• Home
  • Blog
  • Causes & Programs
  • PORTFOLIO
  • SHOP

Her & Her Dogs

PLUS THE CAT - RESCUES ADVOCATING FOR RESCUES

  • Home
  • Blog
  • About
  • CONTACT
  • Shop
  • MAKING A SPLASH

THANKSGIVING & THE BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN

October 5, 2018 | 24 Comments

We use pumpkin all year round.  There are many benefits to including this low fat, low calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable in the entire pack’s diet.

My Little Pumpkin

Contains Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A
promotes eye health and prevents the development of night blindness and other degenerative eye conditions. Since Vitamin A is fat-soluble, feeding your dog pumpkin with a little healthy oil will make the nutrients more effective. Mix your pup’s pumpkin on top of his regular food, or mix in some flax or coconut oil. The oil will also help nourish their skin and coat.

Vitamin C
essential for immune health. When combined with vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin E and other antioxidants in pumpkin, it might help prevent certain cancers from developing.

Potassium
necessary for the proper functioning of enzymes, muscles, and nerves. It is also necessary to maintain a proper fluid balance throughout the body.

Antioxidant (must reiterate the importance of this)
Derived from the carotenoid family, pumpkin, absorbed into the cells fight free radicals, or “oxidants” in your pet’s system. Oxidants occur naturally in our immune systems. Too many oxidants can contribute to cancers and other illnesses.  By including natural, fresh sources of antioxidants, such as those found in pumpkin, you can boost your pet’s immune system.

Moisturizes
Another benefit of Vitamin A as well as zinc, is that they can help improve your pet’s skin and coat. The high water content in pumpkin flesh also contributes to supple skin and a luxurious coat.

Hydrates
Many dogs who consume a kibble the only diet suffer from mild, but chronic dehydration. Dry dog food has low moisture content . Pumpkin contains a high moisture content; by adding pumpkin to meals, you add more water to your dog’s diet.

Weight Loss Aid
The High Fibre content helps fill you up (great for helping mom and pup with weight loss goals). Pumpkins have a high moisture and fibre content, which makes them a powerful tool for your pet’s weight loss. Replacing a little of your dog’s regular food with canned pumpkin (a few teaspoons for a small dog up to half a cup with a large dog) can help your dog lose some excess weight. The fibre and water in the pumpkin will keep them full, so they don’t miss the extra calories.

Medicinal Purposes
Digestive Issues and Regularity
For upset stomachs, pumpkin will aid to tighten stool in the case of diarrhea, or loose stool if your dog is suffering from constipation.

Pumpkin Seeds Prevent Urinary Incontinence
As well as the pumpkin flesh, give your pet a taste of the seeds! Pumpkin seeds contain Omega 3 fatty acids. These have anti-inflammatory properties, which can assist with dislodging kidney stones. Pumpkin seed powder is used to prevent urinary incontinence (the reduced ability to hold in urine).

Tastes Great!
Like many people, dogs enjoy the rich, creamy consistency of pumpkin.

IMPORTANT!!!
Be aware of what you’re buying when you get canned pumpkin. Some spices are not good for dogs. I only use 100% pure pumpkin.

Always check the ingredients label if you’re not sure.

HOW TO SERVE PUMPKIN TO DOGS
Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, you may wish to consult your veterinarian for advice.

Portion Size: Ask your vet for guidance on appropriate portions. Depending on the size of your dog, and their current health issues, the recommended serving could be one tablespoon once a day, all the way up to 2-4 ounces at each meal.

Homemade Dog Food: Pumpkin is an excellent addition to homemade dog food. It can also be used in conjunction with rice to help with upset stomachs (see above).

Consider mixing pumpkin into your dog’s regular diet. Since you’re adding food, you may wish to reduce the amount of kibble or wet food you’re feeding them. Discuss options with your vet. I don’t recommend mixing pumpkin with a raw diet – consult your vet.

