Previous Walks of Nature Tips for your Pet's Health & Safety:
April 2012
High-priced dog foods:
Are they worth the money?
Borrowed from: http://www.kare11.com/news/article/962310/26/High-priced-dog-foods-Are-they-worth-the-money
GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. - Talk about choices. Man's best friend has never had more when it comes to what's for dinner.
"It's a huge market, billions of dollars a year and a ton of competition," Veterinarian Dr. Lisa Lindesmith said when it comes to the topic of dog food.
In 2010 Americans spent more than $48 billion on pet products, that's three times as much money as we spent in bookstores.
To say dog food is big business is stating the obvious. But, what we all really want to know is: do we have to break the bank and buy the most expensive dog food to better a dog's health or is the cheap stuff just as good?
"You can spend a lot, you can spend a little, with a few tools you can learn what to look for in a bag and make a few choices to help you do a great job at feeding your pet," University of Minnesota Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Julie Churchill says.
Tool number one agreed on by all of our experts is to make sure the dog food you give your pet has the American Association of Feed Control Officials nutritional adequacy statement listed on the dog food bag.
There are two different types. The first says on the bag that the food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO.The other says that animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that the food provides complete and balanced nutrition.
These statements are the industry standard but what doesn't make sense is that these statements can be anywhere on the food bag, in any font and any size. Too often it's too hard to even find. But by law it must be there.
"They are legally bound to have that claim on the bag," Dr. Churchill said.
"If they don't have an AAFCO statement for sure run away," Dr. Lindesmith stated. After finding that claim determing what is best food is murky.
"There is a lot of middle ground, it really just depends on what you are comfortable with. There are a lot of good healthy foods out there and they don't have to be $80 a bag," Jimmy Mallard, manager of Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet in Minneapolis said.
Yes, the price on dog foods varies widely. A 30-40 pound bag can range anywhere from about $15 to as much as $80 or $90. Why that is also varies. But one reason is quality of ingredients.
Another one is marketing; fancy packaging and heavy advertising of a dog food can jack up a price. Tricks of the trade right now are negative claims. Using phrases like "grain-free" and marketing all protein as better for dogs is common, but it is not a universal truth. While dogs do need twice as much protein as humans they also need carbohydrates and those are found in grains.
"Dogs are omnivores like we are so they can use plant proteins biochemically in the body just as well as animal proteins. Nothing wrong with grains in food or carbs or anything like that," Dr. Lindesmith said.
This is important to note because many of the higher priced foods fall into this grain-free/heavy protein category and most dogs just don't need that. In fact many of these foods have a calorie count that is three times higher than that in mainstream foods and overweight dogs are the furthest thing from healthy.
Today, more than 35-percent of dogs are overweight and obesity in a dog cuts at least two years off of their lifespan. The fact of the matter is the great foods for your dog aren't hard to find.
"You can go to the grocery store and get a great product," Dr. Churchill said.
You just have to do your due diligence. Check for the AAFCO statement and buy a food made for your dog. If it's a puppy, get puppy food and if it's a big dog that exercises a lot go for a higher calorie count. You should also follow the feed directions on the bag.
But buyer beware, just because it costs a bundle that doesn't mean it does a nutritional bundle.
February 2012
Consumers pamper pets with healthier products
Borrowed from: http://yourlife.usatoday.com/parenting-family/pets/story/2012-02-13/Consumers-pamper-pets-with-healthier-products/53070322/1
DES MOINES, Iowa – Like many pet owners, customers at April Lawrence's pet bakery and boutique in central Iowa want the best for their four-legged family members.
Valentine dog treats are seen at the Bone-A-Patreat store in Des Moines, Iowa.That means high-quality, safe and eco-friendly products, from organic food and treats to BPA-free toys and water dishes. And they don't mind paying extra.
"The customers are looking at their pets as part of their extended family," says Lawrence, adding that the organic, baked-from-scratch, healthy treats she sells at Bone-a-patreat Pet Bakery and Boutique are especially popular. "They're better than what I eat!"
