Natural Pet Foods

New Pet Food and Treats Video Site

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:19:00 +0000

Here is a new site featuring pet food and treats in a video format.

Enjoy!

6 Great Benefits of Natural Dog Food for Your "Best Friend"

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Fri, 16 May 2008 01:38:00 +0000

By Mayra Alfonso

Today many people are looking for natural products, whether it is for skin care, food, or even dog food. Many people are beginning to realize that their dogs deserve to have natural foods as well, instead of eating foods that are full of chemicals that can cause them problems. There are several different types of natural dog foods to choose from as well, so there is quite a selection available. If you are not sure whether or not you want to go with food that is natural, keep reading. The following are several benefits of feeding your dog natural dog food that may change your mind.

Benefit #1 - Fewer Incidents of Allergies and Skin Problems - One of the great benefits of feeding your dog natural dog food is that there are fewer incidents of allergies and skin problems to worry about with your dog. If you have a dog that deals with skin problems or with allergies, you may have tried a variety of different products to help provide your dog with some relief from the problem. Well, giving your dog natural food may actually do the job for you. It does not have all the toxic pesticides, artificial colors, and chemicals in it that can cause problems, so your dog is less likely to deal with these types of problems.

Benefit #2 - Maintain a Healthy Weight - Another benefit of going with the natural route when it comes to dog food is because it can help your dog to maintain a weight that is healthy. Sure, pudgy puppies are very cute, but you don't want your dog to develop problems like diabetes, back problems, or organ problems because they are overweight. This is more nutritional and will provide all the nutrition without the bulk fillers that can make your dog overweight.

Benefit #3 - More Energy for Your Dog -You'll also find that food that is natural for your dog will also provide them with more energy. This will enable them to exercise more, which can also help with the weight control issue as well. Since your dog will be getting more nutrients and better nutrition, no doubt he will feel like he has a lot more energy.

Benefit #4 - Few Problems with Digestive Disorders - There are many dogs that have digestive disorders and foods that have artificial substances and chemicals in them can make these problems worse and even cause these problems. When you give your dog natural dog food instead you'll find that they have an easier time digesting it. This means that they won't have as many problems with various digestive orders.

Benefit #5 - Stronger Immune Systems and Great Health - No doubt you want your dog to be in the best health possible, and when you feed them dog food that is natural, you can provide your dog with the best possible health. Not only will they be healthier, but this type of food will help them to build up their immune system as well. All the great nutrients in the food will help your dog build and maintain an immune system that is very healthy, which will save you on expensive vet bills in the future.

Benefit #6 - Longer and More Quality Life - All owners want their dogs to live as long as possible, but they want a quality life for their dogs as well. When you give them the quality diet of natural dog food, it will improve their quality of life. It will also aid them in living a long life as well, so you'll have your dog around longer. Since this food helps to maintain their immune system and ward off problems, they will be more likely to live a long time.

Now that you see all the great benefits that can come along with giving your dog food that is natural, you may want to consider purchasing this type of food for your dog from now on. No doubt you want to have a healthy dog that is well cared for and in the best of shape. With natural dog food, you can keep your dog feeling great, looking great, and around for a long time.

Dr. Mayra Alfonso, the author of the new ebook "The Nature of Dog Healing, The Definitive Alternative Guide for your Dog" has compiled a very useful resource on dogs, including the challenges they face in health and nutrition. This ebook is an excellent source for all those who want to know the real facts about their dogs' health. Visit Dr. Alfonso's blog at http://www.CoolDogHallofFame.com to get the latest, fun and valuable information about dogs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mayra_Alfonso

Natural Dog Foods For Beagles

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 03:12:00 +0000

By Richard Cussons

There are many ways to keep your Beagles healthy. Feeding them with nutritionally balanced food is one way of keeping them healthy as well as happy. So what are these nutritious foods? How am I going to make sure that my dog gets the required foods essential for his health.

There are many issues regarding commercial dog foods, homemade dog foods and natural dog foods. The use of commercial dog food is very common to most dog owners nowadays. It is for the simple reason that it is readily available in most grocery and pet supply stores. All you have to do is buy a pack or two from your favorite pet supply store, open the package and pour the contents in your dog's food dish. Easy isn't it? Feeding your Beagles isn't that hard after all.

But then despite the convenience this type of food offers, you can not guarantee that your dog gets the essential nutrients his body needed. Some brands of commercial dog foods are recalled because it was found out that they contain preservatives. Dog food manufacturers claim that their products are preservative-free. But actually, almost all commercial dog food in the market contains ethoxyquin. A powerful and toxic chemical that can cause kidney and liver damage, hair loss, blindness, leukemia, cancerous skin lesions, fetal abnormalities and chronic diarrhea. The claim on preservative-free dog food is therefore one of the manufacturer's advertising strategies to increase sales and profit.

That is one of the reasons why more dog owners are switching to natural homemade dog food.

With homemade dog food, you can be sure that your Beagles get not just healthy but also safe foods. The only concern with natural dog food is the preparation. Dog owners, especially those who are busy and have countless other things to do think that preparing this food takes a lot of time and effort. Seek for your vet's advice before anything else. You can ask your veterinarian for tips on how to prepare your dog's food easily and correctly.

Being a good dog owner is not just about playing with your dog, praising him for every good behavior or making him look good. A good dog owner ensures good over-all condition of his pet. Always remember to read product labels carefully. There are only few safe products you can give your dog. So be careful! Then, learn how to make healthy dog food. Generally, the food should contain 40% protein, 30% starch and 30% fiber.

Give your Beagles the right kind of food and expect him to live healthier, longer and happier.

Richard Cussons is a dog lover and has written various articles about dogs. Find out more about Beagle training at this site for Beagles

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Cussons

Dog Information is an Important Part Of Choosing Dog Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 02:04:00 +0000

By Brigitte Smith

American dogs, like American people, are gaining more and more excess weight. They may live contentedly with their owners, but a lot of dogs are less active than they should be and eat less appropriate diets than dogs did only 10 to 20 years ago. We see more illness, more vet bills and dogs with much shorter life spans as well.

Many dogs have been placed on special diets by their owners, who will first research what their dog should be eating in a regular meal and their treats. Once the owner knows this dog information, they can be certain they are giving their dogs the nutrients they need.

Concerned owners have started to use their dog information to cook and/or bake their own dog food and snacks. Use caution! If you make your own dog food the wrong way, you can end up harming your dog more than helping them. For instance, there are certain meats and fats that your dog might have trouble digesting. There are some foods that are harmful to dogs and can cause illness. Some of these foods are chocolate, grapes and/or raisins, and dough. Like humans, dogs should never eat moldy food.

Some companies will make an all natural dog food for you. These companies have done the necessary research and they know your dog information, especially the vitamins and minerals your dog has to have to survive and be healthy. They are also aware of what foods your dog should avoid as they make him sick. Some companies, such as Flint River Ranch Dog Food, make human grade dog food, which means a person can eat it without becoming ill.

Just as humans have their bakeries, there are also dog bakeries that exist. These bakeries produce treats that can be eaten by humans as safely as by their dogs. Dogs are even invited to come in and taste the fresh baked treats to decide which treats are favored. This ensures satisfaction for both owner and pet.

Deciding what to feed your dog is only part of the responsibility assigned to you; you also have an obligation to do your research to give your dog the best life possible. In addition to appropriate food, keeping your dog healthy will require plenty of exercise, water, and rest. Remember that your dog needs you to make the wise decisions for him in order to keep him healthy and fit.

