12 because of potential contamination with Salmonella Schwarzengrund in pet food products manufactured at its Everson, Pa., facility, the company decided to permanently close the plant. The company halted production at the Everson facility July 29, when it was alerted of a possible link between dry pet food produced at the plant and two isolated cases of people infected with Salmonella Schwarzengrund. There have been no reported cases of deaths or illness since the recall was issued.

The recall affects 31 states and includes brands such as Pedigree, Country Acres, Members Mark, Retriever, Red Flannel, Special Kitty, Doggy Bag, Natural, Ol’ Roy, Paws & Claws, Wegman’s, Pet Pride, and PMI Nutrition. The Everson plant was also closed for a cleaning in 2007 after salmonella had been discovered in dog food products produced there. The company urges consumers to look at the production lot codes under the UPC code to determine whether a product is affected. People can also go on the Mars website and enter search by state and the product information by clicking a special tab at the top of the web page to find out if a product is affected. Regarding measures Mars has taken following the voluntary recall, spokeswoman Debra Fair said that even though no direct link between product produced at the Everson facility and human or pet illness has been detected, the company took the precautionary action of issuing a recall to protect pets and their owners. “Since we have not yet identified the source of the Salmonella Schwarzengrund at the Everson facility, we do not plan to resume production out of a commitment to the safety of our pet owners and their pets, customers and associates,” Fair said.

Natura Launches Nutritional Advisory Board

2008-10-06T20:48:00.000-04:00

Posted: Monday, October 6, 2008, 7:50 p.m., EDT

Natura Pet Products of San Jose, Calif., has established the Natura Nutritional Advisory Board, which is comprised of 12 veterinarians representing both Western and Eastern medicine.

Members include:

Randy Aronson, VMD. Dr. Aronson completed the certificate program in veterinary acupuncture, Chinese herbology and other traditional Chinese medicine and nutrition programs by the International Acupuncture Society. He also completed the certificate program for physical therapy in cats and dogs by the Canine Rehabilitation Institute..

Signe Beebe, DVM. Dr. Beebe is certified in veterinary acupuncture, Chinese herbology and veterinary Tui-Na by the Chi Institute of Chinese Veterinary Medicine and China National Society of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. She also completed the certificate program in Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy at the University of Tennessee. .

Sean Delaney, DVM. Dr. Delaney is board certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and senior executive vice president for Natura Pet Products. .

Bruce Ferguson, DVM. Dr. Ferguson is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine by the Chi Institute of Chinese Veterinary Medicine. .

Marty Goldstein, DVM. Dr. Goldstein is certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. .

Sally Perea, DVM. Dr. Perea is board certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition. .

Joseph Wakshlag, DVM, Ph.D. Dr. Wakshlag is a clinical resident in small animal nutrition at University of Tennessee. He is also certified in acupuncture by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society and certified in Chinese herbal medicine by the Chi Institute of Chinese Veterinary Medicine. .

Huisheng Xie, DVM, Ph.D. Dr. Xie is founder of the Chi Institute in Reddick, Fla. .

Madeline Yamate, DVM. Dr. Yamate is certified in acupuncture by the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and the China National Society of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.

The company’s lines include Innova, California Natural, EVO, HealthWise, Mother Nature and Karma.

Halloween Safety Tips

2008-10-06T11:37:00.002-04:00

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR PETS

Leaving your pets outside on Halloween is not a god idea. There are plenty of tales of malicious people who tease, injure, steal, torture, even killed peoples pets on Halloween. Not to mention that dogs and cats can scare easily with all the trick-or-treaters coming to your house. Here are some tips to keep your pets happy on Halloween.

As much as your dog or cat may beg for some of your Halloween candy, always remember that chocolate is deadly to them in any amount.

If you work in a pet store, remember that this is the time of year that can be deadly for black cats. Some sick people who play at being what they'll call a Satanist will buy them to "sacrifice" If you can, don't take any black cats or sell them during October.

The wrappers, such as tin foil, can get stuck in your pets digestive tract and make them ill or cause death. There are plenty of recipes for making home made dog and cat treats, you can always make them on a Halloween note.

Dogs can have lethal tails, wagging all over the place. Don't leave any lighted candles or Jack-O-Lanterns where they could be knocked over by a swinging tail or by a curious cat. Not only could your pet start a fire but they could severely burn themselves in the process.

If you are going to dress your pet in a costume, keep in mind that unless the dog or cat is extremely receptive to this kind of thing, you could be causing it discomfort and stress. Some animals don't mind at all but others do not want to be bothered with this kind of thing. They'll be under enough stress with the festivities going on outside and people at the door constantly so don't cause them any more nervousness then you have to. You may love to dress in costume but then, you aren't a dog or a cat.

If you put a mask of some type on your animal, make sure that the eye holes are big enough for them to see peripherally. Animals depend on their vision to let them know what's going on and even the nicest dog can get snippy if he can't see what's around him. In fact, masks really aren't a good idea.

If you are having a indoor party, make sure that you put your dog or cat in a room where they won't be disturbed. Unless your pet is ultra friendly and doesn't mind loud noises, music and lots of people you should keep them separate for the night. Also, be careful your cat or dog doesn't dart out through the open door as you hand out candy. Best bet is to just put them in a room with some food and water for the night and check on them once in a while to let them know everything is fine.

WOLVES WOULD RATHER EAT SALMON!

2008-09-25T07:48:00.002-04:00

Although most people imagine wolves chasing deer and other hoofed animals, new research suggests that, when they can, wolves actually prefer fishing to hunting. (Credit: iStockphoto)

ScienceDaily (Sep. 4, 2008) — Although most people imagine wolves chasing deer and other hoofed animals, new research suggests that, when they can, wolves actually prefer fishing to hunting. The study shows that when salmon is available, wolves will reduce deer hunting activity and instead focus on seafood.

Chris Darimont from the University of Victoria and the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, Canada, led a team of researchers who studied the feeding habits of wolves in a remote 3,300km2 area of British Columbia. As Darimont describes, "Over the course of four years, we identified prey remains in wolf droppings and carried out chemical analysis of shed wolf hair in order to determine what the wolves like to eat at various times of year".