How Much Pumpkin:
Unless your pet suffers from diabetes, 1 tsp of canned (or cooked and pureed) pumpkin per 10lbs of body weight per day is a good standard to go by. If unsure, please consult a veterinarian.  For puppies and toy or underweight dogs, only feed pumpkin in very small amounts as a treat.

Happy Fall,


 

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Health, Holidays, Nutrition

MISTAKES CAN BE AVOIDED

October 2, 2017 | 34 Comments

DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!

I was recently contacted by Brittany, of Pet Wellness Advisor and asked to share my thoughts about: What is the biggest mistake dog owners make while caring for their pet, and how can they fix the issue?

Not doing research, in my opinion, is the biggest mistake dog owners make. This may seem like a blanket response; however, I believe that research is the foundation of responsible pet-parenting and can help prevent mistakes and prepare us for the tremendous responsibility we are about to take on. That of a living, dependant being. Regardless of species.

I admit that, as a first-time dog owner, I am guilty of not spending ENOUGH time doing my research before I rescued Henry. Thus, I made SEVERAL mistakes. Remorseful dog mom face.

It’s not that I didn’t do ANY research, I just didn’t realize how much there is to know!

  • traits and requirements of different breeds
  • breeder or rescue
  • diet, nutrition, and supplements
  • exercise
  • training
  • puppy teeth
  • puppy behavior
  • toys (not all created equally – safe)
  • restricted food items
  • other hidden, unexpected dangers
  • what to do in case a mischievous dog gets into something they shouldn’t
  • what to do if they escape
  • seasonal safety
  • travel safety
  • grooming (do you know not to clip a double-coated dog?)
  • vet checks & vaccinations (research – how often is really necessary and what products)
  • senior companion concerns

The list goes on.  And on.

Many of the above-mentioned points come with sub-points such as, how to choose a reputable breeder or rescue, vet, groomer, dog walker or pet sitter, and what and how to train your dog.

Research should be ongoing. 

For example, I am continuously comparing nutrition content and supplements. I’ve learned (through research) that dogs, like people, can become intolerant of food items. We switch it up now and then.  As dogs age, so do their needs. Having two senior dogs, one with a compromised immune system, I need to know what options are available to us.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from your vet or a qualified, reputable trainer, and don’t rely on the first thing you read, or are told

Our vet, Dr. Mudde is amazing.  He is happy to review and discuss my findings, answer ALL my questions and because he knows it is important for me to learn, he educates me on things he knows I will find interesting and possibly beneficial not just to my pack but for those with whom I share the information. Don’t be afraid to discuss concerns and inquire about options.

I don’t mean to overwhelm you, and it is without judgment that I share my response. I am grateful there are so many pet-people, providing happy homes for animal companions. We’re in this together. We guide and support each other and share useful information. We learn different ways to connect with, and have more fun with our companions.  We do our research because we love them and want to protect them.

Know better, do better!

I am humbled to be asked my opinion and appreciate the opportunity to share this feedback.  Thank you, Brittany and PWA team for speaking with myself and other ‘practiced’ pet parents to compile a list and for making this information available to those who are doing their research.

 

 

 

What are some things you’ve needed to research for your companion(s)? Please comment below.

 

Categories: TRICKS, TREATS & TRAINING Tagged: Exercise, Health, Nutrition, Play, Research, Safety

CONGO RAW

June 28, 2016 | 37 Comments

INSPIRED BY DOGS, FOR DOGS

Matthew Robbins, far right, creator of CONGO RAW

Matthew Robbins, far right, creator of CONGO RAW with members of his team

Congo Raw is one of many businesses inspired by animal companions.

When asked what made him get into the ‘raw’ business, Matthew Robbins shares a very emotional overview of how Congo Raw came to be:

The first of his four German-Shepherds, Heiko, became sick at around five years of age. Within three to four months, x-rays revealed cancer throughout the dog’s body. Matthew was not married and did not have children. Heiko was everything to him. Understandably upset, Matthew searched for answers, wanting to learn as much as possible. He feels he wasn’t educated enough at that time and didn’t know what questions he should have asked. Matthew felt helpless. He didn’t have a clue where, or what to start researching regarding the cause or treatment of this disease. There wasn’t much information or alternative options provided from the vets that treated Heiko. Upon discovering cancer, they automatically advised euthanasia.

