dog food reviewsDog Food Advisor (http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/)
for evaluation of foods to feed your furbabies. Dog Food Analysis (http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/) 12 Worst Dog Foods (Holistic and Organix Pet Shoppe) http://www.holisticandorganixpetshoppe.com/top-12-worst-dog-food-brands.html Top Worst Dry Dog Food Brands (Holistic And Organix Pet Shoppe http://www.holisticandorganixpetshoppe.com/top-12-worst-dog-food-brands.html Look for the AAFCO approval on the side of the bag.
What Is AAFCO? (Lucy Postins - Dogs Naturally) What Is AAFCO and what do they do for your dog? One aspect of pet food that many dog owners find mystifying is regulation. Some pet owners and stores believe that AAFCO, The Association of American Feed Control Officials, is responsible for approving pet foods but in fact this isn’t the case. Here are a few facts to help you understand what AAFCO does and does not do to protect you and your dog. AAFCO does not regulate feeds or pet products The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is responsible for regulating pet foods. The FDA monitors food branding to make certain that labels are not misleading and that the manufacturer is recorded on the label. Pet food processing plants may also be inspected by the FDA although many manufacturers will voluntarily recall their products before FDA involvement to limit the bad press that might accompany any deaths or illness from tainted products. AAFCO is a private corporation, not a government regulatory agency AAFCO is a voluntary organization, which is comprised largely of regulatory officials who have responsibility for enforcing their state’s laws and regulations concerning the safety of animal feeds. This should fall under the auspices of the FDA but according to the FDA “AAFCO is vital to the continued regulation of pet food products because FDA has limited enforcement resources that are focused on human food safety issues.” AAFCO advisors and committee members include representatives from major feed manufacturers and ingredient suppliers such as Nestle Purina, Hills Pet Nutrition, Nutro Products and Cargill Animal Nutrition. Despite this, AAFCO claims that its function is to protect the consumer. Despite its regulations, AAFCO has no means of enforcement, nor do they perform any analytical testing of foods. Regardless, AAFCO’s regulations are adopted by most states and are the standard to which pet and livestock feed manufacturers must adhere. AAFCO devises pet food and feed labeling guidelines AAFCO endeavors to protect the consumer through labeling requirements, ingredient requirements and nutritional requirements. Any dog food manufacturer that wants to make the claim that their food is ‘nutritionally complete’ must meet AAFCO’s nutritional requirements, feeding trial requirements, or produce a food similar to one which has met these requirements. The nutrient profiles set forth by AAFCO list minimum and maximum levels of intake for protein, fat, vitamin and mineral content of foods. The level of nutrients is expressed on a ‘dry matter’ basis. The levels of nutrients listed in the guaranteed analysis on the pet food label are expressed on an ‘as fed’ basis. To convert ‘as fed’ to ‘dry matter’ the consumer must do some calculations. If a dry food has 10% moisture it will have 90% dry matter. If protein matter is list- ed as 20% on the pet food label, you must divide the 20% protein by the 90% dry matter to calculate the amount of protein on a dry matter basis. The nutrient profiles were originally based on minimum nutrient requirements established by the National Research Council Committee on Animal Nutrition (NRC) in 1991. In 1995, AAFCO changed these standards to incorporate ‘new scientific information’ completed by the pet food manufacturers. One such change was to lower the minimum protein content from 22% to 18% which is noteworthy as protein is the most expensive ingredient on the dog food label. The source of food nutrients is not regulated by AAFCO. Protein can be derived from meat or from shoes, from hu- man-grade chickens, or road kill. As long as it is protein, it meets AAFCO nutritional standards. Bioavailability and digestibility of nutrients are not a consideration for AAFCO. Find out how you can start feeding your dog raw and fresh foods today: Click Here! AAFCO establishes feed ingredient definitions AAFCO regulations state that a pet food manufacturer must provide not only a guaranteed analysis on the food label, but a list of ingredients presented in descending order with the ingredient with the most weight listed first. This nutrient listing is a common source of confusion to the consumer as protein is further divided into meat meal, meat digest, fat meal, bone meal and animal by-product meal (instead of beef muscle meat, chicken beaks, pig ligaments, blood, intestines, and the infamous 4-D meats – dead, dying, dis- eased and disabled). Manufacturers can further confuse the consumer by ‘splitting’ less nutritional ingredients such as corn or wheat to move the ingredient down the list. For example, by dividing corn into corn, corn bran, corn germ meal, corn gluten, corn gluten meal and corn syrup, a manufacturer can produce a food that is perhaps 50% corn and 10% chicken and make it appear to have chicken as the main ingredient by splitting the corn into the above ingredients, effectively moving it down the list of ingredients. Check out more on deceptive labeling here! AAFCO establishes guidelines for feeding trials In addition to establishing pet food labeling regulations and ingredient definitions, AAFCO formulates protocols for feeding trials. AAFCO states that a minimum of eight healthy dogs are required for one trial and that the trial must last a minimum of 26 weeks where only one formulation of food is tested and is the sole source of nutrition (except for water). A quarter of the dogs may be removed from the study for ‘non-nutritional reasons’ and data from the dogs removed from the trial does not need to be provided in the results (although dogs who die during the test do require a necropsy and the findings are to be recorded). An AAFCO feeding trial takes place in a testing facility/test kennel. Food consumption may be measured and recorded. Test subjects’ body weights, as well as hemoglobin, packed cell volume, serum alkaline phosphatase and serum albumin are measured. If these are all within normal ranges (although the dog may lose 15% of his body weight during the study), and six dogs have survived for six months on the food, the formulation will be determined as nutritionally complete. Feeding trials are not commonly performed due to expense, so AAFCO allows pet food manufacturers to claim their food as nutritionally complete if one of the following requirements is met: • The food meets the nutrient requirements of the nutrient profile • The food is similar to another product that does meet nutrient requirements Many holistic vets, pet owners and smaller manufacturers do not place great priority on AAFCO standards because their nutritional profiles are different from those established by the NRC (National Research Council) and do not reflect the newest research on the nutritional needs of pets. Many pet owners and smaller pet product companies are dubious of AAFCO because it is partly made up of major manufacturers within the industry who have an incredibly large influence on how the regulations for their own industry are established, and in determining the feed ingredient definitions that allow by-products, 4-D meats (dead, dis- eased, decaying and disabled) and other non edible ingredients to be used in pet food. Most consumers want to feed their dog a product that is not only nutritionally balanced and complete, but does not con- tain substances which are potentially harmful for their dogs. The labels on dog food with their complicated, scientific jar- gon and seemingly sound nutritional claims can fool even the most intelligent people into believing that the product behind the label is conscientiously prepared and rigorously regulated through governmental control. The reality is, the fox is watching the henhouse: a $12 billion henhouse. Consumers spend $12 billion on commercial pet foods each and every year and they have to ask themselves just what are they getting in return? November/December 2010 Issue 
amount to feedHow much should I feed my dog?
(dog breed info) Below is a daily basic feeding guide for puppies and adult dogs. An individual dog's requirements may differ from this chart. It is best to consult with your vet about the specific needs of your pet. The first 8 weeks Puppies should not be separated from their mother before they are 8 weeks old. Puppies that leave their mothers sooner have a rougher time adjusting and a higher incidence of illnesses. I do not know if it is due to weakened immunity or mourning the premature loss of their family. Their mother's milk provides them with the nutrition and antibodies they need to become healthy dogs. At three to four weeks, puppies should begin eating some solid food. You can try mixing three parts food with one part water or puppy replacement milk. This will make the food easier for the puppy to digest. If your puppy begins eating a little solid food before it leave its mother it will have an easier time adjusting when you bring it home. One way to tell if a puppy is ready to come home with you is if it prefers human company over its mom or siblings.6 to 8 weeks Feed your puppy 3-4 times a day. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Choose a puppy food that provides the appropriate balance of nutrients your puppy needs. Be sure it is getting the right amount of protein and calcium, and the proper amount of calories. Check the label to determine if you are feeding your puppy a balanced diet. A specified meat should be the first ingredient on the label. After 8 weeks Feed your puppy twice a day. 3 to 6 months Your puppy will be teething. He may become a finicky eater or lose his appetite. Keep feeding him nutritious food twice a day. If he has an upset stomach for more than one or two days, take him to the veterinarian. 6 months to 1 year Your puppy may look all grown up but he is still a puppy. He should still be fed a highquality food for the added nutrition. Note, in some very high quality foods the company does not make a separate food for puppies because the food is of such a high quality that it provides for both puppy and adult equally. For example, a real human grade chicken is what it is for all ages. If you are feeding a puppy food ask your veterinarian when you should switch to adult food. Make sure the adult food you switch to is still a balanced high quality diet with the first ingredient being a specified meat that is not a by-product. 8 to 9 months Feeding should be twice a day. 1 year In most breeds feeding should be twice a day. 
fdaFDA proposes strict new safety rules for animal food
(JoNel Aleccia NBC News) Food produced for domestic pets and other animals will have to follow strict new standards under a proposed rule issued Friday by the Food and Drug Administration. The new regulation, part of the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act, would require for the first time that companies that make pet food and animal feed follow good manufacturing practices that encompass basic issues such as sanitation and hazard analysis. “We have been pushing feed safety for a number of years,” said Daniel McChesney, director of the office of surveillance and compliance at the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “It’s not, ‘Oh, we’re just making food for animals.’ They’re the first part of the food chain. We're a part of the overall food industry.” The new rules will be open for public comment for 120 days, and would be adopted as law within 60 days after the comment period closes. They would apply to all domestic and imported animal food, including pet food, pet treats, animal feed, and the raw ingredients that make those products. That means, for instance, that the producers of chicken, corn and sweet potato jerky treats made in China and blamed for the deaths of 600 pets and illnesses in about 3,600, will have to meet strict new requirements before their products can be sold, officials said. FDA has always had rules in place that prohibit adulterants in pet food. That’s why the agency has issued company-initiated recalls for salmonella-tainted bird food, for instance, or dog food contaminated with aflatoxin, a naturally occurring mold by-product. But, until now, there’s been no requirement that companies analyze the potential food safety hazards of their products or that they follow current good manufacturing practices, or CGMPs, that specifically address animal food. “We’re not starting completely from scratch,” said Michael Taylor, the FDA’s deputy commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine. “What’s important is that FDA take a comprehensive approach to food safety that covers the food supply comprehensively.” The challenge for firms that produce animal foods and pet products will be in meeting the deadlines for compliance, McChesney said. Times will vary according to the size of an operation, with small and very small businesses being allowed more leeway. The FDA will hold three public meetings in November and December to seek input on the proposed rule. FDA Researches Pet Food: Searching for Contamination
(Dr. Ernie Ward, DVM - Pet Health Network/ June 10, 2015 in A Vet's Life) I'd like to thank the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for helping me feel a little safer every time I scoop a serving or crack a can of my pet's favorite food. The United States continues to innovate in pet food testing and safety. Recently, the FDA announced that it has been working with a network of 34 state and university scientific laboratories, across the U.S. to help ensure our pets are fed the safest diets in the world. The FDA revealed a sneak peek at a large, nationwide study of pet food contamination and offered advice on how pet gaurdians can prevent foodborne diseases, like Salmonella, in their homes1. The FDA is very interested in the following:
FDA results, sneak peek The Vet-LIRN pet food Salmonella study looks promising. A total of 2965 animals have been tested to date, with fewer than 100 testing positive for Salmonella (less than 3%). While that number is impressively low, it's important for pet gaurdians to know that less than half of the pets that tested positive for Salmonella exhibited any signs of illness1. This means the human family was unaware that they were at risk for this potentially serious bacterial infection. Households with young children, older adults and anyone on immunosuppressive medications or combating chronic illness are at greater risk. Another finding of Vet-LIRN's preliminary report was pets fed a raw food diet had a higher incidence of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, another common bacterial contaminant1. Click here to learn more about raw foods and cats. The FDA speculates that raw food likely presents a greater risk due to the lack of the bacterial "kill step" of food heating that most foods undergo during processing. The great news is raw food manufacturers are aware of this and have begun utilizing techniques such as high-pressure pasteurization and other breakthroughs to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination in their foods. The FDA raising awareness and identifying production problems is critical for pet food manufacturers to create safer foods now and in the future. If you ever want to find out if your pet food has been recalled, the FDA has developed an easy to use website for pet gaurdians and veterinary clinics. This list is kept current and is a great way to research pet foods and aid in selection. I often refer pet guardians to this website whenever they're concerned about safety or considering changing brands. Food safety tips The FDA has offered simple steps to minimize the chances of spreading a foodborne illness in your household1:
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. Resources: 
feeding puppies, large and smallFEEDING PUPPIES, LARGE AND SMALL
(Bud Boccone, AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB) Large-breed puppies will weigh more than 50 pounds when full-grown. It takes these big guys about 18 to 24 months to reach their adult size. If they grow too quickly, they can develop problems with their joints and bones. Reduced-calorie foods with less calcium help support the proper rate of growth in large-breed puppies. Small breeds (those who weigh less than 20 pounds) grow quickly and may reach adulthood at 9 months. Some companies make a mini-size kibble for small-breed puppies because their mouths are so little. And because their tiny stomachs don’t hold much, they require high-calorie foods to provide sufficient nutrition. Also, small dogs need more calories to maintain body heat: They produce less heat and radiate more of it from their skin than do large dogs. But owners who feed a high-calorie food should still be careful not to overfeed. A number of dog food companies have worked with canine-nutrition scientists to develop special formulas for both large- and small-breed puppies. Here’s a bit of food for thought: The range of sizes among dog breeds is greater than that of any other animal. For example, a 150-pound Newfoundland is 50 times the size of a 3-pound Pomeranian. 
feeding sick dogTips for Feeding Your Sick Dog
Help Your Sick Dog Feel Better Fast (Angel - K9 Instinct) Sick dogs require special care, and feeding a sick dog can often be a problematic time. When our dogs are sick they usually lose their appetite and respond poorly to meals by vomiting, having diarrhea, or refusing meals altogether. There are a lot of things we can do to encourage our dogs to eat sick-friendly meals and feel better faster! When your dog is sick, you must focus on three things: monitoring their condition for rapid decline that requires veterinarian attention, providing nutritious meals that are easy on the stomach and keeping your dog hydrated! When it comes to feeding your sick dog, you want to provide them with a meal that is both bland and easy to digest. The most common bland meal for sick dogs would be double boiled rice (rice that is boiled with twice the amount of water you would normally use, and overcooked until the rice is very soft) and boiled chicken breast or ground beef. Ideally you would do 50/50 rice and meat, and you can include additional ingredients that can help soothe the stomach and firm up stool! TIP: If your dog is dehydrated, add a few tablespoons of plain electrolyte replacement (like pedialyte) to their meal! Don't use the flavored varieties! There is a special supplement I like to make specifically geared towards soothing an upset stomach and helping to firm up a dog's stool. Take a cup of pumpkin puree (not the pie filling!), 1/8th of a teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/8th of a teaspoon of ginger and a dose of probiotics and digestive enzymes (such as NaturVet Probiotic and Digestive Enzyme mix) and add a 1-2 tablespoons to every meal. Alternatively, you can include 1 acidophilus probiotic capsule per meal if you don't have a probiotic enzyme mix on hand! This mixture works great to help sick dogs feel better fast! Electrolyte replacement fluids (such as unflavored Pedialyte) and water are extremely important and beneficial for dehydrated, sick dogs! When your dog is sick, keeping them hydrated is of vital importance. Dehydrated dogs will continue to decline and keep feeling worse until they are hydrated again! Make sure your sick dog has access to fresh water at all times, and you can add 2 tablespoons of electrolyte replacement to their bowl of water, or even in their food! Bone broth is a highly nutritious, healing food that is perfect for sick dogs! Full of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes... bone broth will help your dog heal faster! Bone broth is also extremely easy to digest and soothing to the stomach. You can offer bone broth by itself, with a bowl of water (50/50 ratio) or add a cup to a bland meal! Click here to read an article on how to make inexpensive, healthy bone broth - it is super easy to make right at home! Some more great TIPS for feeding your sick dog...
Food - homemadeMake Homemade Dog Food
(Marianne Wait - WebMD Pet Health Feature Reviewed by Amy Flowers, DVM) Your dog is part of your family, and you may be willing to do most anything for him. That could include making his meals from scratch. If so, get out the apron -- but get ready to teach yourself a few new tricks. There are things you need to know to keep your pet healthy and strong. Making dog food that meets Fido’s nutrition needs isn't as simple as you might think, says pet nutritionist Cailin Heinze, VMD. “It can be done, it just takes a lot of dedication, a lot of work, and for some pets and some ingredients, quite a bit of expense,” Heinze says. 1. Start With a Good Recipe Many dog food recipes fall short in certain nutrients, especially iron, copper,calcium, and zinc. Even some recipes created by veterinarians don't measure up. The University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine tested 200 recipes, many written by vets. The researchers found most of the recipes were short on some essential nutrients. The best way to make sure a recipe has what it takes is to choose one created by an expert with training in dog nutrition, says Jennifer Larsen, DVM, PhD. That might be a certified pet nutritionist or a PhD-trained animal nutritionist with experience making pet food. Your vet should be able to point you in the right direction. Your pet needs protein (animal meat, seafood, dairy, or eggs), fat (from meat or oil) and carbohydrates (grains or vegetables). He also needs calcium (from dairy or an ingredient such as egg shells), and essential fatty acids (from certain plant oils, egg yolks, oatmeal, and other foods). And if that's not enough to consider, if your dog has a health problem, he may need a special diet. You may need a pet nutrition expert to create custom recipes. 2. Prepare the Recipe Right Tempted to experiment in the kitchen? Save it for yourself. It’s best not to improvise when you cook for your pooch.
Never add foods that are toxic to dogs. These include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocados, and Macadamia nuts. If you want to mix things up, do it with the treats you feed. Offer dog-safe fresh fruits and vegetables as treats. 3. Add the Right Supplements Even the best recipes often don’t provide enough of certain nutrients, such as calcium. Your pup needs supplements if you’re feeding him from scratch. Which ones depend on which nutrients are missing from his meals. A good recipe should include specific supplement instructions. If you're unsure, talk to a pet nutritionist. 4. Make Sure the Diet’s Working After your dog’s been dining on your kitchen creations for 2 to 3 weeks, take him to the vet to make sure he’s not gaining or losing too much weight. If his weight is changing, check it again in a couple of weeks. Take your pooch for a checkup twice a year. The vet can look at his skin, coat, body condition, and “any type of problems that might be happening as the result of the diet,” Larsen says. 
food informationWhat Pet Food Makers DON'T Want You to Know…
(Healthy Pets) Dogs and cats have biology-driven nutritional requirements that may or may not be satisfied by some pet foods marketed as 'natural.' According to Susan Nelson, DVM and assistant professor of clinical services at Kansas State University: "Natural and veggie-based pet foods are based more on market demand from owners, not because they are necessarily better for the pet." Pet owners should check labels and look for a nutritional adequacy statement from AAFCO -- the Association of American Feed Control Officials. This will insure the formula at least meets minimal nutritional requirements. Definitions for 'holistic,' 'organic,' and 'natural' pet foods have not been established by AAFCO, so interpretation of what those words mean in terms of formula ingredients is left up to the manufacturer of the product. Dr. Becker's Comments: As I’ve discussed in other articles, very little regulation of commercial pet food quality exists in the U.S. Neither the USDA nor the FDA gets involved in what is fed to the majority of companion animals in this country. And while it’s true AAFCO has established minimum nutritional requirements for domesticated dogs and cats, it is not concerned with the quality of ingredients pet food producers put in their formulas. Meeting pets’ basic requirements for life and providing optimal, species-appropriate nutrition are two entirely different goals. If you’d like more information on what controls are in place for the manufacture of pet food, you can view AAFCO’s Questions and Answers Concerning Pet Food Regulations. Further, there’s nothing to stop manufacturers from producing and selling pet food that doesn’t meet the nutritional guidelines AAFCO has established. Pet Food Marketing Ploys As Dr. Nelson points out in the article above, many pet food companies that label certain formulas as ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ or ‘holistic’ are hoping pet owners remain blissfully unaware that dogs and cats have different nutritional needs than humans. And like most manufacturers of prepared foods for both people and pets, they are trying to convince consumers that the contents of their can or bag of dead, processed food is somehow healthier than some other bag of dead, processed food. The truth is there’s nothing you can buy in a can or a bag that is entirely natural, organic or holistic. The stuff is processed, for crying out loud. How can it be ‘natural?’ Cashing in on Worried Pet Owners Because pet food companies realize dog and cat parents are growing more concerned about the quality of food they feed their pets, they are trying to cash in by fiddling with ingredients just enough to introduce ‘new’ formulas that they claim are somehow more ‘natural’ than other formulas. Producers of processed food for both humans and pets have been cashing in on trends like this for decades. You want your beloved pet to eat a diet closer to what nature intended? They’re happy to oblige. They’ll switch one preservative with an unpronounceable name for another, slap on a redesigned label featuring the words ‘natural’ and ‘healthy,’ and off to market they go. It’s bunk. Please don’t be fooled. It’s impossible to feed your pet a biologically appropriate, relatively natural diet from a can or bag unless you’re willing to spend a small fortune on grain-free formulas made with true human-grade ingredients. These brands are less than 10 percent of pet foods available on the market. They are hard to find and well beyond the budget of most pet owners. In fact, if you’re buying pet food made with true human-grade ingredients, you should be spending about three times as much as you would for a non-human grade formula. And even most of the highest quality commercial pet foods still contain additives, preservatives, flavor enhancers and/or extra fats, which hardly qualifies them as holistic, despite clever labeling. After all, they must be able to sit on a shelf for six months to a year after being manufactured, without growing mold. Species-Appropriate vs. Trendy ‘Species-appropriate’ isn’t something humans relate to in terms of people food. When it comes to our own prepared foods, we’re programmed to look for words and phrases like:
If we could label a healthy, species-appropriate diet for dogs and cats it would look more like this:
Probably not many – and pet food marketers know it. Shop Smart You can start today to improve your pet’s diet by simply ignoring the labeling claims on commercial pet food. Look instead for AAFCO certification to make sure it meets the basic requirements for vitamins and trace minerals, and learn all you can about how to read ingredient lists like a pro. As a general rule, the longer the ingredient list, the more potential for filling your pet full of stuff that is biologically inappropriate, probably allergenic, and possibly toxic. What to look for in a dry pet food:
Meat and fat ingredients should be identified by species (turkey, lamb, beef, fish, etc.). Avoid any formula that uses unidentified sources, described non-specifically as ‘meat,’ ‘animal’ or ‘poultry.’
