Winter Pet Gifts - Give them Warmth for Christmas

It's freezing outside! What are you doing to keep your pets safe from the cold? Here are some ideas and where you can find them. Give your pet the gift of warmth for Christmas.

******************

Snuggle Safe Heat Pad: Perfect for all pets. Provides 12 hours of warmth. The temperature remains stable at 123 degrees for 5 to 6 hours then slowly drops off. 5 min in microwave and place under pets bedding. Also use to keep hot foods warm when transporting. $24.47 plus shipping. Locate at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/, click on Pet Education Books, click on Pet Supplys, page 10.

******************

Weatherbeeta Landa Deluxe Dog Blanket: Nine sizes and two colors available. Dog blanket coat with collar for extra warmth and a leash hole for easy walking your dog. 600 Denier outer shell on coat is waterproof & breathable. Full nylon lining, optional leg straps, touch tape closure, safety reflective stripes, and is washable. $31.95 plus shipping. Locate at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/, click on Pet Education Books, click on Pet Apparel, page 1.

******************

Red Fleece Reflective Safety Jacket: Brushed Fleece outside and lined with heat retentive polyester Fleece inside. Two reflective stripes on the back for night time visibiltiy. Red with grey turn down collar. Adjustable velcro closures at neck and stomach. Leash hole and storage pocket on back. Sizes available. $18.99 plus shipping. Locate at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/, click on Pet Education Books, click on Pet Apparel, page 1.

******************

Iglo-Style Lectro Kennel Cover: Attached to the Iglo-Style Lectro Kennel Cover Pad for additonal heat. Sizes in small and medium. Faux Lambskin, washable, weave design to allow heat to penetrate. $13.99 - $15.99 plus shipping. Locate at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/, click on Pet Education Books, click on Kennels and Carriers, page 5.

******************

Wenzel Padded Pet Beds: Orthopedic padded pet beds for use inside kennels, carriers, or just on the floor. Washable with mild detergent and gentle cycle, two sided plaidwith Sherpa cover, zipper removable cover, 24 inches by 35 inches, two colors available, $12.99 Locate at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/, click on Pet Education Books, click on Pet Beds, page 1.

******************

Everything Natural Pet Food sells natural, human grade, organic, and holistic dog and cat pet foods and complete pet supplies (dogs-cats-horses-small animal-birds-fish-reptiles). Shop for Christmas gifts at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/

My Dog Ate Chocolate! - What to do

My Basset Hound Goober got into my shopping packages and found a one pound box of See's Candies. He ripped it open and bagan to eat it. My Black Lab knew it was wrong and began barking for me to follow her. I did. She led me to Goober who had eaten all but two pieces of chocolate before I found him and removed the box. I immediatly began to panic. In the past, I knew somones dog who had died from eating his family's Halloween chocolate. I knew I had to act fast. I thought to make him vomit the chocolate. My medicine cabinet did not have any Syrup of Ipecac so I drove to the pharmacy. The Pharmacist said they did not make that product any longer. They had nothing else to make my dog vomit. I rushed home and called poison control.

Poison control asked me how much chocolate he ate and how much he weighed. There is a formula for figuring out if they ate enough to be toxic. They worked out the formula. It came out that Goober would have to eat three boxes of milk chocolate for him to have toxic results. They informed me he would be all right but would have a tummy ache and possibly vomit on his own. Luckily, he only had a tummy ache and laid on my lap all evening and sometimes letting out little groans. I was so thankful he was all right. I was so thankful for the quick thinking of my Black Lab.

However, I did learn something very important about what kinds of chocolates are very toxic to dogs. It is mostly the bakers chocolate and then the dark chocolate candies. Chocolate containes an ingrediant called "Methylxanthine" which is made up of caffeine and the alkaloid theobromine. This is not toxic to humans in the doses found in candy and bakery items. However, if your dogs eat bakers chocolate, it can be lethal in the right dose. So, if your dog eats a chocolate cake, it can be in trouble. You have to either get it to vomit using the Peroxide formula below and/or rush it to your Vet or Vveterinary emergency clinic. Even though your dog won't die from small amounts of milk chocolate, it is not a good idea to give it to them as a treat. It can make them vomit or have a bad tummy ache. Give them natual, human grade, organic, holistic dog treats. Never feed dogs chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes or raisons as they all have toxic effects.

The signs of chocolate poisioning can show up to hours after they have eaten the goodies. Your dog could be vomiting, frequently urinating, have diarrhea, rapid breathing, weakness, seizures, and go into a coma. Usually death occurs from cardiac arrest.