Congo was Matthew’s second dog. Within a few weeks of having him, nine-month-old Congo developed a skin disease called Demodex. Matthew notes ‘we all have the little bugs on our bodies, however, this condition seriously compromises the immune system when these bugs, cover the entire body of a dog. It is similar to mange, in younger dogs.’

He didn’t have a good job back then and wasn’t earning enough money for excessive tests and treatments. Also, Matthew had just moved out on his own. His parents had kicked him out because he kept bringing dogs home.

Things looked like they were moving in the right direction for Congo and the companions started back on their exercise routine. Matthew used to compete in Schutzhund/IPO, a ‘protection’ sport commonly performed by German Shepherds. A healthy exercise regime was essential to his athletic dogs.

Congo was on antibiotics for the skin infection that occurred as a result and seemed to have recovered almost completely and appeared healthy. Matthew says,

I didn’t know this was going to kill him

Despite treatment, Congo’s health started to digress. His immune system shut down completely, and Matthew was left with no choice but to have his beloved Congo put down. Matthew was beside himself. Finally, he realized he needed to figure out a way, which would allow him to have more control over the health of his dogs. He had to be able to do something.

Nutrition is one thing I can control

Congo raw is available in Canada; in Ontario and more recently Winnipeg.

Matthew spends approximately seventy-five percent of his time on the road, delivering and speaking with his distributors. His team looks after production and fulfillment of orders at their warehouse in Newmarket, Ontario. Cosma is Matthew’s current dog who often greets customers at the warehouse.

Switching from kibble to a raw diet does not require a transition phase. Matthew suggests “Cold Turkey.” (ba da bing!)

‘If concerned, you can have an adult dog fast for twenty-four hours, providing plenty of water, before starting them on a raw diet; not full-size meals but small portions provided throughout the day initially.’

Henry and Reese did not fast – we switched them directly, and there were no issues.

Matthew does not encourage mixing kibble with raw as it does not digest the same.

My initial observation was that, although we seemed to serve a smaller portion of raw compared to kibble, Henry and Reese seemed satisfied with their meals, and I like the fact that there is more nutrition in a raw serving.

Matthew says, people can make their own food, but there is a fair bit to know; it is time-consuming to source quality proteins and organ meat, and you must be vigilant about cleaning the working area to avoid the spread of bacteria. And yes, it does cost more. It’s on par with high-quality kibble price wise but not nutritionally.

No one can convince me otherwise

Raw is far superior nutritionally as even the highest quality kibble loses nutritional value during the cooking process. It is the same with a human diet; raw vegetables are higher in vitamins and nutrients than steamed or cooked vegetables.

Matthew compares a raw diet to ‘clean eating’ for humans. We all know how we feel after a weekend of binge eating and a few too many drinks. Healthy eating affects our moods, our behavior and our ability to focus. This difference occurs in dogs as well. More obviously, in our dogs, we notice a healthy digestive system (the evidence gathered in little blue baggies), clean teeth, bright eyes, non-irritated skin, and shiny coats.

Raw food is frozen and not processed with preservatives to last longer.

Portion sizes may require refinement based on the amount of exercise, health issues such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, etc.

Typically an adult dog would consume two to three percent of their body weight daily in raw food

Twice a day? I asked

‘It’s up to you,’ is Matthew’s response. Although bloat and contortion are much less common in raw fed dogs, sporting dogs, active dogs and deep-chested dogs such as poodles, Danes, Shepherds are prone to the condition and twice daily meals are ideal for these dogs.

Lactating dogs, puppies, seniors, and dogs that are resting during recovery periods all require different amounts of food.