If, for example, rice makes up 50 percent of a formula and meat only 25 percent, it’s possible to list the rice as three or four individual ingredients all under 25 percent each, for example, brown rice, white rice, rice bran, and rice gluten meal. Listing the ingredient ‘rice’ in this manner allows the manufacturer to list the meat -- at 25 percent -- as the first ingredient. How to Feed Your Dog Like a Dog … or Your Cat Like a Cat As I discuss in 13 Pet Foods – Ranked from Great to Disastrous, the very best nutrition you can feed your pet is a balanced, raw, species appropriate, homemade diet. Raw food is unadulterated and still contains all the enzymes and nutrients your dog or cat was intended to eat. These are the healthy, ‘live’ organisms that are killed during cooking or other types of food processing. If you’re ready to turn your back on corporate marketing ploys for inferior quality pet food and learn more about how to feed your dog or cat as nature intended, I’ve co-authored a cookbook you should find useful, Real Food for Healthy Dogs and Cats. This book covers how to buy and prepare fresh foods in quantity, and it also contains recipes – both raw and cooked – so you can fix perfectly balanced meals for your precious canine or kitty right in your own kitchen. 
food - what to avoidFinding the Right Dog Food: What to Avoid
( Brandy Arnold in Food Guidelines, Front Page News - Dogington Post) Choosing the right food for your dog can be a daunting task. Many of us have found ourselves overwhelmed standing in the pet food aisle, staring down a long line of bags, boxes, and cans, all promising to provide the very best and completenutrition for our pets. In an industry that is highly under-regulated, one that basically allows manufacturers to make whatever claims abouthealth and nutrition they want, no matter how truthful, it’s important for pet parents to take an active role, to read labels, and to do their research. After all, unlike humans that usually have a few different meals every day, with different protein sources, and a variety of ingredients, our dogs typically eat the same food every day, at every meal. Because of this simple fact, finding food that is safe, even after months or years of daily consumption, is vitally important to their health and well-being. The list below is hardly all-inclusive, but will point you in the right direction to find the perfect food for your furry family. When you find a pet food that leaves out these known harmful ingredients, it’s highly likely you’ve found a food that leaves out all the other junk used by the commercial pet food industry too. Pet Food Ingredients to Avoid: By-Products: By definition, a by-product is an incidental or secondary product made in the manufacture or synthesis of something else. In dog food, by-products can include parts of the meat protein source not normally suitable for use such as bones, skin, beaks, feet, feathers, intestines, even urine and fecal waste. Further, by-products, by law, CAN include tissue from dead, diseased, disabled, and dying animals. In the pet food industry, these are normally referred to as “The 4D’s.” By-products do not include healthy “muscle meats,” but rather, the parts normally discarded during meat processing. By nature, by-products can be high in protein and are used by many manufacturers as a cheap alternative to healthier meats. Sugar: Sugars are a common ingredient in commercial dog food, usually disguised as sucrose, dextrose, maltodextrin, corn syrup, etc., because it makes the food tastier to a dog’s natural sweet-tooth. In addition to contributing to obesity, sugars interfere with your dog’s ability to digest protein, calcium, and other minerals and inhibits the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. Studies have also shown that excessive sugar intake can lead to behavioral problems. BHA/BHT: Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are chemical preservatives often added to pet food to lengthen their shelf life. The World Health Organization has deemed these chemicals “suspicious cancer-causing” compounds. Yet, both remain commonly used by the pet food industry to make our dog’s food last longer on the shelf. In addition to proven cancer-causing effects, BHA and BHT can cause allergic reactions, fetal abnormalities, and negatively affect kidney and liver function. Ethoxyquin: (Also known as Santoquin) Another artificial preservative, ethoxyquin is also a pesticide. Prolonged ethoxyquin use has proven to destroy normal liver function. Although ethoxyquin is banned from use in human food, it can still be legally added to pet food. Still, due to controversy surrounding the ingredient, many pet food manufacturers don’t add the ingredient directly, but add it indirectly by using certain poultry and fish that contain it. In effect, when reading your pet food label, this ingredient may be present even when it’s not listed. Do your research and ask your manufacturer to be certain. Sodium Nitrate: Sodium Nitrate is added to dog food to help it retain color. Since our dogs don’t see colors vividly, or make food choices based on what color they are, this ingredient is strictly used to enhance its appearance to humans. Besides being a completely unecessary ingredient in pet foods, sodium nitrates can cause cancers, severe arthritic symptoms, abnormalities of the dog’s immune system, and has even been linked to death. Artificial Colors/Flavors: Artificial colors and flavors have both shown potential to be carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Choose foods that are naturally flavored with real, whole ingredients, without added artificial colors. Seven pet food ingredients to avoid
(The Dog Market) Your pets are members of your family and you want to give them the best nutrition available. To do this, you need to know which foods are best for pets and which ones are problematic. Like humans, pets do best when they eat a varied natural diet comprised of foods that are fresh, unprocessed and free of the questionable or dangerous ingredients discussed below. Animal Byproducts Byproducts, like chicken and beef byproducts, are clean animal parts that are not meat. While carnivores like cats and dogs do eat feathers, skin, blood, organs, bones and other parts of carcasses, these are secondary to the healthy mass of the prey animal. Byproducts in cat or dog food consist of the parts of slaughtered animals that have no other commercial value and because of this they are typically used in inappropriate ratios. Adding byproducts is a low-cost way for producers to boost the protein content of foods, but the protein contained in most batches of byproducts is not readily digestible. Artificial Colours Dyes in pet foods make these foods more attractive to people. They do not, however, benefit dogs or cats, so their presence does nothing but expose pets to unnecessary and potentially dangerous chemicals. Some common dyes used in pet foods include the following:
Foods made with natural, high-quality ingredients taste good. Foods that are low-quality or highly processed are unappetizing, so many companies add flavourings to their products to make them appealing to dogs and cats. These flavourings often provide empty calories, and some of them are potentially dangerous to pets. Some common flavourings used in pet foods include the following:
Dog and cat foods should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates because dogs and cats are carnivores. Pet foods that are high in carbohydrates or contain any high-glycemic carbohydrates should be avoided. High-glycemic carbohydrates such as corn cause blood sugar to spike and are associated with obesity and diabetes. Preservatives The healthiest foods are fresh or preserved in a manner like freeze drying that allows them to retain their nutritional properties without the addition of unnecessary chemicals. Some common chemical preservatives used in pet foods include the following:
Meat Not Fit for Human Consumption Pet food companies can include processed meat that would not be suitable for humans in cat and dog diets. This meat can come from diseased and/or disabled animals, animals that died before slaughter, cancerous tissue, spoiled carcasses, euthanized animals, road kill and animal species not typically used as food. To avoid this type of meat, feed only pet foods from companies that use human-grade ingredients and have specific types of meat listed on their labels. The following ingredients are examples of products that contain meat and other animal products from questionable sources:
In general, if you cannot pronounce it or need a chemistry book to figure out what it is, it should not be in your pet’s food. Many common chemicals used in foods are potentially dangerous to people and pets and have no nutritional value. Others are vitamin or mineral supplements that are added to foods because many commercial diets, unlike whole-prey diets, are unbalanced without supplementation. If you have any more questions about the ingredients in pet food, please give us a call or come by our shop. We’re happy to share our expertise with you. - See more at: http://www.thedogmarket.ca/the-latest-scoop/pet-food-ingredients-avoid-2#sthash.cz0xLgxZ.dpuf Aflatoxin: The Single Pet Food Ingredient to Be Especially Vigilant About
(Dr. Karen Becker - Healthy Pets) If you’re a regular reader of my Healthy Pets newsletter, you know I often discuss the need to feed dogs and cats the right type of protein. And, of course, species-appropriate protein for carnivorous pets comes from animals – not plants. But there are other concerns with plant-based pet food ingredients separate from the fact that they are biologically inappropriate protein sources for carnivores. Almost a year ago, I wrote about the potential for an increase in deadly aflatoxinsin pet food made with corn-based ingredients. The increased risk is due to extreme drought conditions in the U.S. Midwest. Aflatoxins are naturally-occurring mycotoxins produced by the Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus paraciticusspecies of fungi that grow on certain crops. Aflatoxins are highly carcinogenic. They poison the liver and promote tumor development. Given the drought and the number of pet foods – especially dry dog foods – that contain corn products these days, I wasn’t surprised earlier in the year to learn of several pet food recalls for aflatoxin contamination. 'Pet Foods with Plant-Derived Proteins May Contain More Harmful Toxins Than Pet Foods with Traditional Fish and Meat Proteins.'Now it seems the mainstream pet food industry may be catching on. According to PetfoodIndustry.com: "Pet foods with plant-derived proteins may also contain more harmful toxins than pet foods with traditional fish and meat proteins, according to new research from the University of Guelph." Animal and poultry science professor Trevor Smith at Guelph in Canada is conducting the research. “A shift in pet food ingredients is on,” says Smith.“Instead of worrying about bacteria spoilage or disease contamination, like we have in the past, we now have to focus on removing mycotoxins.” According to Smith, who has spent over three decades researching mycotoxins: "Although we have no exact numbers, we can estimate that when half of the food is of vegetable origin, there will almost always be some degree of contamination. If the food is mainly of animal origins, the chances of contamination are greatly reduced." He counsels pet owners to minimize the risk by avoiding inexpensive pet foods containing vegetable cereals, corn or wheat fillers, and especially rice bran. Foods Most Likely to Be Contaminated with Aflatoxins Aflatoxins frequently contaminate agricultural crops before they are harvested. Conditions that promote pre-harvest contamination include high temperatures, prolonged periods of drought, and insect activity. Aflatoxins can also be a problem after harvesting if the crop stays wet for too long. And they can grow on stored crops if the moisture level is too high and mold develops. The three plants with the highest rate of aflatoxin contamination are corn, peanuts and cottonseed. Other frequently contaminated agricultural products include:
How to Steer Clear of Aflatoxin-Infected Pet Foods Aflatoxicosis is more common in dogs than cats because commercial dog food formulas more often contain corn products. So if you’re a dog owner, you should be especially vigilant. I recommend you transition your pet away from all dry food to either a high quality, human grade canned food, or better yet, a balanced, fresh food diet. You can make your pet’s meals at home using recipes that are balanced nutritionally for either a cat or a dog. You can also look into commercially prepared raw pet foods as well as dehydrated raw. Or you can consider a mixture of homemade and commercially prepared diets. In the meantime, study the ingredients in the dry food you buy your pet, and avoid brands containing grains or corn in any form, including corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, corn flour, etc. Along with the increased risk of for aflatoxin contamination, corn is a notoriously allergenic food that is difficult for many animals to digest. Also avoid formulas containing cereal grains like maize, sorghum, pearl millet, rice and wheat. Symptoms of Aflatoxin Poisoning Aflatoxicosis is chiefly a disease of the liver, causing GI symptoms, reproductive issues, anemia and jaundice. Certain types of aflatoxins are linked to cancer in animals. If your dog or cat ingests food contaminated with aflatoxins, you can anticipate one or more of these symptoms: severe, persistent vomiting; bloody diarrhea; lack of appetite; fever; sluggishness; discolored urine; jaundice, especially around the whites of the eyes, gums and belly. If you think your pet has eaten potentially contaminated food, even if he’s showing no symptoms of illness, get him to your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic as soon as possible. And bring the food with you. I also recommend you talk with your holistic vet about natural liver detox agents like milk thistle, SAMe, and chlorophyll. Doctor Karen Becker Plant-based proteins are not recommended for carnivorous pets like cats and dogs, who are designed to consume animal-based proteins. But what you might not know is that there is another concern with plant-based pet food ingredients – the potential for contamination with aflatoxins. By-Products
All Dogs Go To Kevin LLC
Tip of the Day: Avoid having any By-Products in your dogs food. This is a quote that I pulled from dogfoodadvisor.com about Pork By-Product in Purina Dog Chow- "The second ingredient is poultry by-product meal, a dry rendered product of slaughterhouse waste. It’s made from what’s left of slaughtered poultry after all the prime cuts have been removed. In addition to organs (the nourishing part), this stuff can contain almost anything — feet, beaks, undeveloped eggs — anything except quality skeletal muscle (real meat). We consider poultry by-products slightly lower in quality than a single-species ingredient (like chicken by-products). On the brighter side, by-product meals are meat concentrates and contain nearly 300% more protein than fresh poultry." Check your bag of food. If it has By-Products in it I highly recommend switching to a higher quality food. #dogtraining What Foods Are Toxic For Dogs
(Alex Schenker, Sara Wilson - Canine Journal) What Foods Should You Never Feed Your Dog? There are certain foods that you should not feed your dog under any occasion. While individual cases will vary based on breed, weight, and other factors - in general this list of foods applies to all dogs and should be carefully followed to avoid accidents. Just Because Humans Like It, Doesn't Mean Dogs Will Foods that are perfectly suitable for human consumption, as well as other animals, may be toxic and even poisonous to your dog, posing a serious threat to it's health and well-being. Why? Because all animals have very different rates of metabolism. Metabolism is basically the process of breaking down food and turning it into energy. Please note that while we're attempting to add every food we can find that is potentially unsafe for dogs, there are certain foods that we may miss, so don't consider a food safe to feed to our dog just because it's not on this list. Do your research if you are uncertain and let us know by adding a comment below with your new information so that we can keep this list updated. List Of Foods Not To Feed Your Dog Here's an alphabetized list of foods that are unsafe and unfit for canine consumption, many of which are toxic for dogs. We'll be updating it and adding foods as we learn more. The ones in red italics are especially dangerous and often poisonous for canines. Alcohol - I'm sure you've heard of the birthday parties where the dog accidentally gets into some of the spilled keg beer, and then gets all silly to the amusement of the crowd. While it may be funny to you, it's not funny to your dog. Alcohol can cause not only intoxication, lack of coordination, poor breathing, and abnormal acidity, but potentially even coma and/or death. Apple Seeds - Apple seeds are toxic to a dog as they contain a natural chemical that releases cyanide when digested. So, be sure to core and seed apples before you feed them to your dog. Avocado - Avocados contain Persin, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion. Baby food - Baby food by itself isn't terrible, just make sure it doesn't contain any onion powder. Baby food also doesn't contain all the nutrients a dog relies on for a healthy, well maintained diet. Bones (uncooked) - When it comes to bones, he danger that cooked bones can easily splinter when chewed by your dog. Raw (uncooked) bones, however, are appropriate and good for both your dog's nutritional and teeth. Candy and chewing gum - Not only does candy contain sugar, but it often contains Xylitol, which can lead to the over-release of insulin, kidney failure, and worse. Cat food - Not that they would want this anyway, but cat food contains proteins and fats that are targeted at the diet of a cat, not a dog. The protein and fat levels in cat food are too high for your dog, and not healthy. Chocolate - You've probably heard this before, but chocolate is a definite no no for your pup. And it's not just about caffeine, which is enough to harm your dog by itself, but theobromine and theophylline, which can be toxic, cause panting, vomiting, and diarrhea, and damage your dog's heart and nervous systems. Citrus oil extracts - Can cause vomiting. Coffee - Not sure why you would give your dog coffee, but pretty much the same applies here as to chocolate. This is essentially poison for your dog if ingested. Corn on the cob - This is a sure way to get your dog's intestine blocked. The corn is digested, but the cob gets lodged in the small intestine, and if it's not removed surgically, can prove fatal to your dog. Additionally, too much corn kernels can upset the digestive tract as well so be cautious to not feed to much. Fat trimmings - Can cause pancreatitis. Fish - The primary fish that you need to be careful about are salmon and trout. Raw salmon can be fatal to dogs if the fish is infected with a certain parasite, Nanophyetus salmincola. The parasite itself isn't dangerous to dogs, but is often infected with a bacteria called Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which in many cases is fatal to dogs if not treated properly. If diagnosis occurs early on, the dog has a great chance of recovering. Cooked salmon is fine as it kills the parasite. Grapes and raisins - This is one that lots of dog owners are unaware of. Grapes contain a toxin that can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. We've heard stories of dogs dying from only a handful of grapes so do not feed your pup this toxic food. Hops - An ingredient in beer that can be toxic to your dog. The consumption of hops by your dog can cause panting, an increased heart rate, fever, seizures, and even death. Human vitamins - Some human vitamins are okay to use, but the key is comparing the ingredients (all of them - active and inactive) to the vitamins your vet subscribes for your dog (often you can get the human equivalent for much less money). Make sure there's no iron - iron can damage the digestive system lining, and prove poisonous for the liver and kidneys. Liver - In small amounts, liver is great but avoid feeding too much liver to your dog. Liver contains quite a bit of Vitamin A, which can adversely affect your pup's muscles and bones. Macadamia nuts - These contain a toxin that can inhibit locomotory activities, resulting in weakness, panting, swollen limbs, and tremors as well as possible damage to your dog's digestive, nervous, and muscle systems. Marijuana - Not that you would pass the bong to your dog, but if you do, you should know that it can adversely affect your pup's nervous system and heart rate, and induce vomiting. Milk and dairy products - While small doses aren't going to kill your dog, you could get some smelly farts and some nasty cases of diarrhea. Why? Dogs are lactose intolerant (as are an increasing number of humans today), and don't have enough of the lactase enzyme to properly digest dairy foods. If you really need to give them dairy, look into lactose-free dairy products. Mushrooms - Just as the wrong mushroom can be fatal to humans, the same applies to dogs. Don't mess with them. Onions and chives - No matter what form they're in (dry, raw, cooked, powder, within other foods), onions are some of the absolute worst foods you could possibly give your pup (it's poisonous for dogs, and its even worse for cats). They contain disulfides and sulfoxides (thiosulphate), both of which can cause anemia and damage red blood cells. Persimmons, peaches, and plums - If you live in an area that is home to persimmon, peach, or plum trees, look out. Persimmon seeds and peach and plum pits can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis. You'll want to make sure there aren't any wild persimmon or other fruit trees that produce seeds growing in your backyard. If you notice your dog pooping all over the place, and see a bunch of seeds or pits in their waste, you'll need to break out the saw and chop down some trees. Rhubarb, and tomato leaves - These contain oxalates, which can adversely affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems. Raw fish - Another vitamin B (Thiamine) deficiency can result from the regular consumption of raw fish. Loss of appetite will be common, followed by seizures, and in rare instances, death. Salt - Just like salt isn't the healthiest thing for humans, it's even less healthy for dogs. Too much of it can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, dehydration and potentially diarrhea. String - While not a food itself, foods can often contain or be similar to string (ie. meat you've wrapped for the oven). If your dog were to eat a string, it could get stuck in their digestive tract and cause complications. Sugar - This applies to any food containing sugar. Make sure you check the ingredient label for human foods - corn syrup (which is a less expensive form of sugar or glucose) is found in just about everything these days. Too much sugar for your pup can lead to dental issues, obesity, and even diabetes. Tobacco - A major toxic hazard for dogs (and humans). The effects nicotine has on dogs are far worse than on humans. Nicotine can damage your pup's digestive and nervous systems, increase their heart rate, make them pass out, and ultimately result in death. Xylitol - A sugar alcohol found in gum, candies, baked goods, and other sugar-substituted items, Xylitol, while causing no apparent harm to humans, is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, even death for your pup. Yeast (on its own or in dough) - Just like yeast rises in bread, it will also expand and rise within your pup's tummy. Make sure they don't get any. While mild cases will cause gas, lots of farting, and discomfort - too much of it could rupture their stomach and intestines. Keep These Out Of Your Dog's Reach As WellWhile these don't fall in a particular category above, you'll want to avoid them as well: Old food - You don't like old and moldy food, so what makes you think your dog will? The bacteria in spoiled food contains all sorts of toxins that can be damaging to your dog's health. Feed them the freshest and best, dog-approved food only! Leftovers - I know it's difficult to keep your dog from feasting on your dinner left overs after they've had to sit there and watch you eat it all in front of them. But the fact is that if you feed them leftovers regularly they won't be getting a proper diet. If you do give them table scraps, make sure to take out any bones and trim down the fat. Check the ingredients - Bottom line is be sure to know what's in the food your giving your dog. The items from the list above should definitely not be on there. You'd be surprised at how many foods contain sugar and caffeine, that you wouldn't expect to without first checking the ingredient list. Human snacks - Chips can contain garlic and onion powder, cookies may contain raisins, chocolate or macadamia nuts, etc. Bottom line - there's a reason there's food and treats made especially for dogs. When In Doubt, Ask A Vet If your dog is acting strangely, or experiencing even minor symptoms including weakness, lack of coordination, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. and you think he or she may have consumed something they shouldn't have, seek a veterinarian's attention immediately. If you wait too long, your dog might not make it. You can also visit the ASPCA website for the most up-to-date details on safe foods for your dog. Keep Your Dog On A Healthy Diet Choosing to raise a dog is a big responsibility. Just as with a child, you've welcomed another living being into your household and family. We probably don't have to tell you to take care of your dog, but what people often don't realize is that as similar as the two can be, they also have very different needs when it comes to food. Ask your veterinarian what kind of food might be best for your particular dog breed as well as age and any special needs. What If You Cannot Reach Your Veterinarian? In an emergency when your veterinarian cannot be reached you should contact your local animal emergency clinic or call the animal poison hotline at 888-232-8870. You can also try the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. Depending on the nature of the item ingested the animal poison hotline or your veterinarian may induce vomiting to regurgitate the item that has been ingested. If the item is something that is likely to cause further damage to your dog on the way back up, vomiting will not be induced and other methods of helping your dog will be discussed such as having your dog ingest an item which will bind to the offending food and neutralize it or surgery to remove the item that is causing your dog's problems. 