What to do according to the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" written by Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, Liisa D. Carlson, DVM, Delbert G. Carlson, DVM, and James M. Giffin, MD is: "If you know your dog has eaten chocolate within the past six hours and he has not already vomited, induce vomiting. Record the type and amount of chocolate ingested (sweet milk chocolate and semisweet chocolate in candy bars is not nearly as toxic as baking chocolate). Then call your veterinarian for further instructions."

Inducing Vomiting: Give the dog hydrogen peroxide. 3% solution is effective. 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. Repeat every 15 to 20 minutes, up to three times until the dog vomits. Walk the dog after each dose to stimulate vomiting.

For emergencies have two things: 1. the phone number to poison control in a handy location, and 2. a good book like the "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" which can be found at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/ in the Pet Education Books section and click on Pet Wellness Care. I refer to this book often for my dogs care. It has everything from first aide to emergency care. If you have a dog you need a book like this.

Everything Natural Pet Food is a location for natural, human grade, organic, holistic, and vegetarian pet food and pet supplies for dogs, cats, birds, horses, small animals, reptiles, and wildlife. If you need something and can't find it, let us know and we'll find the resource for you. Remember, to keep your pets healthy, "Feed them Life!"

Arthritis in Pets

When your dog, cat, or any pet has arthritis it is painful and their movement becomes limited. Using drugs for pain long term can have other devasting side effects. Some of those drugs have been taken off the market like Vioxx and Bextra due to the harmful side effects.

Two drugs that are clinically proven to relieve pain and increase mobility in the joints are Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate. It is said to be safer and better than pain killers. Here is a quote from the GAIT study: *The "GAIT" Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial - Glucosamine Effectiveness (13 Universities - United States Study)Highlights: After five years of recruiting, testing and analyzing, this trial excitingly reports, “Combination glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is effective in treating moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis.”

These studies were done on 1,500 osteoarthritis sufferers. The participants were given daily doses of Glucosamine Hydrocholoride and Chondroitin Sulfate daily. Some also had painkillers and some had a placebo. The effects of Glucosamine Hydrocholoride and Chondroitin Sulfate were amazingly more effective than acetaminophen for joint discomfort. Other studies had the same results.

Types of Arthritis in Pets

Acute Traumatic Arthritis in pets: usually caused by trauma to the joints, has swelling and they become lame. It requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis.

Auto Immune Arthritis in pets: is rheumatoid arthritis. The immune system attacks the joints, the synovial membrane swells and the pet is looses mobility.

Degenerative Joint Disease in pets: known as osteoarthritis. a destruction of cartilage in the joints in cartilage and have bouts of inflamation. One of the most common types of arthritis in pets.

Hip Dysplasia in pets: a type of osteoarthritis that affects the hip joints. Caused by injury or normal wear, or intection. Hip dysplasia can spread to other joints as it progresses.
Hypertrophic Arthritis in pets: is the development of bone spurs. While moving, the joint is being irritated by these bone spurs and is very painful.

Infectious Arthritis in pets: is seen as lameness and sore joints due to an underlying infectious element. Occurs as a result of trauma and secondary infection to the joint. Antibiotics should be used for this type of arthritis. See you vet.

Inflammatory Arthritis in pets: is not as common as other forms of arthritis in pets. Except when infectious agents are present, the causes of most inflamatory arthritis types is unknown.

Osteochondrosis in pets: the cartilage deteriorates and causes an osteoarthritic like condition and may be genetic or caused by bad nutrition.

Rheumatoid Arthritis in pets: is the body attacking itself or an infection is present. The body is confused and attacks the joints of the body. This is both extremely painful and debilitating. No known cause has been discovered.

Food for the Arthritic pet.

Treats should be real food treats. Eliminate all pet or human food with artificial coloring, preservatives, hormone containing meats and onions, garlic, grapes, grape seed, raisins and chocolate. Fruits (except grapes) and vegetables are great treats and have many health benefits for pets.

Dog and cat food should be the hightest quality but mostly natural, human grade, organic, or holistic brands of pet food. Read the labels and make sure there are no hormones, artificial preservatives or ingredieants that your pet may be allergic to. Vegetarian food has also been recommended for people and pets suffering from arthritis. If the pet is overweight, reduce the daily intake of food until the weight comes off. Extra weight is very painful and stresses the joints.

Natural, human grade, organic, holistic, and vegetarian pet foods & treats can be found at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/. Many of these foods contain Sulfate and are far better natural choices than many commercial grade pet foods.

Exercise is important just like a good diet is critical for healthy joints and joints suffering from arthritis. If you can't get your pet outside due to poor weather, play games in the house to exercise your pets. My dogs love to chase me around the kitchen and living room or have me chase them and pretend I'm going to get their bones. Be iminative and have fun with your pet. You'll both get some qualtiy time together.

