Most of the time, I beam with pride over my dog who is undoubtedly the smartest, most athletic, most beautiful creature on the face of the planet. Most of the time, the glistening white of her tricolor coat is a vision in nobility. That is until her fluffy white mane ends up all over my clean black dress. It’s my own fault. If I didn’t wear as much black, I wouldn’t notice how much the animals in my life shed.

There may be people who tolerate dog hair, but I’ve never met anyone who loves shedding season. I’ve spent many an exasperated moment wondering if my floor, my clothes and indeed, my life, would ever again enjoy one moment of blissful cleanliness. I’ve been embarrassed by the furry state of my couches (yes the dog gets on the couch – don’t judge!). I’ve wondered how a dog can lose so much hair without going bald. In the end, the joy that my animals bring far overshadows the constant challenge to my obsessive compulsive cleaning preferences.

Why do dogs shed? Despite the hopeful rumors you may have heard about Labrodoodles and Portuguese Water dogs, all dogs shed. Shedding is part of a four-stage process of healthful and normal hair growth, which includes growth, outer root sheath attachment, rest, and shedding. The longer the “resting” phase (for certain breeds), the less your dog seems to shed.

Seasonal Coats: Though dogs, just like humans, shed minimally year-round, spring and late fall are two of the most intensive times. Nature makes it possible for them to wear two, distinctive and effective coats per year. In fall, dogs prepare for cooler weather with heavier and often longer fur. In spring, they effectively leave that coat on the floor (or couch or bed or your new little black dress) and replace it with a shorter, lighter summer coat.

Can you prevent shedding? You cannot prevent shedding. A normal amount of shedding is the result of a healthy diet and healthy dog. It will be evident in a shiny, soft coat and in your dog’s ability to adapt to temperature changes.

How to manage the onslaught of the hair: On the extreme side, you could only adopt animals that match one another and your home’s color palate. It won’t reduce shedding, but it will make it less visible. A more effective approach is to groom your dog. Regular brushing helps to remove the loose hair follicles before they attach to your cashmere sweater and helps to keep your dog’s coat soft. See the resources listed below for determining grooming needs by breed and questions to ask your local groomer or pet supply store regarding proper tools. The best part of brushing your dog at home: the bonding and cuddling together.

Is there such a thing as too much hair? Yes. Different breeds will shed different amounts of hair. However, remember that shedding should be part of healthy coat transformation. If you notice that your dog is losing an inordinate amount of hair resulting in patchiness, an extremely thinned coat, or a dull and uncharacteristically rough feel, consult with your veterinarian. Also keep an eye out for skin conditions underneath the hair. An unhealthy coat or skin condition may be indicative of an improper diet or potentially serious health issue.

Even in their most annoying trait, our dogs are still the Zen masters of living, teaching us to chill out over our newly fur-covered wardrobes. Enjoy the regular grooming times with your dog and realize that the hair attached to your sweater is just a daily reminder of how much they love you.

Additional Resources:

http://www.trainpetdog.com/dog-grooming-needs.html

http://www.dogster.com/dog-grooming/

For a fancy name, it’s a pretty simple concept. The canine ancestral diet is the evolutionary diet of our beloveds. Before humans stepped into the mix with kibbles and bacon-flavored crunchies, dogs and their ancestral lineage ate raw diets heavy on protein, moderate on fat, and sprinkled with fruits, vegetables and grasses they could forage.

Yum!

The ancestral diet has been picking up steam in the popularity department lately. It’s important to note that while there are strong devotees to many different types of canine diets, solid scientific research can be found to back nearly every thesis. In other words, it can be difficult to determine “the right” choice for your dog.

We’ve pulled together some figures and thoughts to help the process. Here at Zuke’s, we believe in any diet that places your dog’s health as the number one priority.

Breakin’ it down: According to Mike Sagman at www.dogfoodadvisor.com (as attributed to Steve Brown, “See Spot Live Longer,” 2007), the canine ancestral diet was made of approximately 56% protein, 25-30% fat, and about 14% carbohydrates.