foods - safeSafe Human Foods For Dogs
(Alex Schenker, Sara Wilson - Canine Journal) There are human foods that are permissible to feed to your dog; however, even these foods should be kept to a minimum. Things that you can feed to your dog without worrying about side effects include: Garlic -- Garlic is OK -- and even beneficial -- for your dog in small amounts. Lean meat – Lean meat includes meat without bones that has had excessive fat removed. If feeding chicken and turkey, the skin should also be removed as it can be a source of fat. Lean meat includes the white meat from chicken or turkey and provides a tasty treat for your dog as well as a good source of protein. Both raw and cooked, lean meat is great source of nutrients and protein for your pup. Raw eggs (and cooked ones, too) - The most obvious problem here is salmonella, but Raw diet enthusiasts tout the power of a raw egg in your dog's diet. While the white contains the Avidin enzyme, which inhibits the absorption of vitamin B (Biotin), the yolk contains more than enough Biotin to even out the enzyme. So, when fed raw and whole, or cooked and whole, eggs are an excellent source of protein and a host of vitamins for your pup. Fruits – Not including the fruits listed above, dogs can safely enjoy bananas, apple slices, strawberries, blueberries and watermelon. The seeds should be removed from these fruits or in the case of watermelon it should be a seedless melon as most fruit seeds contain arsenic which is poisonous. Fresh fruits are a great treat to assist in training your dog and can also provide your dog with a great way to cool down on a hot summer day! Vegetables – Certain vegetables like carrots, green beans, cucumber slices or zucchini slices all make great treats for your dog. It’s a good idea to replace commercial dog treats with baby carrots if you are looking to slim your dog down a little bit. Vegetables make great low calorie snacks and good training tools as well. But stay away from canned and pickled vegetables as they contain too much salt. Baked potatoes – A plain baked potato is okay to feed your dog but honestly it is not something that should be done frequently and should never include any toppings. A few slices of cooked baked potato can make a great treat for a patient dog at a meal time though. White rice and pasta – White rice and pasta are frequently referred to as a potential meal for a dog with an upset stomach. Generally boiled white chicken and white rice are used to help firm up stools as well as nourish a dog that is having trouble getting any nutrition from food as a result of illness. While there are certainly some human foods that are safe to feed your dog there are many which are unsafe and potentially poisonous when ingested by your dog. As a general rule of thumb, it is far better to be safe than sorry so avoid feeding your dog any human food unless recommended by your vet. Dogs that are not given human food or table scraps are generally better behaved than dogs who do receive people food anyway, they do not beg because they know they won’t receive any scraps and they also tend to drool less and bother visitors to your home less because they understand that human food is for humans and not for them. Disclaimer: Information published on this website is intended for reference use only. The only clear option for ensuring your pet's health is to feed commercial grade dog foods and treats only. Feeding human foods of any sort carries some degree of risk and is not under the control of this website. 12 AUTUMN FOODS DOGS CAN EAT (PawNation: Autumn, Dogs, Health, Nutrition, Peanut Butter, Pumpkins, SafetyBy Sara Tan Oct 15, 2013)
'Tis the season for everyone to indulge in pumpkin-flavored sweets and cinnamon-covered treats. And by everyone, we mean everyone, dogs included. While there are a slew of human foods that you should definitely not share with your pooch, there are more than a handful of seasonal bites you can slip under the table. Here are 12 autumn foods that canines can eat — in moderation, of course. PEANUT-BUTTER-AND-OATMEAL COOKIES (WITHOUT RAISINS) If your dog has a sweet tooth, don't hold out on those peanut-butter-and-oatmeal cookies! That is, unless they contain raisins or are extremely high in butter or sugar. Otherwise, they are an acceptable snack for your pup. All of the ingredients — peanut butter, oatmeal and cinnamon — are OK PUMPKIN Unsweetened canned pumpkin, pumpkin seedsand cooked fresh pumpkin are all fair game for your dog, this gourd-filled season. Not only do most dogs like the taste of it, it's also healthy for them. A great source of fiber, pumpkin aids the digestive system. Additionally, the pumpkin's fatty acids and antioxidants are good APPLES Fresh apples are A-OK for canines. Do not offer your dog the core, however, since the seeds can be toxic in large amounts. Apples are rich with nutrients for your dog, including calcium, vitamin K, vitamin C and pectin. Dehydrated apples may give your dog an upset stomach, so keep those snacks to yourself. PASTA Making mac-and-cheese for Thanksgiving? Save some un-sauced pasta for Fido. Plain, boiled noodles are totally safe to share with your dog, as long as it doesn't have an allergy to wheat. Whole-grain pasta is even better, as it is high in fiber and complex carbs, but low in fat and calories. Bark appétit! CRANBERRIES While grapes are toxic for canines, fresh cranberries have many health benefits. Cranberries can provide vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, and prevent urinary tract infections. Just be sure not to give your dog too many cranberries — they may make him gassy! TURKEY Dogs go crazy for turkey, and that's OK! Just make sure that all fat, skin and bones are removed and that it is as lean as can be. White meat is the best way to go if you plan on sharing some of your Thanksgiving turkey with your dog. CINNAMON A sprinkle of cinnamon every now and then is just as good for your dog as it is for you. Cinnamon has been long used to cure nausea and gas, and has been used to boost energy, circulation, digestion and brain health. Don't overdo it, though! Too much cinnamon can have an anti-clotting effect. STEAK Lean red meat is a great source of amino acids and B vitamins, both of which will help your dog's muscles and metabolism. Instead of preparing it how you would for yourself, however, bake or boil it for your dog. Remove any fat and keep it as lean as possible. MASHED SWEET POTATOES Many of your dogs are already eating sweet potatoes on a regular basis, and for good reasons. They are high in fiber, vitamin C andbeta carotene. If you want to share sweet potatoes with your dog, stay away from the kind you'll likely be having, i.e., rich with butter and sugar. Keep it all-natural for your pup. SALMON Cooked salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. It's the perfect natural remedy to give your dog a shiny, soft coat. It'll also aid in reducing skin infections, and give your dog an extra boost to its immune system. When sharing salmon with your pup, be sure it's cooked all the way through and doesn't have a lot of oil on it. CHEESE As long as your dog is not lactose intolerant, a sliver or two of low-fat cheese are OK to share. Cheese can be an excellent source of protein and calcium. The safest kind to share with your dog is cottage cheese, although many varieties of hard cheeses are fine, too. GREEN BEANS Green beans are ASPCA-approved as a safe and nutritious treat. Green beans are high in nutrition and low in calories. Share them raw (as long as they're washed) or boiled. Some dogs especially love green beans frozen because of the extra crunch they provide. Modern Dog
(Elizabeth Pask and Laura Scott) Can my dog eat that? Apples, salmon, pumpkin, beans, yogurt... people foods that are safe for your dog to eat. As a responsible and informed dog lover, you probably know that too much “people food” can make your dog ill or overweight, but there are some human foods that can be safely added to your dog’s meals in moderation to give a nutritional boost to Queenie’s diet and add a bit of variety to her food bowl. Just remember: any additions to your dog’s meals shouldn’t comprise more than 25 percent of her weekly caloric requirement. As always, check with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they are on any medications. Upsetting the vitamin and mineral balances in your dog’s diet can have negative effects on your dog’s health and some medications interact badly with some nutrients. The aim of most dog owners is to give their dogs the best diet possible. Good nutrition coupled with a health care program may result in extending your dog’s life by as much as 15 percent. The suggestions above are not meant to replace your dog’s normal, balanced diet. Rather, they are ideas for alternative treats or for adding a little variety to your dog’s meals. BANANAS
Can Dogs Eat Bananas? Dogs can eat bananas but these should be given in small amounts. High amounts of bananas can cause your dog to experience stool problems, fermentation, and the growth of bad bacteria as a result of poor digestion. CHEESE
Can dogs eat cheese? Daisy eats small bites of cheese. However, Feeding cheese and other dairy products to your pets may not be recommended. Pets lack significant amounts of lactose, the enzyme needed to break down lactose in dairy products. As a result, some may have difficulty with digestion and end up with stomach upset. Cheese, however, has less lactose than milk and some other dairy products, so it’s less likely to cause problems. If you use only a small amount of low-fat cheese in these homemade treats and your dogs don’t have any digestive upset, you can continue. EGGS
Feeding Your Dog Raw Eggs – Good Or Bad? (Dogs Naturally Magazine) There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about raw feeding and it seems the poor egg is often dragged through the mud as a dangerous food for dogs. Opponents of eggs claim that they are too high in cholesterol, they pose a risk of salmonella and that they cause a biotin deficiency. To that, we say nonsense! Eggs are not only a cheap and safe source of raw food for your dog, they are one of the most complete and nutritious meals you can choose! Here are the facts you need to know about eggs. Eggs are a complete food source – Eggs are an important source of nutrition for not only many predators, but for the chick living inside it. Inside the egg are all the nutrients necessary to grow a new chicken. Eggs are also one of the most complete sources of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Eggs are a good source of: Vitamin A Riboflavin Folate Vitamin B12 Iron Selenium Fatty Acids Egg whites contain enzyme inhibitors – One of the reasons pet owners are warned off eggs is that the whites contain enzyme inhibitors which can interfere with digestion, especially in very young and old animals. This is true, but it only means that eggs should not be the mainstay of the diet. It is perfectly safe to feed several eggs a week to the average dog. If you don’t see evidence of digestive upset when feeding eggs to dogs, then he should have no trouble if eggs are a regular part of his diet. Cooking the egg white could solve this problem but much of the nutrition would be lost so it is best to feed it raw. Egg whites cause Biotin deficiency – Egg whites contain avidin, a Biotin (one of the B vitamins) inhibitor. Biotin is one of the B vitamins and is important for cellular growth, fatty acid metabolism and good skin and coat. Biotin deficiencies are quite rare and it would take an extraordinary amount of eggs to create a deficiency. Moreover, egg yolks are very high in biotin, so as long as you feed the entire egg, there are few worries. There are other sources of biotin in the diet as well. Liver is a particularly good source. Once again, cooking the egg white will eliminate the risk but your dog will lose much of the nutritional value. If feeding your dog eggs on a regular basis, simply make sure he gets the whole egg, not just the white. Eggs contain salmonella – Dogs are well equipped to handle the bacteria in raw foods. The health of the hen is also important, so it is best to choose eggs from organic, free-range chickens. Proper storage and keeping the eggs cool will also go a long way toward keeping the harmful bacteria at a manageable level. Don’t forget the shells – If eggs are fed with the shell on, they are a nearly complete food source for dogs. The shells can also be valuable for dogs who have difficulty eating bones. Simply dry the shells out and grind them in a clean coffee grinder until they are powdered and sprinkle the powder on your dog’s food. It’s important to remember that many eggs are sprayed with a chemical to make them look shiny, so it is best to get your eggs from a local organic farmer. Eggs are cheap, easily obtained and an outstanding source of nutrition for your dog. The overall concensus with raw feeders is that the health benefits of eggs certainly outweigh the risks – and feeding eggs whole, the way nature intended, goes a long ways to counteract harmful imbalances. Try feeding your dogs a few eggs a week and he will you’ll see better health, inside and out. FIBER
Adding Fiber to Your Dog’s Diet (Ron Miller in DIY Food for Dogs, Home Remedies14 - Dogingtion Post) Have you ever considered adding fiber to your dog’s diet? Like me, you have probably heard of all the benefits to us humans and have wondered if the same applies to your dogs. Basically, yes, but you may not need to add any more since it is already present in dog foods. So when should you consider adding fiber to your dog’s diet? There are some times when you should supplement the fiber, but it’s probably best to let you veterinarian tell you when to do so. A good quick rule of thumb to keep in mind can be found in an article on the Drs. Foster and Smith website: Fiber is not considered an essential nutrient in your dog’s diet, but it is present in almost every commercial dog food. While dogs do not derive any energy from fiber, adding fiber to a diet improves colon health, helps with weight management, and helps with diarrhea, constipation, and diabetes mellitus. So if your dog is experiencing those problems, then considering supplementing the fiber in its diet. Fiber is an excellent ingredient and medicine for your dog. As prescribed by your vet, there may be instances that you need to add fiber to your dog’s diet to re-establish his health and/or cure an illness or disease. Senior dogs can benefit from added fiber as well. Following are a few easy ways of adding fiber to whatever your dog eats. Remember to start with small amounts and gradually increase depending on the dog’s capacity. Adding Fiber to Your Dog’s Diet
PEANUTS
Are Peanuts Safe for Dogs? (VPI) Important Information for Pet Owners According to search engine analysis, one of the most-frequently searched topics online is “dogs and nuts.” Pet owners are clearly interested in knowing which nuts are dangerous for their dogs to eat. Which is a good thing, because many commonly-eaten nuts can be toxic to dogs, including almonds, walnuts, pistachios, macadamia and pecans. But what about good, old-fashioned peanuts? Are peanuts safe for dogs to eat? Safe But Beware Possible Side Effects The good news: peanuts are not considered toxic to dogs. However, it’s important to understand that while peanuts are safe to use in dog cookies and other treats, they are high in fat. Dogs have a more difficult time digesting fat. A high concentration of fat can cause an upset stomach, including diarrhea and vomiting. Dogs who consume too much fat can develop a very painful condition called pancreatitis. This happens when the dog’s pancreas becomes inflammatory due to the consumption of fat. While your dog can receive treatment for pancreatitis, it’s one of the most painful conditions he’ll experience, so try to avoid that from happening. Avoid Salted Peanuts If you are going to give your dog a peanut treat — like stuffing your pooch’s Kong toy with peanut butter or whipping up a homemade cookie treat — use a low-sodium peanut butter or lower-salted peanuts. Too much salt can lead to sodium ion toxicosis. Do not use almond butter, sometimes mistaken as an acceptable substitution. Also, do not feed your dog made-for-people treats that have peanuts (i.e., peanut butter cups and other candy bars; chocolate is toxic to dogs) as this could lead to accidental poisoning. Check Ingredients for Xylitol With the introduction of a variety of nut butters to the market, it's wise to check the ingredients for the sugar substitute xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Currently, three peanut butter brands contain xylitol, including Nuts 'n More, Krush Nutrition and P-28 Foods. Be sure to read the nutritional ingredients. "Natural sweetener" may be a clue that the peanut butter is sweetened with xylitol, which can be labeled as "sugar alcohol," its chemical classification. While xylitol may be safe for people, it's not safe for pets. Even a very small amount of xylitol could send your dog into hypoglycemia—a dangerous drop in blood sugar—that is often fatal, and destroy liver cells. If your dog ingests xylitol, immediate veterinary care is recommended. Signs of xylitol toxicity include disorientation, staggering, panting, collapsing and seizures. Xylitol can also be found in toothpaste, chewing gum, candy and vitamins, to name a few. To learn more about xylitol poisoning, read our in-depth article. Portion Control The rule of thumb: Don’t overdo it. Limit your dog’s consumption of peanuts to that of an occasional treat, not a meal. Due to its high concentration of fats, too much peanut butter can lead to pancreatitis, a very painful health condition for dogs. If you have concerns or questions about feeding your dog peanuts, discuss it with your veterinarian, who is familiar with your dog’s health and nutrition. For more information on toxic nuts, read about Nut Dangers to Dogs and check out our Nut Dangers Infographic. TOMATOES
Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes...Yes! (not leaves and stems) Tomatoes contain high levels of two substances of interest to us. First, lycopene, which is an anti-oxidant claimed to reduce risk of cancer and other degenerative diseases, and the second, tomatine, which can be poisonous. To understand why tomatoes are dangerous to dogs (and on occasion to humans) it is important to know that tomatoes are a member of the nightshade family of plants. You might be surprised to know that the potato is also a member of this family; and you may have heard of the drug, belladonna, also a nightshade. The leaves and stems of the tomato plant contain a substance called atropine, which is poisonous to both dogs and humans. The green, unripe tomatoes contain relatively small amounts of another substance called tomatine, which is also poisonous. While the amounts of tomatine in the green tomato are not generally sufficient to be harmful to humans, they can be harmful to dogs. However, the amount of tomatine in the tomato decreases as it ripens, and so by the time it is red, there is no more tomatine in the fruit (yes, tomatoes are actually classified as fruits). So dogs can safely eat red, ripe tomatoes but should never eat green tomatoes or the leaves and stems of the tomato plant. The leaves and stems of the tomato plant are far more poisonous, and these could kill your dog should it eat enough. You might find it interesting to note that according to Wikipedia, there is at least one human death attributed to drinking tea made from the tomato plant leaves. As for dogs, to repeat, they can safely eat the red, ripe tomato, and tomatoes can be quite nutritious. There should be nothing wrong with feeding your dog a bit of tomato or adding a little to supplement one of its regular feedings. VEGETABLES
Fresh, Healthy Veggies that Fido Will Love (Brandy Arnold in DIY Food for Dogs, Food Guidelines, Home Remedies305 - Dogington Post) Vegetables are great for dogs. Because of their low calorie content, veggies make a delicious treat that won’t add bulk to your baby’s body. And, they can provide your dog with some of the essential nutrients he needs, reducing the need for vitamin supplements. Like in humans, the rich vitamins and minerals from numerous vegetable sources can offer countless alimentary benefits to dogs as well. Veggies to Keep Dogs Healthy 1. Healthiest vine veggies. Squash, cucumbers, and green beans are generally identified to be the most nutritious vine vegetables for dogs. Squash and cucumbers, whether raw or cooked, are rich in potassium which is beneficial in keeping your dog’s kidneys healthy while at the same time reducing his propensity for heart failure. Plus, squash has high amounts of Vitamin A, folate, and calcium. Green beans, on the other hand, contain high contents of cellulose which can be good in helping a hefty pooch lose weight. 2. Top leafy greens. Celery generally provides a sufficient amount of vitamins like A, C, and K, and minerals such as fiber, riboflavin, folate, and lots of other nutrients that are beneficial to your dog’s health. However, it contains high levels of sodium, and should be fed in moderation. Another nutritious vegetable for Fido isparsley. Aside from vitamins A, C, and K, the plant is also rich in potassium, manganese, copper, and folate. In addition, spinach is also abounding with many vitamins such as A, C, E, and, K, and minerals like iron, thiamine, folate, potassium, calcium, zinc, and niacin. Like celery, spinach is also rich in sodium. 3. Best root veggies. Asparagus, carrot, and sweet potato are considered to be the top three most nutritious root vegetables readily available for dogs. Asparagus is rich in vitamins like A, B6, C, E, and K, and various minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, and copper. While carrots have rich cellulose content, Vitamin A, as well as beta-carotene, sweet potatoes, on the other hand, contain high levels of Vitamin A and B6, and potassium. Additionally, sweet potatoes contain high amounts of fiber, making them a great treat that also helps your dog to become “regular.” Both carrots and sweet potatoes make great low-calorie treats for pooches. There are many other vegetables that not only appeal to Fido’s taste, but can keep him healthy as well. Nevertheless, not all vegetables are safe to be eaten by your dog. Because there are lots of human foods that can cause harm to your pooch, make sure that you consult your vet before giving him anything that seems palatable. And, check out this list of foods to avoid feeding your dog. 