Today, family dogs are fatter and more unhealthy than just a decade or two ago. This is mostly attributed to being less active and eating less healthy diets. Many people feed their dogs special diets after they determine what foods their dogs need to eat, both for regular meals and for special treats. This dog information allows them to be sure that they are feeding their dogs properly. Some companies, such as flint river ranch dog food, make human grade dog food, which means a person can eat it without becoming ill. Alternatively, you can make your own dog food at home.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brigitte_Smith

Natural Dog Food A Pet Owners Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 05:14:00 +0000

By Brigitte Smith

A dog is a man's best friend according to the old adage; and for many of us, our dogs are not just pets, but members of our family too. We naturally want the best for our dogs, and with a myriad of dog food products on the market, it can be difficult to find quality foods that are the most nutritious and healthy for your dog.

In recent times, animal lovers have begun to use natural dog food regularly instead of the more traditional dog food products. In 1994, at a meeting on animal health, a group with expertise in the field came to the conclusion that antioxidants are necessary for canine health and are not found in commercial dog food products. These vital elements are as important for canines as they are for people. They prevent free radicals from harming cells and producing cancers and cardiac problems. Free radicals damage a pet's immune system and cause the animal to age much more quickly than it would naturally.

Organic dog food uses natural ingredients and is not heavily processed. Therefore, organic dog food is high in antioxidants and a good source of vitamins B, C, and E. There are also fewer pollutants in natural dog food than in regular commercial dog food.

Types of natural dog food are very good for your dog and the benefits can be seen in no time. The dog will have a shinier, thicker coat along with clearer eyes and healthy teeth which make it appear healthier overall. The dog will also be more energetic and happier, all as a result of organic dog foods.

In addition to commercial dog food, there is a wide variety of natural dog food on the market. Standard meals, doggie treats, and even gourmet lunch boxes for the mobile dog are included in this selection. Merrick dog food, a division of family owned Merrick pet foods, uses only all natural ingredients in their products. None of the preservatives and artificial ingredients common to commercial dog food are used in Merrick pet foods.

Every natural or organic ingredient is sourced from USDA-approved suppliers. Plus, the foods are available in cans ("wet") as well as dry with a variety to fit any taste or flavor preference, which means you'll be able to match the food to your dog's needs.

Dogs have long been considered man's best friend, and Merrick Pet Foods has set out to prove it with a wide variety of excellent products. Merrick dog food uses only natural and organic
ingredients from USDA-approved suppliers, and their products are full of antioxidants and vitamins. There are no artificial ingredients or preservatives. Plus, these nutrients are found only in natural dog food and organic dog food, not in commercial varieties. So, if you want your family friend to experience a full, healthy, energetic life, a shiny coat, alert eyes, and healthy teeth, Merrick products are a superb way to show your love.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brigitte_Smith

Natural Dog Food Reviews to the Rescue

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 17:32:00 +0000

By Brigitte Smith

When it comes to dog food, there are several types of food, flavors, and brands to make dog food comparisons from. It can be a difficult process finding the best food and selecting the right dog food brands to maintain your dog’s health. Luckily for dog owners, there are dog food reviews that can help you decide what is best for your dog.

There are three kinds of dog foods, but for this article we will focus on the natural balance dog foods available. Natural balance dog foods generally contain only fresh, natural and wholesome ingredients. There are several benefits to choosing natural balance dog foods over other kinds of food, but your dog will find that the protein and carbohydrate ingredients are easily digestible.

There have been a number of dog food reviews and scientific studies that have shown that the best ingredient in dog food is meat-based protein. You will find that in many dog food brands the main ingredient is corn meal, flour or corn gluten meal. While not all natural balance dog foods contain meat-based protein, a majority of the brands do.

Aside from keeping your dog healthier and more active, dog food reviews show that natural balance dog food has also been known to keep your dog’s coat healthier and thicker. Along with that, your dog will have fewer digestive problems and firmer stools. The kinds of meat-based proteins you should look for in your dogs food is chicken, turkey, and white rice or brown rice.

There are several kinds of dog food that is on the market and a plethora of different dog food brands to choose from. Many dog food reviews show that one of the best kinds is Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs. This dog food is reasonably priced and provides 100% complete nutrition in accordance to with AAFCO feeding protocols.

Life’s Abundance has a high antioxidant formula and three sources of premium protein. The sources of protein include chicken meal, egg and fish meal. Even better than what is included is what is not included in this dog food, which does not include corn, wheat, dairy or by-products.

Another great dog food among dog food reviews is Sojos Dog Food Mix, which is a blend of wholesome grains, herbs, nuts and sea vegetables. To add flavor to the European style pet food, you can add meat and raw or steamed veges. As with Life’s Abundance, Sojos Dog Food Mix does not contain fillers, preservatives, flavors or anything else.

Although there are several kinds of dog food brands to choose from, looking at the many dog food reviews can help you find the healthiest meal for your dog. The more meat-based protein that is in the food, the better it will taste for your dog and the healthier it will be for your dog. And for that reason, the top natural balance dog foods are Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs and Sojos Dog Food Mix.

Healthy Happy Dogs is a resource containing a wealth of information on keeping your dog healthy.

For your FREE dog health reportsign up here - www.HealthyHappyDogs.com.

And for indepth dog food reviews, including more information on Life's Abundance and Sojos natural dog foods, click here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brigitte_Smith

All Natural Gourmet Dog Treats And Where To find Them

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 04:55:00 +0000

By Jake Poole

All natural gourmet dog treats are becoming very popular among health conscious dog owners these days. Some people have even started baking fresh homemade dog biscuits and cookies for their dogs using nothing but fresh healthy ingredients. We all love giving our canine companions treats from time to time so why not give them the best quality treats you can find.

You may be wondering about all the preservatives and additives that are found in so many of the commercial doggie treats that you can pick up in the supermarket. So if you want to minimize the amount of chemicals your dog is taking in, giving them all natural gourmet dog treats may be just the ticket. Here are some suggestions on what kind of natural treats are available on the market today and were you might possibly find them.

When looking for something that is free of a lot of preservatives, a healthy and wholesome natural pet health food store is always a good place to begin. At one time these types of stores carried mainly supplements and maybe a few vegetable type snacks but that has changed.

Along with natural pet food stores, check out locally owned pet supply stores. These stores are often excellent places to find lines of all natural gourmet dog treats that are made locally. Many of these premium snacks will list every ingredient that goes into the product, and often will read more like a recipe then a list of ingredients.

Among the all natural gourmet dog treats you can find are vegetarian selections that are made from whole fruits and vegetables, this is a great alternative for dogs that can only tolerate grain free treats. Some vegetable treats are made from sweet potatoes which are known to be highly nutritious and very high in antioxidants.

Grain free treats are high in protein and low in carbohydrates and some of these gourmet snacks are even coated with a tasty carob coating. This is great if your pet has some special needs, such as avoiding certain types of meat by-products or limiting carbohydrates to help control your dogs weight and keep them healthy.

Some natural treats are made from organic meat that do not contain fillers, hormones, chemical preservatives and no grains while others are baked using human grade ingredients for dogs who cannot tolerate typical pet food ingredients. Often, the range of selections for treats will take into account a number of health issues. Specifically for dogs that have allergic reactions to certain grains and foods like wheat, corn, gluten and other ingredients.

Whether you just want your canine companion to have snacks made from natural fresh ingredients or your dog has certain health needs and requires a special diet there are a lot of all healthy natural gourmet dog treats available on the market today.