Many pet owners began looking for safer products after huge pet food recalls in early 2007 that followed the renal failure and death of hundreds of animals, says Leslie May, who operates Pawsible Marketing, a firm that helps pet-related businesses, in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
"It really prompted people to wake up and look at what's in their pet's food and what's around their pet's life, in their environment," she says, adding that there's also a growing awareness of lead in dog toys made in China, and of the dangers posed by some plastics used in many pet products.
Social media sites have provided a forum for people to learn more about pet health, she says, and that also leads to a demand for safe, well-made items.
"You are getting higher quality, which last longer, so you actually come out even or ahead in the end," says May.
For example, a food bowl free of the chemical bisphenol-A, or BPA, may cost twice as much as an ordinary bowl, but it can last a dog's lifetime.
Brad Weston, chief merchandising officer for Petco, a leading pet-products retailer with more than 1,100 stores, says there's definitely a trend toward healthy, eco-friendly products as pet owners project their own lifestyle choices onto their pets.
"(Pets) are increasingly thought of as family members, so not only are we willing to dig deeper into our pockets for our pets, the choices we make for them are a direct reflection of our personal preferences, values and ideals," he says.
Petco stores include a Natural Shop, featuring natural and organic foods and treats. And the company has introduced a line called Planet Petco, with earth-conscious products that are non-toxic, chemical-free and made from sustainable materials.
No matter if the economy is slumping, Weston expects the trend in premium pet products to keep growing.
"For the most part, as parents, we don't skimp on our kids until or unless we really have to. And same goes for our pets today," he says.
Adrian Hitt, a 27-year-old photographer from Nashville, Tennessee, who creates dog portraits, says she buys pet products only from companies that are trying to be green. Consumers are becoming wiser in general, Hitt believes, and that extends to pet products.
"Overall we're starting to become more educated about what's in our food, our shampoo, our makeup, in our food containers," says Hitt, owners of a 5½-year-old mixed-breed dog named Benny.
May, the consultant, says her research shows that many Baby Boomers who have become empty-nesters have turned to nurturing pets. Also, more couples and individuals are remaining childless and looking for a bond with a pet, and they have the resources to spend on their beloved animals.
"A lot of people, just like me, got a dog to do something with," says May, whose 7-year-old sheltie, Johann, was the impetus for her to get into pet marketing, and start a website and blog, Raise a Green Dog! "He sure filled that bill . the bond — it's so much more powerful than I could ever have imagined."
Erin Riley, whose company, OffthePaw.com, sells high-quality dog and cat supplies, says business is booming, and she's adding new products every day. Her Saugus, Massachusetts-based company offers a range of BPA-free toys and pet dishware, as well as many products made of recycled material, including eco-friendly pet beds. Organic treats are also popular. Her customers, Riley says, are often well-versed on what products are healthiest.
"They are aware of what the product is made of, where it comes from and how it's made. They're just not willing to take the risk," she says.
Riley, who has a 4½-year-old Shih-Poo named Zoe, feels the same. While there may not be much research on the effect of things like BPA on pets, she believes that "if there's an effect in humans, I think it goes to say there's an effect in pets."
Pet owners who want to create a healthier environment, May says, should focus on finding the best pet food they can afford, using safe products on their lawn and for indoor cleaning, and investing in safer products that pets frequently use, such as food bowls and bedding.
Lawrence, who has been in business nearly eight years in Des Moines, says there's an eco-friendly version of just about any product.
"We don't even sell a line of poop bags that isn't biodegradable," she says. "You don't think people care as much as they do about their carbon footprint, but they do, and they care about their animals' too."
January 2012
Business Insurers of the Carolinas and Pet Sitters International Share
Tips to Prevent Common Weather-Related Pet Injuries.
Avoid dangerous and expensive pet injuries this winter.