bones, chews, rawhides, and treatsDog Owners Beware: Ignoring These Rules Can Lead to Injury or Death
(Dr Karen Becker - Healthy Pets) Today, I'd like to go over the dos and don'ts of offering bones and chews to your dog. Two questions you should ask before feeding any bone or chew to your dog are:
Whether a bone or chew is potentially toxic has to do with the country of origin, the source of the product, and how it was processed. You'll want to look for "Made in the USA" labels on packaging, or feel comfortable about where the product was sourced, for example, from free-range herds out of New Zealand or Canada. I never recommend feeding unlabeled bulk items out of bulk bins, because you really have no idea where the product came from, how it was processed, how long it has been sitting in the bin, or other similar concerns. How to Select Bones or Chews That Are a Good Fit for Your Dog Whether a bone or chew is a good fit for your dog has to do with common sense in most cases. Does the size of the recreational bone or chew present a potential choking hazard or intestinal obstruction? If a piece of bone breaks off and your dog swallows it, could it get stuck somewhere in the GI tract? With regard to the consistency of the product – its density or hardness – you need to consider the health of your dog's teeth and gums. You'll also want to think about the ingredients in the bone or chew. What nutrients does it provide? Does it contain additives? Does it potentially contain opportunistic pathogens that could pose a threat to your pet's health? For example, some bones are naturally high in fat, so you wouldn't want to offer those bones to a pet with a history of pancreatitis. This video is about bones and chews – large items intended for chewing – not treats or jerky products. But while I'm on the subject, there are some really bad dog treats and jerky products on the market, and some really good ones. A composite meat-based treat that can be easily broken into pieces is fine, as long as the product is made in the U.S. and doesn't contain problematic preservatives. But don't assume your pet is getting any teeth-cleaning benefit from eating jerky-type treats. Just as, for example, crunchy granola doesn't clean your teeth, crunchy dog treats don't clean your pet's teeth. Gnawing and repetitive grinding are the chewing actions that wear down plaque and tartar on teeth, which means big recreational bones or chews that are meant to be worked on by your dog over a period of time. Smaller treats that are chewed and swallowed in a matter of seconds or minutes provide no dental benefit for your pet. So there's a big difference between treats that your dog chews and swallows almost immediately, and big bones or chews that require effort and can help control plaque and tartar in your pet's mouth. Bones for Dogs Who Are 'Scarfers' Most importantly, you need to match the size of the bone or chew with the personality, size and health of your dog. Don't assume the bone or chew your neighbor feeds his dog, or the one you fed your last dog, will also work for your current pet. Small dogs may handle smaller chews just fine. Or not. Some small dogs, and many large dogs, are scarfers. If your pet tends to scarf down every morsel he's offered, you'll need to be cautious about any size bone or chew you feed him, because there's a chance it could end up in his stomach whole. Or he may attempt to swallow it whole and fail, which can be just as disastrous. A scarfer's primary objective isn't to chew or gnaw, but to get the item into his stomach as soon as possible. So my safety tip for all sized scarfers is, go big. Whether your scarfer is a Labrador or a Yorkie, if you offer a recreational bone larger than the size of his head, it makes it nearly impossible for him to scarf. So that's an important tip to remember. Bones for Aggressive Chewers Next on the list of potential problems involves the aggressive chewer. These dogs have one mission -- to finish the bone! Aggressive chewers want to consume the thing in its entirety, as soon as possible. The problem many aggressive chewers develop is fractured teeth. They think nothing of creating multiple slab fractures in their mission to break the bone down as quickly as possible. These dogs get hold of a bone and chew like mad, fracturing or wearing down their teeth very quickly. Aggressive chewers shouldn't be given really hard bones like antlers. Offering rock hard bones to hard chewers can create really significant dental trauma. The veterinary dentist I work with likes to say he has funded an entire wing of his dental suite thanks to antler bones and the wrong size marrowbones offered to aggressive chewers. So word to the wise! Aggressive chewers also shouldn't be given narrow bones that fit nicely into their mouths, allowing them to apply a strong vertical bite force. What I mean by that is, for example, in my house we have pit bulls that are very strong chewers. They're not scarfers, so they don't have a desire to swallow bones, they're just really passionate about chewing. And they are rough chewers. If I were to offer them small, narrow femur rings or narrow antlers, it would be a very poor choice for my dogs. They've got big jaws, and giving them a slim antler bone that would allow a strong vertical bite force would very likely cause them to fracture their teeth. In their passion for chewing, they could create a lot of dental damage. What I offer my pitties are big, raw knucklebones. Raw knucklebones are much softer than rock hard antlers and are gentler on the teeth. I also monitor their chewing very closely, because my dogs can whittle a very large bone down to the size of a ping-pong ball in about an hour. Once a bone is that small, it's too small to be safe, so I watch my dogs closely and when they've worked a bone down significantly, I take it away. The Difference Between Raw Bones and 'Room Temperature' BonesReal beef and bison bones come steamed, smoked, or raw. Steamed and smoked bones have been treated so they won't spoil at room temperature. Through that process, the chemical structure of the bone changes and it becomes more brittle. Brittle bones fracture easily, so these bones aren't appropriate for aggressive chewers. Bones of all sizes can be preserved, so the way to tell the difference between treated bones and raw bones is you won't find the former in the freezer or refrigerator section. They'll be the ones sitting on open store shelves at room temperature. Types and Sizes of Raw Bones Bones come from a variety of body parts, and they come in a variety of sizes, but they're not appropriate for all dogs. For instance, rib bones are narrow and are fine for gentle chewers, but they're not what you want to give aggressive chewers due to the strong vertical bite force I talked about earlier. If I were to give a narrow bone to one of my pit bulls, he or she would start breaking it down into small pieces quickly and quite easily. Raw femur bones and knucklebones or "soup bones" also come in a variety of sizes and you can usually find them in the freezer section of your local upscale pet boutique or grocer. Again, it's important to match the size of the bone to the size of the dog, so whereas a big beef knucklebone is fine for my dogs, a smaller venison femur would not be. I don't recommend giving small femur rings, which are often sold in packets of six in the freezer section (or, as another example, kneecaps), to large breed dogs, because they will attempt to swallow them whole. So the bottom line is that you really can't offer a bone that's too big, but you CAN offer bones that are too small for your dog, putting her at risk of dental damage, choking, or intestinal obstruction. Are Marrowbones a Good Idea for Your Dog? Many raw bones contain marrow, which is sort of a creamy center found in long bones. Marrow is very high in fat. The risk of offering a dog a giant marrowbone is that instinctively she will focus on getting the marrow out of the bone, which can cause significant digestive disturbances in dogs that aren't used to consuming a treat that's 60 percent fat. Marrow is also a substantial source of calories, so while raw bones are wonderful, for pets already struggling with too much weight, I like to recommend a "low fat" option. What you do is take a marrowbone, scoop the marrow out to make it a fat-free bone, replace the marrow with canned 100 percent pumpkin, then refreeze the bone. When you take it out of the freezer to offer to your dog, you've got a frozen, pumpkin-stuffed bone that has substantially less fat than a marrow-filled bone. Recreational Bones vs. Edible Bones Also, to clarify… if you're not familiar with feeding dogs an ancestral diet, there are actually two types of bones I'm talking about here. There are recreational bones, which is what I've been discussing in this video, and edible bones. Edible bones, which are primarily poultry wings, backs and necks, are bones that dogs chew up quickly and swallow. Edible bones are used by many raw feeders to balance the calcium ratios in homemade diets. The recreational bones I'm discussing in this video, which are primarily the long bones of large mammals like cattle and buffalo, are meant to be gnawed on for oral health – not quickly chewed up and swallowed as a source of daily nutrients. Allowing your dog to chew a femur (recreational) bone daily does not provide enough calcium or trace minerals to balance a homemade diet. And although some dogs can and will break off chunks of the big, dense bones, or even consume the entire femur, allowing aggressive chewers to do this repeatedly will cause worn and potentially fractured teeth. In addition, it isn't an effective method for balancing your dog's diet. Antlers Are a Good Idea for These Dogs If your dog happens to be a soft chewer who just enjoys holding or gently gnawing on a bone, antlers are for you. Antlers are the world's strongest bones and they last forever. You can purchase elk, moose, or deer antlers, and they're very economical because they just don't wear down. Antlers come in a variety of sizes and can be split, cut or whole, but again, you don't want to give a small antler to a large dog because of the potential for tooth fracture. Giving small antlers to small dogs and big antlers to big dogs is a really good idea, but first you want to make sure they're gentle chewers. Hooves Get a Thumbs Down Let's talk hooves for a moment. Hooves are actually my least favorite bone to offer because they're sharp and brittle. Many dogs have suffered excessive oral trauma from chewing sharp hooves. Now, I know there are plenty of people out there who will say, "No, my dog does fine with hooves," and that's great. But statistically speaking, veterinarians see more cut mouths from hooves than any other type of recreational bone. If you do offer hooves, please feed your pet only American grown hooves to insure they're coming from non-toxic animals. Antler Dog Chews - an upsurge of fractured upper carnassial teeth.
(dentalvets.co.uk) In the last few weeks we have experienced a surge in the numbers of fractured teeth from antler chews sold for dogs as "natural tooth cleaning". The teeth damaged have all had the same buccal slab fractures of the upper carnassials (see below). Many have fractured so severely that surgical extraction is the only treatment possible. The advertising typically claims they are good for cleaning teeth, that dogs cannot bear down on them and being safe for puppy teething. Given their hardness (see the fractured teeth page) the damage is the most extreme we can remember. Since antlers are bone our normal advice applies in this regard. See the following information sheetfrom the US Government. A letter signed by a group of concerned vets and nurses has been sent to the Veterinary Record to warn the profession at large and also to recruit cases for a detailed study. In addition major pet stores and two manufacturers have been contacted regarding our concerns and to request their withdrawal from sale. In the meantime we suggest you do not stock them if you are a practice and if you are an owner with a grievance you petition for redress. Where's the Beef? Why your dog should never eat another Milk Bone or Beggin Strip
(Amy Havens - petdailypress) Where’s the beef? Read the label on one of the popular dog treats and you’ll be asking yourself that same question. Milk-Bones and Beggin Strips are the #1 and #2 top selling treats respectively and I’d sooner have my dog stick her head in the curbside garbage on a hot day than eat that stuff. Where’s the conscience of Del Monte and Purina when they put toxins and animal waste in our pets’ food? And they’re not the only ones. Anyone that hides behind “Natural Flavors” on their label instead of telling us exactly what those flavors are (ADI, Waggin’ Train) needs a firm kick in the caboose. Just because the FDA allows manufacturers to do it, doesn’t mean they should. BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, Sodium Metabisulfite and TBHQ. These are chemical preservatives known to cause things like: cancer, liver and kidney problems, weakness, loss of consciousness, brain damage, and life-threatening asthma. One or more of these chemicals are in the top two selling treats and numerous others. The chemicals also are used to manufacture things like rubber and petroleum products, and embalming fluid. Treats containing at least one of these chemicals. These chemicals are used to manufacture:
Toxins in pet foodSo what’s the deal with all these other chemical preservatives? Sodium Metabisulfite (the preservative in Milk-Bones) is harmful if ingested or inhaled (as in sniffed). It reacts with WATER and acids (like those in your dog’s stomach) to release toxic sulfur dioxide gas. It can cause life-threatening asthmatic reactions after ingestion as well as gastrointestinal, circulatory and central nervous system problems. The people who handle this stuff are required to wear hazmat suits and respirators. And believe it or not, there’s more written about the harmful effects and cancer-causing properties of BHA and BHT than sodium metabisulfite. BHT is actually banned in England. And BHA is thought by the National Institutes of Health to cause stomach cancer. TBHQ (a butane derivative) can cause death from ingestion of as little as 5 grams. Ingestion of a single gram (1/13 of an ounce) causes nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, delirium, a sense of suffocation and collapse. The FDA puts strict requirements on uses of all these toxic chemical preservatives in human food, but pet foods have few if any requirements and often contain much more. So what’s the good news? There are many better, natural solutions for preserving food. Dehydration is the first one. Take the moisture out of something and bacteria cannot grow. Ask any caveman. It’s been around that long. And, no self-respecting cowboy would go hungry when he has a piece of dried meat in his pocket. Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and rosemary and sage extracts also make good, natural solutions. The problem for Purina and Del-Monte and others is that dehydration, vitamins and herb extracts are more expensive than sodium metabisulfite, BHA, BHT, TBHQ or ethoxyquin. Dehydration, for instance, produces a treat with a lower water content (but denser nutritional profile) that hence weighs less. Dehydration also takes time and electricity – which cost money. Since treats are sold by net weight, massive commercial manufacturers want to keep the moisture content high so they can sell you the weight in water. But then they have to toss in chemical preservatives to keep the treats from spoiling. “Natural Flavors” and Animal Digests Here’s the scoop on natural flavors and animal digests: the FDA allows digestive tract contents to be processed into animal feed. The FDA says: “With respect to flavors, pet foods often contain digests, which are materials treated with heat, enzymes, and/or acids to form concentrated natural flavors. Only a small amount of a chicken digest is needed to produce a ‘Chicken Flavored Cat Food,’ even though no actual chicken is added to the food…” [emphasis added]. “Natural Flavors” and “Animal Digests” are on the labels of these popular products among others:
Ever glance at a pet food label and see an ingredient called “meat?” Would you buy anything in the grocery store’s meat section that’s just identified as “meat” on the label? What exactly qualifies as “meat” and “by-products”? Here’s a hint: The FDA has found pentobarbital (the euthanasia drug) in our pet’s food. According to the FDA, “meat” for animal feed comes from: “independent [rendering] plants that obtain animal by-product materials, including grease, blood, feathers, offal and entire animal carcasses from the following sources: butcher shops, supermarkets, restaurants, fast-food chains, poultry processors, slaughterhouses, farms, ranches, feedlots, and animal shelters.” [emphasis added] AAFCO, the organization that works with the FDA to standardize definitions of ingredients and other things for the pet food industry, broadly defines “byproducts”. Poultry byproducts, for instance can include: “the carcass of slaughtered poultry such as necks, feet, undeveloped eggs and intestines exclusive of feathers except… as might occur unavoidably…” But it’s not the feathers – or even the addition of McDonald’s used grease – that’s most worrisome. It’s well documented that the FDA also allows 4D animals – that’s dead (as in roadkill dead), dying or diseased (as in anthrax) or disabled (as in mad-cow paralysis) as well as spoiled or contaminated meat to be used in pet food. Recall the mad-cow epidemic in the late 1980s? It was determined that the cause of it was cattle (normally herbivores) being fed the remains of other diseased cattle (in the form of rendered down meat and byproducts). Nearly 4.4 million cattle were slaughtered in the eradication program that followed. But in October 2009, Mad Cow disease infected and killed another person showing that the disease is still lingering in the human food chain. So you would think your pet has got to be at much greater risk. “Meat” and “By-Products” are in these popular treats:
Ever ask your vet why your seven year old dog is developing all these skin irritations and bumps? Or why she seems to have frequent bouts of intestinal upset? Here’s one good reason: she can’t digest the stuff she’s eating. Many dogs can’t digest wheat, corn and soy and some are allergic to these ingredients. Yet they’re included in food because they are cheap. Next time you pick up a 12 oz box of dog cookies for $3.99 retail consider how the manufacturer can make 12 oz of those treats for under $0.50. MSG is included because it’s addictive, but like ethoxyquin you probably won’t find it on the label. If you see any type of “hydrolyzed” protein though, it likely contains MSG. MSG is believed to be a big culprit in the obesity epidemic in our pets (and ourselves). More than 50% of US dogs and cats are reportedly obese. MSG can more than triple insulin levels making even the most physically active animals fat. The FDA says: “hydrolyzed proteins, used by the food industry to enhance flavor, are simply proteins that have been chemically broken apart into amino acids. The chemical breakdown of proteins may result in the formation of free glutamate that joins with free sodium to form MSG. In this case, the presence of MSG does not need to be disclosed on labeling.” Refined sugars are added to pet food because dogs can taste sweetness. Yet sugar can cause obesity, dental problems and possibly diabetes. Artificial sweeteners are no good for dogs either and some are known toxins. The FDA still allows cancer-causing saccharine to be sold to humans and genetically modified ingredients to be undisclosed on labels. So chances are they’re not looking out for your pet. Admittedly, artificial sweeteners and sugars can be hard to identify on a label when there’s a laundry list of six syllable words. But this can be our “‘Aha!’ moment.” If we don’t recognize it, should it really be ingested? Here are a couple to remember: glycerin (aka glycerol) is a sugar substitute and filler, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is an artificial sweetener with similar chemistry to Xylitol – and that one is known to be toxic to pets. Wheat is in countless dog treats from the toxic ones to the junk-food treats. Here are a few of the popular treats that contain wheat and/or at least one of the other unhealthy ingredients in this category.