For comparison, Sagman references today’s average dry dog food diet (as attributed to the National Research Council, National Academy of Science, “Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats,” 2006). Today’s typical dog diet consists of 18-32% protein, 8-22% fat and 46-74% carbohydrates.

Most agree the carbohydrate leap in today’s average dog food is not reflective of canine dietary needs. Rather, it is due to the relative affordability and high “filler capacity” of grains.

What’s what? A good starting point is to understand how the building blocks of any healthy diet benefit your dog.

• Protein is critical for growth, cell development, immune system health and amino acids. All proteins are not created equally. It’s not a stretch to envision – just think of the difference between a salmon filet and a hot dog.
• Fat, so often maligned in human diets, is an integral component to a canine diet. It helps moderate beneficial fluid retention (water metabolism) and is extremely important for canine endurance athletes. Active dogs need more fat. Sled dogs, for example, can eat up to 50% of their diet in fat. Dogs metabolize fat a lot like humans metabolize carbs.
• Carbohydrates are the last of the “big three.” While nearly everyone has a different opinion on carbs in the canine diet, most can agree on the following aspects. Ancestral canines did consume some high quality carbs through foraging. Most modern canine diets overdo it in carb percentages. (Do bear in mind: any dry kibble or treat will need some sort of starch or carbohydrate to bind it together.) High quality carbs, in appropriate amounts, can contribute positively to energy and dietary fiber.

Determining the best diet for your dog is a personal choice, which should be based on your dog’s activity level, general health, veterinarian’s recommendation and your lifestyle.

If you do opt to feed an ancestral diet, coordinate with your vet on the best way to make the change. Some people report noticeable changes in their dog’s energy and coats with just one day of “ancestral feeding” per week. Combined with a balanced and healthy diet the rest of the week, this may be the perfect mix for you and your dog. Most importantly, give your dog (and his digestive system) ample time to accommodate any change.

Happy feeding and eating!

Love,

Zuke’s

Further resources:

http://www.dog-nutrition-advice.com/low-carb-dog-food.html

http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/choosing-dog-food/ideal-dog-food/

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=458

Whatever your lifestyle, hopefully, you’re out exercising with your dog. Just as different human bodies (and minds) are suited to different activities, the same goes for dogs. Gauging the type and duration of activities in your pup’s routine is the first step to ensuring they’re getting everything they need nutritionally.

The “I-only-run-when-someone’s-chasing-me” Dog: In general, if you and your pooch engage in irregular, short bursts of exercise – even at a high intensity – an overall, balanced and healthy diet will suffice. (Though we encourage you to not overfeed and to pencil in some more play time.)

• For a treat, choose: Zuke’s Mini Naturals. They are low in calories (three per treat) and easy to digest. Even so, use sparingly if your pup is tipping the scale.

The “Sweatin’ to the oldies” Dog: In other words, the regular excerciser, who accompanies his human companion on fun outings like moderate runs or strenuous hikes a few times a week. Just like a high-energy, high-output human, dogs that get regular doses of aerobic activity benefit from a diet high in carbohydrates.

• As a supplement, choose: Zuke’s Power Bones. They are jam-packed with both simple and complex carbs to balance quick energy boosts with sustained energy needs. If you’re on a long hike, pack some Power Bones, right next to your human energy bar. Also feed Power Bones before, during or after your typical workout regime.

The "Sweatin' To The Oldies" Dog

The “Endurance-athlete-slash-working-stiff” Dog: Some dogs live by the credo, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” Whether chasing that tail keeps them wired for hours, or they’re out hunting or herding to earn their keep, dogs who sustain high levels of activity for hours on end have some special dietary needs.

Interestingly, the hardest working dogs on the planet need a diet high in fat, moreso than carbs. But be very careful with this knowledge. We’re talking hard working on the level of Iditarod sled dogs. When accompanied by an extremely high level of aerobic activity, diets high in fat produce chemical changes in the heart, lungs and enzyme systems so that fat can be used to fuel muscles more efficiently than carbs. Yes, your beloved dog is an extraordinary athlete, but it’s unlikely most dogs need a diet amped with fat.