Supplements to the diet & pet arthritis friendly products:

A wide assortment of pet products including supplements wtih Glucosamine/Chondroitin are available at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/ on the Wellness Care section. Choose Arthritis and you will see many items for your pets.

This includes a ramp to your van or car for dogs with arthritic joints. Jumping up into the car usually is no longer an options for painful arthritic joints. However, walking up a portable ramp is doable and a great solution. Find the ramp by clicking Arthritis.

What about your pets bed? Is it warm and cushioning? Pets with arthritis do better indoors during cold weather. A thermal bed that is soft to lay on is kinder to painful joints. You may find bedding like this at: Wellness Care section. Choose Arthritis; also http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/PetEducationBooks.html and choose pet beds for a heating pad for the pets bed.

If you suspect your pet has arthritis, take them to the vet. Quality Vet care along with good nutrition and exercise will help your pet last years longer.

Remember, "Feed them Life!"

Winterize Your Pets

Fall is here and we are slipping into cooler wether. Depending on what area of the country you are in, there may be some freezing nights and cold days. I live in Washington state where winters are milder than other northern United States areas. No matter where we are, we have to prepare our pets who go outside in the cold. This picture is of "Sally", who is a very special dog who lives with my friend Jodie. You can tell it is getting cooler by the picture. Fall leaves on the ground and Sally in her special coat. Not all dogs are equiped to handle the cold and need some help from their human companions.

There are a variety of coats online and in the pet stores. This is the time to look for your dogs winter coat now. If you live where it is not too cold you might start with an old sweatshirt. I go to Goodwill and buy sweatshirts for $3.00. I cut the arms off and leave just enough to cover their shoulders and upper arms. Then for the boys dogs, I cut out part of the bottom so they can go to the bathroom. By the way, sweatshirts fit dogs best if you put the front on their backs and the back on their tummies. That way, their neck area fits better. Then I either safety pin up the loose baggy areas or sew it to fit. As it gets colder, I put two shirts on them. And of course, the winter coat when necessary.

My dogs are outside most of the time during the days. Each dog has a dog house with lots of blankets and foam bedding to lay on. The bottom of dog houses are very cold to lay on without lots of padding. It is too cold and hard for arthritic dogs or dogs with joint problems. With their shirts, coats, and layers of cushy bedding, they can cuddle up and stay warm. For very cold areas you can buy dog houses that have heating units. Some people put light bulbs inside to raise the temperature. It is very important to keep out the cold winds which chill the dog and can make them sick. Igloo dog houses sell swinging doors and floor padding. You can assemple a wind block with strips of heavy carpet and nail them to the door top of wooden dog houses. That way the dog can go in and out but it keeps out the cold and wind. Face the dog house entrance away from the direction of the wind.

Water dishes need to have the ice removed daily and fresh water filled. Keep food and water dishes under a area where rain, wind, and snow cannot get into them.

Never leave a dog chained up outside in the dead cold of winter. That is cruel and you can go to jail for that. All dogs need proper shelter. If at all possible, in the coldest of winter, keep your dogs in the house. Prepare a place for them to keep warm. Remember to let them outside often to relieve themselves. If properly potty trained, they won't make mistakes in the house and you won't mind keeping them inside in the cold winter.

Don't forget your cats. They should not be outside in extreme weather either. Find a warm place inside during the winter where they can be warm. Keeping your pets healthy means winterizing their surroundings for the cold. By dong these simple things, you can save yourself lots of vet bills. Unless your dog is a sled dog from Alaska and is outside a lot, the chances are they are not used to the cold and can get sick or die if left unattended.

Make sure the nutrition is full of enough calories, vitamins and minerals to keep your pets healthy in winter. Feed them all natural, human grade, organic, and holistic pet food. You can find some of the best brands at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/NaturalDogFoods.html. Remember, our animal companions depend on us for proper care so "Feed Them Life!" Have a warm winter.

Feeding the Senior Dog

Many of us have senior aging dogs. We love these beautiful darlings just the same. But just like our bodies, everything is changing as we age. This is a time to get a good analysis from your vets and make sure everything is working OK. Never leave out vet care, especially when your pet is aging. How we need to care for them is different. There is lots of information on this topic to assist your knowledge. I have some recommendation on feeding older dogs. I have three senior dogs. A large Black Lab, a medium sized Basset Hound, and a smaller Cocker Spaniel. All are aging differently.

Usually, as your dog ages, they become less active. They are still hungry most of the time. They still beg for cookies. Boy, it sure is hard to feed them less food. I give each dog their own bowl with their own measured food. Treats are reduced in size, given less often, never late at night.
I try to feed two or three small meals a day so they feel they are having enough to eat. Obesity can agrevate heart conditions in aging pets so we need to keep the weight down as much as possible. Going for walks helps maintain muscle mass and burns extra calories. If you can't walk outside, try walking around the house a few times. As long as they are walking with you, it makes them happy.