Types of protein:

We struggled with chicken and noticed a huge difference with Henry once we removed that from his diet.

There are also problems with beef, suggests Matthew. More so if you consider there is more chicken available on the market. Because chicken is readily available, and it has a lower price-point, it becomes over-used. It represents eighty-five percent of the proteins on the market, so the negative press is more apparent and not proportional. Dogs with issues may have developed a sensitivity to this protein because of overuse. Some dogs are unaffected.

Matthew suggests ‘if a protein is working well, keep that as a base and add another protein as a way to change things up.’ The primary protein should not constitute more than eighty percent of the meal. A second and even a third protein can be added to make up the remainder.

No one likes the stress of having to deal with illnesses in their dogs, and we are reluctant to change things when we find something that works. The best way to avoid development of sensitivities is to mix and change proteins. We should continue to search for ways to improve the nutritional health of our dogs.

Change is good. A new combination might not work the best for your dog. The dog will live but we want the dog to THRIVE and as pet owners, we should strive for better

If you become complacent, the next dog might fall into that same category. What works for one dog might not work for the next. Henry and Reese are fed different blends of protein.

By continuing to research and educate ourselves on what is available and the additives and ingredients in products, we are in control of our dog’s nutrition and the impact it has on them. By continuing to adjust their diet, we are better able to avoid the development of food sensitivities.

Matthew advises people to read the list of ingredients on the products they’re purchasing; organ meat is not in most kibble so it would appear they’re using a synthetic option as an alternative. There should not be an abundance of anything in products. Keep things simple – it shouldn’t be complicated.

Dogs are carnivores. It’s as simple as meat, bone, and organ.

Turkey, three different grades of chicken, and natural, antibiotic, and hormone free duck, beef tripe, and salmon are the proteins available from Congo Raw.

The CFIA claims that our food is hormone and antibiotic free. The corn fed cattle look like identical twins and show up at the slaughter houses riddled with hormones. They undergo a program a few months before slaughter, to deplete their systems of the antibiotics and hormones. I still believe there are trace amounts in their systems

I’m not comfortable with that says, Matthew. I want in writing from my suppliers; their livestock has not been treated with antibiotics and hormones so that when we make claims that we’re antibiotic and hormone free, we are guaranteeing that to our customers. For some manufacturers it’s about numbers; for us, it’s about quality.

The product at Congo Raw is frozen to minus eighteen degrees to keep bacteria at bay. The equipment is sanitized, and scalding hot water is used to clean and disinfect, between the production of each type of protein and for every machine. Matthew had the facility designed by a professional and equipped according to Ontario requirements for provincially inspected, human-grade production centres. Proteins are processed separately, one type and then another, to avoid contamination and chance of bacterial contamination.

Regarding storage of product at home, Matthew cautions:

‘Older freezers are not able to maintain a temperature of eighteen degrees or colder which, as noted above is necessary to keep bacteria at bay.’

Although the product can easily store up to a year, degradation and frostbite will occur after six months; a test carried out by Matthew, who states “This will not affect dogs – they don’t care.” Most people would purchase one or two boxes of product at a time which would be consumed well within a six month period.

Boxes contain fifty patties and bags contain eight patties. We purchase a box of Henry and Reese’s primary protein and bags of secondary (and tertiary, for Miss Reese).

It is not always necessary to thaw the product. In fact, we have found that using a ‘pupsicle’ slows Henry down – he doesn’t eat his meals as quickly. Frozen patties are also great for ‘teeth cleaning’ and cuts down the risk of spreading bacteria. Reese does not care for ‘frozen meals’ so for her we ensure that we take her meat out of the freezer and place it in a storage container in the fridge after serving one meal. Twelve hours later we find it to be the perfect consistency for her. If you want it completely thawed you can set it on a plate on your counter for an hour or so first or, in the fridge for twenty-four hours.

Matthew does not take issue with DIYer’s. He simply advises ‘do your research and use common sense.’ For example, keep the area clean from bacteria, so there is no chance of developing salmonella.