The “Endurance-athlete-slash-working-stiff” Dog

However, your dog doesn’t need to run 1200-miles of tundra to benefit from a nutritional boost.

• As an integral part of your dog’s diet, choose: Zuke’s SuperFood Organic Dog Biscuits or Zuke’s Hip Action Dog Treats. SuperFood treats are packed with nutrients and anti-oxidants, and ring in with at least 11% fat content. Hip Action treats have a good calorie boost (at 24 per treat) for very active dogs, with at least 10% protein and eight-percent fat. Plus, they contain glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term joint health.

The “Every” Dog: Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Mild dehydration won’t have long-term negative impacts on your dog’s health, but it will slow them down athletically for the day. Bring a collapsible dog bowl on your outings and pack water for your dog if you’re exploring dry landscapes.

Activity level, diet and hydration are all related. Highly active dogs tend to eat more, which raises the amount of water expelled with number one and number two. Diets high in protein, fiber and salt make it harder for dogs to stay hydrated.

The opportunity to play, exercise and work with your dog is privilege. Make sure you’re giving them everything they need to be safe, comfortable and have the energy to do that thing when they run up the trail 82 times to your single ascent, checking on your progress each time they descend.

Additional Resources:
http://www.sportsvet.com/Art3.html
http://www.thedogathlete.com/research/http://www.caninesports.com/fatdogs.html
http://www.hilarywatson.com/athletes.pdf

By Liam Crowe

Independence Day celebrations are great fun for people, but the loud noises and bright lights can be traumatic and create confusion and fear for dogs. Animal shelters report that the July 4th holiday brings record numbers of runaway dogs to their doors. These dogs have been frightened and made frantic by fireworks. But by being aware and thinking ahead, we can keep our dogs as safe and comfortable as possible during the revelry.

Retrieved from www.dogtipper.com

Crowe offers the following tips for dog owners to prepare for Independence Day:

•If you are going to a fireworks display, leave your dog at home where he will be the most safe and comfortable.
•If you go to a holiday event, never leave your dog in the car. A partially opened window does not supply sufficient fresh air, and it creates an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
•Always keep proper identification securely fastened to your dog’s collar in case he gets out. Talk to your veterinarian about implanting a universal microchip in your pet, and make sure that your veterinary clinic and animal shelter have your correct contact information in their database.
•Don’t leave your dog outside. If you cannot bring him inside, cover his dog house with a blanket to protect him from the bursts of bright lights and loud bangs. A dog’s sense of hearing is acute—over 10 times more sensitive than humans’.
•Create a special den-like area in your home where your dog feels safe. A properly introduced crate or kennel can be a calming refuge for him.
•Some dogs become destructive when frightened. If you don’t use a crate, remove any items in the room which your dog could destroy or which could hurt him if he chewed them.
•Keep your dog away from the front and back doors. Your dog may be under significant stress, which could result in unnecessary injury to others or cause him to dart out the door and become lost.
•Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes.
•Turn on a TV or radio at normal volume to distract your dog from loud noises and help him to relax.
•If possible, stay with your pet during the majority of the fireworks. A dog often reacts more intensely to loud sounds and flashes of lights when you are not with him.
•Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog while you are away from home.

“July 4 is a time for fun and celebration and by taking these precautions, you and your pets can have a safe and happy holiday experience.”

Liam Crowe is the CEO and Master Dog Behavioral Therapist of Bark Busters USA, the world’s largest dog training company. Bark Busters trainers, who have trained more than 500,000 dogs worldwide, are renowned authorities in correcting dog behavior with all-natural, dog-friendly methods. Bark Busters training is the only service of its kind that offers guaranteed lifetime support. With hundreds of offices in 42 states and 10 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to enhance the human-canine relationship and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. SPCA International selected Bark Busters’ dog behavioral training services as the “Best of the Best” in their category. No other training company or dog trainer has received such a distinction. For more details, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com to find a dog trainer in your area, complete a Dog Behavior Quiz, or learn about becoming a Bark Busters franchise owner.