Discover were to find all natural gourmet dog treats here and other healthy natural pet supplies for your pet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Poole

Are Pet Food Feeding Trials Essential?

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:55:00 +0000

By John Birch

In the course of a year several new dog and cat food products will be launched onto the UK pet food market. Some of these will be manufactured by the big boys, Masterfoods or Nestle Purina, who will conduct scientific feeding trials, but others come from small companies who really are just marketing and distributing - they have no manufacturing facilities and make use of independent manufacturers who produce food for anyone. Several well known and well advertised UK brands and a host of smaller brands are produced centrally and simply distributed by the brand owners.

Small companies cannot afford the luxury of Research & Development facilities, they also do not have the facilities to do their own pet food feeding trials. Let's face it, they are up against the might of the Waltham centre for Pet Nutrition operated by the company that brings you Pedigree, Royal Canin and the like. Their publicity states
'Set in the heart of the English countryside, the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition is a state-of-the-art facility that unifies all of the research and development expertise of the Mars group of pet care companies worldwide.

Waltham collaborates with many of the world's most prestigious universities and academics in advancing nutritional research and worldwide the Mars Group employs more than 100 dedicated veterinarians and 500 scientists (plus several of the world's leading companion animal nutritionists).'

No small company can compete with the might of such a multi-national company.

So is the pet food I feed safe?

That's an interesting question! Large pet food companies can afford the facilities of a testing centre, so what goes on there?

Well, the rules for conducting feeding trials seem to be all based around AAFCO guidelines.
Masterfoods say this about their feeding trials 'Adult maintenance trials may take six months to complete. A full veterinary examination is also conducted to ensure the pets used in the trial are healthy. Food intakes and body weights are recorded throughout the trial period along with other important indicators such as oral health, skin and coat health, body condition and faecal quality.

'At the conclusion of the trial a blood sample is taken to detect any nutritional deficiencies or excesses. As a further measure to assess palatability, in home feeding trials are conducted as we have access to approximately 8,000 households. This ensures we get a true reflection of pets' acceptance and preference of the product range. Some pet food products may take up to three years to develop because of this rigorous three-step testing process.'

What about a small company?

You will probably find that small companies tell you that they do not conduct feeding trials because they do not consider them necessary - usually a new food is given to staff and family to try out on their pets. If there are no adverse comments from users over a four or six week period then the food is launched to the general public.

This can work out fine, but essentially they are using pet owners around the country to do their long term food trials. I know of ocassions where a food has been launched in this way and then caused health problems that were not picked up during the initial food tasting.

However, it also has to be said that all new pet food recipes have their origin at feeding trials which have been done in the past. The AAFCO nutritional guidlines have been used for years as the base figures for formulating pet food recipes, and you or I could probably put together a fine quality pet food based upon those guidlines - but we have to bear in mind that these were established through nutritional feeding trials, and have been ammended no doubt since based upon current knowledge.

For this reason, unless a recipe is using very novel ingredients, or formulated with proportions of ingredients that vary greatly from other foods on the market, it is generally assumed that these foods will be perfectly safe for the pets that they have been created for.

So, maybe pet owners do need to ask themselves a question. If I am trying a new pet food, am I happy that this food has been extensively trialled over a period of 6 months to 2 years and proved by scientific methods to be beneficial to health - or am I comfortable that a food has been formulated to a similar recipe to others on the market, given out to a dozen or so pet owners and over a short period of time no adverse comments made?

The choice is ours!

The author, who originally trained as a food technologist has, in his time owned dogs, cats, hamsters and birds, sold pet food and spent the past decade marketing it. Now down to one cat, one dog and running Pet Food Choice, a website full of information on pet food choices, money-saving ideas and much more - http://www.pet-food-choice.co.uk/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Birch

Going Natural For The Pets You Love

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 05:22:00 +0000

By Diane McLaren

So just as you have begun to take a more pro-active and holistic approach to your health, many pet owners are now discovering the benefits for their pets too.

A diet that reflects enhanced nutrition through attention to what you eat, and what your pet eats on a daily basis is important. Adding natural herbal supplements help to strengthen not only your health, but your pet’s too! Herbs also fight illness!

Your pet relies on you to see to their needs including attention, quality foods, fresh clean water, exercise and their general health. As an integral part of your family, you want your pet to enjoy great long-term health and this month I want to share a few easy tips for prevention, for every day, and for limited periods of time for certain conditions or symptoms.

Healthy pets generally do not incur expensive veterinary care costs

Healthy pets have more energy and live longer

Healthy pets enjoy a better quality of life long into old age

“So what can I do to help my pet?” “Can I really use herbs for pets?”

Your pet will respond very well to the correct selection of quality herbs because our herbs are natural plant based products that your pet's body system will recognize as food. (Your system benefits for the very same reasons)

Pets are like us, and they benefit tremendously from adding a few herbal supplements to insure optimal health and vitality. Herbs can be used in liquid or capsules format, just open and mix with their foods. Tablets can be crushed and mixed with foods. Chewable, they usually love them as treats.

Dosage is according to weight. Usually 1 capsule a day/25 lb Note that liquid extracts can be applied directly to paws and the belly too).

Tip 1 - Provide Quality Pet Food

Just as we humans are discovering that the highly refined foods are hazardous to our health, our pets are experiencing similar reactions from the general processed foods widely available at most supermarkets. In the wake of the massive pet food recalls, attention to pet food ingredients is essential.

It's fun to share our table foods with the pets but when you do, you're introducing foods your pet has a very hard time digesting. I do not represent nor distribute pet food products but I do recommend you consider natural products based on natural wholesome ingredients. The cost is a bit higher, but your pet will be much healthier and medical costs much lower.

This applies to humans and pets alike: avoid any product that contains by-products, chemical preservatives artificial flavours or artificial colours.

I feed our 10-year old Beagle (Stanly) Performatrin Ultra available in Canada and the USA. If not available in your town, they make a good reference guide. There are a number of good quality suppleirs so do a little investigation to find what works best for your pet

Tip 2 - Provide Fresh, Clean Water

Always ensure you pet has fresh clean drinking water available. I like to add a few drops of Liquid Chlorophyll to their drinking water. They like it too!

The spearmint flavor helps reduce “doggy” breath

Gives daily nutrients and minerals

Very mild cleansing

Improves digestion and colon, cleans and builds the blood

Restore alkaline balance and it's great to avoid burning the lawn

Tip 3 - Everyday Nutritional Support

A well-rounded herb which you can think of as general multi-vitamin mineral is Morinda (aka Noni), my top pick for pets of all ages and specifically for puppies up to 3 years and elderly animals because it supports the immune, nervous, respiratory, muscular and skeletal systems.

Help for those pets who are excitable

Provides bone support for growing puppies

Supports for elderly pets who need help climbing the stairs, or sofa, or simply to breathe better
A great everyday powerhouse of health building herbs is strong>Zambroza or Thai Go for its remarkable ability to strengthen and build the immune system. With over 138 anti-inflammatory properties, it's the best choice for anti-oxidant features that combat the effects of stress and fatigue plus its anti-viral, anti fungus and anti-bacterial properties.

Tip 4 - Natural Heartworm Care

Spring through fall is the season for heartworm and the combination of using both our High Potency Garlic and Black Walnut Extract will work wonders. I do this for 6 months, from ground’s thaw to first frost.

Our High Potency Garlic is odor controlled, not odorless. It is essential to have the odor which is caused by one of the active ingredient called allicin for maximum therapeutic benefits. In order to control the garlic smell, the garlic is coated with chlorophyll. This way, you get the full allicin potential and the therapeutic benefits. (I grind this with a mortar pestle and mix with food and my dogs never have ‘garlic’ breath) The Black Walnut Extract is liquid and a few drops mixed in the food is all it takes.