Feeding natural, human grade, organic, and holistic dog foods gives higher contents of nutrition that the aging pet needs. You can add supplements as well such as: Glucosamine & Chondroitin,
vitamins, brewer's yeast, linoleic acid, bromelain (for upset tummies). The following are some special foods good for senior aging dogs. They are available at EverythingNaturalPetFood.com.

1. Natural Planet Organics: Just like you, your canine companion's health depends on the proper blend of minerals, vitamins, meats, vegetables, essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Natural Planet Organics has taken all the guesswork out of feeding your dog. Ingredients: Organic chicken, chicken meal, organic brown rice, organic oats, organic barley, natural flavors, dicalcium phosphate, organic flaxseed, poultry fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid), calcium carbonate, organic sunflower oil, potassium chloride, tomato pomace, brewers yeast, sea salt, proteinated minerals (zinc proteinate, iron proteinate, copper proteinate, cobalt proteinate, manganese proteinate, selenium proteinate), choline chloride, organic alfalfa, organic peas, organic sunflower seeds, organic pumpkin seeds, organic carrots, blueberries, organic broccoli, yeast culture (saccharomyces cerevisiae, enterococcus faecium, lactobacillus acidophilus, aspergillus niger, trichoderma longibrachiatum, bacillus subtillis), vitamins (vitamin A acetate, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin E supplement, niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin supplement, folic acid, biotin, vitamin B12 supplement), glucosamine hydrochloride, chicory extract, lecithin, taurine, preserved with mixed tocopherols, sage, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), chondroitin sulfate, yucca schidigera extract, garlic, calcium iodate, rosemary extract.
2. Newman's Own Advanced Dog Chicken & Rice Formula for Active or Senior Dogs Dry Dog Food a unique blend of proteins, whole grains, vitamins and minerals that maximize palatability, digestibility and nutrient assimilation. Feeding your dog high quality, largely organic food is the very best thing you can do for your pet's health. Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Organic Oats, Organic Barley, Organic Peas, Organic Soybean Meal, Organic Sorghum, Organic Brown Rice, Organic Millet, Organic Rice, Chicken Fat (Naturally Stabilized with Mixed Tocopherols [a Source of Vitamin E]), Organic Flax Seed, Dicalcium Phosphate, Organic Carrots, Chicken Liver, Sea Salt, Potassium Chloride, Parsley, Zinc Amino Acid Complex (Source of Chelated Zinc), Choline Chloride, Iron Amino Acid Complex (Source of Chelated Iron), Vitamin E Supplement, Rosemary Extract, Manganese Amino Acid Complex (Source of Chelated Manganese), Lecithin, Copper Amino Acid Complex (Source of Chelated Copper), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Source of Vitamin C), Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamin Hydrochloride, Biotin, Cobalt Proteinate (Source of Chelated Cobalt), Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide (Source of Iodine), Vitamin K Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Dehydrated Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Bifidobacterium Thermophilum Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Bifidobacterium Pseudolongum Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product.
3. Wellness CORE Grain Free Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food is a Thoughtful Alternative in Grain-Free, Protein-Focused Nutrition ..with Nothing in EXCESS, and everything in BALANCE. * No Meat By-Products * No Wheat or Wheat Gluten * No Soy * No Dairy * No Corn or Corn Gluten * No Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives. 80% more meat and none of the grain allergens. Excellent for allergic dogs. Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Dried Ground Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Whitefish Meal, Tomato Pomace, Natural Chicken Flavor, Chicken Liver, Salmon Oil, Flaxseed, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Kale, Broccoli, Spinach, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Vitamins, Minerals, Choline Chloride, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Mixed Tocopherols, Rosemary Extract.
4. Innova EVO Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food contains 30% less fat than regular EVO Dog Food but with 20% MORE protein. Only the highest quality turkey and chicken, including the meat, cartilage, fat, bone and connective tissue attached to the necks, backs and wings are used in the making of EVO Reduced Fat Dog Food. Whole fruits and vegetables are added to supply important, health promoting nutrients that dogs would find foraging for food. Live, naturally occurring microorganisms are then gently sprayed on after the cooling process. Ingredients: Turkey, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Herring Oil, Natural Flavors, Egg, Tomatoes, Apples, Carrots,Cottage Cheese, Alfalfa Sprouts, Potassium Chloride, Vitamins/Minerals, Dried Chicory Root Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Lecithin, Rosemary Extract
5. ACTIVE CARE we have seen first hand and many times how even well-cared-for dogs can have their happiest years brought to a painful and premature end because of degenerating joints. And so we created ACTIVE CARE chews, biscuits and food with natural chicken cartilage with the highest levels of unprocessed chondroitin and glucosamine, to develop, maintain and repair the joints. It's for all breeds at all ages, naturally formulated with skin and coat conditioners, and makes taking good care of your dog's joints absolutely effortless. Ingredients: Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Chicken Cartilage (Source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid), Flax Seed (Source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Dried Egg Product, Diacalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Grapeseed Oil, Potassium Chloride, Monosodium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, DL-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Copper Sulfate, Amino Acid Chelates of Zinc, Iron, Manganese, Copper and Cobalt, Niacin, Ascorbic Acid (Source of Vitamin C), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, D-Biotin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement
6. ORGANIX Canine Organic Turkey, Chicken and Vegetable Formula Canned Dog Food uses Organic Free-Range Turkey meat as their #1 ingredient, assuring you and your dog that each turkey was fed a certified organic diet with no pesticides, no antibiotics, no growth hormones and no bio-engineering. An excellent source of complete protein and amino acids essential for growth and development. ORGANIC FRESH TURKEY & CHICKEN - We use real certified organic Turkey & Chicken meat as our #1 ingredients, assuring you and your pet that each chicken and Turkey was fed a certified organic, high-quality diet (This is the same organic chicken & turkey you'll find in your grocer's chiller!!). No drugs or antibiotics were used throughout their lifetime. An excellent source of complete protein and amino acids essential for adult maintenance.ORGANIC FLAXSEEDS WITH ANTIOXIDANTS Free from pesticides and herbicides, our formula's organic flaxseeds offer purity and nutrition for your dog's optimal health. Soluble and insoluble fiber helps maintain a healthy GI tract and provides natural laxative effects. Organic flaxseeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, helping to optimize the ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids to soften skin, improve haircoat and decrease inflammation. Rich in antioxidants (lignans) that prevent free radical damage to cells.CHONDROITIN & GLUCOSAMINE Included for joint and bone function.PREBIOTICS & PROBIOTICS Optimize nutrient digestion and promote a healthy digestive tract.VITAMINS & MINERALS Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Calcium and Phosphorus for strong teeth and bones. Vitamin D to aid calcium absorption. Antioxidant vitamins C and E protect cells and fortify the immune system. B Vitamins for proper metabolism. Iron to help build red blood cells. Essential Fatty Acids and Zinc to help promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Vitamin A to help maintain clear vision and bright healthy eyes.
7. AvoDerm Natural Lite Brown Rice, Oatmeal & Chicken Meal Formula Adult Dry Dog Food is a vitamin enriched food with Avocados for healthy skin & coat. For overweight, less active dogs, antioxidant rich for healthy immune system highly digestible formula is for healthy skin and coat. Poor skin health can sometimes be traced to dietary insufficiencies or imbalances. Problems with the skin and coat are never just cosmetic. Symptoms such as hair loss, thinning coat, dullness, dry flaky skin, excessive scratching, thickened skin, infections, and odors can often be traced back to either a shortage or an excess of a specific nutrient. In fact, there is no more visible indicator of problems with your dog's overall health than problems with the skin and coat. Important Information:Why Avocados? Many of the nutrients your dog needs for a healthy skin and coat can be found in the remarkable fruit known as the avocado. Nutrient rich avocados contain vitamins A, E and C in abundance. They're also an excellent source of balanced nutritional essentials for your dog's skin and coat health-and good health in general. Avocados are high in folate, potassium, niacin, essential fatty acids, and many other nutrients. They have no cholesterol, very little sodium, and are high in monosaturated fats. Ounce for ounce, the avocado is simply one of the most nutritious fruits there is. Ingredients:Ground Whole Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Rice Bran, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid), Flax Seed, Avocado Meal, Dried Alfalfa Meal, Avocado Oil, Herring Meal, Lecithin, Natural Flavor, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Bromelain, Papain, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Product, Monosodium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Ferrous Sulfate, DL-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement (Source of Vitamin B Complex), Copper Sulfate, Zinc Methionine, Iron Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Source of Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Source of Vitamin B1), Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement.
8. Artemis Weight Management has been formulated for dogs that are overweight or prone to gaining excess weight. Artemis Weight Management has been scientifically formulated with the correct balance of vitamins/minerals. Thus, it is not recommended for you to add any supplementation unless instructed by a veterinarian. Ingredients: Brown Rice, Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Pearled Barley, Lamb Meal, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Salmon, Natural Chicken Flavor, Canola Oil, Flaxseed, Potatoes, Carrots, Peas, Apples, Cranberries, Dried Chicory Root, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Lecithin, Garlic, DL-Methionine, Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Choline Chloride Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Biotin, Inositol, Dehydrated Kelp, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Potassium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Sage Extract, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermantation Solubles, Dried Enterococcus Faecium and Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
9. Canidae Platinum Formula for Seniors and Overweight Dogs Dry Dog Food is made with all natural dog food formula made with four human grade meat meals with reduced fat and protein. It is made with an all-natural formula with lower protein, lower fat and reduced calories. Also made with glucosamine and chondroitin to promote better joint health and psyllium for fiber intake to help with digestion. Important Information:
   * Now with More Meat and Reduced Level of Overall Carbohydrates
   * All Natural, Human Grade, Holistic Pet Food
   * Four Human Grade Meat Meals: Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish
   * Now 2% Higher in Protein
   * Natural Ingredients Plus Essential Vitamins and Amino Acid Chelated Minerals
   * Naturally Preserved Herbal Formulation
   * Excellent Palatability - Dogs Love CANIDAE
   * Contains Skin and Coat Conditioners to Maintain a Health Luxurious Coat
   * Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulfate
   * Natural Psyllium Husk Fiber
   * Balanced Omega 6 and 3 Fatty Acids
   * Wholesome Nutritional Brown Rice and Diversified Carbohydrates
   * Decreased Overall Carbohydrates by Almost 2%
   * Decreased Overall Fiber by 1%
   * Now With Potato Protein Which Provides Excellent Levels of Amino Acids with Lower Levels of Calcium and Phosphorus
   * Superior Digestibility
   * Guaranteed Viable Micro-Organisms
   * Guaranteed Enzyme Activity to Help Break Down Cellulose
   * Made the CANIDAE Way with Superior Quality: No Corn, Wheat, Soy, Grain Fractions or Fillers and Naturally Preserved. Ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, peas, potatoes, oatmeal, cracked pearled barley, millet, turkey meal, lamb meal, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), tomato pomace, natural flavor, flaxseed meal, ocean fish meal, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, psyllium husks, sun cured alfalfa meal, inulin (from chicory root), lecithin, sage extract, cranberries, beta carotene, rosemary extract, sunflower oil, yucca schidigera extract, dried enterococcus faecium, dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract, dried bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation solubles, vitamin E supplement, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, calcium pantothenate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, cobalt proteinate, organic selenium, papaya, pineapple.