© Copyright Bark Busters USA, All Rights Reserved

One more month, three easy ways

To support the Dog and Cat Cancer Fund

Any time is a good time to support The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund (DCCF), but there’s only a limited amount of time to raise the DCCF coffers by doing what you already do — buying Zuke’s treats!

Huh?

The Keep Hope Alive! campaign runs through June 30, 2011. In purchasing the Zuke’s treats you normally buy for your animals, you have an opportunity to donate to the DCCF – and it won’t cost a penny more.

How?

1. Clip the UPC code from any Zuke’s Natural Treat package and mail it back to us. For every UPC received before June 30, 2011, we will donate $0.50 to the DCCF. Gather up a bunch and mail them to: 

Zuke’s
ATTN: Keep Hope Alive
PO Box 3210
Durango, CO 81302

*Save the postage and check with your local pet food store. Many stores are gathering UPC codes and will send them en masse just before the deadline.

1. Buy the specially marked 2-packs of Zuke’s Jerky Naturals® and we will donate 25% of the purchase price to the DCCF. Just look for the “Keep Hope Alive” band at your local store or online. With the 2-packs, we will donate as long as supplies last.

Win-win. Your dog gets her Zuke’s treat (or let Isabella the dog convince you here) and someone else’s dog may get a second chance at a healthy life (read about some of the animals the DCCF has helped here).

1. Make a direct donation to the Dog and Cat Cancer Fund. Okay, this one does come out of the penny bank, but each penny is deeply appreciated. Just to be clear: there is no deadline for giving to the DCCF. Your generosity is welcome and appreciated at any time. To make a direct donation, please visit the DCCF website. 

Keep Hope Alive from The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund on Vimeo.

Thank you. With Love, Zuke’s

Helping animals, and the people who love them, fight cancer

May 6, 2011 was a big day around Zuke’s. It’s in our nature to have a good time, but May 6 was truly celebratory. On that Friday, we received word that “Angel” was celebrating her seventh birthday.

Angel - Cancer Survivor

Angel is one of the animals (over 70 in four years) that The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund (DCCF) has helped. May 6, 2011 not only marked her seventh birthday, but also marked one year of living cancer-free following a successful canine bone marrow transplant.

The DCCF was founded in 2007 to offer financial assistance to families with pets fighting cancer. Grants are distributed based on the animal’s prognosis and the guardian’s financial need. (Check out this video about applying for DCCF funds.)

Helping dogs, cats and the people who love them is the primary goal of the DCCF. As the Fund grows, we hope to become a force in combating pet cancer by: offering high level research grants into the next generation of life-saving treatments, collecting data on the environmental factors that influence the emergence of canine and feline cancer and providing an educational portal to empower pet owners to learn about cancer prevention and early detection.

The president of the DCCF, Chris Meiering, has some street cred on the issue. His research career started as a undergraduate cancer researcher at The University of Arizona, he then got a Ph.D. from the University of Washington in virus research, then completed 5 years of postdoctoral experience at Stanford University. He was researching human virology prior to moving to Durango and focusing full-time on the DCCF. He’s presented to everyone from undergraduates to Nobel laureates and has a vocabulary so chock full with syllables we can’t be sure he doesn’t just throw a few in here and there for good measure. Luckily for all of us, his intensity is reserved for fighting cancer on behalf of our cherised dogs and cats. Everything else about him is as kind and easy going as they come.

Chris knows, firsthand, the devastation of losing a dog to cancer. He is the brother of Patrick Meiering, the founder of Zuke’s. Their family golden retriever, Oly, passed away from canine hemangiosarcoma at eight. After this devastating loss, Zuke, as in the rambunctious chocolate lab who inspired the company, also passed away from lung cancer at seven.

Patrick and Chris decided to take action, on behalf of dogs and cats. They formed the 501c(3), non-profit DCCF. Zuke’s gave the start up money and annually pledges a percentage of its profits. In 2010, this pledge was over $40,000.

The DCCF is on a mission to help small animals and the people who love them. If you’d like to learn more, check out www.dccfund.org. To make a tax-deductible donation, click here.