For most of the year, the wolves tend to eat deer, as one would expect. During the autumn, however, salmon becomes available and the wolves shift their culinary preferences. According to the authors, "One might expect that wolves would move onto salmon only if their mainstay deer were in short supply. Our data show that this is not the case, salmon availability clearly outperformed deer availability in predicting wolves' use of salmon."
This work gives researchers as much insight into salmon ecology as wolf ecology. Darimont's mentor and co-author Thomas Reimchen, also of the University of Victoria, admits, "Salmon continue to surprise us, showing us new ways in which their oceanic migrations eventually permeate entire terrestrial ecosystems. In terms of providing food and nutrients to a whole food web, we like to think of them as North America's answer to the Serengeti's wildebeest."
The authors explain that the wolves' taste for fishy fare is likely based on safety, nutrition and energetics. Darimont said, "Selecting benign prey such as salmon makes sense from a safety point of view. While hunting deer, wolves commonly incur serious and often fatal injuries. In addition to safety benefits we determined that salmon also provides enhanced nutrition in terms of fat and energy".

The research also warns that this already vestigial predator-prey relationship – one that once spread from California to Alaska – might not be around forever. Darimont cautions, "There are multiple threats to salmon systems, including overexploitation by fisheries and the destruction of spawning habitats, as well as diseases from exotic salmon aquaculture that collectively have led to coast-wide declines of up to 90% over the last century".
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/09/080901205633.htm
__._,_.___

MISSING GOLDEN RETRIEVER - DAISY

2008-09-23T11:37:00.005-04:00

**GOOD NEWS** DAISY HAS BEEN FOUND! THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR READING THIS AND KEEPING THEIR EYES OPEN!**

ATTENTION DOG LOVERS!!! "DAISY" IS MISSING! She lives in the Centerville/Washington Township near CLYO and SPRING VALLEY area and does NOT have her collar on! Please keep an eye out for her. If you see her, please call her mom "Lori" at 937-428-5921. Of course, the family is very upset about her being missing!

Love2Pet-i-Cure is finally here!

2008-09-22T21:54:00.004-04:00

UPDATE: I would personally not recommend this product. I ordered it in to try it on my dogs (three 60lb dogs) and the two double A batteries were not enough to power this product. Plus the part where you put the nail was tiny and on top, not making a good angle. In addition, I sent this product to my mother who has a Llapsa Alpsa and had her try it. It was a no go with her as well.

Love2Pet-I-Cure

It's been a problem forever - how to trim your pet's nails? Cutting is
dangerous because animals get scared when they see clippers. Plus, cutting the
nail could cause serious injury to your pet if you cut to close to the vein that
run through each nail. Love2Pet-I-Cure makes nail grooming painless for you and
your pet! That's because it doesn't cut your pet's nails; it gently grinds them
down.

In fact, Love2Pet-I-Cure actually emulates the natural grinding of nails that
takes place when your pet walks on concrete. It's lightweight and whisper quiet
so your pet isn't startled and scared. And because it's ergonomically designed
to fit in your hand, you get comfort and control as you use
it.

Love2Pet-I-Cure has an adjustable protective opening that fits both
dog and cat nails* The diamond coated filing head means long life and will last
2 -3 years. Other nail grooming products on the market use a very thin filng
paper that needs to be changed often.

Requires 2AA batteries - not
included.

CLICK THE PICTURE TO PURCHASE

DOGGY TShirts

2008-09-07T12:59:00.010-04:00

Breed Specific Tshirts! Great for Holiday gifts, just for fun or fundrasiers! Contact us at 937.242.6679 for information about fundraisers or to order visit http://www.pawsagogo.com/ and click on FUN STUFF! Looking for a specific breed not listed!? More coming soon! Just ask and we'll get it for you!

Pug also available in brown and black - adorable!

Earthbath - All Natural Pet Products

2008-09-06T18:43:00.006-04:00

About Earthbath®

We hope to serve as a model for a new way of doing business which puts principles on a par with profits.

Earthbath® shampoos, spritzes and shampoo bars were created with the health of your beloved, furry friend and our fragile environment in mind. We worked with groomers, veterinarians and expert blenders to develop and manufacture the highest quality line of all-natural, bio-degradable pet care products. Each was specially formulated to cleanse safely and gently while leaving your pet's coat bright, shiny and smelling better than ever before. People tested and pet approved, Earthbath® is the natural choice for quality pet care.

Our comprehensive line of pet care products offers solutions for the unique needs of your pet, such as: everyday cleansing and coat conditioning; relief from itching or hot spots; combating pests; skin sensitivity or allergy; odor relief; and more. Earthbath® products are formulated with natural oils and essences which are simultaneously efficacious and heavenly scentedTM! Per doctors' orders, all of our products are soap-free and pH-balanced for pet's sensitive skin. We believe that the only ingredients that touch your pet's coat and skin should be non-toxic, totally natural, and as gentle as possible. Naturally then... all Earthbath® pet care products are 100% bio-degradable, free of phosphates and enzymes, and are animal cruelty-free.

Unless otherwise specified, all of our products are safe for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens over the age of 6 weeks. Those products identified with are compatible with flea control products such as The Advantage® (a registered trademark of The Bayer Corporation, Veterinary Health Div.).

Visit our website at http://www.PawsAGoGo.com to view and order these products.

Mars Petcare US Voluntarily Issues Limited Recall of PEDIGREE

2008-08-10T19:53:00.001-04:00

Mars Petcare US Voluntarily Issues Limited Recall of PEDIGREE(R) Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites at Albertsons in Southern California and Las Vegas

STATEMENT
Last update: 12:00 a.m. EDT Aug. 9, 2008

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Aug 08, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Today Mars Petcare US announced a voluntary recall of 100 of the 20-pound bags of PEDIGREE(R) Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites sold in Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada to a limited number of Albertsons locations due to potential Salmonella contamination.

PEDIGREE(R) Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites is a multi-component dry pet food. Last week, a component that should have been on hold due to positive testing results was inadvertently shipped to our Tracy, California facility and used in the production of 100 bags of PEDIGREE(R) Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites with best buy dates of 07/2009.
Our primary concern is the safety and welfare of our pet owners and their pets. Although the finished product tested negative and we have received no reports of illness of pets or their owners, out of an abundance of caution we are issuing a voluntary recall of the limited number of bags of Pedigree(R) Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites containing the component in question.

We have already notified Albertsons and are working with them to retrieve any bags still in their stores or distribution centers. If any bags have been sold to consumers, we are asking them to return the product to Albertsons for a full refund. Mars Petcare US is cooperating fully with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on this matter.

Proper handling of pet food can help prevent illnesses in humans and pets. In an effort to prevent the transmission of Salmonella from pets to family members and care givers, the FDA recommends that everyone follow appropriate pet food handling guidelines when feeding their pets. A list of safe pet food handling tips can be found on the FDA's web site at: www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/petfoodtips080307.html.

VeRUS Pet Foods

2008-08-09T13:17:00.011-04:00

What Makes VéRUS So Healthy for Your Pets?