EverythingNaturalPetFood.com offers the highest quality pet foods, wellness care items, and a full range of pet supplies including horse supplies. A full range of pet education books on homemade pet food recipes, pet wellness care, pet training, horsemanship and much more is available.

Dog & Cat Skin Allergies

Many of us have pets with skin allergies. We suffer watching them suffer. I have a dog with skin allergies. It gets better and then reoccurs. My vet and all the reading I do says skin allergies are not curable, but can be controlled with medicine, diet, and good care.

It takes some effort, so work with your vet to find out what the cause of the skin allergy is. There are many causes. The vet can give skin allergy tests and blood testing to help determine what kind of allergy is haunting your pet.

These are some common causes of skin allergies:

1. Fleas are the most common cause of skin allergies. See my blog on flea control.

2. Food allergies to pet food is the second most common cause of skin allergies.

3. Allergies to pollens, grass, weeds, out door things.

4. Wool, nylon, plastic materials

5. Food additives

6. House dust, dust mites

7. Parasites

8. Molds in the house or air

9. and the list goes on.

You can rule out fleas by keeping your pet and areas the pet uses flea free. Use a good Flea control on a regular basis. Keep the pet clean. For food allergies you can do some detective work. Get your vet to do some testing to uncover known allergens. Put you pet on an elimination diet. Humans also go through a similar process to uncover food allergies. I did this and it really works.

Cats may be allergic to wheat, fish, beef, and dairy products or the coloring and preservatives in the food. Dogs most common food allergens are wheat, beef, dairy products, chicken, wheat, chicken eggs, corn, and soy. You can find out what you pet is allergic to by taking them off all the regular pet food and treats. Feed them steamed rice (brown rice has more nutrition), steamed vegetables like carrots-green beans-brocoli-squash (no onion, garlic) for at least six days. Then add back one item a day from the known allergen group. The next day, try a different allergen. Watch for any signs of reaction or sickness. Consult your vet on this before trying it. The vet may suggest a vitamin supplement as well or have other advice on diets for allery's. Some pets stay on home cooked foods and are very healthy.

Also, there are foods for dogs and cats made for allergies. Some of them are listed here and are available at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/ .

