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Warm weather concerns for our pets

As we approach the warmer months we have many things to consider for our animals.  Parasite, bacterial and viral protection become even more important as temperatures rise since warm weather increases the risks associated with our exposure to these.  Skin, respiratory and digestive health are all areas of the body that tend to suffer from added stressors at this time of the year.  Itchy skin, allergies and digestive upsets increase for many animals during the Spring months.

As pet parents, we have options.  There are many healing foods and herbs that support immunity and strengthen the body’s defenses.  There are also many natural products that can be used safely as preventatives.

High quality food is essential in promoting overall health, followed by an environment that strengthens immunity and is protective and nurturing.  Herbs and supplements can then be added as needed based on the individual needs of the animal.

As always, prevention is key and it can be accomplished in a supporting and gentle way that builds a strong defense and encourages the body to work optimally.

 

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Holistic Pet Care

A holistic approach to raising pets considers the entire animal and all aspects of its environment with an emphasis on prevention of illness.

At Nutrition for Our Pets, LLC we educate our clients in pet nutrition and complementary healthcare with the intent to empower the animal caregiver. We will provide you with the education and tools needed so you can make the best lifestyle choices for your pets.

Call Sue to set up an appointment to discuss pet nutrition, herbal remedies, and natural pet care solutions.

Sign up for one of our in-person pet food making classes this spring and summer or inquire about a virtual class.    

 

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Functional nutrition for our pets

Functional nutrition for our pets supports disease prevention as well as healing.  It takes into account the environment, genetics, and lifestyle when determining nutrition based solutions.

High quality food is natural medicine for the whole body and when combined appropriately it can prevent illness and help improve many existing health problems.  Proper nutrition is the foundation of health and provides the body with the correct nutrients required for stong immunity, proper growth, muscle strength, overall vibrant health, and disease prevention.

Contact Susan today to discuss your pet’s current diet and discover some easy to implement suggestions that will help your best friend live a long and comfortable life.

 

 

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Spring is here

Its that time of the year where we need to think about pests like fleas, ticks, and mosquitos.  The best and safest solutions often require a multi-tiered approach.  There are many safe, natural alternatives to help with this.

Contact Susan to discuss herbal sprays, homemade flea/tick collars and other natural alternatives to protect our pets and ourselves this season.

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The importance of puppy health

Puppies have a lot going on during the first 12 months of their lives. They are growing both physically and mentally, their immune system is developing, and they are learning about the world around them. Its a stressful time in a puppies life and we humans add to this stress by giving them vaccinations, medications, topical treatments and commercial food. There is so much we can do to help puppies get off to the right start in life. There are also so many things we should not do to ensure our puppies move into adulthood with a strong body and mind. We need to consider all aspects of exposure both internal and external.

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Cats deserve a great diet too!

Healthy, happy cats will thrive on a fresh food diet.  It must be high in animal protein, fat, and bone to ensure it fulfils their daily nutritional requirements.

A fresh food diet is one that is high in water content which is needed for proper cell function, energy, growth, and to support the essential body processes.  By nature, cats have a low thirst drive so to be sure they are getting all they require, it must come from their food intake.  The most important thing we can do for our cats is to provide them with a wet diet to ensure the body receives the necessary amount of this essential nutrient for overall, good health.

The right diet will help your cat maintain a proper body weight, have a healthy shinny coat, have lots of energy for a happy, playful demeanor and to help your pet to avoid many of today’s common health conditions.  A cat who thrives will look and feel great on the inside as well as the outside and it will be obvious to anyone who observes them.

Years ago it was common for a cat to live to 15 to 20 years but, not so today.  Many cats are now suffering from obesity, diabetes, gum disease, joint problems and many, many other preventable health conditions.  So often I learn of cats who have been living with these conditions or others from a very early age, sometimes as young as one or two years old.

Please consider your options when it comes to feeding your cat and think about the affects this has on their health, happiness and longevity.

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Not all home prepared diets are created equal

Many common health problems can be prevented or alleviated with a healthy diet.  A poor diet can have a deleterious impact on health.

Home prepared, species appropriate diets are the healthiest diets for our dogs and cats but, they must be balanced or you run the risk of nutrient deficiencies or excesses which can equally cause serious health problems.

A diet of primarily chicken necks or chicken wings is not a balanced diet.  A bowl of raw pork ribs is not a balanced diet.  Cooked meat with grains and carrots is not a balanced diet.  There are as many ways to do this wrong as there are ways to do this right.

Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs so please be sure to learn about those differences before you start making pet foods.  Also, not all information on the internet is from reliable sources so be careful of whose advice you are following.

If you are not able to provide a varied, balanced, nutritious, fresh food diet to your animals please consider purchasing a high quality, commercial raw food.  At least you will be providing the proper nutrients!

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Why processed foods are bad for us all

The pet food industry is slowing beginning to shift because the consumer is rightfully forcing changes.  As I’ve watch the industry trends over the years and as I speak to more and more pet parents, it’s becoming obvious to me that people are relying on common sense, doing their own research, and not just giving into the word of veterinarians or pet food companies when making decisions.  People are definitely becoming more aware and involved, especially when it comes to feeding their companions.  I’m happy to see more interest in home prepared foods as I truly believe it is the best diet for all of us.  This enables us to select the freshest ingredients and customize a diet specific to our needs.  It provides the best nutrition for overall health and longevity, it costs less money upfront, and it saves money down the road in health care costs.