Oxygenates the blood

Controls parasites, ringworm, worms and toxins

Restores tooth enamel

Antiseptic and healing properties

Supports the thyroid

CAUTION: NEVER GIVE BLACK WALNUT TO A HORSE – IT'S TOXIC!

Tip 5 - Addressing Digestive Flatulence (Gas)

It works for people and it's great for the pets. For digestion/flatulence (gas) Garden Essence and/or Stomach Comfort are great choices that provide instant relief for you and your pet. Even when eating good quality food, some pets are gassy so by simply adding Garden Essence (open and sprinkle to their food), it really helps them digest their food better, therefore eliminating gas.

Our dog Stanley loves the Chewable Stomach Comfort, we use them as a treat, and he will do his “tricks” to get one. They also help with gas and digestion. On the other hand, Elmo does better with Marshmallow and Pepsin while Isaiah has great success with Garden Essence.
Just as in people, there is no one right answer so you may have to experiment to discover which works best for yours. Remember, these are plant based herbs and your pets body will ingest them safely because they are real foods.

Tip 6 - Little Wet Accidents

It happens and when it does, there are steps you can take to help your pet overcome the problem. For younger animals, if they need to urinate frequently and it is not because of an infection, the Chinese combination KB-C helps to internally strengthen the urinary system. It can also be rubbed in circular motion on puppy’s belly.

For older animals with a leaky bladder Cornsilk strengthens their bladder and removes inflammation. If your pet is suffering from an infection, Cranberry and Buccu plus Echinacea Golden Seal will clear the infection and help prevent further reoccurrences.

Strengthens the urinary system in young pets

Strengthens the bladder in older pets

Clears infection and helps prevent further reoccurrences

Tip 7 - Natural Clean Ups Around The House Just Got Easier
No matter how hard we try to care for our pets, accidents happen at some point and for cleaning up naturally, there is no better product than Nature’s Fresh Spray. In fact, this product is great for a wide variety of typical cleaning needs at home and in the car.

Eliminates pet odors plus those created by foods, smoke, urine, feces, vomit and mildew

Eliminates stains caused by food, juices, blood, pets, urine and other organic substances

Safe for all fabrics and not harmed by water

Unscented, non-irritating, hypoallergenic

Environmentally safe

Diane McLaren C.C.Ir, R.N.C.P.

As a Natural Health Practitioner and Wellness Coach, Diane incorporates her knowledge of Western and Eastern natural health philosophies to integrate her certifications in Clinical Iridology, Nutrition, Herbs, Reflexology, Kinesiology, Biochemical Blood Analysis, B.E.S.T. and Sclerology for her clients and students.

In her practice since 1994 and through http://www.healthyyounaturally.com Diane has shared the lessons and experience of her many years as a successful business woman, wellness coach, holistic health care practitioner and gifted teacher for thousands of clients, students and partners.

“I invite you to discover for yourself just how effective and rewarding a natural approach to health can be.”

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_McLaren

A New Choice For Animals - Organic Pet Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 03:44:00 +0000

By Michelle Bery

With all the attention we give to ensuring we are eating the proper diet, it’s no wonder that this consideration has extended to our furry friends. Organic food – once thought of only as a human commodity that vastly benefits our overall health and the environment to boot – has now been made available for our pets. Also not surprising, is the growing popularity of organic pet food as conscientious owners look for ways to invigorate the health of their pets and extend their life span.

Organic food – grown and produced without the use of chemicals, hormones, and pesticides – is vastly healthier for the human body. While these substances continue to be used without reservation in traditional food production, it is unstudied and unclear as to the long term effects of chemicals on our health and longevity. For these reasons, and the positive impact that organically grown food can have on the environment, more and more people are making the switch to organic food. Just as organic food benefits humans, its advantages extend to animals as well, through the use of organic pet food.

Research has suggested that a switch to organic pet food greatly reduces the possibility of illness and disease. Pets that are fed organic pet food are healthier overall with a healthier coat and teeth, improved energy, and increased longevity. Organic pet food comes in meat based or vegetarian varieties and is not much more expensive than traditional pet food.

For those looking for organic pet food, they can find a growing selection available at many pet supply stores and large retail chains. As the popularity of organic pet food continues to grow, consumers will soon see a larger and larger assortment of products as the benefits become clear to pet owners everywhere.

For those who have limited access to organic pet food in specialty pet food stores and retail outlets, the Internet can be a terrific resource for such items. Additionally, organic pet food that is ordered in this manner can be shipped directly to your door.

For easy to understand, in depth information about organic pet food visit our ezGuide 2 Organic Food.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Bery

Natural Dog Food Reviews to the Rescue

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:58:00 +0000

By Brigitte Smith

When it comes to dog food, there are several types of food, flavors, and brands to make dog food comparisons from. It can be a difficult process finding the best food and selecting the right dog food brands to maintain your dog’s health. Luckily for dog owners, there are dog food reviews that can help you decide what is best for your dog.

There are three kinds of dog foods, but for this article we will focus on the natural balance dog foods available. Natural balance dog foods generally contain only fresh, natural and wholesome ingredients. There are several benefits to choosing natural balance dog foods over other kinds of food, but your dog will find that the protein and carbohydrate ingredients are easily digestible.

There have been a number of dog food reviews and scientific studies that have shown that the best ingredient in dog food is meat-based protein. You will find that in many dog food brands the main ingredient is corn meal, flour or corn gluten meal. While not all natural balance dog foods contain meat-based protein, a majority of the brands do.

Aside from keeping your dog healthier and more active, dog food reviews show that natural balance dog food has also been known to keep your dog’s coat healthier and thicker. Along with that, your dog will have fewer digestive problems and firmer stools. The kinds of meat-based proteins you should look for in your dogs food is chicken, turkey, and white rice or brown rice.

There are several kinds of dog food that is on the market and a plethora of different dog food brands to choose from. Many dog food reviews show that one of the best kinds is Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs. This dog food is reasonably priced and provides 100% complete nutrition in accordance to with AAFCO feeding protocols.

Life’s Abundance has a high antioxidant formula and three sources of premium protein. The sources of protein include chicken meal, egg and fish meal. Even better than what is included is what is not included in this dog food, which does not include corn, wheat, dairy or by-products.
Another great dog food among dog food reviews is Sojos Dog Food Mix, which is a blend of wholesome grains, herbs, nuts and sea vegetables. To add flavor to the European style pet food, you can add meat and raw or steamed veges. As with Life’s Abundance, Sojos Dog Food Mix does not contain fillers, preservatives, flavors or anything else.

Although there are several kinds of dog food brands to choose from, looking at the many dog food reviews can help you find the healthiest meal for your dog. The more meat-based protein that is in the food, the better it will taste for your dog and the healthier it will be for your dog. And for that reason, the top natural balance dog foods are Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs and Sojos Dog Food Mix.

Healthy Happy Dogs is a resource containing a wealth of information on keeping your dog healthy.

For your FREE dog health reportsign up here - www.HealthyHappyDogs.com.

And for indepth dog food reviews, including more information on Life's Abundance and Sojos natural dog foods, click here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brigitte_Smith

Organic Pet Food For Greater Vitality

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 01:12:00 +0000

By Virginia Louise

If you are already a convert to the organic food way of life then you will already know the major benefits of eating this way:

Meat, fruit and vegetables free of chemical pesticides which can number up to 20 different types in ordinary produce; Higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals and fibre;

A much improved taste experience making eating more enjoyable and you feeling more alive and healthy than before. If you are enjoying these benefits then is it not time you offered them to your pets? Just in the same way we can opt for organic food, now you can offer a range to your pets for their approval.