Food for pets allergic to meat (yes, this allergy truly does exist and needs vegetarian pet food):
AvoDerm Natural Vegetarian Adult Dry Dog Food
For meat sensitive dogs. Antioxidant rich for healthy immune system and highly digestable. Poor skin and coat health are often traced to dietary imbalances.
Ingredients:Ground Whole Rice, Soy Flour, Ground Pearled Barley, Canola Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Avocado Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Potatoes, Avocado Oil, Carrots, Peas, Flax Seed, Dried Kelp, Salt, Choline Chloride, Lecithin, Garlic Oil, Dried Garlic Powder, Dried Onion Powder, Dried Yucca Schidigera, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Niacin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Source of Vitamin B Complex), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Source of Vitamin B6), Thiamine Mononitrate (Source of Vitamin B1), Folic Acid, Biotin, Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Ferrous Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite.

Food for pets with skin & coat conditions caused by food reactions or toxins in food:
Timberwolf Ocean Blue Canid Formula Dog Food
For animals requiring moderate protein diet caused by disease. Suitable for all stages of life, contains linolenic acid or Omega 3 essential fatty acids, herbal extracts and higher levels of mixed tocopheral & vitamin E.Ingredients:Low Ash White Fish Meal, Salmon, Potatoes, Sardine/Mackerel/Anchovy/Tuna Oils, Kelp, Alfalfa Leaf, Potassium Chloride, Amaranth, Carrot, Watercress, Spinach, Celery, Parsley, Fennel Seed, Blueberries, Cranberries, Pears, Figs, Thyme, Anise Seed, Ground Cinnamon Bark, Fenugreek, Garlic Pieces, Sunflower Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Apples, Taurine, Spirulina, Choline Chloride, Lecithin, Probiotics: (Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Lactis, Bacillus Bifidum, Streptococcus Diacetilactis, Bacillus Subtillus), Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols (a source of vitamin E), Lysine, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine, Methionine, Carnitine, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Iodine Proteinate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine (a source of vitamin B6), Copper Proteinate, Selenium Proteinate, Cobalt Proteinate, Papain, Yucca Schidigera Extract.

For allergies to grains: wheat, soy, corn, etc.
Before Grain Chicken Formula Dry Dog Food "1"Moderate protein rich in high quality meats, blue fruit, nutrient dense vegetables, and high quality oils. Easily processed by sensitive organs such as kidneys.
Ingredients:Chicken Deboned, Chicken Meal, Potato Dehydrated, Turkey Meal, Canola Oil, Sweet Potato Dehydrated, (preserved with mixed tocopherols - a source of Natural Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid, a source of Vitamin C), Yeast Culture, Natural Dried Chicken Liver, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lysine, Guar Gum, Sea Salt, Alfalfa, Salmon Oil, Choline Chloride, Acai Berry Dried, Blueberry Dried, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Venison Broth, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Natural Venison Flavor, Chicory Root, Marigold Extract, Rosemary Extract, Lactobacillus Plantarum, Enterococcus Faecium, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Natural Celery Flavor, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Vitamin E Supplement, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Natural Color (tumeric), Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Complex, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin D3, Niacin, Lecithin, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Cobalt Amino Acid Complex, Folic Acid, Thiamine Mononitrate, Sodium Selenite.

For problem skin & allergies.

Canidae Lamb Meal & Rice Dry Dog Food
No corn, wheat, soy, grain fractions, flours or poultry products. Made with human grade grade lamb and whole grain brown rice.
Ingredients:Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flax Seed, Sun cured Alfalfa Meal, Sunflower Oil, Lamb, Lecithin, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Linoleic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Inulin (from Chicory Root), Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Solubles, L-Lysine, Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (source of Vitamin E), Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (source of Vitamin B2), Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, D-Biotin, Organic Selenium, Dried Papaya, Dried Pineapple, Vitamin B12 Supplement.

Food for cats with allergies
Natural Balance Green Pea & Duck Formula Canned Food
Special allergy formula made for cats and kittens with allergies. Single source protein and single souce carbohydrate blend.
Ingredients: Duck, Duck Broth, Duck Liver, Pea Flour, Duck Meal, Pea Protein, Salmon Oil, Dicalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Sodium Chloride, Flaxseed, Dried Cranberries, Yucca Schidigera, Carrageenan, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Calcium Iodate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin A Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B 12 Supplement.

Food additives to booster the healing caused by allergies
NUPRO Health Nuggets for Cats: Does not contain preservatives, fillers, sugar, corn, wheat, or by products.
Ingredients:Norwegian Kelp, Nutritional Yeast Culture, Flaxseed, Desiccated Liver, Fish Meal, Alfalfa, Bee Pollen, Garlic, Bone Meal, Lecithin, Lactobicillus Acidophilus.

