Shop
Healthy Food for Pets
WELCOME TO
Healthy Food Products for Pets
At Healthy Food Products for Pets, we know that like you, your pets are equally as important to us. For that reason, we have a commitment to provide pet food products that are natural, safe, high quality and maintain the happiness and well being of pets. Family is important and that is why we know pets are not merely for us to take care of, but also a part of the family.
Our products offer complete and well balanced nutrition due to the quality ingredients that are used. Each and every one of our products offer a balanced nutrition system which is vital supporting for active energy, strong bones, a shiny coat and active energy, and strong bones. There are no fillers and we do not incorporate essential ingredients that pets do not eat.
Dogs, cats, and small animals will have products that are specifically formulated for them and intended to meet their specific requirements. Healthy Food Products for Pets will offer your pets a longer, healthier, and happier life.
You can always count that your pet will maintain their health.
Welcome to Healthy Food Products for Pets!
We offer high quality pet food and treats, alternative products, including safe flea remedies, digestion support, vitamin supplements, arthritic support, herbal shampoos, skin and coat products, and an assortment of herbal remedies for a variety of health issues.
Why We Recommend
Life’s Abundance
- NO Recalls EVER in the over 25 years they’ve been in business
- Formulated by a Holistic Veterinarian
- Delivered directly to your front door
- No wheat, corn gluten, soy, or dairy
- No by-products, artificial flavors or colors
- They have 6 warehouses, so shipping is very quick.
- Every batch of pet food is tested and made in small batches.
Top categories
Best Seller
Flea Free Food Supplement
Flea Free Food Supplement is the natural alternative to commercial flea products. Get rid of pesky fleas without using harmful chemicals.
- Safe for all animals
- 90 Day Money Back Guarantee
- Just add liquid to your pet’s drinking water and/or food
- Costs LESS than commercial flea products
GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE
We provide outstanding one-on-one customer service. We want you to be as satisfied as possible before, during and after your purchase. Plus, we treat people the way that we want to be treated – with a personal touch. So know that we are here to answer your questions and assist in any way that we can.
QUALITY & SAFETY
We’re very picky about the products we recommend and only offer products we believe in, made by companies we trust. So we guarantee your satisfaction. If you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll refund your money!
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Healthy Food for Pets is passionate about pet health. We CARE about your pet’s health and are dedicated to offering only all natural, holistic and high quality pet care products that enhance the health of animals. Our top priority is your pet’s health!
Recommended For You
Hot
Flea Free Food Supplement – 16, 32, 64, & 128 oz
Price range: $18.95 through $75.95Hot
Life’s Abundance Dog Food
$13.18Hot
Pet Sponge
$9.99
Hot
All Life Abundance Stage Cat Food
Original price was: $13.76.$12.66Current price is: $12.66.
Recent Blog Post Pet Articles
Here are a few Articles to help keep your pet healthy & happy!
The Golden Years: How to Love a Geriatric Pet Our sweet pets. They love us unconditionally through all of our family expansions, Read more
Washing Pets In case you're planning on volunteering at a shelter or even if you want to know more about Read more
The Pomeranian Dog The Pomeranian is one of they toy breeds and weighs between 3 and 7 pounds (there are Read more
The Siamese Cat This enigmatic cat originates in Siam, the place we now know as Thailand. Siamese cats were highly honored by Read more
The Truth Behind Pet Food Labels If you are reading the labels on your pet's foods, you are doing the Read more
Dog Breath - may be a sign of poor dental health! It's shame that most dog owners don't realize that Read more
What Our Happy Customers Have Told Us
My puppy Buddy, loves the kibble more then anything else we have given him in the past. Also he has a normal bowel movement and we are so happy that just within a weeks time he doesn’t have anymore gas problems. Now the only problem we have is he makes a mess on the kitchen floor….God bless him. I will be ordering more in the future.
I will be ordering more in the future.”