If people have the time and wish to prepare a raw diet for their dogs, that’s great!

Congo Raw manufactures products on a large scale and can offer their customers the convenience as well as nutritional advice and guidance. Especially for those unfamiliar and just starting out with raw food, and for those who do not have the time to prepare the meat on a smaller scale.

When meeting first-time customers, Matthew asks: What made you choose raw? Is your dog healthy and you just want to keep them healthy or is there concern about health issues? What are the dog’s age, breed, and activity level?

Portion sizes may need to be adjusted, and we can create protein combinations, but otherwise, we can determine a diet during this initial consultation.

Matthew claims, “I don’t know everything – I just want to help however I can. I can assist them with finding specialists if needed.”

It’s no longer a niche market. People aren’t choosing raw because their dogs are sick, they’re choosing it to keep them healthy. I no longer just see dogs that are older and on their death beds.

My clients want to provide high-quality, nutrition to their dogs. They are starting to realize this is something they can start from a young age to prevent illness

Thank you, Matthew, for sharing your story and educating us about a raw diet for dogs.

Main signature

 

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Health, Nutrition, Raw Diet

COOKING WITH CORI

December 11, 2015 | 31 Comments

INGREDIENTS THAT ARE HARMFUL TO PETS

After her second daughter was born,  Cori Doern left a career as a producer in Toronto’s world-class post-production industry and moved from the city to the country.  Cori traded cutting video for cutting vegetables and creates soup stock instead of film stock.

cwc

Cori presented a jar of home-made soup to her daughter’s schoolteacher as a thank-you gift. Within weeks, Cori had sold 250 jars to local soup lovers. By the end of the year, she was supplying liquid gold to cafés in the Greater Toronto Area. By 2011, Cori had received a tremendous amount of critical acclaim.

The Toronto Star and Toronto Life deemed Cori’s soups “Delectable.”

Cori began offering take-away meals out of her kitchen in Sutton and by April 2013, overwhelming demand from a growing chorus of Georgina foodies prompted Cori to open the doors of Cori’s Café, at 132 High Street in Sutton, to the public. She prepares fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches for lunch five days a week and scrumptious dinners from Thursday to Saturday.

Cori’s Café has received more than a handful of awards,  including Small Business of the Year award for 2013, Small Business Georgina 2014, Small Business York Region 2015, and the Café was voted Best Salads and Best Desserts by Georgina Advocate readers for both 2013 and 2014.

Cori has embraced country living to the fullest and is part of a team of residents passionate about local, organic farming.

During several visits to the café, and over many delicious meals, Cori and I discussed her love of food and my love of animals.  During one of these conversations, Cori suggested I join her as a guest on the television show she hosts.  ‘Cooking with Cori’ is where this talented individual has come full circle to television again, sharing her passion for cooking and healthy ingredients and produce (noun, not verb) on-screen.

The show is featured on Rogers TV, Georgina Cable 10. This episode will air in the New Year.

I was thrilled to participate and speak about the importance of nutrition for our companions and what foods to avoid sharing with our companions – foods that may be toxic to them.

FIVE……FOUR……THREE……TWO……ONE!

When creating feasts for friends and family, we are easily distracted.  We focus on conversations with our guests, constantly aware of our timing (what needs to go in the oven and when), and being a wonderful host or hostess. “Who needs more wine”?

When distracted, we might be less inclined to notice when pieces of food drop to the floor, never mind WHAT TYPE of food item!

Feeding scraps to dogs can be dangerous. Some human foods may cause digestive problems for our dogs and cats, and some can even be life-threatening.

A good habit to get into is teaching your dog ‘on your bed’ or crate (if you use a crate) while you’re busy in the kitchen and while eating (until the family has finished with food at the table) and again during clean-up.

 All pet parents should learn and teach dogs the training commands: ‘leave it,’ and ‘give’ or ‘drop.’