No Byproducts
These are things other than meat, such as heads, feet, underdeveloped eggs, lungs, spleens, bones, blood, etc. Byproducts are poorly digested, increasing the workload on your pet’s kidneys. Kidney failure is the second major killer of older dogs.

No Fillers
These are cheap processed grains, such as brewers rice, ground rice, wheat flour, rye flour, etc. Processed grains are stripped of their nutritional value and these empty calories contribute to excess weight gain.

No Chemical Preservatives
The average dog consumes 6 to 9 pounds of chemical additives a year in their diet. Many of the chemical additives and preservatives our pets eat are not approved for human consumption. It comes as no surprise that cancer is the #1 killer of older dogs.

Holistic
The nutrition from our products is supplied through whole foods. Our take on holistic is the use of whole meats, whole grains, vitamin antioxidant preservation, incorporation of organic nutrient sources, and chelated minerals. Our foods are carefully crafted to yield the ideal levels of protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and micronutrients for your pet.

The best meal you can feed your pet is a properly prepared home diet. If you currently prepare your pet’s diet, we applaud you. If you prefer a nutritionist to formulate your pet’s food, we invite you to try one of our healthy dog and cat foods.

VéRUS Pet Foods are formulated to meet or exceed the nutritional guidelines established by AAFCO.

All natural human grade dog and cat foods
that your pets are guaranteed to love!

Every product we offer is all natural, made with human-grade meats and products, and contains no by-products, fillers or chemical preservatives. Our dog food comes in dry and canned formulas and comes in a variety of flavors. Our cat food comes in a dry formula and is chicken-based.

Chicken in VéRUS Puppy Advantage, Life Advantage (Canine) & Life Advantage (Feline) is hormone & antibiotic free chicken raised for human consumption. Quality! What really makes the formula different is the vitamin/mineral premix.

It is not minimum levels to meet AAFco requirements. We use higher levels of nutrients in the premix to account for absorption problems some dogs may have. It is like eating a healthy balanced diet of whole foods & then taking a complete & balanced vitamin/mineral supplement for nutritional insurance. Our diets provide all the nutrients necessary for a healthy life. The supplement premix is the insurance to guarantee success!

TESTIMONIALS

I just wanted to thank the folks at VeRUS for making such a terrific product. Changing my dog’s diet from a well-known “name brand” food to Verus has completely changed her life. She used to have dandruff, eye discharge, and upset stomach constantly. I talked with a local natural pet food store, and they suggested VeRUSs Life Advantage Chicken and Oats formula. It was a miracle – my dog’s eyes and coat have cleared, and she is no longer sick to her stomach. The changes are AMAZING, and I know that she is living healthier, longer, and better because of your food. Thank you!!!
Jennifer S
Arlington VA

I rescued my beloved black lab Topper when he was 18 months old. He was very underweight (58 pounds) and his teeth were "much older than his age," according to the vet, so who knows what he was fed? After I started him on a "high-quality" commercial pet food, a dear friend recommended VeRus. I purchased a bag of Adult Maintenance kibble, and because he needed to gain weight on a slow, healthy schedule, I also bought the canned lamb and rice (for his coat) and chicken and rice. Well, he is now up to 72 pounds, and he is so shiny and beautiful that people stop me on the street to comment on how he gleams! He NEVER scratches, he has NO allergies and he is as full of life and energy as a young black lab should be (god help my back!!). THANK YOU for all you do! Topper is the world to me and it gives me joy to know I am feeding him the very best I can buy.Wendy A

Dear VeRUS Pet Foods
Hazel Lucy is my 9 year old cat. She was diagnosed with diabetes about 3 years ago. I gave her 5 units of insulin twice a day. Initially she ate the Hill’s food for diabetic cats. Then I found Superior Pet and bought holistic cat food. In 2006 I switched to Verus and after two small bags she was stable at 2 units once per day. Since she began eating this wonderful food, she is more alert, more active, and her fur is like down.
I am thrilled that she needs so little insulin. I know that the longer she eats Verus pet food, the healthier she becomes. Thanks for a fantastic and tasty food for my girl.
Julie Muldawer
Narberth, PA

Visit www.PawsAGoGo.com for more info about Verus pet foods.

SOJOS European Dog Food Mix

2008-07-27T00:17:00.006-04:00

Sojos European-Style Dog Food Mix

Dogs are designed to eat raw, unprocessed foods, and holistic vets have been recommending raw foods for dogs for over 20 years. Dry dog foods have been cooked and pelletized, thus robbing them of natural nutrients and enzymes. That's why we blend Sojourner Farms European-Style Dog Food Mix from simple, uncooked, all-natural ingredients. We want it to be as close as possible to dog food the way nature intended. That means no preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors – only wholesome, human-quality ingredients like steamed-rolled oats, ground pecans, and carob powder. And because there are no fillers in Sojourner Farms, there’s much more nutrition in every bite – meaning your dog eats less, and your food lasts typically twice as long as most other brands. If you’d like, you can also add raw or steamed vegetables to Sojourner Farms. It’s a simple, easy way to make your own complete and balanced dog food – and it only takes a couple of minutes a day. In short, we’ve done everything we can to make this food the best thing you can do for your dog. Give it a try. We’re 100% confident that the results will amaze you, and we back it up with a money-back guarantee. Sojourner Farms European-Style Dog Food Mix is the best of both worlds. It offers the superior nutrition of a raw diet, with the ease and convenience that people are looking for.

Feeding Instructions:

Combine Sojos, raw or lightly-cooked meat, and water. Let mixture soak in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (preferably overnight) and serve. You can mix up to a four-day batch ahead of time and refrigerate in a sealed container or freeze larger batches. For adult and senior dogs we recommend once-a-day feeding. For puppies we recommend twice-a-day feeding. (For twice-a-day feeding, split the amounts below in half.)

Starting Out

It is crucial to start your dog on Sojos gradually. We recommend at least a two-week transition (4-6 weeks for older, sick, or finicky dogs). Start with just a pinch of Sojos, meat, and water added to the food you’re currently using and gradually increase each day as you decrease your pet’s old food.

Adding Variety

We at Sojourner Farms believe variety is an essential part of a dog's diet, and thus encourage adding veggies and other healthy foods, in addition to meat. Try mixing in a teaspoon of chopped greens, carrots, or other natural foods such as cooked rice, yogurt, or eggs. Avoid citrus fruits, onions, and spicy foods. For dogs with special dietary needs, consult a holistic veterinarian. To find a holistic vet in your area, call the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association at (410) 569-0795.