THANK YOU,
MELISSA ZAWISLAK
MOUNTAIN HOME, AR
The Golden Years: How to Love a Geriatric Pet
Our sweet pets. They love us unconditionally through all of our family expansions, strange hair-dos and weight gains. We’re quick to place them into the arms of strangers when we go on extended trips, arrogant in our expectations of them to behave. They move with us from one state to the next and never ask why. We, in turn, expect them to adjust without questions. They buffer our irritable moods with sloppy face licks. They yearn secretly for our arrival home in the form of neat meows. Pets are a reflection of the best parts of our humanity.
Eventually, it will come to pass … the time in their lives that we’re never prepared to face. The first signs can be anything from a waning appetite to not coming immediately when we call them. The signs are often subtle at first, so subtle that we look the other way hoping that it’s nothing major, that our pets are entitled to having a bad week just like us. Then we notice that singular bad week stretching into a string of bad weeks. We soon realize that what we thought was disobedience is in fact hearing loss and the lack of grooming is not a manifestation of laziness, but just plain weariness.
This month’s issue of the HealthyPetNet News is dedicated to our senior dogs and cats, pets that have spent their entire adult lives caring for us in their own special ways. Through early detection of age-related problems and successful management of illnesses, it is now our turn to care unconditionally for them so that they can age as painlessly as possible.
The Age Barometer:
Any creature, whether it is a cat, dog or human, attains geriatric status when 75% of its life span has elapsed. Therefore, according to this equation, when a cat reaches 10-13 years of age, it has officially become a senior citizen of the cat world. However, not all cats (or dogs for that matter) age at the same rate. A cat’s biological age depends on its breed, genetic background, the quality of diet and the overall quality of environment throughout his or her life. Research suggests that old age for cats occurs somewhere around the 8th or 9th birthday. The following is an overall guide that veterinarians use to determine aging, regardless of genetics or environment.
Small Dogs (less than 20 pounds)
9-13 years
Medium Dogs (21-50 pounds)
9-11.5 years
Large Dogs (51-90 pounds)
7.5-10.5 years
Giant Dogs (over 90 pounds)
6-9 years
Cats (Most Breeds)
8-10 years
Early Detection
With that said, when our pets start getting close to a decade old, we need to start raising our eyebrows in their direction and watching them a little more closely. The first key to helping your pet age as gracefully as possible is early detection of any abnormality. While many aging conditions are inevitable, caught early they can often be slowed down or managed so that our beloved pets continue to be comfortable and happy. HealthyPetNet wants to be part of your pet’s golden years. This is the time, more so than ever, to provide our precious aging pets with a more holistic, wholesome and natural approach to life. HealthyPetNet products are based upon the belief that our pet’s health reflects their daily life and that every feature of it should promote health and happiness with wholesome foods and treats, natural grooming products and natural supplements.
Aging doesn’t just happen, it occurs throughout our pets short lives. It’s so easy to see that the more wholesome our pets lives are from youth to senior, the healthier they will be even in their golden years. Knowing how devastating it is to watch our senior dogs and cats limp with pain as they walk, we suggest bone support nutrients before their senior birthdays.
What to look for includes: seeing and hearing loss, decreased or increased thirst, excessive urination, weight gain or loss, hair loss, skin problems, joint problems, disorientation, growths, heart problems, kidney problems, breathing difficulty, less tolerance for hot and cold temperatures, irritability, change in sleep patterns and appetite, gas, constipation, tooth and gum problems and blood sugar problems.
Does any of this sound familiar?
Yes, you’ve guessed it! Pets have the same exact symptoms of aging as we do.
Upon Becoming a Bonafide Geriatric
Frequent vet visits:
The moment you start noticing subtle changes in your pet’s behavior, you should see a veterinarian. Speaking of veterinarian, it’s important that you establish a healthy relationship with the best vet you can find, if you haven’t already done so. Once you’ve taken your pet to a veterinarian, you may find that these initial symptoms (such as change in appetite or sleeping patterns) are just a normal part of the aging process. However, a vet can also determine whether your pet has symptoms of underlying age-related health issues. If the vet decides that your pet is in fact starting to age, even if your pet is aging gracefully, you should now increase the routine visits from once a year to twice a year. This is standard for aging pets. Older pets need frequent routine care to detect potential health problems as early as possible.