Borrowed from: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/12/prweb9014541.htm
King, NC (PRWEB) December 07, 2011
Winter can be harsh on pets. David Pearsall sees an increase in the number of pet-related insurance claims caused by snow and ice each year. His company, Business Insurers of the Carolinas (BIC), is the largest policy writer for pet caregivers in the United States and serves the majority of Pet Sitters International’s nearly 7,000 businesses.
Lesions on legs from stepping in snow holes, cuts on paws from walking on ice and illnesses from ingesting toxic chemicals are all typical claims that come across Pearsall’s desk each winter.
These are dangers that can easily avoided if pet owners and caregivers are conscientious.
“The most common winter–related pet injuries can easily be avoided by paying extra attention and spending a little more time with pets,” Pearsall said.
According to Pearsall, it’s very common but dangerous for owners to keep pets in the garage where they have access to anti-freeze and other toxic chemicals.
“Before hastily placing your dogs in your garage due to a drop in temperature, take time to assess items within their reach,” Pearsall said.
“Garages often contain cleansers and automotive products like antifreeze that can be fatal if ingested.”
One recent insurance claim handled by BIC involved two dogs who ingested hand warmers. The trip to the veterinarian and subsequent treatment resulted in a $5,000 medical expense.
Potential winter hazards extend beyond danger to pets. Another common winter pet issue occurs when pets are left unattended in the home for extended periods. This often happens when pet owners are unable to return home from the office on time due to winter weather conditions. Even the best trained and most house-broken dog can only hold its bladder and bowels for so long. The result—soiled carpeting or flooring—can be costly.
Add boredom to the equation and the potential for problems increases. If left unattended for extended periods, some pets will destroy furnishings or eat clothing items.
When possible, BIC and Pet Sitters International (PSI) urge pet owners and pet-care providers to consider the following preventive measures for maximum health and safety for their pets this winter:
- Keep all young, old and short-haired pets inside. These types of pets are more vulnerable to cold weather and should not be left outside for long and without supervision.
- Provide shelter for any pets that are left outside. Add straw for additional insulation from the cold and provide a snug, warm bed that does not sit directly on the ground.
- Leave extra food and water in plastic bowls for any pets that are left outside.
- Learn the signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect you pet is suffering from either of these conditions.
- Clip the long hair on the bottom of your dog’s feet before the snow and ice fall. This will prevent the build up of ice balls which can be painful and difficult to remove.
- Trim your pet’s nails regularly during the winter. Pets may have a difficult time trying to maintain solid footing in icy conditions with long nails.
- Find a warm place for your pets to sleep. All pets, including small caged pets need to be kept warm and away from drafts.
- Place pet-safe wipes by the door. Ice-melting chemicals and salt can irritate and burn the pads of your pet’s paws. Thoroughly wipe off your pet’s paws when he comes inside.
- Use antifreeze and other household chemicals that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is extremely poisonous to pets.
- Get in the habit of banging on the hood of your car before starting the engine. Cats and wildlife seek warmth and climb into the engine during cold months.
If winter travel will keep you away from your home and pets, book the services of a professional pet sitter in advance to ensure your pets are safe and comfortable.
Holly and Houseplants Bring Howls and Hisses: Holiday Safety Tips for Pets
Borrowed from Judy & Kate, LongBeach Post
Because our pets are some of our favorite—if not absolutely our favorite—things, we want to emphasize the importance of being especially careful about them during the winter holiday season. During this busy time, we often become addlepated, and little things like keeping the kitten away from the tinsel may slip our minds. At the same time, we covertly slip Aunt Yetta’s fruitcake to the dog, not realizing that the raisins in it may make him ill. Like so many publications online and off, we wish your pets a safe Christmas with the following caveats:
Gift Wrap and Other Christmas Clutter
- Dogs knock them over and cats climb them, so make the tree as inaccessible as possible, and keep decorations and ornaments, especially the fragile ones, on the high branches.