CWC

Foxy Apron – a gift from Penny Latham of Honeysuckle Cottage Sales (link below)

Dangerous food items for your pet

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Dairy – Dogs do not have the digestive enzymes to break down the sugars in cow’s milk, so drinking milk can cause gas, bloating, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs.
  • Apple seeds
  • Apricot pits
  • Avocados
  • Cucumber (peel is toxic)
  • Cherry pits
  • Chocolate—toxic to dogs, cats, and ferrets—and any candy containing the toxic sweetener Xylitol
  • Coffee (grounds, beans, and chocolate-covered espresso beans)
  • Garlic
  • Grapes and Raisins
  • Gum (can cause blockages and sugar-free gums may contain the toxic sweetener Xylitol)
  • Hops (used in home beer brewing)
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Moldy foods
  • Mushroom plants
  • Mustard seeds
  • Onions and onion powder
  • Peach pits
  • Potato leaves and stems (green parts)
  • Rhubarb leaves
  • Salt and salty foods – Processed foods, such as sausages, deli meat, and canned soup, contain a lot of salt. Too much salt can cause electrolyte imbalance, kidney disease, and seizures in dogs.
  • Tea (because it contains caffeine)
  • Tomato leaves and stems (green parts)
  • Walnuts
  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener that is toxic to pets)
  • Yeast dough

List compiled from various sources.

During the show we also discussed:

  • The link between our health and diet, and the environment (Endocrine system, and diabetes)
  • Excess itching in dogs (especially ears) and upset stomach could be a sign of food allergies or intolerances.
  • Congo Raw diet available locally. Owner Mathew will discuss your concerns before suggesting a protein for your dog.
  • Nutrience Subzero is a Canadian, grain-free product that contains pieces of freeze-dried, Canadian-sourced protein.  Nutrience Subzero is now available at PetSmart Canada.
  • Consult your veterinarian and try switching to a ‘grain-free’ or ‘raw’ diet.

AND CUT!!!

cut

That’s all we have time for on today’s show. Please visit us tomorrow – we will post the recipe for Reese’s favourite (gluten-free) PB & Molasses cookies. You won’t want to miss it!

Still in need of a unique Christmas gift?

Check out the gorgeous aprons available at Honeysuckle Cottage Sales!

Thanks,

signature4-620x515

 

 

 

 

 

Categories: HENRY SAYS, "HELLO" - A Must Read Children's Book Tagged: Dog Biscuits, Health, Nutrition, Recipes for Dogs, Training

NUTRIENCE #SubZeroDifference FROM PETSMART – Our Take!

November 23, 2015 | 2 Comments

This post is sponsored by Nutrience, PetSmart, and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about the launch of Nutrience Subzero in PetSmart Canada, but Her and Her Dogs (plus the cat) only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nutrience and PetSmart are not responsible for the content of this article.

260A7817

To say the Parker Pack have diverse diets is an understatement!  Her diet is vegan, his diet is GF, and the rest of the pack need nutrition that is grain free due to allergies.  As pet parents, we only buy food that is minimally processed.  Four different meal plans are NOT convenient, but we are conscious about health and wellness and the impact our choices have on our family.

We now have our ‘zookeeping’ routine down to a fine art.  Unless we forget to thaw a patty.

NOOOOO!

YOU FORGOT TO THAW A PATTY?

YOU FORGOT TO THAW A PATTY?

We were invited to try Nutrience Grain Free Subzero™ from PetSmart® and were thrilled to learn how much, high-quality, nutrition is in this new, Canadian product.

Too many of the products that fill store shelves are filled, with fillers!  It is so important for people to research ingredients in products and know what is beneficial and what is not healthy, for pets.

260A8316_a

Henry suffers from allergies to a degree that, if someone sneaks him a treat, depending on the ingredients, his skin might break out in a rash or his ears will itch for days.  Henry reacts poorly to chicken, so when I learned that Nutrience Subzero has different options, I was compelled to research further.