What Organic Pet Food Is Available?

Taking a look around the internet you will readily see offerings for organic dog food and also, maybe to a lesser extent, organic cat food. Several suppliers are very active in organic pet foods and typically this is what they have to offer: All organic pet food products are made with human grade organic ingredients which can include: chicken and other meats, organic cereals and organic rice as well as organic vegetables.

It is stated on one site that the ingredients are exactly the grade of food that you as a human would not hesitate in consuming. After some searching you will find that what you already buy for your pet will probably be available in an organic form of some description.

Typical products available are:

Tinned organic dog food, organic kibble organic dog treats, tinned organic cat food, there is even a company that is offering organic canine cookies.However, do not be tempted to get carried away with the treats just because they are organic, remember that moderation is advised and always read the product labels.

Added Advantages

Many of these foods are also hypo-allergenic and gluten free, meaning that if your pet is suffering from allergy or digestive problems then there may just be an organic pet food solution out there that will help ease its suffering.

Virginia Louise is a convert to the organic way of life and enjoys a healthier lifestyle.

Visit her organic food web site for some free recipes and lots of helpful hints.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Virginia_Louise

Natural Organic Dog Food - Make Your Own Natural Organic Dog Food!

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:01:00 +0000

By Stephen Hartrick

If you are concerned and worried about the quality of your food and potential health benefits then the chances are you have probably been eating and preparing your own natural organic food for a long while now, but have you stopped to think what you are putting into your dogs stomach and the possible health effects it could be having on your beloved pet?

If you have been eating organic food then there is no reason at all why your dog can not have natural organic food either! Organic food has been shown to increase health and vitality in humans and it can do the same for your pet dogs.

You can buy commercial organic dog which is just as good but is extremely expensive and in the long run you might find yourself more often than not with an empty wallet! Which can be one of the reasons people tend to always go back to regular pet foods. It does not always have to be that way of though, there is another way of providing your dog with good quality natural organic dog food.

Make it yourself! I know, I know, you are thinking that that will be too much hassle and you have not possibly got time to cook your dogs organic food and then have to cook your families food as well, but that is the beauty of natural organic food, whats good for you is also good for your dog, you can save the scraps from your organic vegetables, meats and grains and mix up a great tasting and healthy dog food for your pet, how easy is that!

The only thing I would say for you to do before you begin feeding your dog your own homemade organic dog food is to go and speak to your vet because he or she will know what is the best foods and will advise you on the best nutritional guidelines for your particular breed of dog.

Cooking and preparing your own natural organic dog food is a rewarding experience, just knowing that you are providing your animal with the best ingredients mother nature can provide to make your dog the healthiest and fittest it has ever been is enough reward for the little amount of time it takes to make your own homemade dog food.

Visit my Blog here Dog Food Reviews

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Hartrick

Is Your Dog Food Safe?

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 00:44:00 +0000

By Steven Pair

Since the FDA recalled many major brands of dog food earlier this year, people are asking, "is my dog's food safe?" Well, the answer to that question just might be easier to find than you think. In fact, all you have to do is look at the what goes into the food, which you can find that by looking at the ingredient list. But what do you look for? How does that differ from natural dog food like Innova Dog Food? Well lets take just a quick minute and put some definitions to the ingredients listed on dog foods. Let's start with the back-bone of the food, the meats that are used.

Many brands of dog food that you will find on your supermarkets shelves contain animal by-products. Animal by-products are the leftover parts that humans don't generally eat. These can range from bones and lungs to livers. Since these are not used for human consumption, they are often sold and used for things such as dog foods. The nutritional benefits that your dog receives from animal by-products really varies from batch to batch. However, these have been shown to be safe for your dogs to eat. Another very common ingredient in dog foods is something called "meals."

The term "meal" means that the products used are not really fresh, the have actually been rendered. When something is rendered is it exposed to water at a very high temperature. This hot water is used to rid the product of parasites, bacteria and other unsafe substances. Now, while these have been shown to be perfectly safe for your dog to eat, some research has show that the nutritional benefit might be lower. The hot water used in the rendering process can alter or kill the nutrients found in these products. This means that your dog might not be getting the best nutrients available. Now that we have talked about the two most common ingredients found in dog food, let's talk about natural dog food.

The ingredient list on natural dog foods, like Innova Dog Food, usually includes meat and turkey. Now the main difference between this and "meals" or by-products is that the meats are usually fresh and have not been altered in anyway, hints the reason they are called natural. Since these meats are not exposed to the rendering process, the nutritional benefits are not lost. Another ingredient that is often found in natural foods are fruits and vegetables. This actually adds many positive supplements such as antioxidants.

American's are expected to spend over $11 billion dollars on pet food this year alone. If you are like I am, you treat your dog like part of the family. Just like family, it's important to know what you are feeding your dog. Take a little time and look at what is going into the food you choose, whatever that might be. Making the right choice could mean a very long and healthy life for your four-legged friend.

If you would like more information on safe and all natural dog food, like Innova Dog Food just click over to http://innova-dog-food.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Pair

Natural Dog Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:06:00 +0000

By John Steele

Dogs are essentially descendent's of wolves. Because of this genetic trait they require meat protein to be healthy and live the full potential of their natural lifespan. Grain based dog food rarely contains the quality meat protein a canine must have. Without natural ingredients dogs succumb to a variety of diseases. Many veterinarians will testify that the mainstream of sick dogs they treat suffer with unnecessary and premature skin disease, heart, liver, and bowel problems, and other serious health issues such as dental disease, and cancer.

Canned dog food and soft grain based kibble are the equivalent of poison for a dog. They are not designed to meet the needs of a canine's digestive system and cannot be assimilated. Junk food such as these do not clean a dogs teeth. The sludge sticks to the teeth and creates plaque, which becomes a breeding ground for dental bacteria. If your dog's breath is enough to make you gag it's likely the buildup of plaque has become quite severe and usually is a symptom of inflamed gums. Bad breath it's a sign that his immune system has mobilized against the bacterial invaders thriving in his mouth. Contrary to popular belief a dog's breath should not be foul smelling and if your pets been fed been the proper kind of natural dog food it's unlikely it will.

Because the dog has descended from a predatory carnivore it's stomach does not have the enzymes to digest grains and other plant material. Pet food factories cook the grains under high pressure until the process alters the proteins, fats, and starches, to such an extent that they become toxic to a canines digestive system. In addition to this many other unnatural ingredients such as colorants, preservatives, and a variety of other chemicals, are added to the formula as well. It's not hard to understand why dogs fed this type of diet are likely to die at least 8 years before their time; sometimes much sooner, and often because of kidney failure.

Because the dog's bowels cannot thoroughly digest the matter that is foreign to their metabolism the sludge often settles in the colon. A large population of toxin producing bacteria thrives in this putrid mass, which remains in constant contact with the lining of its intestines. The toxins pass through the bowel and enter the circulation causing many of the premature diseases and allergies the dog suffers without apparent cause.

Of course your pet can't tell you what he's feeling or why he's sick. But many times concerned pet owners take their dog to the vet because something's not right. Some vets understand the reason for the dog's problems and will tell the owners to stop feeding the dog junk food. But many of them diagnose the diseased organs and treat the problem but not the cause. Unfortunately the treatment often includes powerful medications, which further compromise the dog's vitality and erase years from his life.