Keep in mind that geriatric examinations are more extensive than simple check ups. Your vet will not only conduct a standard physical examination, but also an oral and a rectal examination. She may also check ears, eyes, thyroid glands and may even run some laboratory work.
Increased grooming:
As pets age, it becomes harder for them to groom their own furry bodies. As a result, skin problems can emerge. It’s advisable that you bathe and groom your pet more often. Besides keeping your dog clean, you may find that it gives you the opportunity to look for unwelcome guests on your dog. Ticks, fleas and burrs tangled in the fur are just a few examples of what you might find. Be on the look out for any bumps, lesions or hair loss. Nails should be kept trimmed on both dogs and cats to give them sure footing on floors. It’s also important to brush your pet’s teeth daily to help stave off tooth loss and gum problems.
Since some of us can’t brush our pet’s teeth at all or can’t brush them often enough, keep your eyes open for treats that promote good oral hygiene. If your senior has lost teeth, soft dental treats can be of assistance. HealthyPetNet Gourmet Dental Treats are always special for dogs, no matter how many teeth they have, young or old.
Feed your pet properly. If you’re not already, you should be buying your pet the best food you can afford. Your pet needs food that makes the best use of its calories … food packed with wholesome protein and life-sustaining nutrients including antioxidants. Important: Try not to overfeed. Aging pets gain weight more easily because their metabolism starts to slow. As a result, they have a much higher chance of becoming obese. If you have an overweight dog, you may want to look into HealthyPetNet’s Canine Zone Healthy Weight Loss Food to help balance insulin and hormonal levels to help keep the fat off. It’s much harder to find a weight loss food for cats. Contact your vet o get tips on good weight loss methods.
As pets become older, it becomes harder for them to digest their food. As digestion worsens, smaller and more frequent meals are the best way to go. To help with digestion and other internal functions, make sure fresh, cool water is always accessible to your pet.
Encourage moderate exercise:
It is crucial that you keep your aging pet in good shape. Exercise your pet to maintain muscle tone, digestion, circulation, cardiovascular capabilities and an overall good attitude. Walking is always good. entle fetch games keep them mentally alert and interactive with you. Although senior cats like to stay put, a thick string with something tied at the end is likely to get them to pay attention and perhaps even to attack it.
Beware of keeping your pet outside too long in extreme temperatures, whether it is heat or cold. Just like elderly humans, pets have less tolerance for extreme weather.
Include your pet:
Many people tend to leave pets out of family activities and the poor animal becomes an outcast just for being old. This is the wrong approach. Never alienate your pet from the family because she is no longer the dashing dame she used to be. Include your pet in your family’s life more than ever. Don’t push her out.
Retrain if necessary:
Does your pet respond to word commands but not signals? Or vice versa? In the likely event that your pet’s seeing or hearing may wane, make sure you train by ear and by sight so that your pet can still follow commands when some sensesbecome disabled. A blind or deaf animal can be perfectly content.
Take care of their joints:
Aging joints are very common among aging pets. It is not as inevitable as people think. The presence and the severity of jointconcerns somewhat depends on how we treat a pet’s body throughout his or her lifetime.
There are a few things we can do throughout our pet’s life to help pomote a more painless old age and buffer potential joint problems. Joint support supplements can be given from early adult hood. HealthyPetNet just so happens to have one that works well and is so tasty that dogs and cats whose sense of smell has become compromised still gobble them down. Once the golden age crawls near, it’s a good idea to give your pet soft bedding to sleep on as opposed to the hard tile kitchen floor. Keep their nails clipped to keep good traction. Gentle massage of your pet’s joints and limbs can improve flexibility and circulation not to mention intimacy between the both of you. These are all the little hings you can do.