Not only does this fabulous new brand offer a choice of three different blends, with a taste pets love, but each is also 100% grain free, Nutrience Pet Food contains no corn, no wheat, no soy, no by-products, no artificial colors, flavors nor preservatives.  This product DOES contain raw protein for superior nutrition.

SUBZero

The blend is a combination of protein-rich kibble and the raw we referred to previously, is a freeze-dried NUTRIBOOST to deliver the benefits of raw.  Freeze-dried means minimal processing with zero thawing required!  We also loved that formulas are prepared with fresh Canadian sources of wild-caught fish, meat and poultry.

The Science:

Freeze dried technology 

Nutriboost is fresh protein, infused with a unique blend of nutritionally beneficial

ingredients, and gently freeze-dried to lock in the natural goodness of raw foods

4 key ingredients (Green-Lipped Mussels, Pacific Cod Liver, Pumpkin & Acadian Kelp)

  • Green-Lipped Mussels – A natural anti-inflammatory to support joint health
  • Pacific Cod Liver  – A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy skin & coat
  • Pumpkin – A good source of dietary fiber to support digestion
  • Acadian Kelp – A variety of seaweed loaded with natural antioxidants to support a healthy immune system

Click the image below to see our Nutrience Subzero commercial, for PetSmart Canada!

260A7828

Don’t take our words and woofs for it, try it for yourself (and more importantly, for your pets)!  For the rest of the month (November), you can take an empty bag of Oregen, Acana, or go! grain-free pet food and get a free 2.27kg bag of Nutrience Subzero!

Or, check out the in-store event with a National demonstration event on Sat., Nov. 28

We hope your companions enjoy Nutrience Subzero as much as Henry, Reese and Ricky do.

signature

 

 

 

Photos courtesy of PetSmart Canada

PETSMARTlogo

 

PetSmart Canada on Facebook

Nutrience Subzero at PetSmart

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Health, Nutrience Grain Free SubzeroTM, Nutrition

GLUTTONY VS. NECESSITY – The Awareness Project

July 31, 2015 | Leave a Comment

NUTRITION & HEALTHY DIET

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for your companion, by introducing high-quality nutrition and an exercise regime.

Photo courtesy of Gillian Woods @ GillyFace Photos

Photo courtesy of Gillian Woods @ GillyFace Photos

I’m not the type of person that can eat whatever she feels like without having it show up soon after on my mid-section.  Although my will is not unbreakable, I try to decline when offered treats at work, and choose a healthier option from the menu when eating out.  I rarely have dessert (more because I don’t have a sweet tooth and less because I have a will of steel).  I’m not perfect; I get cravings and have caved during a moment of weakness.  In those cases, I try to spend a few more minutes on the treadmill to make up for it.

Reese can take or leave treats and will decide when she’s had enough of her breakfast or dinner. Reese is motivated by toys, not food. Ironically, this little girl could ‘free feed’ and could eat more than what is recommended for her size, and she would most likely not gain an ounce.  She would use that energy for fetch!  Henry – not so much.

Henry is the type of dog that, if he could figure out how to rip a bag of food open, (just an example as we don’t feed kibble).  He would surely over eat his way to an early death!  Sadly, over-eating to the point of bloat and death is not uncommon.

Henry is respectful of Reese and waits for her to finish eating what she wants before helping himself to any leftovers (respect is questionable – he just knows better than to get in her way).  I do a quick check to see how much food remains in her dish before permitting Henry to finish Reese’s meal.  If a fair bit remains, I remove the temptation. If it’s a tiny amount, he is permitted to finish it.

I also cut down on Henry’s dinner portion the nights we have agility training due to the number of treats rewarded during each session.  Poor little man takes after his mama, and the extra treats show up not long after consumption.  ‘H’ is the type of dog that would easily gain weight if not exercised properly.   Weight gain and difficulty managing weight become more difficult as we age.  Henry and I are not teenagers anymore.  Once the weight is gained, dogs may be less willing to exercise, and as is the vicious circle, the extra weight makes exercise more difficult and can affect bones, joints, digestive and respiratory systems.