It doesn't have to be this way. There are a number of ways you can provide natural dog food for your pet and add healthy years to its life without spending more money on natural dog food.
I tried to be conservative when writing this article. But if you have a strong stomach and really want to understand what you're doing to your pet by feeding him commercial grade dog food you should read Dog Food Secrets. It's quite likely that you have been harming your dog without even knowing it. I will warn you in advance that your not going to like what you read and it could make you sick.

The free report will reveal the truth about commercial dog food. If you love your pet you owe it to them to read Dog Food Secrets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Steele

Natural Pet Care

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 17:37:00 +0000

By Barry Mcgee

You've probably heard the saying "just do what comes naturally." Of all the things that should come naturally to us, caring for animals should be among the top ten. Humans have been keeping pets for thousands of years, and "back in the day," people undoubtedly applied the same instinct-driven care to their pets as they applied to themselves. That is, pet owners of ages past observed the habits and lifestyles of their pets' wild counterparts and tried to mimic that in caring for their domesticated creatures. In an age of pill-popping and fast food, instinctive care, both for ourselves and our pets, seems to have fallen grievously by the wayside. Discover the benefits of a back-to-nature approach to caring for your pet with the following information on natural pet care.

Natural pet care is all about living in harmony with and supporting the natural functions of your pet's physical and emotional workings. Rather than forcing modern technologies and conveniences onto an animal that is essentially only one or two steps away from living in the wild, those who practice natural pet care attempt to replicate the diet, interaction, environment, and health care your animal would seek out instinctively. This is not to say that you shouldn't take your pet to the veterinarian or that you should force your dog or cat to hunt for their own food! It's simply saying that you should take every opportunity to allow your pet's natural history to guide your pet care decisions.

For instance, when it comes to your pet's diet, are you feeding them what is the most convenient food, or are you taking their natural diet into consideration? In the wild, a dog would not be eating factory-made kibble day in and day out. Dogs are omnivores by nature, and your dog would be enjoying a variety of meats and vegetables. You can replicate this by replacing your dog's kibble diet with meats, vegetables, and natural supplements like herbs and vitamins. For fish, a natural diet might consist of live brine shrimp, blood worms, and vegetables such as zucchini. A pet nutritionist will be able to help you design an appropriate natural diet for your pet, no matter what kind of animal you have.

When socializing with your pet, try to treat them as another same-species animal might. For horses, you can tell a horse you're its friend by gently blowing into its nostrils by way of greeting. If the horse whuffles back, you know you've just been accepted into its "herd." Before you decide to pick up your frog and cuddle it, consider the fact that other frogs probably don't cuddle one another in nature. In fact, the only time a frog might be picked up in the wild is if it's about to be eaten! When it comes to behavior issues, never ever strike a pet. Animals in the wild do not typically slap one another around. Try to reprimand your pet as its mother or dominant pack member might reprimand it-with a sharp growl, a pinch to the scruff of the neck, or by simply appearing disgusted with the action and walking away. An animal behaviorist will be able to tell you more about natural discipline. There are also many excellent books on the subject.

As natural human health care becomes increasingly popular, so does natural pet health care. More and more owners are seeking alternative medical routes to healing and preventing illness and injury in their best friends by relying on acupuncture, massage, homeopathic therapy, and herbal medicine. Natural pet health care clinics are springing up all over, ranging from veterinarians who supplement "normal" veterinary practice with natural care options to vets who rely almost entirely on natural healing methods, outside of instances such as surgery.

It seems odd that something natural should require any sort of great effort on our parts, but it is for that very reason that natural pet care isn't for everyone. In this day and age, doing anything the natural way requires discipline and commitment to the cause. Start small-use a natural flea repellent in place of your normal go-to chemical treatment. Prepare a few meals a week for your pet rather than relying on pre-packaged food. Offer your arthritic dog a comforting massage instead of relying on daily pain killers. After a while, natural pet care may very well just live up to its name and come to you naturally!

About The Author: Barry S. Mcgee is a pet enthusiast. His site at:

http://www.squidoo.com/petcareonline provides advice and information on all aspects of pet care for all types of pets including dogs, cats, ferrets and others and makes it easier for pet owners to choose the best solution for their companion's care.

For answers to all your pet care questions, please visit: http://www.squidoo.com/petcareonline

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_Mcgee

Is Holistic Pet Food Just Marketing Hype?

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:01:00 +0000

By John Birch

It doesn't seem that long ago that there were only one or two pet foods on the shelves that labelled themselves as 'Holistic'... now there are many, and even one that implies there are holistic pets!

So what do manufacturers mean by 'Holistic' or indeed 'Natural' and are there any regulations governing these products?

It's difficult to know where to begin, other than looking at the dictionary definition of 'Holistic'

'...dealing with or treating the whole of something or someone and not just a part'

'...Emphasizing the importance of the whole and the interdependence of its parts.'

'...relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts (holistic medicine attempts to treat both the mind and the body) '

Let's look at how Pet Food brands attempt to explain what they mean by holistic.

Nutro have a holistic food, but omit to define what they mean, other than stating that the food is 'A unique formula promoting better overall well being'

The Natural Dog Food Company offer what they say is ' THE FIRST CERTIFIED HOLISTIC DOG FOOD OF ITS TYPE' but don't define 'Holistic' other than by associating it with all natural ingredients.

Eagle Pack Foods, we are told 'pioneered holistic nutrition in the 1980's, by engineering a way to make a meat meal based food, removing soy from the formulas and meat meals to replace corn as the first ingredient'

Burns Pet Nutrition talk about 'a holistic approach to health and nutrition' and their founder John Burns links his approach to Holistic Medicine, stating that 'The objective of Holistic Medicine is to follow a lifestyle which provides the conditions for the body to maintain a healthy, stable condition. The most important and simplest way of promoting that process is through the choice of food.'

It would seem then that by 'Holistic' we're talking about a food that is made with good quality, easily digested, hypo-allergenic and natural ingredients and has a positive effect on general wellbeing, although individual companies might argue their own particular emphasis. There would seem to be no discernible difference between the use of the words 'natural' or 'holistic'.

The key point here I feel is the emphasis on well being, and the choice of ingredients is crucial; a food made with cheap cereal and animal by-products is unlikely to have the same health benefits as one made from higher quality single source meat and cereal components.

The simple fact is that there appears to be no rules and regulations, as far as I am aware as to how these foods are marketed, and this is maybe why there seems confusion even among manufacturers as to what they mean by 'Holistic'

AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) has suggested a pet food definition for 'natural' as 'of or pertaining to a product wholly comprising ingredients completely devoid of artificial or manmade substances including, but not limited to, synthetic flavors, colors, preservatives, vitamins, minerals, or other additives, whether added directly to the product or incidentally as a component of another ingredient.'

It has to be said that most so-called Holistic products in the UK use commercial and manufactured vitamin and mineral mixes to ensure that the food contains a consistent nutritional balance of these essential nutrients. Some however do contain natural sources of vitamins and minerals, which would seem to be where AAFCO would like natural products to be.

There are, however some who warn against this, based on inconsistencies in the natural alternatives. Burns pet Nutrition state 'Natural ingredients, by definition, are very unlikely to contain consistent quantities of these nutrients (e.g. due to seasons, weather, soil type, etc) therefore, supplementation with exact quantities is necessary in order to avoid chronic deficiencies or toxicities...For example, seaweed can contain high levels of magnesium which interferes with the uptake of zinc and copper from the diet. Also, in order to meet the minimum levels of less prevalent nutrients such selenium; you would need to add high quantities of seaweed, which could in turn lead to toxic levels of other nutrients, such as iodine.'