The list of additives from food coloring to artificial flavors and other preservatives is long. But why does there need to be food coloring in the treats we give our dogs.? Has a dog ever turn his nose up at a treat because it got a low score for plating and presentation? Let’s do our dogs a favor; when we see red dye # this and yellow dye # that, let’s put the box back. It likely contains a ton of other toxins. The Cancerous Five Food Colorings, Titanium dioxide, copper sulfate, calcium proprionate, sodium bisulfite, propylene glycol, and zinc sulfate are just some of those hunks of junk. They can cause anything from gastrointestinal and skin disorders, to tumors and genetic disorders. And that’s just in the stuff humans and rats have reported. Who knows what our dogs feel. Yellow #6, Blue #1 and #2, Red #3 and Green #3 are linked with cancer in animal testing. These are in Milk-Bones, Beggin Strips, Beneful Snackin Slices, and T-Bonz. Titanium dioxide is a widely used white food coloring that’s also used for paints and plastics. Some prefer titanium in golf clubs not food. In food, it’s suspected of causing genetic disorders and lung tumors; in the clubs it simply causes humility. Copper sulfate is an herbicide, fungicide and pesticide that’s also a known toxin no longer included in children’s chemistry sets because of health risks. Calcium proprionate is a mold inhibitor. How did we get to be more worried about the mold than the chemicals? Zinc sulfate will take the moss off your roof and kill the grass in your yard. Sodium nitrite is linked with cancer and its in Beggin Strips and Pup-Peroni. Sodium nitrate is easily converted to cancer-causing compounds (called NOCs) and both sodium nitrite and nitrate have been linked with gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, and colorectal cancer. (Goodness Gracious uses uncured (nitrate/nitrite free) bacon in its bacon cheeseburger treats proving that manufacturers can make healthy and delicious stuff for dogs by simply choosing to do so.) Sodium bisulfite (synthetic vitamin K also called menadione) is associated with liver toxicity, anemia, eczema, skin irritations, allergic conditions, and more and has been banned from food and supplements in Europe, and by the FDA in over the counter supplements. And lastly, propylene glycol makes a darn good antifreeze and airplane de-icer, but any vet will tell you in the right amount it will kill your pet. These popular treats contain these toxins:
Our pets have a flaccid tongue; they can’t tell us that the Milk-Bones give them headaches or the Beggin Strips make their skin itch. They just know they’re hungry or they’ve done something good and this is their reward. Wag tail. Show belly. Give kisses. So let’s make that reward something that they enjoy and that’s good for them. Today is the first day of the rest of your dog’s life. Remember, treat healthy and treat often. But if you can only do one of those things, then treat healthy. Your dog will make up the difference by living longer. P.S. Do yourself a favor too. Spare yourself the gory details of what “mechanically separated meat” means on the label… Just stop eating the Slim Jims. Ask a Vet: The Problem with Dogs and Jerky Treats
(Dr. Eric Barchas - Dogster) Few people know that jerky can sicken and kill dogs, and very little is being done about it. Every once in a while I stop by my local big chain pet store to help keep my finger on the pulse of what's new in the dog and cat product world. My neighborhood store has a large area devoted to bulk treats for dogs. No information on the origins of the treats is offered. I often see people feeding their dogs treats straight from the bulk bins. The store allows and even encourages this. I, on the other hand, am appalled by the sight. Those people could be unknowingly killing their dogs. I often intervene, but I cringe when I think about how common the practice is. It's not as bad as the 2007 melamine scandal yet, but it's bad: jerky treats are sickening and killing dogs. I don't understand why this subject isn't all over the media and on the forefront of every dog lover's mind, but for some reason the jerky menace in dogs is little-known and receives scant attention. Hopefully that will be changing soon. I don't understand why jerky treats haven't been recalled en masse. Unfortunately that is not likely to happen soon. Of course, I do understand why pet stores don't have big warning signs above the jerky treats: they're good revenue generators. The problem with jerky treats was first formally identified in 2007. Approximately 3,000 dogs and 10 cats are known to have become sick, and almost 600 dogs are known to have died. I can't even imagine how many more have gone undiagnosed. Dogs sickened by jerky treats most often suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, often accompanied by evidence of liver damage. A smaller number of dogs suffer from a form of kidney damage that leads to an unusual and formerly rare (except for in Basenjis) problem called Fanconi Syndrome. In the syndrome a portion of the kidneys called the proximal tubule is damaged. This leads to aberrations in glucose, potassium, and pH. The first symptom is generally increased urination accompanied by increased thirst. Weight loss can occur, leading to emaciation and poor body condition. Death can occur from uncontrollable gastrointestinal signs, pancreatitis, blood pH problems, or kidney failure. However, most dogs sickened by jerky treats recover if they receive treatment. Here is the really scary part: nobody knows why jerky treats make dogs sick. The problem was initially considered to be an issue with "Chinese chicken jerky." However, it is now known that duck, sweet potato, and dried fruit jerkies also can cause illness. Most of the dogs known to have been sickened by jerky treats consumed products made in China. Therefore, many people recommend not feeding Chinese-made treats. However, remember that China bashing is highly de rigueur in today's society. It is possible that most of the dogs have been sickened by Chinese treats simply because most treats are made in China. Also remember that many foods that are "made in the USA" contain ingredients that originated in China. Long story short: no jerky, regardless of where it comes from, should be considered safe. Most people assume that there is some contaminant in the treats that is sickening dogs. However, efforts to identify the contaminant have not been successful. According to a recently released FDA fact sheet, jerky treats that have sickened dogs have been tested for "Salmonella, metals, pesticides, and antibiotics, and were screened for other chemicals and poisonous compounds." Despite these efforts, the cause of the problems remains unidentified. This places jerky in a uniquely nefarious group of food and plant items that can sicken or kill pets for reasons unexplained by current science. Other members of the group include grapes, raisins, and lilies (in cats). The analogy between grapes and jerky may actually be a very good one. There are some people who are beginning to suspect that there is no contaminant. Rather, they suspect that jerky itself, like grapes, may be safe for people yet toxic to some dogs (but not others). According to this theory, jerky (and not just the Chinese-made variety) has been poisonous all along and the problem simply wasn't identified until 2007. This is similar to our experience with grapes, which were recommended as healthy treats for dogs until the early 2000s. The theory is backed up by anecdotal evidence from vets going back 30 years or longer. I have heard stories of dogs dying after eating jerky intended for humans many decades ago. Despite the theories, jerky illness in dogs remains a complete mystery. However, the FDA appears to be redoubling its efforts to get to the bottom of the matter. It recently sent out a Dear Veterinarian letter requesting that vets help raise awareness of the problem. The letter also offers guidance on collecting diagnostic samples to help determine the source of the problem. Of course, the FDA could simply ban chicken jerky treats, but it has so far refused to do that, supposedly because the adulterant, contaminant, or cause of the problems is unknown. Or maybe someone is paying them off. Fortunately, as long as strangers, friends, and neighbors don't give treats to your dog, the problem is easy to avoid. Don't feed jerky, imported or domestic, marketed for dogs or for humans, commercial or homemade, to your dog. Period. Most dogs love baby carrots every bit as much as jerky. I recommend them as the best and healthiest treat for dogs. Baby carrots are healthful, delicious, inexpensive, non-messy, low-calorie, and safe. (For now -- goodness help us all if it is someday determined that carrots, like grapes, can kill dogs.) Rawhide: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
(Written on 06/04/2013 by Brandy Arnold in Food Guidelines, Teeth 63) There are countless types of dog chews, bones, and toys in the market today, and rawhide is one of the most popular. Because there have been lots of concerns regarding the safety of rawhide dog chews, it is a good idea to be familiar with the various kinds of rawhide available as well as the pros and cons accompanying these types of chew toys. With the necessary facts, you can make a sound decision about whether or not to allow your pooch to chow down on the popular knotted chew bone. The Good: · It promotes healthy gums and teeth in dogs. As the rawhide chews get moistened, it tends to wrap around your pooch’s teeth; rubbing off any plaque buildup which in turn reduce his risk of acquiring serious dental problems. · It prevents dogs from chewing valuable items at home. Because rawhide chews can keep your pooch busy for several hours, you can keep your clothing, furniture, and other belongings from being chewed on. · It relieves teething pain that most puppies struggle with. When puppies start gnawing on rawhide chews, they tend to feel less pain as their teeth push through. Besides, rawhides help them in developing strong jaws. · Your dog will likely love them. A lot of pet owners ignore the downsides to rawhide treats when the see the pure joy of a dog with a fresh, new chew. While there are some Pros to rawhide treats, careful selection and proper use are still vitally important. The Bad: · It can be a choking a hazard. Once your dog swallows a tiny, broken piece of rawhide, that portion can get lodged in his throat; putting him in serious danger. To avoid this, immediately take the rawhide away as soon as it becomes small enough to be swallowed whole. · It can cause digestive blockage. Allowing your pooch to swallow a large piece of rawhide can also endanger his life. Rawhides can expand inside Fido’s stomach, putting him at risk of a fatal blockage. It can even wrap around his intestines, causing the same obstruction. · It can cause gastrointestinal problems. If your pooch ingests too many rawhides, he may develop gastrointestinal complications. · Not all rawhides are safe to eat. Several reports have revealed that rawhides which have been produced outside USA were made from toxic chemicals. Try to be selective when it comes to buying rawhide. Look very closely where it was manufactured and only choose rawhides made in the USA. The Ugly: · Some rawhides contain deadly poisons. The process of making rawhide involves chemically separating the outer layer of skin (usually of a cow) from the hide. This process leaves deadly poisons in the chew, including arsenic and formaldehyde. · Some rawhides contain the skin from dogs. An investigation by Humane Society International stated in their report, “In a particularly grisly twist, the skins of brutally slaughtered dogs in Thailand are mixed with other bits of skin to produce rawhide chew toys for pet dogs. Manufacturers told investigators that these chew toys are regularly exported to and sold in U.S. stores.” Ultimately, the choice is yours. But, remember, you’re choosing for your dog. It’s likely that if he could educate himself on what he was eating, he’d choose a safer, healthier alternanative. 
What Foods Are Toxic For Dogs
(Alex Schenker, Sara Wilson - Canine Journal) What Foods Should You Never Feed Your Dog? There are certain foods that you should not feed your dog under any occasion. While individual cases will vary based on breed, weight, and other factors - in general this list of foods applies to all dogs and should be carefully followed to avoid accidents. Just Because Humans Like It, Doesn't Mean Dogs Will Foods that are perfectly suitable for human consumption, as well as other animals, may be toxic and even poisonous to your dog, posing a serious threat to it's health and well-being. Why? Because all animals have very different rates of metabolism. Metabolism is basically the process of breaking down food and turning it into energy. Please note that while we're attempting to add every food we can find that is potentially unsafe for dogs, there are certain foods that we may miss, so don't consider a food safe to feed to our dog just because it's not on this list. Do your research if you are uncertain and let us know by adding a comment below with your new information so that we can keep this list updated. List Of Foods Not To Feed Your Dog Here's an alphabetized list of foods that are unsafe and unfit for canine consumption, many of which are toxic for dogs. We'll be updating it and adding foods as we learn more. The ones in red italics are especially dangerous and often poisonous for canines. Alcohol - I'm sure you've heard of the birthday parties where the dog accidentally gets into some of the spilled keg beer, and then gets all silly to the amusement of the crowd. While it may be funny to you, it's not funny to your dog. Alcohol can cause not only intoxication, lack of coordination, poor breathing, and abnormal acidity, but potentially even coma and/or death. Apple Seeds - Apple seeds are toxic to a dog as they contain a natural chemical that releases cyanide when digested. So, be sure to core and seed apples before you feed them to your dog. Avocado - Avocados contain Persin, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion. Baby food - Baby food by itself isn't terrible, just make sure it doesn't contain any onion powder. Baby food also doesn't contain all the nutrients a dog relies on for a healthy, well maintained diet. Bones (uncooked) - When it comes to bones, he danger that cooked bones can easily splinter when chewed by your dog. Raw (uncooked) bones, however, are appropriate and good for both your dog's nutritional and teeth. Candy and chewing gum - Not only does candy contain sugar, but it often contains Xylitol, which can lead to the over-release of insulin, kidney failure, and worse. Cat food - Not that they would want this anyway, but cat food contains proteins and fats that are targeted at the diet of a cat, not a dog. The protein and fat levels in cat food are too high for your dog, and not healthy. Chocolate - You've probably heard this before, but chocolate is a definite no no for your pup. And it's not just about caffeine, which is enough to harm your dog by itself, but theobromine and theophylline, which can be toxic, cause panting, vomiting, and diarrhea, and damage your dog's heart and nervous systems. Citrus oil extracts - Can cause vomiting. Coffee - Not sure why you would give your dog coffee, but pretty much the same applies here as to chocolate. This is essentially poison for your dog if ingested. Corn on the cob - This is a sure way to get your dog's intestine blocked. The corn is digested, but the cob gets lodged in the small intestine, and if it's not removed surgically, can prove fatal to your dog. Additionally, too much corn kernels can upset the digestive tract as well so be cautious to not feed to much. Fat trimmings - Can cause pancreatitis. Fish - The primary fish that you need to be careful about are salmon and trout. Raw salmon can be fatal to dogs if the fish is infected with a certain parasite, Nanophyetus salmincola. The parasite itself isn't dangerous to dogs, but is often infected with a bacteria called Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which in many cases is fatal to dogs if not treated properly. If diagnosis occurs early on, the dog has a great chance of recovering. Cooked salmon is fine as it kills the parasite. Grapes and raisins - This is one that lots of dog owners are unaware of. Grapes contain a toxin that can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. We've heard stories of dogs dying from only a handful of grapes so do not feed your pup this toxic food. Hops - An ingredient in beer that can be toxic to your dog. The consumption of hops by your dog can cause panting, an increased heart rate, fever, seizures, and even death. Human vitamins - Some human vitamins are okay to use, but the key is comparing the ingredients (all of them - active and inactive) to the vitamins your vet subscribes for your dog (often you can get the human equivalent for much less money). Make sure there's no iron - iron can damage the digestive system lining, and prove poisonous for the liver and kidneys. Liver - In small amounts, liver is great but avoid feeding too much liver to your dog. Liver contains quite a bit of Vitamin A, which can adversely affect your pup's muscles and bones. Macadamia nuts - These contain a toxin that can inhibit locomotory activities, resulting in weakness, panting, swollen limbs, and tremors as well as possible damage to your dog's digestive, nervous, and muscle systems. Marijuana - Not that you would pass the bong to your dog, but if you do, you should know that it can adversely affect your pup's nervous system and heart rate, and induce vomiting. Milk and dairy products - While small doses aren't going to kill your dog, you could get some smelly farts and some nasty cases of diarrhea. Why? Dogs are lactose intolerant (as are an increasing number of humans today), and don't have enough of the lactase enzyme to properly digest dairy foods. If you really need to give them dairy, look into lactose-free dairy products. Mushrooms - Just as the wrong mushroom can be fatal to humans, the same applies to dogs. Don't mess with them. Onions and chives - No matter what form they're in (dry, raw, cooked, powder, within other foods), onions are some of the absolute worst foods you could possibly give your pup (it's poisonous for dogs, and its even worse for cats). They contain disulfides and sulfoxides (thiosulphate), both of which can cause anemia and damage red blood cells. Persimmons, peaches, and plums - If you live in an area that is home to persimmon, peach, or plum trees, look out. Persimmon seeds and peach and plum pits can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis. You'll want to make sure there aren't any wild persimmon or other fruit trees that produce seeds growing in your backyard. If you notice your dog pooping all over the place, and see a bunch of seeds or pits in their waste, you'll need to break out the saw and chop down some trees. Rhubarb, and tomato leaves - These contain oxalates, which can adversely affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems. Raw fish - Another vitamin B (Thiamine) deficiency can result from the regular consumption of raw fish. Loss of appetite will be common, followed by seizures, and in rare instances, death. Salt - Just like salt isn't the healthiest thing for humans, it's even less healthy for dogs. Too much of it can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, dehydration and potentially diarrhea. String - While not a food itself, foods can often contain or be similar to string (ie. meat you've wrapped for the oven). If your dog were to eat a string, it could get stuck in their digestive tract and cause complications. Sugar - This applies to any food containing sugar. Make sure you check the ingredient label for human foods - corn syrup (which is a less expensive form of sugar or glucose) is found in just about everything these days. Too much sugar for your pup can lead to dental issues, obesity, and even diabetes. Tobacco - A major toxic hazard for dogs (and humans). The effects nicotine has on dogs are far worse than on humans. Nicotine can damage your pup's digestive and nervous systems, increase their heart rate, make them pass out, and ultimately result in death. Xylitol - A sugar alcohol found in gum, candies, baked goods, and other sugar-substituted items, Xylitol, while causing no apparent harm to humans, is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, even death for your pup. Yeast (on its own or in dough) - Just like yeast rises in bread, it will also expand and rise within your pup's tummy. Make sure they don't get any. While mild cases will cause gas, lots of farting, and discomfort - too much of it could rupture their stomach and intestines. Keep These Out Of Your Dog's Reach As WellWhile these don't fall in a particular category above, you'll want to avoid them as well: Old food - You don't like old and moldy food, so what makes you think your dog will? The bacteria in spoiled food contains all sorts of toxins that can be damaging to your dog's health. Feed them the freshest and best, dog-approved food only! Leftovers - I know it's difficult to keep your dog from feasting on your dinner left overs after they've had to sit there and watch you eat it all in front of them. But the fact is that if you feed them leftovers regularly they won't be getting a proper diet. If you do give them table scraps, make sure to take out any bones and trim down the fat. Check the ingredients - Bottom line is be sure to know what's in the food your giving your dog. The items from the list above should definitely not be on there. You'd be surprised at how many foods contain sugar and caffeine, that you wouldn't expect to without first checking the ingredient list. Human snacks - Chips can contain garlic and onion powder, cookies may contain raisins, chocolate or macadamia nuts, etc. Bottom line - there's a reason there's food and treats made especially for dogs. When In Doubt, Ask A Vet If your dog is acting strangely, or experiencing even minor symptoms including weakness, lack of coordination, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. and you think he or she may have consumed something they shouldn't have, seek a veterinarian's attention immediately. If you wait too long, your dog might not make it. You can also visit the ASPCA website for the most up-to-date details on safe foods for your dog. Keep Your Dog On A Healthy Diet Choosing to raise a dog is a big responsibility. Just as with a child, you've welcomed another living being into your household and family. We probably don't have to tell you to take care of your dog, but what people often don't realize is that as similar as the two can be, they also have very different needs when it comes to food. Ask your veterinarian what kind of food might be best for your particular dog breed as well as age and any special needs. What If You Cannot Reach Your Veterinarian? In an emergency when your veterinarian cannot be reached you should contact your local animal emergency clinic or call the animal poison hotline at 888-232-8870. You can also try the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. Depending on the nature of the item ingested the animal poison hotline or your veterinarian may induce vomiting to regurgitate the item that has been ingested. If the item is something that is likely to cause further damage to your dog on the way back up, vomiting will not be induced and other methods of helping your dog will be discussed such as having your dog ingest an item which will bind to the offending food and neutralize it or surgery to remove the item that is causing your dog's problems. Safe Human Foods For Dogs There are human foods that are permissible to feed to your dog; however, even these foods should be kept to a minimum. Things that you can feed to your dog without worrying about side effects include: Garlic -- Garlic is OK -- and even beneficial -- for your dog in small amounts. Lean meat – Lean meat includes meat without bones that has had excessive fat removed. If feeding chicken and turkey, the skin should also be removed as it can be a source of fat. Lean meat includes the white meat from chicken or turkey and provides a tasty treat for your dog as well as a good source of protein. Both raw and cooked, lean meat is great source of nutrients and protein for your pup. Raw eggs (and cooked ones, too) - The most obvious problem here is salmonella, but Raw diet enthusiasts tout the power of a raw egg in your dog's diet. While the white contains the Avidin enzyme, which inhibits the absorption of vitamin B (Biotin), the yolk contains more than enough Biotin to even out the enzyme. So, when fed raw and whole, or cooked and whole, eggs are an excellent source of protein and a host of vitamins for your pup. Fruits – Not including the fruits listed above, dogs can safely enjoy bananas, apple slices, strawberries, blueberries and watermelon. The seeds should be removed from these fruits or in the case of watermelon it should be a seedless melon as most fruit seeds contain arsenic which is poisonous. Fresh fruits are a great treat to assist in training your dog and can also provide your dog with a great way to cool down on a hot summer day! Vegetables – Certain vegetables like carrots, green beans, cucumber slices or zucchini slices all make great treats for your dog. It’s a good idea to replace commercial dog treats with baby carrots if you are looking to slim your dog down a little bit. Vegetables make great low calorie snacks and good training tools as well. But stay away from canned and pickled vegetables as they contain too much salt. Baked potatoes – A plain baked potato is okay to feed your dog but honestly it is not something that should be done frequently and should never include any toppings. A few slices of cooked baked potato can make a great treat for a patient dog at a meal time though. White rice and pasta – White rice and pasta are frequently referred to as a potential meal for a dog with an upset stomach. Generally boiled white chicken and white rice are used to help firm up stools as well as nourish a dog that is having trouble getting any nutrition from food as a result of illness. While there are certainly some human foods that are safe to feed your dog there are many which are unsafe and potentially poisonous when ingested by your dog. As a general rule of thumb, it is far better to be safe than sorry so avoid feeding your dog any human food unless recommended by your vet. Dogs that are not given human food or table scraps are generally better behaved than dogs who do receive people food anyway, they do not beg because they know they won’t receive any scraps and they also tend to drool less and bother visitors to your home less because they understand that human food is for humans and not for them. Disclaimer: Information published on this website is intended for reference use only. The only clear option for ensuring your pet's health is to feed commercial grade dog foods and treats only. Feeding human foods of any sort carries some degree of risk and is not under the control of this website. GOOD AND BAD FRUITS FOR YOUR DOG
(LesleyandRuby Gravener - Everything Shih Tzu & Toy Breeds) Humans love fruit and we know bananas and strawberries are good for us, but did you know they are good for your dogs too? Not only will your dog love that he is getting "human food,” but you will love that the same benefits fruits provide us – aids in digestion, antioxidants, immunity boosts, better eye sight, healthier skin and hair – they also provide for your dog. Feed fruits to your dog as a small training treat or stuff your dog’s favorite treat stuffer toy with some peanut butter and fruit for a great and healthy occupier. Tips for Feeding Fruit to Dogs
Although some fruits in small portions can be good for your dog (unless your dog is allergic), never offer your dog the following. If your dog accidently eats the below fruit, contact your veterinarian immediately.
-Read about Pumpkin for Dogs- GOOD AND BAD FRUITS FOR YOUR DOG
By Lesleyandruby Gravener on Friday, January 24, 2014 at 5:48pm Humans love fruit and we know bananas and strawberries are good for us, but did you know they are good for your dogs too? Not only will your dog love that he is getting "human food,” but you will love that the same benefits fruits provide us – aids in digestion, antioxidants, immunity boosts, better eye sight, healthier skin and hair – they also provide for your dog. Feed fruits to your dog as a small training treat or stuff your dog’s favorite treat stuffer toy with some peanut butter and fruit for a great and healthy occupier. Tips for Feeding Fruit to Dogs
Although some fruits in small portions can be good for your dog (unless your dog is allergic), never offer your dog the following. If your dog accidently eats the below fruit, contact your veterinarian immediately.