HealthyPetNet’s Agility with Glucosamine & MSM
HealthyPetNet’s Agility is recommended for senior cats over 10 years of age, small to medium sized dogs over 6 years of age and large breed and long-backed dogs of all ages. This holistic formula contains Glucosamine, MSM, sea mussels, special herbs and fish oils. All of these ingredients support the biochemical functions necessary for healthy bones and joints. By holistic, we mean that even though every ingredient has a specific mission in our pets’ joints, they all work together maximizing each individual one. Potentiation is the term used when one ingredient enhances the other, as in Agility.
Often prescribed Steroids and NSAIDS can be damaging, especially to our older pets. Agility with its many different types of ingredients is an all-naturalsupplement and it has no side effects. Agility is a great soothing gent for mobility loss, stiffness and joint pain.
In case you’re wondering what is so special about the ingredients in Agility, we will give you a brief breakdown so that you will understand why this formula works as well as it does.
MSM is a naturally occurring nutritional sulfur that is th key component in the formation and maintenance of cartilage and connective tissue. It is found in the tissue of all plants and animals. It seems that seniors just don’t have enough. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the body and is one of the main building blocks of cartilage. Studies show that the need and presence of glucosamine in the body increases when the bone is stressed such as after a bone injury or with years of wear and tear. Sea mussels provide an extra helping of substances akin to glucosamine. This natural whole food also contains amino acids, enzymes, chelated minters, carbohydrates, vitamins, RNA and DNA and omega-3 fatty acids. Sea mussels have been clinically tested and have demonstrated themselves as beneficial in supporting joints in humans as well as dogs. Alfalfa and yucca are antioxidant-rich herbs that battle the free radicals, which contribute greatly to joint problems as pets get older. Alfalfa in particular is a perennial in the pea family rich in chlorophyll, beat-carotene and vitamins B6, C, E and calcium, which is great for bones. Nature knows what is needed. That’s why this herb has become an established folk remedy for soothing joints. And lastly, the omega-3 & omega-6 fatty acids help soothe muscles, tendons and ligaments for maximum mobility.
Our senior cats may not be able to run up stairs two at a time or our senior dogs may not be able to jump up on the highest chair. But, when Agility allows them to get to the places they like, HealthyPetNet calls that love.
Article provided by HealthyPetNet: http://www.healthypetnet.com/newsletter/september/home.asp
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Washing Pets
In case you’re planning on volunteering at a shelter or even if you want to know more about 
shampooing your own pet, here’s some little-known information and a few tips, just for you! When animals owned or homeless are outside, they
pick up all kinds of stuff in their coats from dirt, burrs, fleas, ticks and the list goes on. The more regularly you
wash your pet, the easier it is going to be on the both of you—physically and psychologically. There’s
ultimately going to be less matting, dander and dirt for you to deal with and getting your pet into a routine will mean less coaxing and cajoling on your part.
Our Finicky Cats
We all know that cats have a special relationship with water. In fact, they generally abhor it. However, cats do need to be bathed at least once every season aside from winter. Yes, cats are skilled groomers, but let’s face it: their tongues don’t come with soap. It’s important to bathe cats because loose hairs can cause allergies, and dead skin that often
looks like dandruff is a very enticing breeding ground for bacteria.
The minute they see that you are about to carry them to the sink, that cuddly creature will transform into a scratching, snarling beast. In case you haven’t already found this out the hard way, you can’t keep a cat in the sink the same way you can a dog. Their bodies are nimble and lithe—the ballerinas of the pet world. They will squirm and bite their way out of your jurisdiction before you can even blink twice. So, we recommend using an adjustable screen, the kind that you would place over a window. Adjust the screen to fit the size of the sink and position it against the side of the sink the way you would position a ladder against the wall. If you place your cat in the sink, it will freak and try to grab on to anything.