Fattening up your companions does not make them ‘cute.’  They are at risk for serious health issues and reduced lifespan!

“Multiple pet owners have been prosecuted for cruelty to animals due to their dangerously obese dogs.”

Check with your vet to determine the ideal weight for your companion. Your vet will assess your dog or cat by measuring the full body composition as well as weight.

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention , it is estimated that 53% of adult dogs and 55% of adult cats in the United States are classified as overweight or obese by their veterinarians.  That’s 88.4 million pets!  Pet owners are beginning to realize the full extent of the impact this excess weight has on our companions.  Perhaps, in part due to a growing number of campaigns launched by animal welfare organizations and pet food companies to generate further awareness and support to pet owners.

Other causes may include:

-Hypothyroidism

-Hyperadrenocorticism

-Insulinoma or Diabetes

-Neutering

Just like humans, it is important to balance food and exercise. Calories consumed – Calories burned = Weight Loss.

Therefore, feeding a dog more calories than they can expend will result in weight gain.  High-calorie food, extra treats and inconsistency in feeding routine may also contribute to weight gain.

Steps for Weight Loss:

(do you see what I did there?)

-Reduced caloric intake

(speak with your vet about eating plan/recommended food and feeding routine)

-Increased amount of exercise

I love spending time with my family; long walks along the lake or discovering a new trail, playing fetch or practicing new tricks.  I need to keep up my level of fitness to keep up with Henry in the agility ring.  I want to be around for my loved ones as long as I can.  The sad reality is that our furry family members won’t be with us as long as we would like. As Pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the BEST care.  By doing so, we can help them live happy, healthy lives for as long as possible.

Although this post is geared more towards dogs, cats are also at risk for obesity.  The same general principals apply although methods of exercise may need to be modified.  Catnip energizes Ricky, and he flies around the house after his toys and that thin red laser line.  I haven’t noticed catnip causing a case of the munchies!

Gluttony, derived from the Latin gluttire meaning to gulp down or swallow, means over-indulgence and over-consumption of food, drink, or wealth items to the point of extravagance or waste.

Pet Obesity Prevention on Facebook
Photo provided by GillyFace Photos

Henry and Reese’s wardrobe provided by Kipekee Couture

 

 

 

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS, THE AWARENESS PROJECT Tagged: Diet, Happy, Health, Nutrition

Hello!

Welcome to Sadie & Co!

We’re Sadie & Co. (her and her dogs plus the cat). Would you like to share your rescue story or tell us about an amazing service or product? We’d love to hear from you! Thank you for visiting, we hope you’ll stop by often. Better yet, subscribe and don’t miss out on the latest and greatest tips, tricks and treats!

Connect With Us

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Search

The Knit Show

Categories

Recent Posts

DIY POWDER ROOM FOR YOUR CAT

SPOT CLEAN A JUTE RUG IN 6 EASY STEPS!

EASY DIY SWEET POTATO TREATS FOR DOGS

I made the pledge!

Search

Archives

Categories

Recent Comments

  • Aca Baranton on NINE MINUS ONE LIFE, AND COUNTING HIS BLESSINGS
  • Cathy Armato on DIY POWDER ROOM FOR YOUR CAT
  • Beth on DIY POWDER ROOM FOR YOUR CAT

Connect with us

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Instagram
  • Twitter

Recent Posts

DIY POWDER ROOM FOR YOUR CAT

SPOT CLEAN A JUTE RUG IN 6 EASY STEPS!

EASY DIY SWEET POTATO TREATS FOR DOGS

I'm An Artist Helping Animals
Don't Shop Til They Stop!
I Support Rescue Dogs
The Puppy Mill Project

Copyright © 2025 · Elissa Wordpress Theme by Dinosaur Stew

Copyright © 2025 · Elissa Child Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in