Commonly Asked Questions & Helpful Tips

Q: Is homemade pet food expensive and hard to make?

A: No. Preparation takes only a few minutes a day. The results are well worth the short time invested. Sojos® has no fillers so it lasts much longer than other pet foods. When you consider the price per feeding, it’s a great value. Check out this article for more info.

Q: Can I feed Sojos without adding meat?

A: This product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only. You must follow the feeding instructions and add the proper amount of meat to use this food for daily feeding.

Q: What if my dog has allergies?

A: Sojos isn’t processed into pellets or sprayed with synthetic additives (which can burden the body with toxicity), so your dog shouldn’t experience allergic reactions like they might with other pet foods.

Q: Will my dog gain or lose weight on Sojos?

A: When feeding a raw diet your dog may lose a little fat, which is normal, and then over time gain it back in muscle. If you want to keep weight on, soak the mix overnight, or try using meat with a higher fat content. Avocados and alfalfa powder also promote weight gain.

Q: Is this food too soft to clean my dog’s teeth?

A: Dry dog food does not clean teeth. That would be like people eating potato chips to clean their teeth. Your dog’s teeth are kept clean by a strong immune system and healthy, plaque-fighting saliva, which are the result of a healthy diet.

Q: Do I need to add a supplement to this food?

A: Unlike Sojos, traditional pet food is cooked, thus robbing it of naturally-occurring nutrients. Still, we encourage supplements to boost nutrition for sick, pregnant, and senior dogs, puppies or even healthy dogs. Adding raw vegetables to our mix is a great way to provide natural supplementation.

Q: Can dogs really eat raw meat?

A: Your dog’s digestive system is designed to handle raw meat. After all, wild or zoo animals don’t eat cooked meat. We’ve been using raw meat since 1985 with fantastic results. Purchase healthy selections of meat, always refrigerate or freeze, and follow recommended safe handling instructions on meat packaging. If you are still concerned, rinse meat in a solution of grapefruit seed extract or human-grade hydrogen peroxide mixed with water. If you prefer to cook the meat, add a general nutritional supplement or veggies to compensate for the nutrients lost to cooking. The important thing is to do what makes you feel comfortable.

Visit www.PawsAGoGo.com for more information on SOJOS European Dog Food Mix

TRIPE!

2008-07-10T22:37:00.004-04:00

Freeze Dried Tripe - you've been looking for it, we've got it!

If you haven't read this months Whole Dog Journal, pick up a copy and read the amazing benefits of Tripe for your dog and cat!

(Section taken from Whole Dog Journal)

Tripe’s Benefits
Reports from tripe enthusiasts make it
sound as though green tripe can bring dead
dogs back to life, and that’s not much of an
exaggeration. Mary Voss began to appreciate
tripe’s benefits when a friend involved
in all-breed rescue asked her to help save a
litter of infant Rottweiler puppies that had
been abandoned in a carport in winter.
“There were nine in the litter,” she says,
“and they split the pups among three of us.
Our job was to bottle-feed and wean the
pups, then bring them back at eight weeks
for adoption.”
Voss started weaning her charges at
four weeks and gradually added green
tripe. “When we brought the pups back
together again, the three I raised were bigger,
stronger, and more robust,” she says.
“Their coats glistened and their eyes were
bright and alert. Most of all, their personalities
were confident, fun-loving, and just
good-natured. The other pups were smaller
and sickly, their coats were dull, and they
were not very alert. Their temperaments
were also questionable because they
seemed too shy to be Rotties.”
When asked to describe the benefits
of feeding green tripe, the breeders and
dog lovers we polled all mentioned improvements
in health, appearance, and
disposition. Puppies thrive while avoiding
bone growth problems, older dogs
become more lively and active, digestive
disorders vanish or improve dramatically,
skin problems disappear, coats shine, coat
color improves, eyes brighten, muscles
become toned, teeth look terrific, stool size
diminishes, and endurance and stamina
increase. Dogs with behavioral problems
become calmer, some chronic illnesses or
conditions improve or disappear, dogs with
breeding problems successfully reproduce,
pups raised on green tripe excel at everything,
elderly dogs resume their careers and
win competitions, and the list goes on.
Of course, not every dog will respond
dramatically to green tripe, but enough
have to make it seem like a cure-all.
Several analyses show that tripe’s
calcium-phosphorus ratio is 1:1, which is
considered ideal for dogs. Its overall pH is
slightly acidic, which aids digestion. The
protein content of raw tripe is 10 percent
and its fat content is about 5 percent. Tripe
contains the essential fatty acids (linoleic
and linolenic) in their recommended proportions
as well as magnesium, potassium,
B-complex vitamins, the amino acid taurine,
other amino acids, about 4 percent
fiber, and trace amounts of other minerals
and vitamins A, C, D, and E. Green tripe
is approximately 78 percent water or moisture.
The protein level of dehydrated tripe
is about 21 percent.
“We were surprised to find that tripe
contains large amounts of Lactobacillus
acidophilus, the lactic acid bacteria that
is the main ingredient in probiotics,” says
Voss. “Green tripe is also loaded with
gastric enzymes, other gastric ‘juices,’ and
amino acids. The same gastric juices that
help cattle with digestion aid the canine in
digesting and efficiently utilizing food, and
the amino acids are necessary for muscular
development. As a bonus, coarsely ground
tripe works like dental floss and is one of
the best cleaners for a dog’s teeth.”
As with any dog food, the right amount
depends on the dog’s age, metabolism,
and activity level. Couch potatoes don’t
need much, while dogs working in adverse
conditions require thousands of calories
per day.

In Orange County, New York, Jeanne
Patterson lives with three Irish Wolfhounds,
two 155-pound males and a
five-foot-tall erica rice, a production
manager for a Place for Paws, displays
an entire cow stomach before it is cut
and ground up for dog food.

Liam (cnoccarne carrowmoragh), a
four-year-old irish Wolfhound owned
by Jeanne Patterson of new york, was
weaned on tripe and has not stopped
loving it, says Jeanne.

If you are looking for a great freeze dried tripe that is beneficial for your dogs diet and a wonderful training tool, visit our website at www.PawsAGoGo.com, click on Our Store and follow the links to treats!

I know where you live!

2008-07-07T22:42:00.000-04:00

Ruby is anxiously awaiting to arrive at your home with your food!