At the end of the day, it is up to the consumer to make the choice of pet food that best fits in with their lifestyle and food ethic. Marketing managers are very good at targeting trends in the food industry and applying those to the pet food market!

The author, who originally trained as a food technologist has, in his time owned dogs, cats, hamsters and birds, sold pet food and spent the past decade marketing it. Now down to one cat, one dog and running Pet Food Choice, a website full of information on pet food choices, money-saving ideas and much more - http://www.pet-food-choice.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Birch

Why A Natural Dog Food Recipe Is Better For Your Best Friend

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 17:37:00 +0000

By Scott Jackson

Believe it or not, the dogs of our ancestors more than fifty years ago, weren't fed commercially packaged dog food or kibble but instead thrived on natural dog food recipes. These natural recipes were most often comprised of food straight from the dinner table. No expensive gourmet blends but instead a recipe was made up of some leftover beef, chicken breast and vegetables. These days we are commonly advised that "table scraps" are harmful to our dog's digestive system, yet, in 2007, with so many dog food recalls, consumers learned that we aren't always getting the "natural" ingredients that are advertised on the package. In many cases, chemicals, hormones, preservatives, anti-biotic supplements and pesticides boost these natural ingredients. Think about it. Why would feeding your dog the same food that you feed you and your family be harmful? How could something that is essentially the equivalent of doggie fast food be healthier? It's because the dog food industry has become big business, with thousands of advertising dollars poured into it, and consumers, even some veterinarians, have been fooled into believing the hype.

Compare the canned gunk and bland dried food that you pay entirely too much for to a natural dog food recipe that combines two ounces of shredded boneless pork loin chop (or a beef, chicken and lamb substitute) with four ounces of Tofu, two steamed carrots, two crushed garlic cloves, some broccoli spears, half a steamed green pepper, one cup of cooked spinach, eight ounces of cooked long grain brown rice, about two teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil, a quarter cup of molasses, half a teaspoon of dry mustard and one teaspoon of bone meal. Put this concoction in the oven at approximately 325 degrees for 15 minutes and serve it to your dog. One serving of this natural dog food recipe is equal to a large can of dog food but healthier, all natural and easier to digest.

Here's a test. Put a bowl of that kibble that you typically feed your dog right next to a plate of this recipe. Which meal do you think your dog will go for? There is a reason that your dog begs and cries at the smell of "people food". Because our food better replicates the diet that a dog would eat in the wild, more so than the food being manufactured in a factory somewhere.

So many of the vitamins and minerals that humans have learned are healthy for our bodies are also healthy for a dog. In the natural dog food recipe above you likely noticed several peculiar ingredients. Garlic is an anti-inflammatory that may help your dog with arthritis and joint ailments. Garlic combined with fresh Ginger can even replace pricey medications that a veterinarian will often suggest for a dog suffering from an ongoing condition. If you were wondering why the dry mustard was included in the natural dog food recipe above, although used partly for flavoring, dry mustard also improves bowel function and digestion.

So, next time you are scooping up that awful smelling dry doggie food or cracking open a can of dog food, consider how much more your dog would enjoy a natural dog food recipe prepared especially for them... by you!

Scott Jackson has been in the Pet Industry for over ten years. He has managed large Pet Specialty Retail stores and has worked as a distributor rep in the pet industry. He is a pet owner and lover who has extensive knowledge in pet nutrition and care. He runs a website http://www.coloradopetresources.com and http://www.dogandcatarticles.com where he gives information on pet care, location of Colorado independent pet retailers, vets, breeders and a general meeting place for pet lovers.

Visit http://www.coloradopetresources.com and find the information you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Jackson

Why It's Time To Turn To Natural Dog Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 16:49:00 +0000

By Scott Jackson

Feeding your dog natural dog food may prolong the lifespan of your beloved four-legged companion. Cancer has become prevalent in dogs. Dogs were once much more inclined to die as the result of old age rather than cancer. Poor genetic breeding stock, environmental conditions and a diet full of poor protein sources and processed chemicals has changed that.

While genetics and environmental concerns are somewhat out of our hands we can control our dog's diet and nutrition by feeding them natural food. We are paying more attention to our own diets these days. The world is much more familiar with vitamins and minerals that are essential to maintaining human health. It's only natural that we start paying more attention to the nutrition of man's best friend.

You can start by feeding your dog naturally instead of commercially processed grain-based food like kibble. Kibble contains a lot of chemically processed ingredients that are difficult on a dog's digestive system, stressing their body and leaving them more prone to developing different cancers later in life. You'll notice manufacturers marketing that kibble contains vitamins and nutrients but these vitamins might be destroyed by intense heat during storage and shipping. Kibble is also marketed as being high in protein for your pup but we've recently learned that this protein isn't always coming from natural sources.

Within the past few years there have been many incidences of dog food recalls. More than 100 brands of pet foods were recalled in 2007. Tainted dog food resulted in making many dogs ill, unfortunately even resulting in the death of a few dogs from kidney failure. The reason? Melamine, a chemical agent used in resin products, was discovered in samples of white granular wheat gluten from China. To make matters all the worse, the manufacturers intentionally added this chemical to increase the protein count! Is there any better case for natural dog food?

Switching to raw food makes perfect sense. Many dog owners, fearful of store bought dog food, have turned to natural dog food comprised primarily of raw meat or mixes of pureed vegetables, brown rice, brown pasta and eggs. Before commercial pet food was heavily marketed and available to the general public, it wasn't unusual for dogs to eat real people food. Yes, veterinarians in recent years have frowned upon feeding your dog "people food" but think about it. Dogs are hunters and chances are your dog's ancestors would routinely feast on captured prey or edible plants. Dogs weren't always fed bland dry or canned food.

By choosing to put your dog on a natural dog food diet, you are giving your dog variety and wholesome ingredients without potentially harmful processed ingredients.

Scott Jackson has been in the Pet Industry for over ten years. He has managed large Pet Specialty Retail stores and has worked as a distributor rep in the pet industry. He is a pet owner and lover who has extensive knowledge in pet nutrition and care. He runs a website http://www.coloradopetresources.com and http://www.dogandcatarticles.com where he gives information on pet care, location of Colorado independent pet retailers, vets, breeders and a general meeting place for pet lovers.

Visit http://www.coloradopetresources.com and find the information you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Jackson

How to Choose an All Natural Homemade Dog Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:17:00 +0000

By Gerry Restrivera

With so many issues about commercial dog food, more and more pet owners are now switching to all natural homemade dog food. Homemade dog food is not only safe but also healthy. Choosing and preparing your own dog food are relatively easy if you know how. Here are some useful tips:

Before switching to all natural homemade dog food, it is best to consult your vet and get some advice. You also have to understand the healthy diet requirements of dogs with regards to their breeds, age and other factors. Generally, dogs need 40% protein, 30% starch and 30% fiber.

Slowly switch to all natural homemade dog food. A sudden change in your dog's diet may result to an upset stomach and other digestive problems.

Choose healthy fresh lean meat for your dog. Meat is the basic component of protein requirements of your dog. An all natural homemade dog food may contain lean meat like turkey, chicken, beef and fish. Kidney, liver and other organ meat are also good for your dog. Cook the meat before feeding it to your dog. Although dogs are carnivores, it is best to cook meat to kill the bacteria that may cause health problems to your dog.