- Keep all tinsel and the ribbon from gift packages away from your pet at all times. These things can get stuck in the intestine, and surgery will be necessary. And tinsel and ribbon are—well, catnip to cats.
- Candles are especially dangerous near animals. Don’t light them anywhere near where your pet will be.
- Mistletoe, poinsettia, holly, lilies, garlands—not vegetables. In fact, they’re horribly toxic to pets. Keep them out of reach as well.
- Exposed electric cords can cause electrocution or burns. (Remember that God-awful scene from Christmas Vacation? I know that we’re not the only ones who didn’t think it was funny, and it can happen.) Especially keep the pet rabbits, hamsters and all things great, small and chew happy away from them.
It’s Their Holiday, Too
We find this hard to believe, but not everyone thinks that pets are members of the family. Less unbelievable is that pets don’t like all your friends, either. If there’s a crowd at the house, make sure your cat or dog has a room to cower in or a bed to curl up underneath. Keep the litter box as private as you would your own. Check on your pet from time to time during the event and tell them that it’s all right, that you love them, and the interlopers will be gone in a matter of hours.
If any of the parades pass by your house and your pet freaks out over the drums and tubas, consult your vet for a tranquilizer. They do make earplugs for pets, but neither of us has used them on ours, so we can’t recommend them one way or another. Again, trust your vet for this information.
Do not feed pets from the table.
- Bones from fowl can splinter and stick in your pets intestinal tract. Don’t feed any to your pet.
- Leftovers that have been sitting out may have spoiled and can make your pet ill. Toss everything in the disposal or the compost pile.
- Keep all alcoholic drinks, especially sweet and creamy ones like eggnog, completely out of reach of animals.
Travels with Charlie, or Any Furry Friend
If you’re going to be away, make special arrangements for your pet and include instructions for feeding, socializing and medication (if any). Leaving pets at home with a sitter who can come in is often preferable to boarding, especially for cats. Canines, however, may enjoy the socialization of doggy overnight camp.
Make sure pets wear proper identification, and get them microchipped.
If your travel plans include your pet, there are plenty of pet-friendly campgrounds and hotels available. You also may be lucky enough to be staying with a friend or family member who’s just as nuts as you are regarding animals. Again, be sure your pet wears ID, and a microchip is mandatory. Locate a vet in the area where you’ll be staying, or have someone recommend one.
Your dog may enjoy the wind in his or her ears, but restrain him or her on long road trips to prevent driver distraction and for safety’s sake. You’ll be in an area unfamiliar to both of you.
If traveling by airplane, check the flights to see if you can bring your pet in a carrier in the cabin and not in cargo. It’s one thing to lose your baggage, but having your pet disappear is tragic. Again, see your vet for a tranquilizer, if necessary, and any other necessary medications.
In all cases, provide plenty of food and water, and toys and treats, too!
Ultimate Safety Tip
Pets are not gifts, so don’t surprise anyone with one. Shelters and rescues are full of good intentions gone awry. However, if you know anyone planning to adopt a pet, or if you have promised one to someone in your family, you can make a special “critter coupon” on which you promise to accompany the prospective parent to one of the many aforementioned shelters or rescues.
Get the full scoop here: http://www.lbpost.com/life/pets/12863
The top 10 pet-owner mistakes
Avoid common errors, and keep your four-legged pal healthy and well-behaved.
Mistake 1: Buying a pet spontaneously
Mistake 2: Skipping obedience training
Mistake 3: Being inconsistent with the rules
Mistake 4: Dispensing too many free treats
Mistake 5: Neglecting to socialize your pet
Mistake 6: Skimping on exercise
Mistake 7: Neglecting to keep your pet mentally active
Mistake 8: Leaving a pet alone for too long
Mistake 9: Failing to make your home pet-friendly
Mistake 10: Punishing your pet
Get the full scoop here.
Dog and Storks program: wwlp.com