PetzLife - Oral Care Gel and Spray

2008-07-07T15:46:00.008-04:00

PetzLife Oral care Spray & Gel are 100% natural. They have been tested by an independent lab and found to be perfectly safe for your pet's.There are no side effects and are even safe enough to use on people! The main ingredient in them is grapefruit seed extract. Here is the full list of ingredients: Grapefruit seed extract, Grape seed extract, Thyme oil, Neem oil, Rosemary oil, and Peppermint oil. These are all specially formulated with distilled water and grain alcohol to produce one of the most effective and safest dental products ever produced.

You will notice that your pet will lick their lips repeatedly after you spray or apply gel. This natural reaction helps coat your pet's teeth and gums. If you have any questions about the safety of our product, please e-mail us at info@petzlife.com.

Petzlife Products has specially formulated Grapefruit Seed Extract with other all natural herbs and ingredients to produce a very safe alternative to scaling. Testimonials we are receiving about our Oral Care products prove they really work and are doing much more than just cleaning the teeth !!! Order yours for your special pet today!

Dr. Maier has been using PetzLife Oral Care for nearly 3 years in her clinic.
“I'm not really one for research data, I depend more on experience. This product has been available for more than long enough to establish an incredible safety record. I have dispensed this product to patients with diabetes, heart disease, cushing’s disease, Inflammatory bowel disease, etc. I have yet to see a problem in any of my patients that have used any of the Petzlife Products. I have however in the majority of cases seen an improvement in their dental health.
Sincerely,

Dr Susan Maier (18 yrs Holistic Veterinarian)
Horizon Veterinary Services”

BEFORE:

AFTER:

I rescue greyhounds from the racetracks here in New England and have been using the Petzlife Oral Care Gel for several years now. Greyhounds are fed a soft diet at the track and come to us with years of tartar build up and gingivitis. Instead of a costly and worrisome dental procedure, as greyhounds are very sensitive to anesthesia
I tried this product and it is truly amazing.
Here are before and after photos of one greyhound whose teeth were in deplorable condition. One can easily see the results from using this product.

Thank you.Linda Miranda

SAY GOODNIGHT GRACIE GREYHOUND RESCUE

Holistic Pet Care

Holistic pet care refers to using natural products to care for your pet. By avoiding potentially harmful drugs and anesthesia, pets can experience a healthy and happy life. Holistic pet care can also help to save you money on expensive products and procedures. This means avoiding unnecessary trips to the veterinarian.

While visits to the veterinarian are sometimes needed, there are many things you can do to keep your pet healthy and prevent future visits to the vet. By utilizing some simple and natural products, you can prevent many diseases from developing. Some options of holistic products include nutritional supplements and natural sprays for cleaning pet teeth. Here at PetzLife we offer products that clean pet teeth easily, naturally, and effectively.

Our oral care spray and gel can be used as an alternative. By using our products, you will not need to subject your pet to anesthesia during veterinary teeth cleanings. Simply apply our formula to pet teeth regularly to keep them healthy and free from plaque and tartar. Even existing gunk on the teeth will be removed over time when our products are used frequently.

Holistic pet care refers to focusing on the "whole" pet. Instead of focusing on specific problems, it is best to care for all aspects of your pet simultaneously. So, holistic care includes diet, exercise, grooming, parasite control, and teeth cleanliness. If you truly care for the well-being of your pet and want to extend the life of your pet, you will focus on all of these things. We are happy to be part of the solution, here at PetzLife. In fact, our slogan states that Petzlife is "Dedicated to improving pet's lives!"

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Product Safety

Grapefruit seed extract
Why Grapefruit Seed Extract?
After 25 years in use by naturopathic physicians, clinics and the general public grapefruit seed extract has been proven to be a safe and effective multipurpose (broad spectrum) compound with countless uses.
Grapefruit seed extract is being used successfully in humans and animals alike to fight many types of internal and external infections caused from parasites (single and multi-celled), viruses, bacteria, fungus and more!The greatest benefit is due to its multipurpose (broad spectrum) effect. It is effective even if the causes of the infections are known, unknown or misdiagnosed. Grapefruit seed extract naturally detoxifies, enhances and supports the immune system.
The pure oil contains high levels of vitamin C and E, and bioflavonoids. The important substances have an antioxidant action and can neutralize free radicals that damage cells and cause a number of illnesses.
Another important benefit of grapefruit seed extract is that it is helpful in alkalizing the blood. Alkalizing the body fluids (raising pH) is one of the single most important health regeneration benefits available as disease causing microforms (fungi, bacteria, virus etc.) cannot survive in an alkaline oxygenated environment.
Grapefruit seed extract is effective at very low concentrations. During 1989-90, an international research team (reported in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine, Volume 5, No. 3, USA, 1990) examined the effects of GSE and compared this with 30 effective antibiotics and 18 proven fungicides. GSE was found to perform as well as any and all of the tested agents. Without the harsh side effects. It is a natural alternative to strong antibiotics.
Grapefruit seed extract is nontoxic. According to an independent laboratory testing "Acute Oral Toxicity", it would take at least 4,000 times the normal dose of gse to produce a 50% chance of poisoning (called LD50).
Because grapefruit seed extract does not exhibit the harsh side effects and high cost of pharmaceuticals it is becoming the alternative health choice for naturopathic physicians, clinics and the general public.
Internal uses include but not limited to: Digestive Upsets: Gastrointestinal Disorders, Diarrhea and Food Poisoning. Infections from: Parasites (single and multi-celled), Bacterial, Viral and Fungal. Candida Yeast Infections, Thrush and Chronic Fatigue. Oral Infections: Tooth Plaque, Gum Disorders, Breath Freshener and Mouthwash. Colds and Flu, Sore Throats, Strep Throat, Ear Inflammation / Pain, Gassiness, Sinusitis and much more!

WOW!!! And that is only the beginning!! Read On!!

Grape seed extract
Grape seed extract has gained in popularity over the years. It has been studied since the early 80's for its free radical scavenging effect and its ability to inhibit histamine. This free radical scavenging effect has demonstrated itself to be 20 times more potent than either vitamin C or vitamin E.Therapeutic benefits have been shown to be dose dependent. Its usage is considered safe for conception, and pregnancy.
Grape seed extract is thought to neutralize free radicals (anti-oxidant), reduce inflammation, stabilize collagen and elastin, act as a natural antihistamine, and protect and heal connective tissue.