-Read about Pumpkin for Dogs- 
Animal Attraction: Survey Reveals Pet Owners Confused About Proper Pet Nutrition and Industry Standards
(Stacy Fox - khou.com - Pet Md) While many pet owners take the time to research the best pet food for their pet, a recent petMD survey revealed that there is still confusion surrounding pet food labels and what constitutes a nutritious diet. Almost 80 percent of respondents said they are aware of the importance of a balanced diet for their pets; however, less than half have ever checked the label on their pet's food to make sure it meets industry-wide standards. "Checking for the AAFCO 'complete and balanced' statement on a pet food label is one of the quickest and easiest ways for owners to ensure that their pets are getting at least the minimum nutrition they need," states Dr. Jennifer Coates, Veterinary Advisor to petMD. "Contrary to what some pet parents may think, foods that do not adhere to these standards are readily available in many retail outlets." The survey's key findings include: 1. Consumers Do Not Read Pet Food Labels Carefully: While the majority of survey respondents were aware that a balanced diet is vitally important and that too little or too much of certain nutrients can adversely impact a pet's health, nearly 50% admitted that they have never checked the label on their pet's food to make sure it meets the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standard of being "complete and balanced." If a nutrient is deficient or present in dangerously high amounts in a dog or cat's food, a pet's health will suffer. 2. Pet Parents Are Confused about the Importance of Life Stage Diets for Pets: The survey revealed that only 50% of respondents understood that they should choose an "adult maintenance" pet food for an adult pet. Nearly one in four people said they would select an "all life stages" diet for an adult pet. At different points in their lives, pets have very different nutritional needs. An all life stages product, for example, must be higher in protein, fat and other nutrients to support the nutritional demands of growth and reproduction experienced by puppies, kittens and pregnant females. Feeding these types of diets to adult animals can promote obesity and other health concerns. 3. Consumers Are Unaware of the Relationship between Nutrients and a Balanced Diet: The survey revealed that 62% of people thought that on average, a balanced diet for pets involved just 10 or fewer nutrients. In truth, according to current research, over 50 nutrients must be present in the right amounts and ratios to provide complete and balanced nutrition and to promote optimal health. "Pet parents want what is best for their beloved companions, but sometimes a lack of clarity surrounding pet nutrition gets in the way," states Coates. "Take the time to look at the label on your pet's food and make sure it contains an AAFCO statement affirming that the diet provides complete and balanced nutrition specific to your dog or cat's life stage. And be sure to ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations as well." http://www.petmd.com Fresh, Healthy Veggies that Fido Will Love
(Brandy Arnold - Dogington Post) Vegetables are great for dogs. Because of their low calorie content, veggies make a delicious treat that won’t add bulk to your baby’s body. And, they can provide your dog with some of the essential nutrients he needs, reducing the need for vitamin supplements. Like in humans, the rich vitamins and minerals from numerous vegetable sources can offer countless alimentary benefits to dogs as well. Veggies to Keep Dogs Healthy 1. Healthiest vine veggies. Squash, cucumbers, and green beans are generally identified to be the most nutritious vine vegetables for dogs. Squash and cucumbers, whether raw or cooked, are rich in potassium which is beneficial in keeping your dog’s kidneys healthy while at the same time reducing his propensity for heart failure. Plus, squash has high amounts of Vitamin A, folate, and calcium. Green beans, on the other hand, contain high contents of cellulose which can be good in helping a hefty pooch lose weight. 2. Top leafy greens. Celery generally provides a sufficient amount of vitamins like A, C, and K, and minerals such as fiber, riboflavin, folate, and lots of other nutrients that are beneficial to your dog’s health. However, it contains high levels of sodium, and should be fed in moderation. Another nutritious vegetable for Fido is parsley. Aside from vitamins A, C, and K, the plant is also rich in potassium, manganese, copper, and folate. In addition, spinach is also abounding with many vitamins such as A, C, E, and, K, and minerals like iron, thiamine, folate, potassium, calcium, zinc, and niacin. Like celery, spinach is also rich in sodium. 3. Best root veggies. Asparagus, carrot, and sweet potato are considered to be the top three most nutritious root vegetables readily available for dogs.Asparagus is rich in vitamins like A, B6, C, E, and K, and various minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, and copper. While carrots have rich cellulose content, Vitamin A, as well as beta-carotene, sweet potatoes, on the other hand, contain high levels of Vitamin A and B6, and potassium. Additionally, sweet potatoes contain high amounts of fiber, making them a great treat that also helps your dog to become “regular.” Both carrots and sweet potatoes make great low-calorie treats for pooches. There are many other vegetables that not only appeal to Fido’s taste, but can keep him healthy as well. Nevertheless, not all vegetables are safe to be eaten by your dog. Because there are lots of human foods that can cause harm to your pooch, make sure that you consult your vet before giving him anything that seems palatable. And, check out this list of foods to avoid feeding your dog. 7 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog Like small children that will often pick up random objects and try to eat them, many dogs will eat whatever you put in front of their noses, whether it’s good for them or not. That’s why knowing which foods you should never feed your dog is so important to their health and vitality. As a dog owner myself, I’m guilty of treating my dog to a bite of my dinner now and then (shame on me!), but I’m always careful to make sure what I’m feeding my pal is ok for her to eat. We found a great article at RealSimple.com that lists 7 foods your dog should avoid. 7 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog Avocados: This seemingly benign fruit contains persin, which is toxic to dogs in large quantities and can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Onions: Potent onions damage red blood cells in both dogs and cats, leading to anemia and causing weakness, shortness of breath, and vomiting. Grapes: Juicy grapes can cause kidney damage in dogs and cats, which may result in lethargy, increased thirst, increased urination, and vomiting. Nuts: Macadamia nuts can cause muscle and nervous-system problems, triggering tremors, vomiting, weakness, and paralysis in dogs. Chocolate: Never give your dog or cat this sweet treat—it stimulates the nervous system and the heart. Reactions include agitation, irregular heartbeat, tremors, and seizures. Peaches: Feed your dog a peach and he may eat the pit, which can cause intestinal obstruction and cyanide poisoning. Plums: Like peaches, plums have pits that contain cyanide and are harmful if swallowed. |
picky eatersPet Place/ Dog Crazy Newsletter
Some dogs are happy to gobble up everything in sight. Others are much fussier and will eat only certain food and treats, sometimes going so far as to turn down food from dishes and people that they deem “unacceptable.” Sometimes a dog's reluctance to eat isn't due to their attitude but to an illness or other health condition that makes eating unappealing. Daily feeding can become a serious problem for finicky eaters. When dogs don't want to eat, their bodies aren't getting the nutrition they need and it can result in serious problems. Let it go too long, and you may find your dog is too sick to eat even if they wanted to…and that calls for more drastic measures. So how can you get a sick or picky dog to eat? It's definitely a frustrating problem that most dog lovers have tackled at least once. Today I'm going to let you in on a secret “trick” that veterinarians use for sick dogs who have lost their appetites and for dogs who refuse to take their medicine. This secret is peanut butter. Mary Poppins always said, “A spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down,” and she was so right! Not only will a dog swallow a pill that's “hidden” inside a gob of peanut butter, sick dogs (especially those undergoing cancer treatment) will eat peanut butter when they refuse to eat anything else. Is peanut butter healthy for dogs? If they're eating it constantly then no, it's not. But in the case of sick dogs, if it encourages them to return to a regular diet it's OK. It's also fine in small amounts for picky eaters if they have reached the point of refusing all food. Regular peanut butter is very high in sugar and unhealthy fats, so as much as our dogs love the taste, it's never been a good idea to give your dog peanut butter every day … until now. There is a new peanut butter that is made just for dogs – with no sugar, salt or hydrogenated oils – so it's safe to give it to your dog every day. It's called Dogsbutter and I love it. It's all-natural and contains just peanuts, golden flaxseed and palm fruit oil. That means it's high in protein and rich in healthy Omega 3 fatty acids to nourish your dog's skin and coat. It's also an excellent source of Vitamin E, an anti-oxidant that supports healthy skin. Something else I love about this peanut butter is that is actually saves lives. Dogsbutter is made in the U.S.A. by DOG FOR DOG, a company dedicated to making life better for shelter dogs. For each purchase of Dogsbutter, they make a food donation to feed a shelter pet. Celebrity dog lovers like Michael Buble, Chelsea Handler and Snoop Dogg have signed on as ambassadors to help spread the word about this great program. It's a really great product for a really great cause. But what do dogs have to say? Here's what one happy dog lover told us: “DOGSBUTTER is the BEST! Our dog loves it and it's healthy for her! We put it on her food, on a spoon or in her Kong toy. DOGSBUTTER is her favorite and we especially like it because we know when we purchase DOGSBUTTER we are feeding a dog in need as well.” - Janie If you're looking for a healthy alternative to store-bought peanut butter that your dog can enjoy every day, Dogsbutter is for you. Give it a try with your dog - I highly recommend it! Until next time, Dr. Jon P.S.: You can purchase Dogsbutter at PetProductAdvisor.com. And remember, for every jar sold, a food donation will be made to a shelter pet. How great is that? 
pumpkin and dogsPumpkin and Dogs
Discover why you can feed pumpkin to your dogs for constipation, diarrhea and to help with weight loss. (Melissa Kauffman - Dog Channel) It’s a fruit! No, it’s a vegetable! It’s a … pumpkin and, believe it or not, it is good to feed to your dog. Although most people think of pumpkins as vegetables, they are really a fruit born from vine plants of the genus Cucurbita, part of the gourd family. Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, fiber, zinc, iron, vitamin A and potassium. In fact, you can tell the pumpkin is rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene, just by looking at its bright orange color. Pumpkin is really simple to feed to your dog too. All you need is canned pumpkin. Canned pumpkin is just as packed with nutrients as fresh pumpkin, according to theMayo Clinic website. Canned pumpkin is a puree so it is easy to mix in your dog’s food, give it to your dog as a treat or use it as an ingredient when you make dog treats, such as these Pumpkin Paw Prints. Look at the back of the label to make sure you are getting 100-percent pumpkin and not pumpkin pie mix. Can you feed your dog pumpkin seeds? Yes, but most recommend that you first roast them and then grind them up. Do not add salt. You do not want to feed your dog the stem or leaves, which are covered in little, sharp hairs that will irritate your dog. See your veterinarian if you have questions concerning dogs eating pumpkin. We never know how dogs will react to new foods, so only feed a small quantity at first to see if it causes your dog stomach upset, such as gas. Pumpkin is also the pet owner’s go-to food when it comes to
raw food dietRaw pet food diet: Is it right for your dog or cat?
(Washington Post) By Tracy Krulik, Max was a sick kitty with all kinds of problems: arthritis, bladder issues, recurring ear infections and chronic skin troubles. “Just about everything was a mess on him,” said Andrea Tasi, a feline-only homeopathic veterinarian in Northern Virginia who was treating the 11-year-old ginger domestic shorthair. “Nothing would get better.” When Max’s owner decided to put him on a raw food diet, Tasi was surprised by the results. Until that time, she had viewed these types of diets — which are a blend of raw organ and muscle meats, bones, vegetables and supplements — as “wacko nonsense.” Within months of the switch, Max’s “ears got better, his bladder trouble got better, his skin got better,” Tasi said. “You couldn’t make all of his arthritis go away — he was an old cat, so it wasn’t sort of a magic fix for everything — but this cat looked better than he ever did when he was in my care.” Animal welfare organizations, including theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), warn that raw pet food is a health risk for animals and the people around them. Yet the diet is growing in popularity. “Sales are going up and up and up,” says Mimi Stein, retail division director forAyrshire Farm in Upperville, which manufactures the Furry Foodie raw pet food brand. “It’s almost doubling what it did last year.” Just as many people are turning to locally grown, organic, whole foods for themselves, they are also seeking out better foods for their dogs and cats. For some, that translates into a raw pet food diet. According to Max’s owner, that diet is what healed him. “It all made sense to me, because I was kind of playing around with human diets, too,” says Tammy Droddy, a vegan who lives in Fairfax. “What we eat impacts our health dramatically, so why would that not be true for cats?” A raw pet food diet is “designed to mimic what an animal would eat if left to their own devices,” says Julie Paez, co-owner of the Big Bad Woof pet store in the District and Hyattsville. “Our cats and dogs — they need to eat whole prey,” says Terri Grow, founder and president of PetSage, the holistic pet store in Alexandria that recommended a raw diet to Droddy. “There are bones for calcium, there are organ meats for the vitamins and minerals, there are the areas for the fats — it’s moisture. So you have to look at that whole prey and try to make a model of it. Just throwing out a piece of chicken or steak is not a balanced diet.” Commercially made raw pet food, including such local brands as Furry Foodie and Aunt Jeni’s, comes frozen in tubs, tubes or shapes such as patties. A portion is thawed out in the refrigerator overnight and then served the next day. PetSage offers cooking classes with recipes shared by veterinarians from around the world. In a class this spring, “we even walked people through a salad that you can make for yourself, and your dog can eat it as well,” Grow says. “It was a good salad dressing, too.” 
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
We know this subject raises some intense responses because of the passion on both sides of the issue, but we feel this is very important information you should see. Based on testing, the FDA recently announced that “a large percentage of the raw foods for pets we tested were positive for the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes.” Of the 196 raw pet food samples analyzed, 15 were positive for Salmonella and 32 were positive for L. monocytogenes. Compared to the results from other products, these numbers were significant. What does this mean? Raw food poses a health risk. If you choose to feed raw, please take precautions to protect your family. Feel free to comment once you’ve read their statement, but please remember to keep your remarks civil. http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/AnimalHealthLiteracy/ucm373757.htm 
supplementsapple ciderHow to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs
(http://www.wikihow.com) Apple cider vinegar is an excellent item to keep in your pet supplies. It can help improve health, control pests, and ensure general well-being of your dog. It doesn't cost a lot and it works well, so it is definitely worth giving it a try if you need to find something that works for any of the problems or needs outlined in this article. 1. Understand the properties of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a product filled with minerals and essential vitamins, including magnesium, potassium and iron; many humans make use of its properties daily to improve digestion, baking, cleaning, and general health. The best apple cider vinegar is that which is fermented and unfiltered because it has "the mother" (a stringy substance) which contains the most enzymes and minerals. 2. Don't be concerned about how your dog will see apple cider vinegar. Sure, there is an odor but you won't be spooning this down the dog's throat; the remedies suggested here are all suitable for adding to food or water. 3. Keep your dog healthy with apple cider vinegar. Regular use of apple cider vinegar in your dog's diet can help prevent skin rashes, skin irritation, tooth decay, infections, and tear stains. The best way to give apple cider vinegar is to dilute it well in water or food and to ensure that it is only given when your dog has eaten already (to avoid a potential for upset). A teaspoon added to water or food 2–3 times a week should suffice as a preventative measure. 4. Use apple cider vinegar to aid your dog's digestion. You don't need to rush to the vet's for expensive dog digestive products. Instead, add a teaspoon to a large bowl of water daily. This will increase your dog's appetite, as well as balancing the pH levels of the dog's body. Apple cider vinegar will help improve diarrhea episodes and can fix constipation in a dog with repeated use. 5. Use apple cider vinegar to remove fleas from your dog. Bathe your dog with the usual dog shampoo or soap. Follow with a rinse of apple cider vinegar. Make sure to work it through the coat evenly to cover all points. The shampoo or soap suffocate the fleas and the apple cider vinegar removes them from the dog's coat, as they can't handle the odor or taste. 6. Improve your dog's skin and coat. Apple cider vinegar works well for both the skin and coat of your dog. Dry skin and irritated skin respond well to apple cider vinegar applied directly. Brush the vinegar through the dog's coat; not only does this improve the shine but also deodorizes the dog! For skin care improvements, add a teaspoon a day to water or food. 7. Clean out your dog's ears using apple cider vinegar. The anti-bacterial properties of apple cider vinegar make it ideal to clean dog ears out. Soak a small cotton ball or piece of clean cloth in the vinegar and gently wipe the ears as carefully as you can. Tips
Warnings
coconut oilBenefits of Coconut Oil For Dogs
(Ron Miller in Home Remedies - Dogington Post). There are many benefits of coconut oil for dogs being discovered for dogs, even though it was not recommended in the past. The coconut, also known as the “tree of life”, has been found to have many benefits not only for humans, but for our best friends as well. There are many products and furniture made from coconut lumber and leaves. Many foods and desserts have at least a bit of coconut milk in them. But the most popular use of the coconut, in the field of health and medicine, is the coconut’s oil, which has been found to cure or alleviate many diseases. Benefits of Coconut Oil For Dogs Many diseases and ailments, like yeast infections, smelly coats, hot spots, cuts that have been infected, and even cracked paws, can all be cured with just a jar of “virgin coconut oil.” When all forms of diet remedies have failed, then it is time to try out this miracle natural medicine for your dog. Virgin coconut oil means that it is unrefined, and it can be used for both dogs and humans. Lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid, can help prevent bacterial and viral infections. This is most commonly found in a mother’s milk and builds the immune system. Fortunately, dogs can benefit from the same kind of protection and health advantages it gives throughout their lives. There are many other benefits of coconut oil for dogs, all good reasons why you should give your dog some virgin coconut oil. First, it can potentially reduce cancer risks. It also improves the digestion of your dog and becomes medicine for most digestive upsets. The thyroid function is also kept normal with coconut oil. It can give your dog a smooth glossy coat, as well as healthy, supple skin. Yeast and fungal infections are also treated and prevented through the use of coconut oil. Arthritis and similar pains can also be minimized or treated. Coconut can also balance your dog’s metabolism rate to keep his weight under control. Another area in which amazing results have been attained is in prevention of parasitic infestations, and apparently curing the problem in many instances. As described in an article on the HealingNaturallyByBee.com website: Coconut oil may provide an effective defense against many troublesome parasites including giardia. Like bacteria and fungi, giardia can’t stand up against MCFA found in coconut oil. Research has confirmed the effectiveness of MCFA in destroying giardia and possibly other protozoa.5,6,7 By using coconut oil and other coconut products every day, you may be able to destroy giardia before it can establish a toehold. It can be given internally or applied externally, and can provide remedies for many skin infections. It can disinfect cuts and improve your dog’s general skin and coat condition, making it healthier. Wounds also heal faster with coconut oil, and it helps to deodorize your dog’s skin and clear up some rashes as well. And unlike most herbal products that are good for your dog’s health, coconut is something that your dog will most probably love to eat. They will most likely gobble up the coconut oil and not be too picky with it. Just as humans can get a bit nutty for coconut, so can our beloved buddies. Mix it with their food – it has cured many picky eaters. Many vets and researchers today are recommending the regular use of coconut oil for dogs and many other pets as an excellent source of nutrients, which keeps your dog in good health. The recommended dose is pretty easy; just give a teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of dog, or you can give a table spoon per 30 pounds. Start with about 1/4 the recommended dosage and build up to the recommended level over 3-4 weeks, as sometimes flu-like symptoms can appear if you hurried it right away. More benefits of coconut oil for dogs are being constantly discovered. Get some for your fur baby’s health and well-being. The Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil
(Dogs Naturally Magazine) Although supplements can be a confusing topic for many pet owners, most dog owners have heard of the benefits of feeding fish oils. There are however, a variety of oils that you can also use to your dog’s benefit, each with different actions and benefits. Coconut oil consists of more than 90% saturated fats, with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). The main component (more than 40%) of MCTs is lauric acid, followed by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids). Most of the coconut oil benefits come from the MCTs. For example, the lauric acid in coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their anti-fungal effects. In addition, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCTs in coconut oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic. According to Dr. Bruce Fife, certified nutritionist and naturopathic doctor, coconut oil gently elevates the metabolism, provides a higher level of energy and vitality, protects you from illness, and speeds healing. As a bonus, coconut oil improves any dog’s skin and coat, improves digestion, and reduces allergic reactions. Fed regularly to pets, coconut oil may have multiple benefits: Skin Conditions
Why not give coconut oil a try and introduce it to your dog? It offers many benefits for your dog and is a more sustainable and less toxic source of oils than fish. How To Feed Your Dog or Cat Coconut Oil
(victoriasallnaturalpethealth) Giving coconut to your pet is an excellent health decision and can improve your pet's quality of life, but there is a right way and wrong way to start supplementing your dog or cat's diet with coconut oil. Start slow and increase gradually. When beginning to supplement your pet's diet with coconut oil, start slow and increase gradually. Giving too much coconut oil too soon can cause digestive and detox issues.Because coconut oil kills bacteria, viruses, parasites, yeasts, and fungi, your pet may respond negatively to the detox aspect of taking coconut oil. Signs of detoxing too rapidly may include lethargy, headaches, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and diarrhea. Large amounts of coconut oil given to a dog can cause diarrhea or greasy stools while his body adjusts to the change in diet. Start with small amounts, such as ¼ teaspoon per day for small dogs or puppies and 1 teaspoon for large dogs, or even just a dab if your dog's constitution is sensitive. If your dog seems tired or uncomfortable or has diarrhea, just cut back the amount temporarily. Gradually increase the amount every few days. If your dog seems tired or uncomfortable or has diarrhea, reduce the amount temporarily. It may also be helpful to give the small amounts of coconut oil in divided doses throughout the day. Coconut oil is best given with food. Solid or liquid coconut oil can be added to food at any meal. Solid coconut oil can easily be melted quickly in hot water. Feeding Guidelines A general guideline for the optimal dose for dogs is about 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight daily or about 1 tablespoon per 30 pounds, but don't start with these amounts in the beginning! Most cats also love the taste of coconut oil and will eat it without a problem. As with many similar supplements, if your cat won't eat it in her food, just put a dab of coconut oil on her paw before or after meals. She'll lick it off and get it that way. We humans can benefit from coconut oil by using it for cooking in place of other oils. It is also taken orally by mouth as a diet supplement and used on skin. A good strategy for humans is to use coconut and palm oils for cooking, and olive (a heat-sensitive oil with a low smoke point) and flax oils for cold dressings. This trategy will help increase your levels of healthy Lauric Acid, Omega-3, and GLA fatty acids while lowering your intake of Omega-6 and junk oils. Some experts recommend that we consume a 3:1 ratio of Omega-6s to Omega-3s. The average American diet provides a ratio of 15:1 and often 30:1. Some oils, such as olive, create harmful substances as a result of overheating. If you cook your own pet food, coconut oil would be an excellent addition to the recipe. Most dogs like the taste of coconut oil so you won't have trouble feeding it to them. Coconut Oil for Pet Skin Problems If you wish to apply topically to use coconut oil to treat a rash, wound or dry skin, but they try to lick it off, try wrapping the skin in a rag or towel for a few minutes to let the oil soak in before they get a chance to lick it off. Different brands of coconut oil will have different tastes ranging from a bland taste, to a strong coconut taste, to a more buttery taste. You can experiment with the oil your pet finds most pleasing. (Did you know our hand-made, gourmet fresh-baked dog cookies are made with coconut oil? It costs us a little more to make them but these are for the REALLY good girls and good boys and they're worth it. Also have birthday cookies and "Prince" and "Princess" cookies. Yummy yogurt frosting is pink for girls, blue for boys. Check 'em out!) (Nice try. Cookies are not a substitute for supplementing with coconut oil.) :)
Best Coconut Oil for Dogs and Cats Coconut Oil Super Food for Dogs and Cats Why is coconut oil good for our pets? 10 Reasons to Add Coconut Oil to Your Dog's Diet
Coconut oil can have many health benefits for dogs -- for their skin, digestive, and immune systems; metabolic function; and even their bone and brain health! (Julia Szabo - Dogster) The top 10 reasons to add coconut oil to your dog's diet:
fish oilCan Your Dog Benefit From Fish Oil?