Once it grabs on to the screen with its nails, that’s a wrap. It is now attached to the screen. Hold your cat into the screen and wash. When it’s over, your cat won’t let go easily; it has begun to use the screen as a safety net. Put a towel around your cat and gently lift it off the screen.
Our Docile Dogs
Some dogs have naturally oily skin. If you take your finger and feel between the shoulder blades and you get a film on your hands, it’s definitely time to shampoo. A buildup of oil also means a buildup of bacteria. This may mean a weekly or generally a bi-weekly washing. If you don’t feel a film on your fingers after a few weeks, then lucky you; it may mean a monthly washing.
Sometimes, the frequency with which you wash your dog has to do with its lifestyle and its breed. For instance, white and light colored dogs generally need to be washed more often than dark colored dogs. And for those of you small breed owners out there: yes, you like to treat them like little dolls, but beware of over washing. Washing too often dries out the coat, resulting in hair loss and even sores. Athletic dogs or dogs that spend plenty of time outdoors should be washed every two weeks or maybe even every week. Some dogs, unfortunately for some of us, like ponds and mud so that they may warrant a weekly washing. Other dogs just have odors and its better to wash prior to the odor getting worse.
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The Pomeranian Dog
The Pomeranian is one of they toy breeds and weighs between 3 and 7 pounds (there are larger poms, and although not to the breed standard, they still make wonderful loving pets!). Intelligent and vivacious, these little dogs will steal your heart, but don’t let them get away with too much as they must be properly trained or they will become too demanding. With proper care, your Pom can live to about 15 years old.
History of the Pomeranian Dog
Did you know the Pomeranian was once a much larger dog that weighed around 35 pounds? A cousin to the spitz type dogs, this pampered lap dog once called the arctic home.
Bred down to it’s tiny size over the centuries, the Pomeranian became popular in the late 1800’s when Queen Victorian brought a 12 pound Pom back from Italy. This vivacious little dog soon became a favorite of European royalty and was bred to be even smaller until it reached the average of 5 pounds.
Historically, the Pomeranian has been fancied by many famous Europeans. Michelangelo had a little Pom that sat on a silk pillow and watched him while he painted the Sistine Chapel. Martin Luther, the great church leader had one of these little dogs that he mentioned often in his work. Mozart had a Pomeranian that he dedicated an Aria to and Chopin composed the Valse des Petits Chiens for his girlfriends Pom.
Care and Grooming
Pomeranians are easy to care for but do need some special attention. They can be easily groomed in less than 1 hour a day, but I am sure you will want to spend much more time than that bonding with your pet!
Brushing your Pomeranian every day is a good way to bond with your pet as well as insure his coat is healthy and looks good. Poms have a double coat that can easily become matted so brushing is necessary. A once a week – or every couple of weeks – bath is a nice way to keep your Pom smelling and looking good! Don’t forget to groom around his paws and tail area as well as clip his nails.
Unfortunately, Pomeranians can be prone to tooth problems. Tooth loss and bacterial buildup is not uncommon in these little dogs so you should take extra care to make sure your pet has the proper dental care. Brush your dogs teeth daily with a specially formulated enzymatic tooth paste that fights bacteria and have yearly dental checks and scaling if necessary. Tooth care is quite important to your dogs overall health as if bacteria is left unchecked in the mouth, it can spread throughout the dogs body and cause health problems for your pet.
The Pom’s eyes are another area where you should pay some special attention. Like most small dogs, discharge from the eye can accumulate causing staining and, sometimes a goopy mess. Clean the area around the eye daily with a Q-tip (be careful not to get too close to the dogs eye). If the fur around the eye becomes stained, you can buy a special liquid that helps remove the staining.
Pomeranian Dog Health Problems
Luxating Patellas or a knee that slips out of place is common in Pomeranians and in some cases this may require surgery. Many Poms suffer from hypothyroidism which can cause other problems and should be checked by your vet. Some Poms lose patches of hair as they grow older. This usually starts at the back and moves forward. If your Pom sounds like he is coughing then he may have a collapsing trachea which is not uncommon in this breed. An xray can determine if this is the problem and medication can be given to reduce coughing. Tooth loss and bacteria build up is a problem in Pomeranians as well as other small dogs.