Neem Oil
The medicinal properties of Neem have been described in ancient Indian medical texts (4000 B.C.) such as the Atharva Veda, Ghrhyasutras and the Sutragranthas. The sanskrit name, nimba, is a derivative of the term nimbati syasthyamdadati - meaning 'to give good health'.
Literally, every part of the tree has a use. The products of the Neem tree are known to be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic.
Neem for viral diseasesNeem has been used traditionally in India to treat several viral diseases. ----Neem extracts absorbs the viruses effectively preventing them from spreading over unaffected cells. Recent tests have shown that Neem is effective against herpes virus and the viral DNA polymerase of hepatitis B virus.
Neem for respiratory disordersNose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs comprise the respiratory system.Commonest symptom found in many respiratory disorder like bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, tuberoclosis, pleuritis etc is cough. Decoction of Neem is used as a antitussive for dry cough.
Even in Africa, Tropical America etc where Neem has been introduced in recent times, people have used Neem as herbal treatments for various ailments. A large number of medicinals, cosmetics, toiletries and pharmaceuticals are now based on neem products.
Ancient Indian texts refer to Neem as Sarva Roga Nivarini, "the curer of all ailments."

Thyme Oil
THYMEThymus vulgaris (Labiatae)

HISTORY AND USES
Thyme occurs in the west Mediterranean to the southwest Italy. The herb was known to the Sumerians, used by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Thyme was praised by the herbalist Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654) as "a notable strengthener of the lungs". Its main medicinal application is in treating coughs and clearing congestion. Many current formulas for mouth washes and vapor rubs contain thymol, one of the constituents found in thyme. It also improves digestion, destroys intestinal parasites and is an excellent antiseptic and tonic.
“Thyme will help alleviate sore throats and coughs. Not only will it ease the pain and irritation, the antiseptic component of thyme will combat bacteria in the throat.”
Our research indicates there have been many Medicinal Uses for Thyme oil. It is used as a powerful antiseptic, used in cases of anemia, bronchial ailments, and intestinal problems. It is used as an antiseptic against tooth decay!

Rosemary oil
Rosmarinus officinalis (Labiatae)

HISTORY AND USES
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region. Rosemary is a well-known and greatly valued herb that is native to southern Europe. It has been used since antiquity to improve and strengthen the memory. Rosemary leaves increase circulation, reduce headaches and have anti-bacterial and fungal properties. Rosemary improves food absorbtion by stimulating digestion, the liver, the intestinal tract, and the gallbladder. It also is used in antiseptic gargles for sore throats, gum problems and canker sores. Rosemary has a long-standing reputation as a tonic, invigorating herb, imparting a zest for life that is to some degree reflected in its distinctive aromatic taste.

Peppermint oil
Mentha piperita (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Peppermint's origin is a mystery, but it has been in existence for a long time - dried leaves were found in Egyptian pyramids dating from around 1000 BC. It was highly valued by the Greeks and Romans, but only became popular in Western Europe in the 18th Century. Peppermint tea helps with indigestion and relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract. Peppermint's chief therapeutic value lies in its ability to relieve wind, flatulence, bloating and colic, though it has many other applications. Studies have shown that it relieves colon spasms and helps to cure ulcers. Peppermint also eases nervous headaches. Menthol, its main constituent, has antibacterial properties. Externally, the essential oil is used in balms and liniments to stimulate hot and cold nerve endings and increase local blood flow.

Now you know why our products really work, are safe and we can guarantee 100% satisfaction!!

An interesting comment is found on the Horizon Veterinary Clinic site by Dr. Susan Maier, DVM
"If a substance causes a symptom, it's homeopathic remedy can treat that symptom."
Now an interesting comment found in the Bible. Ezekiel 47.12 (The Living Bible Version) First and last sentences -- “All kinds of fruit trees will grow along the river banks.--- The fruit will be for food and the leaves for Medicine.”

Order Today! And don't forget extra bottles for friends and relatives.

Does Your Dog Have Good Karma?

2008-06-19T19:20:00.003-04:00

Does Your Dog Have Good Karma?

Natura Pet Launches Karma – The First Certified Organic Meat-Based Dog Food

For us humans, a diet of all natural, organic food has long been celebrated as a means of achieving countless nutritional and health benefits. Now your pet can reap the same advantages of an organic diet. Natura Pet Products, the world’s leading manufacturer of healthy pet food, today announces Karma, its new line of certified organic food for dogs.

Karma is made of over 95% organic ingredients. The recipe includes 18 certified organic ingredients, the most of any dog food currently available. Natura created its Karma line from a holistic perspective – focusing on the quality of nutrition, balance and interaction of ingredients, and the addition of select nutraceuticals proven to improve and protect pet health.The philosophy of Karma Organic Food for Dogs goes beyond the nutritional benefits with its philosophy of “Good for the Body, Good for the Soul, Good for the Environment.” Not only is the packaging of Karma made with 100% recyclable material, but Natura also follows programs assuring environmentally sound ingredient transport, storage and handling, processing, warehousing, and shipping and handling. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Karma products is donated to help animals in need.

With the mission statement “To Manufacture the Healthiest Pet Foods in the World” and guiding tenet “If we wouldn't eat it ourselves, we don't put it in the food we make,” Natura is truly breaking ground in how we care for our pets. Says co-founder Peter Atkins, “Your pet’s health is just as important as your own. A pet’s diet, the biggest health variable controlled by humans, is crucial to your pet’s well-being and longevity. That’s why selecting the healthiest and tastiest food available will always be the most loving choice you can make for your pet.”

Good for the Body. Good for the Soul. Good for the Environment
The pet food ingredients used in Karma are of the highest quality ever used before in a food for dogs. They are meticulously selected and balanced to interact in such a way to promote optimal health and well-being.

Your pet’s skin and coat will become soft, shiny and dander-free. Your dog’s eyes will sparkle, its nose will be damp and clean, and its overall aroma will improve. Karma is the only dog food certified 95% organic. Because of the goodness associated with this product, and the care with which it was made, we firmly believe Karma is a product which will not only satisfy the taste and nutritional requirements of your dog, but it will also satisfy the holistic need to be protective of our environment.

Karma all-natural, baked dry dog food formula is based on ground free-range organic chicken and organic grains. It includes whole, raw fruits and vegetables which contain health promoting nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals.
All products labeled organic must contain 95% or more certified organic ingredients. Some essential vitamins and minerals may not be available in organic form which prevents the 100% label.

Certified Organic by Quality Assurance International
Animal feeding tests using AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) procedures substantiate that Karma provides complete and balanced nutrition for maintenance. Karma Organic Food for Dogs is available in 15.4 lb. and 4.4 lb. recyclable bags.