(Brandy Arnold - Dogington Post) You’ve probably heard of the benefits of supplementing your own diet with the omega-3′s found in fish oil. These fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation, ease allergies, and improve the symptoms of arthritis. But, can your dog benefit from fish oil, too? In this article by Diane Watkins of Dog Health Guide, we learn how your dog can benefit from a fish oil suppliment to their diet – and another way to get this important fatty acid into their diet by using cold-water fish in their food! Can Your Dog Benefit From Fish Oil? Benefits of Fish Oil for Dogs For many years veterinarians have recommended feeding fish oil to treat canine allergies and skin conditions. New research is showing that omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil are good for preventing and treating a wide variety of canine diseases. Older dogs suffering from arthritis will especially benefit from the healing properties of fish oils. The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for treating the itching and inflammation associated with allergy-related skin conditions. Supplementing Your Dogs Diet with Fish Oil You can purchase fish oil supplements for animals, but why not just add cold water fish to your dogs diet? When fish is fed as part of the normal canine diet, there is no need to worry about proper dosing for your dogs size. Dogs will naturally get the proper amount as part of their normal dietary requirements. Salmon and other cold water fish are high in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Feeding two servings a week of a high quality homemade dog food containing salmon as a protein source should be sufficient for most dogs. If your dog is suffering from arthritis, kidney failure, skin diseases or other inflammatory diseases, add a fish oil suppiiment to your dogs daily supplements. See Benefits in Six to Eight Weeks As with most nutritional therapies, it will take a while to notice changes in your pet's health. Allow at least six to eight weeks of regular omega-3 therapy to evaluate the benefits for your pet. Read the rest of Diane’s article here. Be sure to consult your veterinarian before beginning any supplement for your pets and specifically, if your dog can benefit from fish oil in their diet. Have you ever given your dog a fish oil or omega-3 supplement? Did you notice any significant improvements to their health? Tell us about it below! GINGER
Why and How To Give Your Dog Ginger (Dogs Naturally - Jessica Peralta in Nutrition And Diet) There’s a good reason why you instinctively reach for some ginger ale whenever your stomach feels off. A large part of ginger ale’s soothing qualities is, you guessed it, ginger. So what’s so great about ginger? The root of the ginger plant, which is in the same family as turmeric, has been used as a spice and medicine in Asian, Arabic and Indian countries for thousands of years. Ginger’s function as a digestive aid for stomach upset and nausea is probably the best known benefit. But it’s far from the only one. In fact, its potential benefits extend way past digestive into more serious conditions likeosteoarthritis and even cancer. For this reason, many holistic practitioners have been recommending incorporating this powerful root into diets of pets with specific conditions, as well as for general health maintenance. Here are five ways ginger may help your dog: Nausea There are many reasons why a dog might be having nausea and vomiting. Perhaps he’s a little under the weather? Or he has car sickness? Or maybe he’s undergoing cancer treatment? Whatever the reason, there’s a very good chance some fresh ginger or even the powdered spice version can help. Always keep some handy for when you suspect your dog has an upset stomach. If your dog gets car sick, give him the ginger about 30 minutes before he gets in the car. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus (aka bloat) is a life-threatening condition of larger breeds that involves expansion of the stomach from built up food and gas that isn’t being expelled. Though an exact cause hasn’t been scientifically confirmed, there are plenty of risk factors. Read this to learn more about preventing bloat naturally in your dog. According to materials written by Steve Marsden, DVM, and Shawn Messonnier, DVM, and Cheryl Yuill, DVM, in PetCareNaturally.com, ginger may play a role in relieving or preventing bloat in dogs due to its ability to stimulate movement in the stomach and accelerate emptying of the stomach, as demonstrated in several studies. Arthritis Since arthritis is an inflammatory disease and ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory, incorporating ginger into your dog’s diet if he is suffering from inflamed joints could offer some relief. It is certainly showing promise in studies for arthritic humans. Cancer Yes, ginger has even shown benefits as a cancer fighter in some studies. According to Demian Dressler, DVM, in the DogCancerBlog.com, one study showed that ginger could slow the rate of breast cancer growth in mice; while another study demonstrated that ginger could kill lymphosarcoma cells in a test tube. Plus, since inflammation plays a role in cancer development, ginger’s anti-inflammatory abilities also come in handy when it comes to cancer, according to Dressler. And since cancer and immune system suppression typically go hand-in-hand, ginger’s immune-boosting powers are another plus, he says. Heartworm Heartworm is one of those diseases you really don’t want your dog to get. Conventional treatment options are risky and difficult. But conventional prevention options are full of chemicals and risks as well. Learn more about holistic options for heartworm treatment and prevention, here. Take comfort in knowing that at least one study has shown great promise in using ginger to treat heartworm disease in dogs. The reduction of microfilarial (heartworm larvae) concentration ranged between 83 percent to 98 percent in infected dogs treated with ginger. How to Use Ginger comes in a variety of forms, including powder, capsule/pill, tincture, tea and raw root. To administer in raw form, you’ll need to cut the skin off with a knife and finely mince the yellow part of the root, according to Dressler. Give 1/2 teaspoon for dogs under 35 pounds (1/4 teaspoon for miniature breeds) and 3/4 teaspoon for larger dogs, he says. It can be mixed into your dog’s food. Always start slow and check with your holistic veterinarian if you are unsure about dosing. 
Cautions
Ginger can thin the blood, so avoid it if your dog will be undergoing surgery or if she will be going into labor. It may also lower blood sugar and blood pressure, so talk to your vet if your dog has diabetes or has any kind of heart condition. Also consult with your vet if your dog is pregnant, on any medications or is being treated for a condition. 
switching foods
http://www.petmd.com/blogs/nutritionnuggets/jcoates/2012/feb/how_to_switch_dog_foods-12550
treatsAre Blueberries Safe For Dogs? And Everything Else You Could Possibly Want to Know about Dogs and Blueberries
Add some of this powerful fruit to your dog’s life (Kristina N. Lotz CPDT-KA - Dog Channel) Are Blueberries Safe for Dogs? The answer is yes. Not only are blueberries safe, but they are also an excellent source of antioxidants, selenium, zinc and iron. High in vitamins C, E, A and B complex for your dog. Like any fruit or treat, blueberries should be fed in moderation; 2 or 3 blueberries make a good size treat. The Benefits of Blueberries This small, cute, blue fruit is a mighty vessel containing powerful antioxidants and vitamins that can benefit you and your dog. "Blueberries do the same for dogs as they do for humans: great antioxidants, fun treats, provide fun snacks to share with the furry family,” says Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM. Dr. Al Townshend, Wellness Staff Veterinarian, adds a few more reasons why you should add blueberries to your dog’s diet:
"Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, low-calorie and bursting with flavor, blueberries are good for dogs as well as people. We added blueberries to our indigo™ Fresh Dental Sticks and Floss Bones to create dental treats that are high in antioxidants to support a healthy immune system while cleaning teeth and freshening breath." says Tracey Quillin of PetSafe. Jme Thomas, Executive Director for the Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, says a foster family found blueberries where a great cure for Tear Stains! She just fed their dog, Phoebe, a few frozen blueberries a day and found it worked better than the leading tear stain product on the market. Nutritious, Delicious Pet Treats You Can Make in a Flash
(Healthy Pets - Dr. Becker) Pets love treats! And pet parents love being able to offer them to four-legged family members. Unfortunately, the majority of commercial pet treats, while yummy tasting to dogs and cats, are neither species-appropriate nor do they contain high quality ingredients. In fact, most species-appropriate pet treats won't remotely resemble the cute and colorful dog biscuits and cookies you may be used to seeing on store shelves. Forming treats into tiny dog bone or fish shapes requires the use of undesirable ingredients like grains and other starches, not to mention fillers, preservatives, sugar, and other additives. Wouldn't it be great to be able to offer delicious, delectable treats to your pet that also provide your dog or cat with species-appropriate nutrition? I certainly think it would be, so I asked my team to keep their eyes open for some excellent alternatives to the usual pet treat fare. I'm sharing a few of the results of our research with my readers here at Mercola Healthy Pets. I hope these recipes, tips and ideas will inspire you to make those treat calories count by offering nutritious, biologically appropriate snacks to your furry loved ones. Super Easy Nutritious Pet Treat Recipes Crunchy Beef Cubes What you'll need:
What you'll need:
Livertaters What you'll need:
What you'll need:
What you'll need:
How to Quickly Turn a Can of Pet Food into Nutritious Treats If you buy commercial (hopefully human grade) canned food for your dog or cat, you can 'repurpose' a can for use as a supply of healthy treats. Open a can of your pet's favorite brand, preferably something with a strong aroma, and spoon out little treat sized amounts onto a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Put the baking sheet into the freezer until the bite sized bits of food are frozen. Then move them to an airtight container and back into the freezer they go until you're ready to treat your pet to a treat! (Most dogs will enjoy the treats frozen, but you'll need to thaw them to a chewy consistency for kitties.) Additional Ideas for Quick-and-Easy Pet Treats Don't count out people food when it comes to offering healthy treats to your pet. Fed in moderation (meaning fed only occasionally, and in very small amounts – no more than a 1/8 inch square for a cat or small dog and no more than a ¼ inch square for a bigger dog), any of the following items from your kitchen can provide a nutritious snack for your dog or cat:
Most pet owners would be surprised at just how many extra calories a treat here and there can add to a pet's daily energy intake. MEATLOAF FOR OUR PETS!
"Bone" Appetit! Max and Molly's Thanksgiving Turkey Meatloaf (for your Dog!) 3 lbs ground turkey ( ground chicken, lamb, or venison) 1 cup quick cooking Quaker Oats - not cooked 1 tsp mustard 2 apples finely chopped (you can also use pears) A generous handful of fresh parsley finely chopped (or use dry) 2 eggs Dash of Worcestershire sauce Mix all ingredients together. Form into a large loaf. Place on foil-covered sheet pan and bake approximately 1 hour and fifteen minutes. Cool and slice. I also put 2 or 3 potatoes in the oven to bake alongside the meatloaf. Once they are baked, I cool them and put a couple of slices in with their meatloaf. Thank you Shih Tzu and Furbaby! Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies
Easy Homemade Snack is a Treat for Pooches Giving your canine companion a box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day isn’t an option, so how about spoiling your dog with a tasty and healthy homemade treat? This easy-to-make, flavorful cookie is bound to please even the finickiest eater. Ingredients
Preheat oven to 300ºF. Lightly beat the egg then mix in the peanut butter, mashed banana and honey. Blend thoroughly. Add the flour a little at a time, until mixture is evenly combined. Turn out the dough on a floured board and roll until ¼ inch thick. Using a cookie cutter of your choice, a biscuit cutter or the rim side of a glass, cut the dough into desired shape. Brush tops with egg white (optional). Place cookies on a lightly greased baking sheet or one fitted with a silpat silicone baking sheet liner. Bake cookies for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. (Cook time will vary based on size of your cookie. Bake less for smaller cookies, more for larger cookies.) Cool cookies on a wire rack. Leaving them out overnight will produce a crunchier cookie. Storing them in a sealed container will keep the cookies softer. VariationDip cookies in carob for a pseudo chocolate treat. Carob chips can be bought in the baking aisle at most grocery stores. Simply melt carob chips in a double broiler over low heat, then dip one end of the dog cookies into the melted carob while it's warm. Let cool completely on wire rack or wax paper before serving. Health TipKeep in mind that these cookies are meant to be treats, not meals — excessive consumption of cookies with added ingredients such as peanut butter, fruit and carob can give your pets an upset stomach. Paula Deen’s “Bodeen’s Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits, from PaulaDeen.com:
Servings: varies Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 40 min Difficulty: Easy Ingredients 3/4 cup nonfat Milk 1 Egg 1 cup Peanut Butter, smooth 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups Whole Wheat Flour 1 tablespoon Baking Powder Directions PreHeat – 325° In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg and peanut butter. Add in the flour and baking powder to make a very stiff dough, using your hands to work in the last of the flour if necessary. (Paula’s note: as a general rule, most homemade dog biscuits do well with 1 part liquid to 3 parts dry. You can customize the recipe by adding and subtracting ingredients your dog likes.) Flour a work surface and roll out dough to a 1/4” thickness. Cut into desired sizes depending on the size of your dog. Bake on a parchment lined baking tray for approximately 20 minutes. Turn biscuits over and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Bodeen’s Dog Biscuits can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Want more recipes from Paula Deen? Click here for her recipe for Cheesy Dog Treats! 
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Cookies
(VPI) Easy Recipe for a Healthy, Savory Treat The smell of fall is in the air and even our dogs can get a hankering for seasonal goodies. Looking for a way to treat your dog to a healthy pumpkin-infused cookie? Try this easy peanut butter pumpkin cookie recipe from AllRecipes.com. We put the recipe to the test in our kitchen and got two paws up from our taste testers. Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Cookie RecipeMakes 25 to 50 individual, bite-size treats, depending on the size of your cookie. Our test kitchen produced 48 cookies of variable size.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare two baking pans, using either a silpat or baking spray. A silpat guarantees even baking through the bottom of your cookies. Whisk together the flour, eggs, pumpkin, peanut butter, salt and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add water as needed to help make the dough workable, but the dough should be dry and stiff. Sprinkle some of the wheat flour on a pastry board or stone countertop to prevent your dough from sticking to the surface. Using your hands, roll the dough into a 1/2-inch-thick log. Using a pastry or butter knife, cut into the dough into 1/2-inch pieces. If you're feeling crafty and want to give these cookies as a gift, or you think your dog will appreciate the extra creative effort, use decorative cookie cutters, such as a dog bone shape or a pumpkin shape. Bake in preheated oven until hard, about 40 minutes. Check the density of the cookies; they should not have any give in the center when you push on them with a finger. Dog cookies need to be hard and crunchy instead of soft, otherwise they are chewy and can become stuck in your dog's teeth. If necessary, bake for additional time in three minute increments. The Healthy Benefits of Canned Pumpkin for PetsIs it true that canned pumpkin is a remedy for an upset stomach, promotes a shiny coat and improves a pet’s immune system? Veterinary experts shed some light on the actual benefits of using canned pumpkin in our pets’ meals. Read the full article here. 
DIY Gluten Free Dog Treats with Pumpkin
(Lisa Spector - Care 2) I’ve written about the health benefits of pumpkins for dogs and cats, including improved digestion, urinary health and even weight loss. Here are some recipes you can make at home for your dogs that include pumpkin, but not gluten. I discovered that Sanchez and Gina are gluten intolerant after seeking holistic veterinary care, so I particularly appreciated that these recipes are gluten free. A Facebook fan, Heather Hill at RelaxThePaw.com lead me to the following picture and recipe in Marilyn Naron’s blog post Retriever Retriever, Pumpkin Eater. Marilyn made them for her dog, Cleo, when she wasn’t feeling well. Cleo’s Pumpkin Dog Biscuits 2 eggs 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 2 tablespoons dry milk 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 2 1/2 cups brown rice flour * 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional) Preheat oven to 350. In large bowl, whisk together eggs and pumpkin to smooth. Stir in dry milk, sea salt, and dried parsley (if using, optional). Add brown rice flour gradually, combining with spatula or hands to form a stiff, dry dough. Turn out onto lightly floured surface (can use the brown rice flour) and if dough is still rough, briefly knead and press to combine. Roll dough between 1/4 – 1/2″ – depending on your dog’s chew preferences, ask first – and use biscuit or other shape cutter to punch shapes, gathering and re-rolling scraps as you go. Place shapes on cookie sheet, no greasing or paper necessary. If desired, press fork pattern on biscuits before baking, a quick up-and-down movement with fork, lightly pressing down halfway through dough. Bake 20 minutes. Remove from oven and carefully turn biscuits over, then bake additional 20 minutes. Allow to cool completely on rack before feeding to dog. * Brown rice flour gives the biscuits crunch and promotes better dog digestion. Many dogs have touchy stomachs or allergies, and do not, like many people I know, tolerate wheat. Makes up to 75 small (1″) biscuits or 50 medium biscuits The Yuppie PuppyHuge, Huge Sweet Potato Slabs....in stock, fresh and ready for healthy chewers..... These are by far the largest sweet potatoes we have seen in a long time...making for some awesome chews full of fiber and a one year shelf life....not that will ever last that long! Sold in bulk...and also in 5 ounce bags....
DIY: Sweet Potato Dog Chews
(Brandy Arnold in DIY Food for Dogs, Lifestyle w/ Dog - Dogington Post) Standing in the pet food aisle of your local grocery store, staring down the endless array of treats, chews, and snacks for your dog can get overwhelming – especially if you start reading those long lists of un-pronouncable ingredients! Whether your dog, like mine, gets an upset stomach from rawhide chews, or you just prefer an all-natural, healthy, or vegetarian alternative to store-bought goodies, try making your own sweet potato dog chews at home! If your dog is a chewer, or if he prefers a crunch, this recipe from Dog TreatKitchen is totally customizable – and totally delicious! DIY: Sweet Potato Dog Chews Since it’s one of the sweetest of all the vegetables, just like the name implies, you’ll have no trouble getting your dog to try this dog treat recipe. Making your own all natural dog treat is an excellent alternative to rawhide. Ingredients:
Tips & Techniques
Find more great do-it-yourself recipes for your dog here. Have you ever tried making your own sweet potato dog chews? Did your dog love them as much as mine does? Tell us about it, and your favorite other recipes in the comments below! 