Another source of all natural homemade dog food is the addition of vegetables to your dogs' diet. Vegetables act as antioxidants and a good source of nutrients and vitamins. You can add cooked corn, squash, peas and potatoes. Raw carrots and lettuce are also good for your dog.

You also have to make sure that your dog is well hydrated and there is plenty of water available for your dog. Avoid feeding your dog with table scraps; it is not a good habit to teach your dog to eat leftovers.

Switching to all natural homemade dog food is not only cheap but it also ensures your dog's health and safety. Get some healthy, well-balanced dog food recipes and start feeding your dog homemade food.

Do you want to discover a step-by-step survival guide that makes your dog live a longer, healthier life, so you enjoy up to 8.3 more years of happiness & companionship than is statistically predicted? Visit Dog Food Secrets at Dogs' Corner

To know more about pets visit All About Pets

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gerry_Restrivera

Natural Choice Dog Food

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:02:00 +0000

By Dede Purneim

The first thing you have to remember is that natural choice dog food comes in many forms. Natural may mean feeding your dog raw meat and vegetables, cooked meat and vegetables or commercially sold natural food. You have to find out which one is best for your dog.

The best way to find out is to get to know your dog personally. You have to know his nutritional requirements based on his breed and special health conditions. You can do a little research on your own. One of the most typical recipes for natural choice dog food combines grains, vegetables, and meat into a single delicious meal. One such meal specially for home made dog food recipes asks for such natural ingredients: 1 cup raw liver, 10 oz shrimp or lobster, 2 lbs hamburger, 1 boiled potato, 1/4 cup blueberries, 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/4 cup brewer's yeast, 1/4 cup brown rice, a tad of cinnamon and 1/4 cup wheat germ. Combine boiled potato, shrimp or lobster, and beef and put all in a food processor. Squash the blueberries into a mushy fruity paste. Mix together all the ingredients and turn over until a ball shape is established.

Natural choice dog food is extremely beneficial in providing your pets with the ideal minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients that he needs. When you make your own dog food you're in control of your pet's diet, so you are positive that your pet is getting all that he needs.

Dogs were built to be carnivorous so the bulk of their diet should remain protein-rich. The protein sources however should never be low-grade meat by-products. Your dog should be fed high quality lean meat and poultry. Aside from protein, natural dog food should also contain vitamins and minerals. You can get foods fortified with nutrients. You can also serve dishes with squash, beans and peas.

Discover how you can keep your dog healthy and happy. Visit at Homemade Dog Treat Recipe

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dede_Purneim

Healthy Dog Food Or Junk?

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:56:00 +0000

By Lori Matthews

As a dog-owner, have you ever thought twice about the actual nutritional value of the food and treats you are feeding your dog? If you are concerned about the health of your pet and loyal companion, you should be more aware of what the ingredients are in the dog food and products that you buy. Sadly, the labels of most commercial dog foods don't tell the whole truth about what they contain and unfortunately some can contain what I like to call useless fillers. Yes, many people feed their dog not so healthy food and they don't even realize it.

Dog food production has 'developed' in the past few decades but the life-span of these beloved animals have gotten shorter in contrast. The reason: because these 'developments' actually benefit commercial dog food manufacturers more than they do the dogs. It means using poor-quality and even toxic ingredients to ensure cheaper costs of production and longer shelf life. It means very poor nutrition for your pet so that these companies can make higher profits.

The truth about most available dog products is that they are made from low-grade grains, unthinkable meat by-products and artificial preservatives that are not fit for humans and pets to eat. For instance, substitution for meat protein and good carbohydrates are often done with poor-quality grain meals using soybean, corn, gluten, and wheat. These ingredients in fact commonly cause allergies in pets. Meanwhile, the meat ingredients typically used can include unwanted body parts of animals like the neck, head, guts, feet, lungs, and bones. Even harder to the stomach is that these can come from animals that are diseased, dying or already dead and decaying. All of these are mercilessly dumped, ground and mixed into a more acceptable form called 'meal' and made into dog food.

To add to this already unhealthy mix, chemical ingredients used by dog food manufacturers have been found to cause early dog deaths due to heart disease, kidney failure and certain cancers. So why pay for junk that will eventually kill your dog?

Dogs age much faster than humans and they require the same quality of nutrition as ours. Naturally, like any other kind of animal, a dog needs fresh and healthy food too. The ideal diet for your pet should consist of high-quality protein, carbohydrates, natural fats, fiber, and even antioxidants. Chicken and fish are good sources of protein that you can look for in dog food. Eggs also provide protein, amino acids, biotin, sulfur, as well as vitamins A, B, E, and K. For carbohydrates, brown rice is an easily digestible carb-source that is now being used as a dog food ingredient.

A new advancement in health food for dogs now includes antioxidants in the ingredients, specifically from whole foods like apples, carrots, celery, spinach, alfalfa leaf, and garlic. Grape seed extract is also being used for its antioxidants that may help slow down your dog's aging and to keep its immune system strong. This new kind of dog food likewise has beet pulp, which is a source of fiber and the short chain fatty acids needed by good bacteria in the digestive tract. Lactobacillus acidophilus in this dog food similarly aids digestion by encouraging the growth of helpful bacteria.

By providing this kind of nutritious dog food, you can ensure that your pet will live healthier and stay by your side longer.

Lori Matthews studies health, nutrition and wellness. She enjoys writing articles on health for both people and pets. Please click here if you would like more information on Lifes Abundance natural dog food

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lori_Matthews

Homemade Dog Food - Making Sure your Dog Is Healthy!

noreply@blogger.com (Malinut) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:55:00 +0000

After the recent recall of dog food you may have decided that commercial dog food can no longer be trusted and may even be dangerous for your dog, well you may be relieved to know that many dog owners are now turning to alternative methods to ensure their dogs get the best and healthiest dog foods available and the only way to ensure this is to make your own homemade dog food.

The problem with commercial dog food is that you never know exactly what is hidden inside it and how it will effect your dog until it is too late, at least when you make your own healthy homemade dog food you know exactly what ingredients you are putting into your dog, and you know there are no hidden chemicals or fillers hiding in there.

Pet owners have become too dependent on commercial dog food because it is so convenient to quickly run to a shop or pet store and pick some up and slap it in the dogs food bowl and it's done! but at what cost?

Years ago dogs where fed exclusively on scraps and homemade food that was healthy and nutritious, and not only that but did you know that it is not a time consuming activity to cook your own homemade dog food!

All you have to do is set a time and day too make and cook your own batch of homemade dog food and then freeze it so that it lasts the whole week, so all you have to do is prepare your dog food once a week at it's done, not hard at all is it really. You could also cook it the same time that you cook the families meal so that it does not feel like you are having to set separate times to prepare your dog food.

What would be the best idea is if you are unsure what ingredients to add to your dogs diet is to consult with your local vet and ask what they would recommend as the most healthy food to give to your dog, they will be able to advise you on the best foods for your particular breed of dog and what is is your dogs best interest.

Preparing your dogs food yourself is a great way to get more involved in what your dog eats and it will also give your dog more energy and health than if you just stick to commercial food which could be ruining your dogs health as we speak, it's just so easy to make your own homemade dog food that their really is not any reason why you should not give it a go, you have nothing to lose and your dog has everything to gain.

Before you go rushing off to buy all the latest books and information for preparing your own homemade healthy dog food! Go to my blog http://dog-food-reviews.blogspot.com where i review the top best selling dog food recipe books available!

Go there Now at http://dog-food-reviews.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Hartrick