Fresh, raw, whole foods are in their natural states and offer the most amount of enzymes, vitamins and minerals which leads to proper digestion, a strong immune system and improved overall health.

Commercial, processed foods may be convenient and easy to use but, most are made with inferior ingredients and are not healthy at all.  People are now realizing the negative impacts these products are having on their animal’s well-being.  Many dogs and cats are suffering needlessly and many are dying well before their time.  There are several contributors to overall health, but diet and proper nutrition are the foundation and must be addressed as the first part of any wellness plan.  Animals as well as humans were not designed to thrive on inferior, artificial, poor quality, species inappropriate ingredients and for most, when these are things consumed, they will trigger health issues over time.

Processing modifies or removes important components of food, like nutrients, fiber, and water which then changes the way they are digested and assimilated in the body.  Unlike whole foods, which contain a mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, fiber, and water to help you feel satisfied, processed foods stimulate dopamine which can lead to excessive hunger and weight gain.  Refined carbohydrates found in processed foods also break down into sugar which increases insulin levels and can contribute to chronic disease.  Another concern with processed foods are with the use of genetically modified ingredients which have been linked to reproductive issues as well as other health concerns and we are just beginning to understand the effects of this.

Food additives are another problem and many have been linked to cancer, autoimmune disease, kidney, liver, thyroid, gastrointestinal problems and many more health issues.  Below are some of the common additives that are often found in processed foods:

Nitrates and Nitrites in meats such as hot dogs, deli meats and some pet foods and treats.  These can turn to nitrosamines when combined with heat and become carcinogenic.

Potassium Bromate is often used in flours and baked products and has been shown to cause kidney and nervous system damage.

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are banned in several countries but, still used here in the USA in some foods.  These have been known to cause cancer, allergic reactions, thyroid changes and other endocrine system reactions.

Artificial Flavors are usually manufactured in a lab and when listed on food packaging, we really have no idea what it is.  It could actually be a blend of many additives so it’s hard to gage the impacts on the body until a negative reaction occurs.

Artificial Colors currently approved for use in the USA are linked to a wide range of health issues from cancer to hyperactivity and allergy like reactions and these are commonly included in many foods.

These are just some of the common additives that are used in human as well as pet foods and treats but, there are several others that are equally disturbing.  They are usually added to processed foods to aid in processing, preserving and enhancing the look and/or flavors of the product.

The best part of whole, fresh foods is they don’t need additives to make them look or taste good.  Those grown or raised using good, healthy farming practices are delicious on their own.  Unlike preserved foods, they do have a shorter shelf life.  They also require proper handling but, they usually are consumed quickly because they taste so good, it’s hardly a concern.  Humans and pets alike will be much better off consuming fresh, quality foods.  A properly balanced, species appropriate diet is the starting point of wellness for us all.

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Raw Meaty Bones for Happy Healthy Animals

Raw meaty bones are a critical part of a balanced raw food diet for dogs and cats and their true benefits cannot be supplemented synthetically.  They are living tissue and offer a complex source of a variety of nutrients.  This includes calcium, phosphorus, fatty acids, and other required minerals, all in their natural form.

A variety of bone types in the diet will ensure your animal is receiving all the necessary nutrients required to thrive and will provide dental health benefits that cannot be matched.  Skeletal health, emotional balance, exercise, and a strong immune system are also benefits of eating raw bones.

Raw poultry bones such as chicken necks, chicken wings, Cornish game hen, turkey necks, and duck necks are all favorites of both raw feeders and their dogs.  These bones are fully consumed and should be fed several times a week as one component of a balanced, raw diet.  Larger bones such as marrow bones and beef ribs are also healthy and will provide your dog with hours of enjoyment.  These are typically not fully consumed and these do require supervision, as some aggressive chewers have been known to wear down or even break a tooth when enjoying these larger, harder bones.

Puppies should be taught early how to properly eat bones and chicken necks are the best starting bones for them.  As the puppy gets older, start adding chicken wings and others into the rotation and watch how happy your dog will be.

Cats do well with chicken necks, chicken wings, backs and other small bone.  They also love to hunt for themselves and when given the opportunity they will hunt and eat small prey.

Feed a balanced, raw diet and make good lifestyle decisions and your dogs and cats will thrive!

 

 

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Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability) can affect animals in a similar manner as it does people.  When the intestinal lining develops spaces between cells, food, toxins and bacteria are able to get through the intestines and into the bloodstream.  This can then result in digestive issues, bacterial overgrowth, and inflammation.  Since the body is not fully absorbing all the nutrients being supplied, the immune system is weakened and a vicious cycle within the body takes place.  This is often the root cause of many diseases such as itchy skin, ear infections, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

Causes of leaky gut syndrome are many and include a diet of highly processed and grain based foods, vaccinations, steroids, chlorine, chemical dewormers, chemical flea & tick treatments, antibiotics, and stress.

This can be a challenge but, the good news is with time, the gut can be repaired.  First you must stop causing further damage so replace the processed, grain based foods with a fresh, preferably raw food diet that does not include any grains at all.  Remove all sugars and dairy from the diet.  Reduce vaccinations and stop or at least limit the use of chemicals and pesticides.

Once you have stopped causing damage, these foods should be added into the diet to help repair the gut and replenish the good bacteria;  kefir (goat’s milk or coconut), fermented foods, bone broth, and coconut oil.  Also add a good probiotic and digestive enzymes to the animal’s food prior to feeding.  Healing herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow, and turmeric can also be added to help reduce discomfort and help heal the body.