Dog Treats – Do It Yourself
(Trupanion - Stacy) Put all ingredients in a bowl 1 cup flour (or whole wheat flour) 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 cup peanut butter (chunky or smooth, doesn’t matter) 1/2 cup milk (I substituted with rice milk) Stir ingredients Preheat the oven to 400° F. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients, stir. When it starts to get thick, you’ll have to get your hands in there and knead the dough on a floured surface. Roll the dough out to 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness and use cookie cutters (or a knife) to cut out shapes. I used a knife to start cutting out a dog bone shape, but realized that would quickly become tedious, so switched to squares and heart shapes. Put on a cookie sheet and bake 15-17 minutes until golden brown. Let cool, then store in an airtight container. And voila! You’ve got a beautiful batch of dog cookies! Roll out dough and cut shapes Place on a cookie sheet and bake Cookies are done! Serve to your pup and let her enjoy 
(https://www.facebook.com/theyuppiepuppyMA)
Whether your veterinarian has advised you to put Max on diet, or you happen to have a pooch with specific food allergies, finding healthier treat options doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be as easy as simply opening the produce drawer in your refrigerator. Need some suggestions? Try these veterinarian-recommended goodies that are tasty and safe for your pet. Getting Started Fresh fruit and raw vegetables are a healthy treat option for dogs; there aren’t any added chemicals, artificial flavors or coloring and your pet benefits from the extra vitamins and minerals. However, just like kids, dogs can be picky eaters. You may discover that while one particular fruit or vegetable suits your pet’s palate, another may have him disdainfully turning his nose away. Don’t bombard your dog with an assortment of fresh goodies when first introducing a new food group; start by treating your dog to one particular fruit or vegetable at a time for a few days. By doing so, you can pinpoint whether or not the treat du jour is causing an upset stomach or diarrhea. It’s important not to feed your dog toxic fruit or vegetables, warns Dr. Tony Buffington, a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition. Buffington has a PhD in animal nutrition, was a resident clinical nutritionist at the Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital at UC Davis, and has been a professor of veterinary clinical sciences at Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine since 1987. “With regard to alternative treats, we recommend small amounts of fruits and veggies all the time,” advises Buffington. Before stocking your fridge, take note of which fruits and vegetables are safe to feed your dog. Safe Fruits to Feed Dogs With the exception of citric fruits, which may upset your dog’s stomach, most fruits are safe to feed to your pet. Importantly, never feed your pet a whole fruit with a pit or seeds intact. The pit is a choking hazard, and seeds can lead to gastric issues and be a choking hazard as well. Clean the fruit, then slice it in pieces and give to your pet as a treat. Apples Apricots Bananas Blueberries Mangos Pears Pineapples Raspberries Strawberries Fruits to Avoid Feeding Your Dog Fruits to avoid feeding your dog include grapes and raisins, peaches, plums and persimmons. The specific problem with persimmons, peaches, and plums are the seeds or pits. The seeds from persimmons can cause inflammation of the small intestine in dogs. They can also cause intestinal obstruction, a good possibility if a dog eats the pit from a peach or plum. Plus, peach and plum pits contain cyanide, which is poisonous to both humans and dogs should the pit be broken open and consumed. According to Pet Poison Helpline, grapes and raisins have been known to cause acute renal (kidney) failure in dogs. With kidney failure, a pet’s ability to produce urine decreases, which means they are unable to filter toxins out of their system. Unfortunately, the reason for kidney failure and the amount of grapes/raisins necessary to be toxic to pets is unknown, so all cases of ingestion have the potential to be grave. Depending on the size of the dog, as little as four grapes/raisins can have an adverse effect on your fuzzy friend. Safe Vegetables to Feed Your Dog Your dog may have his own preferences when it comes to vegetables, so don’t be deterred if he abandons your first veggie snack on the floor. Try some of these more savory vegetables: Beets Broccoli Carrots Cabbage Cauliflower Cucumber Lettuce Zucchini Keep in mind that cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli may cause gas in your dog. Try feeding your dog sliced pieces of the cauliflower and broccoli stems rather than a floret; not only will the stem satisfy your dog’s crunchy craving, but he may appreciate not having to deal with the tiny floral buds that become lodged in his teeth or tickle his throat. Vegetables to Avoid Feeding Your Dog There are a few vegetables to avoid feeding your dog at all times. Onions, garlic, wild mushrooms and rhubarb can be extremely toxic to your pet. Onions contain an ingredient called thiosulphate which is toxic to cats and dogs. The ingestion of onions, onion powder, or even cooked onion causes a condition called hemolytic anemia, which is characterized by damage to the red blood cells. In other words, onion toxicity can cause the red blood cells circulating through your pet’s body to burst. A small amount can be toxic to your dog or cat. Wild mushrooms — which may be found growing in your backyard or on the nature trail where you walk your dog — contain toxins that will trigger numerous organ systems, including the kidneys, liver and brain. Nervous system abnormalities, seizures, coma, vomiting, and death can all result when a dog consumes mushrooms. Rhubarb contains oxalates which trigger abnormalities with the nervous system, kidneys and digestive tract. The vegetable is also commonly used in recipes for pies, jams, jellies, sauces and juice. Smart Choices for a Healthy Pet It’s important that you be aware of your dog’s unique dietary needs in order to ensure his lifelong health. Make smart choices about feeding treats to your pets, recommends Buffington. “From a nutritional point of view, we don’t recommend feeding so much that the treats make any significant contribution to the pet’s nutrient intake, or dilute or imbalance their regular diet. “We also remind owners that there are plenty of non-food treats from their pet’s point of view; play treats, walk treats, ‘teach me a trick’ treats, grooming treats,” says Buffington “All of these contribute to a positive human-animal relationship without adding calories.” If you are unsure of which alternate treat to feed your pet, discuss your concerns with your family veterinarian before introducing a new type of food to your dog.ave a pooch with specific food allergies, finding healthier treat options doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be as easy as simply opening the produce drawer in your refrigerator. Need some suggestions? Try these veterinarian-recommended goodies that are tasty and safe for your pet. 
treat warning
Warning to Dog Owners - these treats are from China and have been in question and linked to pet illnesses
The Dirty Dozen: 12 Pet Treats to Avoid
(Brandy Arnold - Dogington Post) If you were making your own dog treats, using the freshest and most wholesome, healthy ingredients, would you ever consider dumping sugar into the mix? Of course not. So why, then, do a number of the most popular dog treats on the market contain high amounts of sugar? Because dogs love it. According to a press release from Dr. Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) and author of “Chow Hounds: Why Our Dogs Are Getting Fatter – A Vet’s Plan to Save Their Lives” (2010 HCI), …the problem is linked to money – lots of it. With US pet treat sales estimated to be nearly $2 billion in 2010, the treat bowl has turned golden. “Sugar is incredibly attractive to dogs. If a dog gobbles a treat quickly, an owner is more likely to give another – and another. This adds up to more sales – and profits. In the race for pet treat profits, our pets’ health is being bankrupted.” With 45% of American dogs and 58% of cats considered overweight, an estimated 89 million pets are at high risk for developing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and more. In addition to obesity, sugary treats lead to behavioral problems as well. “Numerous studies in rats demonstrate that overfeeding sugar can create symptoms similar to drug addiction. A dog’s daily sweet treat may be contributing to overeating and other undesirable behaviors. This is why I call today’s high-sugar treats ‘kibble crack.’” Still, pet treat manufacturers blame pet owners. They are, after all, the ones that purchase and feed the sugary treats. So, Dr. Ward listed what he calls “The Dirty Dozen,” the 12 most popular sugary dog treats that should be avoided. Pet parents should be aware of what they’re feeding their pets, understand ingredient labels, and to avoid treats that masquerade as healthy and nutritious while silently contributing to the obesity epidemic. His goal is to help pet parents to be more aware of what they’re feeding their pets. “Pet owners definitely have a feeding disorder when it comes to their pets. Ultimately it’s up to each owner to control how much they feed their pets. What I want to bring attention to is what ingredients are inpet treats – and why. Pet owners must begin to question why there is sugar in a treat that claims to help teeth,” he said. Dr. Ward’s Dirty Dozen – Popular Sugary Pet Treats Pet Treat Added Sugar Canine CarryOuts Chew-lottaDextrose first ingredientSnausages SnawSomes! Beef and Chicken FlavorSugars 3 of first 4 ingredientsPedigree Jumbone Mini Snack Food for Small DogsSugars 2 of 3 first ingredientPetrodex Dental Treats for CatsDextrose second ingredientPedigree JumboneSugar third ingredientMilk Bone Essentials Plus Oral CareSugar third ingredientPup-Peroni Lean Beef RecipeSugar third ingredientScience Diet Simple Essentials Treats Training Adult Treats with Real BeefSugar third ingredientCesar Softies Dog TreatsSugar third ingredientMilk-Bone Chewy Chicken DrumsticksSugar third ingredientMeow Mix Moist Cat TreatsCorn syrup fourth ingredientPedigree MarroboneSugar third ingredientOther common sugar-containing treats according to Dr. Ernie Ward:
Abbott Valley Veterinary Ctr
A sad reminder and firm warning-We had a lovely puppy patient who was fed grapes 10 days ago and presented in kidney failure last night. Sad ending. PLEASE DO NOT FEED YOUR DOGS OR CATS GRAPES OR RAISINS! We do not know why but it often leads to kidney toxicity and failure. Yes, these are the very same grapes that are perfectly safe for you to eat. Pass this along to anyone who has pets please! 28 Things You Should Never Feed Your Dog (http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art2189.asp) While most of us know that chocolate is definitely a no-no to dogs,. A chemical called Theobromine (a chemical related to caffeine that can cause abnormal heart rate, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.) is what causes the danger. Here is a list of foods that you should never feed Fido: 1. Grapes, raisins and currants can be dangerous and even the smallest amount can cause severe kidney failure in both cats and dogs. 2. Raw food creates a risk for salmonella and E. coli bacteria. 3. Onions, chives and garlic can cause anemia in cats and dogs and are poisonous. 4. Alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine and spirits, have the same consequence on pets as they do on us. 5. Yeast dough can expand inside a pet’s stomach, and cause severe pain. If it ferments it could cause alcohol poisoning. 6. Gum, breath mints and toothpaste that contain xylitol (a sugar substitute) cause dogs to release excess insulin, resulting in low blood sugar even seizures. 7. Animal fat can induce pancreatitis. 8. Coffee, tea, pop and other foods and drinks that contain caffeine increase heart rate and anxiety. 9. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting and tremors in dogs. 10. Bones are actually better left off your pet’s menu as they can cause choking or splinter and cause lacerations in the digestive tract. 11. Apple Seeds are toxic to a dog as they contain a natural chemical that releases cyanide when digested. 12. Avocados are toxic and contain Persin, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion. 13. Baby food - make sure it doesn't contain any onion powder. 14. Cat food contains proteins and fats that are targeted at the diet of a cat, not a dog. 15. Corn on the cob is a sure way to get your dog's intestine blocked. The corn is digested, but the cob gets lodged in the small intestine, and if it's not removed surgically, can prove fatal to your dog. 16. Fish such as salmon and trout contain a parasite that while not harmful to humans, even when fully cooked, can do a number on your dog. Vitamin B (Thiamine) deficiency can result from the regular consumption of raw fish; causing loss of appetite will be common, followed by seizures, and in rare instances, death. 17. Hops can be toxic to your dog and can cause panting, an increased heart rate, fever, seizures, and even death. 18. Liver contains quite a bit of Vitamin A which can adversely affect your dog’s muscles and bones. 19. Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can result in weakness, panting, swollen limbs, and tremors as well as possible damage to your dog's digestive, nervous, and muscle systems. 20. Marijuana can adversely affect your dog’s nervous system and heart rate, and induce vomiting. 21. Milk and dairy products can cause malodorous farts and diarrhea. Dogs are lactose intolerant and don't have enough of the lactase enzyme to properly digest dairy foods. 22. Mushrooms should be left alone and never given to your canine. 23. Persimmons, peaches, and plums can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis, always watch your dog doesn’t eat the pits. 24. Potato, rhubarb, and tomato leaves contain oxalates, which can adversely affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems. 25. Raw eggs contain the Avidin enzyme, which inhibits the absorption of vitamin B which your dog uses to keep a healthy coat and skin. 26. Salt can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, dehydration and potentially diarrhea. 27. Sugar (just like in humans) can lead to dental issues, obesity, and even diabetes. 28. Tobacco is a major toxic hazard for humans, never mind dogs. The effects nicotine has on dogs are far worse than on humans and can damage their digestive and nervous systems, increase their heart rate, make them pass out, and ultimately result in death. 
Treats
Please always do your research and consult with your veterinarian before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested on this page. Only your vet can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or to diagnose your pets particular medical issue. Here are some of the fruits/veggies my dog likes (and are safe for dogs to eat): - carrots - strawberries - blueberries - raspberries - bananas - lettuce 
Perfect Snacks for Your Shih Tzu
By Eve Adamson Part of the Shih Tzu For Dummies Cheat Sheet It's hard to resist giving your Shih Tzu a treat every time you look into those adorable, pleading eyes but treats should be doled out sparingly — no more than two a day. Shih Tzus can become overweight easily because of their small size. Look for healthy dog treats like these found right in your own fridge: One or two blueberries Very small broccoli florets (about an inch long) One baby carrot Tiny bits of cooked chicken, turkey, or fish Small pieces of strawberry Small chunks of hardboiled egg white Tiny pieces of raw apple Spoonful of nonfat plain yogurt Spoonful of lowfat cottage cheese A couple of Cheerios Discover what fruit dogs can and cannot eat for a healthy treat.
(Kristina Lotz and Melissa Kauffman - Dog Channel) Humans love fruit and we know bananas and strawberries are good for us, but did you know they are good for your dogs too? Not only will your dog love that he is getting "human food,” but you will love that the same benefits fruits provide us – aids in digestion, antioxidants, immunity boosts, better eye sight, healthier skin and hair – they also provide for your dog. Feed fruits to your dog as a small training treat or stuff your dog’s favorite treat stuffer toy with some peanut butter and fruit for a great and healthy occupier. Tips for Feeding Fruit to Dogs
Although some fruits in small portions can be good for your dog (unless your dog is allergic), never offer your dog the following. If your dog accidently eats the below fruit, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Vegetables For Dogs
Discover what vegetables dogs can eat for a healthy treat. (Melissa Kauffman - Dog Channel) Dogs always seem to be hungry, and they just love "people food.” So when you are looking for a healthy treat to add to your dog's diet, try vegetables safe for dogs. Not only are vegetables filled with vitamins and minerals, but the non-starchy vegetables are also low in calories and fat and provide fiber that promotes healthy digestion. As with all dog food items, portion size is important. Keep your dog's veggie treats small and talk to your vet about adjusting your dog's food intake if you are supplementing your dog's diet with vegetables. Vegetables may be low in calories, but they are not zero calories. Also make sure your dog does not choke on the vegetable in the excitement of eating them. Watch out for any adverse reaction, such as nausea or loose stools. Sometimes vegetables will cause gas in your dog, so don’t overdo the amount you give him. If you are giving your dog the vegetable for the first time, give him just one small piece and observe his reaction before increasing the size or amount. There are many ways to serve vegetables for your dogs other than raw, such as cooked, steamed, baked, roasted, grilled or dehydrated. Dogs do enjoy vegetables raw as a yummy treat; however, they have short digestive systems and do not get as many nutrients out of eating vegetables raw as we humans. A good way for dogs to get the full nutrients of the vegetables is to break them down in a pureed form. No matter how you prepare the vegetables for your dogs, do not use salt. Dogs don’t always care for it and it is not good for dogs with heart conditions. The following are 11 safe, good vegetables for dogs, with suggested cooked preparations and portion sizes for treats.
Fruits and Veggies for Pets
(Trupanion) Whether you're looking to slim down your pet's waistline or are just looking for healthy alternatives to commercial pet treats, we've got a great list for you! Did you know that many of the fruits and vegetables you eat can also be given as treats to your pet? Just cut up pea-sized pieces for a healthful, low-calorie snack. Adding New Foods to Pet Diet Introducing new foods into your pet's diet may cause upset stomach issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Be cautious by introducing only one new fruit or vegetable at a time so that you can be aware of any health changes. Fruit Be sure to wash all fruits and remove rinds, inedible skins, seeds, and pits before feeding to pets.
Vegetables Consider steaming or boiling cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as they are much easier to digest when they are cooked.
Top 6 Super Fruits For Dogs
(Juniper Russo - Animal Wellness) We health-nutty humans can’t get enough of “super fruits” – those rich, flavorful fruits so densely packed with nutrients that they act as medicine as well as food. With exotic names like dragonfruit, acai, mangosteen and goji, these fruits contain potent antioxidants that defend against environmental damage while also helping repair the body from within. In recent years, super fruits have gone from a little-known health fad to a blossoming medical and nutritional innovation. Super fruits don’t just benefit our own bodies; they can also give a health boost to our furry friends. Dogs are fully capable of digesting almost all forms of fruit, and can benefit from superfuits to the same degree we can. Here are just six of the many fruity treats that can help heal as well as feed your canine companion. 1 Acai berries Among the most famous super fruits is the acai berry, which has a deliciously unusual flavor that is almost chocolatey in its richness. While your pooch can’t join you in sharing a chocolate bar, she can certainly have her fill of acai berries. These tasty treats are an incredibly dense source of anthocyanins, which are deep blue compounds capable of neutralizing superoxides, dangerous compounds that dogs produce in response to stress. Acai berries are also a good source of vegetarian proteins and fats, which dogs require in a balanced diet. If you do decide to share acai berries with your dog, try to aim for fair trade fruit; they provide sustainable income for people living in the Amazon rainforest, where the berries come from. 2 Blackberries Another incredibly rich source of anthocyanins, the common blackberry is a champion among super fruits. After a well-designed scientific investigation, the USDA ranked blackberries among the top ten antioxidant foods consumed in the US. Although they may not be as exotic or novel as their tropical counterparts, blackberries can boost your dog’s defences against common sources of free radicals, including stress, disease and pollution. Because they grow abundantly throughout North America, you’re likely to find local, organic blackberries at a very fair and reasonable price. Try mixing blackberries with broccoli and whole egg for a delicious doggie “smoothie”. 3 Cranberries Cranberries have been valued for centuries for their healing powers, and their effects aren’t limited to human beings. A single cup of whole cranberries provides nearly 12 times the antioxidant capacity of a cup of orange juice. Cranberries are well-documented for their ability to improve urinary health in both humans and animals. Cranberries contain a natural medicinal compound that prevents bacteria from clinging to the walls of the bladder, urethra and kidneys. This means fewer infections and better detoxification for your furry companion. The tangy fruit also contains nontoxic doses of salicylic acid, a natural anti-inflammatory and painrelieving compound similar to aspirin. It’s a perfect tonic for an aging or arthritic dog, but some dislike its tartness. Try mixing it with other foods or giving it as you would a pill. 4 Wolfberries / Goji Berries Wolfberry owes its common name to the wild canines of the Orient, who adore this delicious and powerfully nutritious fruit. Your own little wolf will be equally eager to experience the flavors of the wolfberry, which are at once fruity, tomato-like, and delicately piney. Also known by its Chinese name goji, wolfberry appears to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, prevent eye disease, and even improve brain function in animals. It can also help modulate a dog’s immune system so he responds to infection in an healthy manner, but doesn’t experience unnecessary fever or inflammation when infection does strike. 5 Pomegranates Pomegranate fruit has been adored for centuries because of its combination of incredible flavor, balanced nutrition, and often-unexpected medicinal effects. Whole pomegranate is an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants for dogs, and pooches enjoy its taste and texture. But its benefits don’t end there: several studies have found that this ancient fruit can help with heart disease in humans and animals alike. Its natural juices also coat a dog’s teeth with bacteria-fighting compounds that prevent cavities and gum disease. Interestingly, the antioxidants in pomegranate appear to specifically protect animals’ bowels. Given the increasing rates of colon cancer in dogs, it’s prudent to add pomegranate to your pal’s preventative health regimen. 6 Blueberries Perhaps the queen of local super fruits, blueberries are the strongest antioxidant fruit grown in North America. They contain extremely concentrated antioxidants that inhibit the growth of cancer cells and actively reduce inflammation. Like cranberries, they hinder the growth of bacteria in an animal’s urinary tract, preventing infections and other common problems. Blueberries can also improve your pup’s brain health – several studies have found they improve mood and mental function in animals. Most dogs enjoy the sweet flavor of blueberries, but others find them too strong. If your companion declines them, he’s more likely to enjoy them in a “stew” made with meat and raw greens. Super fruits can be fed as treats, or sprinkled over or mixed into your dog’s food. They’ll add variety as well as extra nutrition and taste to his diet. What more could anyone ask for? Fruits to avoid Although fruit is a healthy and essential part of a dog’s balanced diet, some fruits can actually be harmful or fatal. Grapes, although a healthy superfruit for humans, contain a compound that can trigger nearimmediate kidney failure in a dog. As few as seven raisins or grapes are enough to kill a medium-sized dog. Be sure to also limit your dog’s intake of pits and seeds in fruit. Although your friend can handle an occasional apple seed, most pits and seeds contain cyanide, which can poison a pooch if ingested in large quantities. |