Visit www.PawsAGoGo.com for more information about Karma Organic Dog Food

Dog Food causes Salmonelle Outbreak: What you need to know

2008-05-16T22:16:00.004-04:00

Dog food causes Salmonella outbreak: What you need to know

By Ben WassermanMay 16, 2008 - 9:21:47 AM

FRIDAY MAY 16, 2008 (foodconsumer.org) -- The U.S. government released a document on Thursday saying that the 2006-2007 outbreak of Salmonella sickening 70 people was caused by contaminated dry dog food.Dry dog food as a source of Salmonella contamination is not common although cases have been reported that people contract Salmonella infection from tainted pet treats. And officials from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still have no idea how Salmonella got into the dog food although researchers are still trying to figure out how.The outbreak sickened an estimated 70 people mostly in the Northeast.

Of the infected, 40% were infants. Most of the cases were reported in Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio. Sporadic reports came also from Alabama, California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Carolina and Virginia.The dog food of concern was made by Mars Petcare at its Pennsylvania plant. The company voluntarily recalled some bags of the two brands of food involved in the outbreak, the CDC said.

The following is the common questions and answers cited from the CDC for those who are interested in learning more about Salmonella infections.What is salmonella infection?Salmonella infection is an infection with a bacteria called Salmonella. Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, in some persons the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. In these patients, the Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.

What sort of germ is Salmonella?

The Salmonella germ is actually a group of bacteria that can cause diarrheal illness in humans. They are microscopic living creatures that pass from the feces of people or animals, to other people or other animals. There are many different kinds of Salmonella bacteria. Salmonella serotype Typhimurium and Salmonella serotype Enteritidis are the most common in the United States. Salmonella has been known to cause illness for over 100 years. They were discovered by a American scientist named Salmon, for whom they are named.

How can Salmonella infections be diagnosed?

Many different kinds of illnesses can cause diarrhea, fever, or abdominal cramps. Determining that Salmonella is the cause of the illness depends on laboratory tests that identify Salmonella in the stools of an infected person. These tests are sometimes not performed unless the laboratory is instructed specifically to look for the organism. Once Salmonella has been identified, further testing can determine its specific type, and which antibiotics could be used to treat it.

How can Salmonella infections be treated?

Salmonella infections usually resolve in 5-7 days and often do not require treatment unless the patient becomes severely dehydrated or the infection spreads from the intestines. Persons with severe diarrhea may require rehydration, often with intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are not usually necessary unless the infection spreads from the intestines, then it can be treated with ampicillin, gentamicin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, or ciprofloxacin. Unfortunately, some Salmonella bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics, largely as a result of the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Are there long term consequences to a Salmonella infection?

Persons with diarrhea usually recover completely, although it may be several months before their bowel habits are entirely normal. A small number of persons who are infected with Salmonella, will go on to develop pains in their joints, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination. This is called Reiter's syndrome. It can last for months or years, and can lead to chronic arthritis which is difficult to treat. Antibiotic treatment does not make a difference in whether or not the person later develops arthritis.

How do people catch Salmonella?

Salmonella live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals, including birds. Salmonella are usually transmitted to humans by eating foods contaminated with animal feces. Contaminated foods usually look and smell normal. Contaminated foods are often of animal origin, such as beef, poultry, milk, or eggs, but all foods, including vegetables may become contaminated. Many raw foods of animal origin are frequently contaminated, but fortunately, thorough cooking kills Salmonella. Food may also become contaminated by the unwashed hands of an infected food handler, who forgot to wash his or her hands with soap after using the bathroom.Salmonella may also be found in the feces of some pets, especially those with diarrhea, and people can become infected if they do not wash their hands after contact with these feces. Reptiles are particularly likely to harbor Salmonella and people should always wash their hands immediately after handling a reptile, even if the reptile is healthy. Adults should also be careful that children wash their hands after handling a reptile.

What can a person do to prevent this illness?

There is no vaccine to prevent salmonella infections. Since foods of animal origin may be contaminated with Salmonella, people should not eat raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, or meat. Raw eggs may be unrecognized in some foods such as homemade hollandaise sauce, caesar and other homemade salad dressings, tiramisu, homemade ice cream, homemade mayonnaise, cookie dough, and frostings. Poultry and meat, including hamburgers, should be well-cooked, not pink in the middle. Persons also should not consume raw or unpasteurized milk or other dairy products. Produce should be thoroughly washed before consuming.Cross-contamination of foods should be avoided. Uncooked meats should be keep separate from produce, cooked foods, and ready-to-eat foods. Hands, cutting boards, counters, knives, and other utensils should be washed thoroughly after handling uncooked foods. Hand should be washed before handling any food, and between handling different food items.People who have salmonellosis should not prepare food or pour water for others until they have been shown to no longer be carrying the Salmonella bacterium.People should wash their hands after contact with animal feces. Since reptiles are particularly likely to have Salmonella, everyone should immediately wash their hands after handling reptiles. Reptiles (including turtles) are not appropriate pets for small children and should not be in the same house as an infant.

How common is salmonella infection?

Every year, approximately 40,000 cases of salmonella infections are reported in the United States. Because many milder cases are not diagnosed or reported, the actual number of infections may be thity or more times greater. Salmonella illness is more common in the summer than winter.Children are the most likely to get salmonella infections. Young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised are the most likely to have severe infections. It is estimated that approximately 600 persons die each year with acute salmonella illness.

What else can be done to prevent salmonella infections?

It is important for the public health department to know about cases of salmonella illnesses. It is important for clinical laboratories to send isolates of Salmonella to the City, County, or State Public Health Laboratories so the specific type can be determined and compared with other Salmonella in the community. If many cases occur at the same time, it may mean that a restaurant, food or water supply has a problem which needs correction by the public health department.Some prevention steps occur everyday without you thinking about it. Pasteurization of milk and treating municipal water supplies are highly effective prevention measures that have been in place for many years. In the 1970s, small pet turtles were a common source of salmonellosis in the United States, and in 1975, the sale of small turtles was halted in this country. Improvements in farm animal hygiene, in slaughter plant practices, and in vegetable and fruit harvesting and packing operations may help prevent salmonellosis caused by contaminated foods. Better education of food industry workers in basic food safety and restaurant inspection procedures, may prevent cross-contamination and other food handling errors that can lead to outbreaks. Wider use of pasteurized egg in restaurants, hospitals, and nursing homes is an important prevention measure. In the future, irradiation or other treatments may greatly reduce contamination of raw meat.What is the government doing about salmonella infections?The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) monitors the frequency of Salmonella infections in the country and assists the local and State Health Departments to investigate outbreaks and devise control measures. CDC also conducts research to better identify specific types of Salmonella. The Food and Drug Administration inspects imported foods, milk pasteurization plants, promotes better food preparation techniques in restaurants and food processing plants, and regulates the sale of turtles. The FDA also regulates the use of specific antibiotics as growth promotants in food animals. The US Department of Agriculture monitors the health of food animals, inspects egg pasteurization plants, and is responsible for the quality of slaughtered and processed meat. The US Environmental Protection Agency regulates and monitors the safety of our drinking water supplies.