You can also support the DCCF with your Zuke’s purchases. As we mentioned, a portion of our annual proceeds goes directly to the DCCF. Plus, there are special opportunities for you to give throughout the year, such as the Keep Hope Alive™ campaign, running through June 30, 2011.

If you have a dog or cat with cancer and you’re seeking financial assistance with their veterinary care, apply for a DCCF grant at www.dccfund.org.

Helpful hints on adopting pets from local shelters and humane societies

We were curled up on the couch watching “Shrek” when it hit us. Our adopted cat was “Donkey.” Everything about her is Donkey-like: her Siamese coloring, her short and very bowed legs, her big ears and the way she doesn’t walk, but rather trots around the house. If we closed our eyes, we swore we could hear her saying, “And in the morning, I’m making w-a-a-affles!” But what really sealed the deal was her Donkey-like enthusiasm and capacity for love.

When we adopted Attie, it was my husband who was pushing for a cat, thereby leaving me in the role of ogre. In the movie, the ogre reluctantly allows Donkey into his life and a beautiful friendship is borne. Taking cues from her donkey doppelganger, this goofy little cat looked at me with so much love and happiness that I couldn’t help but feel the same. She was passed over time and again at the shelter, but she grabbed my heart from moment one and hasn’t let go since.

Attie

Welcoming a new pet into the family is a big decision. In honor of National Pet Adoption Week (officially May 1-7, though Zuke’s would argue it’s every week), we’ve collected some advice and tips from the experts on how to make the process as smooth as possible for you and your new companion.

Before Adopting:
Shelters and Humane Societies will guide you through the process, but be prepared to answer the following questions (courtesy of the Denver Dumb Friends League):
• How much time do you have to play with, exercise and train your new pet?
• How much time will your pet spend at home alone?
• What is your neighborhood’s tolerance for barking?
• Do you have a busy, active household or a calm, quiet household?
• Are there small children, elderly or pets at home?
• What is your tolerance for minor destruction to the household as you train your pet?

These questions will help you and the shelter staff narrow down complementary characteristics for your life. You can do advance research on breed characteristics by visiting the American Kennel Club or Animal Planet breed pages. Mixed breeds can be an excellent choice to maximize your favorite qualities. If your heart is set on a purebred, check out regional breed-specific rescues (google: breed name + rescue + your area).

Enjoy the process:
Listen to the shelter workers. They interact with the animals on daily basis and can offer valuable insight to individual personality charms and quirks. Spend time with the animal and take advantage of dog walking opportunities, take home visits and fostering, if available.

Bringing home your new best friend:
Once you’ve made the decision to adopt a dog or a cat, remember to chill out! We know how exciting it is to bring a new animal home and typically your heart is invested before you’ve even left the shelter. But it may take longer for your new companion.

According to the Humane Society for Boulder Valley, be sure to provide the dog or cat with its own space – whether that’s a bed, a small room or crate. They will need to have a quiet place they can retreat to and call their own, unassaulted by excited humans. It may take several days to several weeks for the animal to feel comfortable.

Dogs are susceptible to separation anxiety as a result of change. Recognize the symptoms, which may be mistaken for straight up misbehaving, and have compassion. This is an excellent resource to learn about separation anxiety. Also, many shelters offer follow-up visits and training for dogs going through a difficult adjustment.

Other ways to make the transition easy are to be prepared with basic needs and fun treats your new pet will enjoy. Before you bring your cat or dog home, be ready with the following list of goodies, courtesy of the Humane Society for Boulder Valley):
• High quality food (consider feeding the same food as the shelter or migrating slowly toward a new diet for ease on your pet’s digestive system)
• Food and water bowls
• Leash, collar and harness
• Toys – for play, chewing, scratching, etc.
• Brush
• Zuke’s natural pet treats. (Okay, we added that one, but it’s never too early to start spoiling your animal with treats that are delicious and beneficial to their health.)

Savor each moment:
As we like to say at Zuke’s: Be healthy. Be active. Be devoted. Your new pet will undoubtedly bring you more happiness and joy than you can fathom. Have fun!