About The Author: Lee Dobbins writes for
http://www.pomeranian-pages.com where you can find out everything you need to know about Pomeranians. Looking for a
Pomeranian? Find out more about adopting a Pomeranian puppy at http://www.pomeranian-pages.com/Pomeranian-Breeders.html
===========================================================================================================================================
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The Siamese Cat
This enigmatic cat originates in Siam, the place we now know as Thailand. Siamese cats were highly honored by generations of Siam’s kings—so much so that they were kept in the royal palace. Talk about the royalty of the cat world! They were trusted to protect the palace and monasteries from evil spirits and were thought to bring good luck.
In 1884, the first Siamese cats made their way to Britain when the current king of Siam decided to gift them to a British general. Then, they inevitably made their way to the United States. Now, the Siamese cat is one of the most universally recognized domestic cat breed. According to the Cat Fancy Association (CFA), they are the most popular shorthair breed and the third most popular breed overall.
Though this breed encompasses a myriad of colors, there are a few disagreements surrounding what constitutes a true Siamese cat and what doesn’t. However, these wonderful felines are known and most easily recognized for bodies that are generally light in color with darker areas known as points. The darker points are usually around the face, ears, legs, feet and the tail.
Weighing between eight and fifteen pounds, this short-haired, blue eyed sensation of the cat world has two body types.
The modern Siamese (also known as the “show”) have long, elegant bodies with refined tapering lines and a wedge-shaped head to match.
The traditional Siamese cat, also known as the “applehead,” is a robust, round-headed cat with a muscular physique and generous bone structure.
These shoulder perching, toy catching cats are as fam communicating with humans that other cats simply don’t possess. If you’re the type who wants to come home to peace and quiet, then you have the wrong cat. The socialites of the cat world, the Siamese cat will talk you into a corner with their loud raspy yowl. Since Siamese cats believe the world revolves around them, they demand attention. They are also very dependent on their human companions. Far from aloof, they crave interaction, lots of hugs and kisses and boy do they love their games! These cats are not meant to be left alone.
Fortunately, where the Siamese are high maintenance emotionally, they are low maintenance in every other aspect. These short hairs need relatively little grooming. Because their coats lie so close that they look painted on, a gentle weekly brushing to remove dead hair is sufficient. Like every other breed, they have their small share of genetic faults. Aside from the occasional crossed eyes and kinked tail, which are mainly cosmetic issues, this breed has its share of gingivitis.
These cats have above-average life spans for cats. They can remain in your life typically between 15-20 years though over 20 years is by no means an anomaly. The reward for such an emotionally high maintenance cat is worth it: you can have a staunch supporter and a loyal companion for a really long time. Imagine having a cat that can help tutor your children on the art of speech and years later, live long enough to see them off to college! Only the Siamese.
===========================================================================================================================================
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting
from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The Truth Behind Pet Food Labels
If you are reading the labels on your pet’s foods, you are doing the right thing. However, labels don’t often tell the whole story. Frequently, they are superficial representations of a product.
When we cruise down the pet food aisles, labels are seldom able to adequately describe the product they represent. Though the fine print may contain ingredients, how educated are we when it comes to which ingredients are desirable and undesirable for our pets?
When it comes to the things our pets take into their bodies, we should pay attention…not only to the ingredients on the label, but also to what’s behind the ingredients. What aren’t pet food labels saying?
This articles will focus on label reading. Let’s start with some of the ingredients.
Proteins…
Our pets’ diets should contain high quantities of protein. Protein is the building block of the body. Every cell in the body requires protein. However, just like everything else, protein has rich sources and poor sources.
When you are reading labels, look out for the poor sources of protein such as soybean meal, wheat and corn.