How can I learn more about this and other public health problems?

You can discuss any medical concerns you may have with your doctor or other heath care provider. Your local City or County Health Department can provide more information about this and other public health problems that are occurring in your area. General information about the public health of the nation is published every week in the "Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report", by the CDC in Atlanta, GA. Epidemiologists in your local and State Health Departments are tracking a number of important public health problems, investigating special problems that arise, and helping to prevent them from occurring in the first place, or from spreading if they do occur.

What can I do to prevent salmonella illnesses?

Cook poultry, ground beef, and eggs thoroughly before eating. Do not eat or drink foods containing raw eggs, or raw unpasteurized milk. If you are served undercooked meat, poultry or eggs in a restaurant, don't hesitate to send it back to the kitchen for further cooking. Wash hands, kitchen work surfaces, and utensils with soap and water immediately after they have been in contact with raw meat or poultry. Be particularly careful with foods prepared for infants, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Wash hands with soap after handling reptiles or birds, or after contact with pet feces. Avoid direct or even indirect contact between reptiles (turtles, iguanas, other lizards, snakes) and infants or immunocompromised persons. Don't work with raw poultry or meat, and an infant (e.g., feed, change diaper) at the same time. Mother's milk is the safest food for young infants. Breast-feeding prevents salmonellosis and
many other health problems.

This version is slightly edited by foodconsumer.org

About NutriSource Pet Foods

2008-05-06T18:45:00.014-04:00

Scientifically formulated, nutritionally complete and balanced, NutriSource® products have been developed to enhance your pet's overall well being. NutriSource® delivers the optimum levels of nutrients to improve your pet's health and strengthen its immune system. Each NutriSource® formula provides the proper ratio of protein and fat levels to deliver better energy and performance and to improve your pet's appearance with a healthier looking, soft, shiny coat.

NutriSource® Brand dog food is made with real chicken as the number one ingredient (no chicken or poultry by products). Real chicken is an excellent source of high quality protein and chicken has a rich, wholesome taste pets love. Real chicken combined with the precise balance of rice, fat, fiber, cereal carbohydrates, vitamins and chelated minerals gives your pet the best formulation of bio-available nutrients offered today.

NutriSource® is highly digestible for maximum nutrient absorption and each formula is nutritionally complete so more of the concentrated nutrition is retained by your dog. This means you can feed your dog less; as much as two-thirds less than other brands. And by feeding smaller, more easily digestible portions, your dog produces less waste.
COPYRIGHT ® 2006 NUTRISOURCEPO Box 190, Perham, MN 56573, (218) 346-7500All Rights Reserved

Q&A

1) Are Nutrisource pet foods safe to feed?

YES! ALL NUTRISOURCE PET FOOD PRODUCTS ARE COMPLETELY SAFE TO FEED!

2) Has any Nutrisource branded pet food been recalled or involved in the recalls?

NO! NO NUTRISOURCE BRANDED PET FOOD HAS BEEN RECALLED OR AFFECTED BY THE RECALLS. IN OVER 40 YEARS OF PRODUCING PET FOODS, NO PRODUCT MANUFACTURED AT OUR FACILITY IN PERHAM, MINNESOTA HAS EVER BEEN INVOLVED IN A RECALL.

3) Is wheat gluten or rice gluten used in Nutrisource?

NO! THERE IS NO WHEAT GLUTEN OR RICE GLUTEN USED IN NUTRISOURCE BRANDED PET FOODS!

4) Is corn gluten meal used in Nutrisource?

YES. NUTRISOURCE USES CORN GLUTEN MEAL IN THE LARGE BREED PUPPY, SENIOR DOG, PERFORMANCE 30/20 AND ADULT COMPLETE CAT FOOD FORMULAS BECAUSE OF THE CONCENTRATED SOURCE OF HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS. IT IS ALSO A SOURCE OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS, ALL OF WHICH ARE IMPORTANT TO OVERALL PET HEALTH.

5) Is the corn gluten used in Nutrisource sourced from China?

NO! CORN GLUTEN USED IN SELECTED NUTRISOURCE BRANDED PRODUCTS COMES FROM CORN GROWN IN THE UNITED STATES, WITH THE VAST MAJORITY BEING GROWN IN THE UPPER MIDWEST WHERE OUR FACILITY IS LOCATED.

6) Are ANY ingredients used in Nutrisource sourced from the Chinese supplier in question?

NO!

7) Are all Nutrisource branded pet products manufactured at one facility?

YES! ALL NUTRISOURCE BRANDED PET PRODUCTS ARE MANUFACTURED IN PERHAM, MINNESOTA USA.

8) Are raw ingredients tested before they are used in Nutrisource pet foods?

YES! INGREDIENTS ARE TESTED BEFORE THEY ARE ALLOWED TO ENTER OUR PRODUCTION FACILITY TO ENSURE THAT THEY MEET OUR STRICT SAFETY AND WHOLESOMENESS STANDARDS. IN ADDITION, EACH FINISHED PRODUCT IS SUBJECTED TO A "TRIPLE CHECK" SYSTEM BEFORE IT IS RELEASED FOR SALE TO GUARANTEE THE END PRODUCT MEETS ALL QUALITY AND SAFETY STANDARDS.

Canine nutritionists have made significant advances in recent years. New high tech ingredients that deliver key nutrients and key nutraceutical benefits have become available. Dog professionals have asked for specific improvement in performance in the foods they feed. NutriSource listened to the practical input of dog professionals and formulated products that offer maximum performance. NutriSource formulas incorporate the latest advances in canine nutritional knowledge and incorporate the best nutraceutical ingredients. Using the highest quality ingredients available, NutriSource is designed to improve canine health and well being. NutriSource formulas include the proper amounts of Omega 6/Omega 3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondriotin, protected Vitamin C and micro nutrients. NutriSource products are naturally preserved.

NutriSource Super Premium Cat Food: NutriSource® All In One Formula Adult Complete Cat Food provides everything your cat needs in one all natural, great tasting cat food. Formulated with premium all natural ingredients and the latest scientific feline nutritional information available, NutriSource® is a complete health care system developed specifically for adult cats, giving them better health, a stronger immune system and a more vibrant, glowing appearance.

THIS FOOD IS A WHOLE DOG JOURNAL RECOMMENDED FOOD!!

Visit www.PawsAGoGo.com for more information about NutriSource All Natural Pet Foods