Additional Food Supplements to help allergies:

PetGuard Natual Digestive Enzyme Blend for Cats:
Enzymes allow for natural absorption of life sustaining nutrients of food. Enzymes help fight allergy conditions, bad breath, gas & bloatedness, skin & coat problems, obesity & joint discomfort, immune & digestive system disorders.
Ingredients:Bromelain, Amylase, Cellulase, Lipase, Acid Protease, Alpha Galactosidase, Phytase, L. Acidophilus and Bifidus, Calcium Carbonate.
PetGuard Natural Digestive Enzyme Blend for Dogs:
Enzymes allow for natural absorption of life sustaining nutrients of food. Enzymes help fight allergy conditions, bad breath, gas & bloatedness, skin & coat problems, obesity & joint discomfort, immune & digestive system disorders.
Ingredients: Bromelain, Amylase, Cellulase, Lipase, Acid Protease, Alpha Galactosidase, Phytase, L. Acidophilus and Bifidus, Calcium Carbonate

Recommendations for a Fatty Acid supplement as well as Biotin should be added to your cat's diet.

If you would like to continue cooking homemade pet food, try one of the many pet food cook books at http://www.everythingnaturalpetfood.com/PetEducationBooks.html. Many of the 98 available homemade pet food cook books have sections for allergy diets. Also, books in the pet wellness care section have many books with information on pet allergies. I have several of them myself and use them often to assist my knowledge in caring for my three dogs.

All products are available at EverythingNaturalPetFood.com. Click on dog or cat food, click on brand of food, click on specific name of food. For enzyme additives, click on Wellness Care, Allergies, page 2. Cat food found at Everything Natural Pet Food, click on Natural Cat Food, click on Natural Balance, click on name of pet food.

Natural Dog and Cat Meat Recipes

I like to feed my dogs and cats a variety of food to assure they get some of all vitamins and minerals. In the morning I feed them a natural, human grade, organic, or holistic premium pet food, and in the evening they get cooked human food. I make sure not to include onions, garlic, grapes, grape seed, raisons, or chocolate in their food. I can ad those items to my food separatly. Here is a good recipe for meatballs. You can change the recipe by adding vegetables, ground oats, cooked quinua, cooked barley, and by sprinkling with a vitamin & mineral supplement after cooking or after in the dog dish.

For dogs:

1/2 lb ground beef or chicken or turkey or lamb

1/3 cup grated chedder cheese

1 carrot chopped very small

1/2 cup bread crumbs

1 egg beaten

2 tsp. tomatoe paste

1 cup water

1/3 cup cooked brown rice

2 teaspoons olive oil or corn oil

1/2 tsp. iodized salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Scoop out by the spoonful and roll into mini-size meatballs. Place on cookie sheet. Bake 15 to 20 minutes. Store in frig.

For Cats:

1 cup water

1/3 cup dry rice

2 tsp. olive oil or corn oil

1/2 tsp. iodized salt

2/3 cup ground beef, or chicken, or turkey, or lamb

2 tbsp. cooked liver

2/3 cup ground gonemeal

Bring water t a boil, add rice, corn oil and salt. simmer 20 minutes. Cover the meat with bonemeat and add live to the rice mixture. Simmer 15 minutes. Le cool and serve. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers.

These receipes should make you dogs and cats happy and keep the tails wagging. If you would like to see 98 books on homemade pet food recipes go to EverythingNaturalPetFood.com in the Pet Education section.

If you prefer to also feed a natural, human grade, organic, or holistic pet food to your pet in either dry kibble or canned, go to EverythingNaturalPetFood.com. Visit the Natural Dog Food, Natural Pet Food, and Goober's Snack Shack pages of that website. Feeding your pets these premium products and cooking hommade pet food is the best way to assure your pet's food is safe, healthy, and nutricious.

Before the pet food scare of 2007, when China put Malamine in an ingredient used for pet food, I didn't know any better. I wondered why my wonderful dogs and cats over the years got cancer and renal failure. Now we know it is because the pet food industry had been dumping all kinds of toxic ingredients that you would never knowingly feed your pets. Now we have a choice. Sure it cost a little more. But my pets are worth it. They have years longer of a healthy lifestyle. Most of all, I know I'm doing everything I can to provide the best life for them and I enjoy all the love they give me in return. Remember, "Feed them Life!"

Everything Natural Pet Food is not only THE SOURCE of natural, human grade, organic, and holistic pet foods, it also carries pet supplies for all pets including horses, birds, wildlife, etc. You can find bird houses, bird baths, horse supplies, books on homemade pet food recipes, pet wellness care, pet training, horse training and nutrition, and gifts for the human pet lovers. If you can't find what you want, send me a comment and I'll try to find it for you.