Because they are cheaper, these ingredients are often used as protein content in many foods. They have some protein, though not enough. Nothing can replace meat, chicken, fish and eggs–the type of protein our dogs and cats require. While we can turn a tofu burger into a protein delight, dogs and cats have very different digestive systems then we do. Finding the better types of protein on the label does not justify a stamp of approval on that food.
The quality of the proteins and where they come from are vital. For example, chicken meal is the dry muscle of the chicken, containing some bone and skin. The higher the amount of bone and skin, the less muscle meat…thus the lower the quality of the chicken meal.
Included in your quality check is the type of chicken used in your pet’s food. Chickens given hormones and steroids certainly can’t be as healthy for your pet as those raised without these chemicals.
But that’s not your only protein concern. You need to know if that same chicken could have been sold to your supermarket for your meal. Pet food manufacturers often use animals that don’t pass for human consumption because they are far less expensive than higher-grade meats.
The problems with the animals that don’t pass inspection are plentiful. These rejects, often known as the four D’s (dead, dying, diseased or decayed) aren’t identified on the label. While the manufacturers that use these types of meat think cooking is going to render the meats safe for our pets to eat, you may ask yourself if you would want to cook these types of meats for yourself or your children. This is an atrocious practice in the commercial pet food industry that many of us aren’t aware of…after all, who would put that on their label?
Chemical Preservatives and Food Coloring…
Many pet foods contain the chemical preservatives BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin. Scientific studies have deemed these chemicals harmful. According to the National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens 10th Report, part of the National Institute of Health, BHA is listed as being “Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” While it may allow the food to stay fresh longer, why would we want our pets to injest it–even small amounts of it?
Ethoxyquin is another preservative your pets shouldn’t have to eat. Even though the allowable levels of ethoxyquin that can be included in the food have been decreased due to health concerns, it is still allowed. Why would we knowingly feed this obviously harmful chemical to our pets? There are other chemicals to be on the look out for. Food colorings are still very commonly used in the pet foods on the market today, despite the fact that they are completely unnecessary and medically unwise. Our dogs and cats can’t see color. Those chemical dyes are put in for our esthetic benefits.
Byproducts…
Byproducts are the virtual opposite of whole foods. They are used by many manufacturers because once again, they are often much cheaper. They can contain the internal and less desirable parts of animals such as heads, necks, undeveloped eggs, feet, intestines, lungs, tendons and ligaments.
Life’s Abundance® Premium Foods…
What Our Labels Might Not Tell You
Dr. Jane Bicks formulated Life’s Abundance® Premium Health Foods for Dogs and Cats. They are natural, wholesome and packed with nutrients. Here are some things that our labels might not say.
High Quality Proteins…
Life’s Abundance® uses only the highest sources of protein. We use absolutely no protein byproducts. Also, we use only hormone and steroid free chicken meal as opposed to whole chicken, which tends to contain alot of water and fat. In addition, Life’s Abundance® uses only the best turkey meal and liver meal. We use farmed catfish, so they are free of ocean pollutants. The fish meal and fish oils contain omega 3 fatty acids. These nutrients are the subject of tremendous scientific interest. They have been scientifically proven to promote a healthier body, supporting all areas of the body including the nervous system, immune system, circulatory system and skin & coat.
Natural Preservatives and Freshness…
While you can read on the label to know that we add no artificial colors or chemical preservatives to our foods, they won’t be found in any of the ingredients we use. Our food is preserved with natural mixed tocopherols (vitamin E). Freshness is insured by using the ingredients as they arrive rather than stocking up on them so we can buy greater quantities at a savings. Our food is made in small batches to further insure freshness. Chances are if you buy any given bag of Life’s Abundance®, it was made no more than four weeks ago.
Antioxidants…
One of the current theories of aging is the “free radical” theory. We know that free radicals are formed every second of our lives. These dangerous active molecules attack the cells all over the body, eventually killing them.
Antioxidants help eliminate free radicals. They are so important to our health that they are now included in most daily supplements for us! Life’s Abundance food is packed with powerful antioxidants.
Other health essential nutrients…
No matter how good the formula and quality of ingredients, if the intestines are not healthy the nutrients can’t be absorbed. Probiotics, otherwise known as friendly bacteria, are added to Life’s Abundance®. We all know the virtues of yogurt with the live bacterial culture (probiotic) called Acidophillus. We use acidophillus as well as we combine it with four other types of friendly bacteria. That’s because the intestines require a healthy balance of bacteria. If unhealthy bacteria flourish, it can compromise your pet’s immune system and the ability to use nutrients in the food. Probiotics support a healthy intestinal system. Minerals are absorbed through the intestines and into the body. If minerals are tied to protein, they become even better absorbed, and that’s why we use chelated minerals.
Manufacturing facilities…
Although you may have the best food formula in the world, if it is not made by a trusted manufacturer, all of that sound formulating can go to waste! Manufacturers ultimately determine the wholesomeness and the freshness of the food depending on the way ingredients are selected, how they are cooked and the quality control behind it all.
Our manufacturer is a third generation father son business and has very high standards of operation. Their expertise with their low temperature, fast cooking method ensures maximum nutritional value in the food. They have a special certification, which allows the sale of food to the European markets. Since Europe has higher standards of food safety than we do in the United States, the manufacturing plant and ingredients undergo rigid inspection under the APHIS program.
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Dog Breath – may be a sign of poor dental health!
It’s shame that most dog owners don’t realize that dental hygiene is as important for their dogs as it is for themselves. Teeth that have been neglected are subject to several types of mouth disease just like their human friends.
We know that if we don’t brush our teeth, plague will build up and eventually cause tooth decay. The same thing happens to dogs. When plaque builds up and hardens, it becomes a coarse brown substance called tartar. As tartar accumulates, it can work its way under the gums and cause painful infections and gum disease. This goes on in the mouths of dogs just as it does in people. You brush your teeth every day, probably three times, but your dog depends upon you for his dental hygiene.
Veterinarians recommend that dog owners brush their dog’s teeth at least twice a week to keep the buildup of tartar at a minimum. So how do you brush his teeth? Remember your dogs taste and smell are far different form our own. If you think the zesty tingle of your favorite toothpaste will do him good, forget about it. One whiff of that stuff will have hiding behind the sofa so fast you will never get him near a toothbrush again. Most pet supply stores carry specially designed toothbrushes and toothpaste just for dogs. A small investment in this will make the job much more pleasant for both of you.
Some people don’t have the time or patience to brush their dogs’ teeth on a regular basis. If you’re one of these, you’ll want to find an alternative. A dog’s natural tendency to chew is a built-in dental care mechanism. Dog biscuits break into small chunks when chewed and rub against the teeth, providing a cleaning service. Biscuits are no substitute for brushing your dog’s teeth, but they are the next best thing and helpful with preventing bad dog breath.
Dogs that do not receive proper dental care and do not have access to crunchy teeth cleaning foods run the risk of several types of mouth disease. These can be as mild as gingivitis (a gum disease that results in swollen, inflamed gums) and as serious as a bacterial infection that can spread through the dog’s bloodstream causing damage to vital organs. You owe it to yourself and your dog to take care of his teeth or a trip to the veterinarian may become necessary.
Dental services are available for dogs, just like they are for people. A dog’s teeth can be filled, capped, and extracted if necessary, just like a human’s teeth. These dental procedures can become quite costly. I picked up an old cat at the local shelter that developed dental problems from years of neglect. His teeth became infected and a couple of them had to removed for a bill of just under $600.
The best course of action, however, is to avoid the need for such services by properly caring for your dog’s teeth. If you can avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort for your furry friend, you should do so. Preventative dental care for your dog can save you money and him discomfort. As side benefit, a dog with good teeth will have fresh breath too!
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.
The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.