Hands and paws down, dogs are the best workout buddies. It’s a little known fact that our company was borne from a hike Zuke (chocolate lab) took with Patrick (Zuke’s human). When Zuke bonked, Patrick shared some of his human energy bar and hatched a plan for dog specific, all-natural energy treats.

Without exception, we’re huge proponents of regular exercise for our dogs and ourselves. Within the exercise regime, however, tailor the activity and level of intensity to best protect your pet’s short and long-term health. Along with a chat with your vet, here are several factors to consider before putting in major miles.

Your Best Running Partner!

Age: Your puppy may have more energy than the entirety of a kindergarten class on a Twinkie binge, but he’s not ready to be your regular running partner until his bones are fully developed. For most breeds, full bone maturation occurs around six to eight months. Until then, regular play and short walks will ensure sufficient exercise.

Breed: The bigger the dog, the longer you need to wait before your comparing 5K times. Some of the largest breeds shouldn’t engage in an established running routine until they are at least two. Of equal importance, be aware of the breed’s health tendencies and pitfalls. If you want to run with a dog, perhaps a Newfoundland isn’t the pet for you. If you prefer short and fast runs, think Greyhound, not Chihuahua.

Also note your dog’s nose. Pugs, boxers and other breeds with pushed-in faces (technically called ‘brachycephalic’) have small nasal passages and may have narrow windpipes that make it difficult to breathe easily during exertion.

If you’re looking for a new dog, check out this great article by Runner’s World magazine on how to choose your optimum canine running partner.

Temperament: Admittedly, I’m more prone to distraction from bright, shiny objects than my dog is. Alas, I know how to interact with the other people, cars, cyclists, small children and wildlife we’re apt to encounter. If you’re training a puppy, be conscious of the distractions on the trail and take the early months to train on focus, voice command and socialization.

Preparation: Warm up with your dog. Prior to every run, warm up muscles with a slow walk, some backyard play and some stretching (downward dog, anyone?). Start slowly and build intensity to toughen the dog’s pads, in addition to muscle and cardio stamina.

Temperature: Dogs don’t sweat, they pant. Neither do dogs complain about a sweltering day. Pay attention to:

• Time of day – avoid heavy exercise in the heat of the day;
• Temperature of pavement – feel the pavement with your hand to ensure it won’t burn your dog’s pads;
• Water availability – ensure some water is available along your route; and
• Breed of dog – brachycephalic breeds are more prone to heatstroke.

 What to Bring on a Run or Hike:

• Water 
• Zuke’s Power Bones
• Leash
• Plastic bag for poop…just in case
• Camera, so you can send us pics of your adventures together

Cool Down: Treat your dog like the elite athlete s/he is, with a full body rubdown after your hike or run. Just a quick mini-massage will loosen all the muscles and aid recovery. Bonus: the act of petting your dog reduces your stress, blood pressure and cholesterol. Win-win.

Take it easy. Build intensity. Be active.

Tell us: What activities do you have planned for you and your best friend?

Focus on ingredients that add nutritional value to a pet’s diet

(Full disclosure notice: This article was prepared by an associate of Zuke’s Performance Pet Treats. Zuke’s all-natural products complement and enhance a balanced diet with beneficial and nutritive treats. It is strongly advised that you work with your veterinarian to determine the proper diet for your pet. The following information should serve as a general guideline and provide an initiation point for further conversations about pet nutrition.)

Fad diets, such as the “fat-free” craze or high-protein with no carbs trend, tend to focus on exclusionary methods of eating instead of proactively opting for ingredients that contribute to good health. Choosing foods that deliver the greatest benefit, rather than indiscriminately cutting certain foods from the pantry, is a healthier approach to dietary planning. It results in feeling better, looking better and maintaining a healthy weight.

The same goes with pet nutrition. Just as you choose between an apple and a candy bar for an afternoon pick-me-up, so can you choose between the ingredients you feed your pet. The candy bar may curb hunger, but the apple delivers elements crucial to good health (fiber, vitamins and antioxidants). In serving as a reward or to satiate hunger, pet treats and food should also positively impact your animal’s overall nutritional needs.

Healthy Dogs Are Happy Dogs

Today’s pet food market is flush with healthful options, though some questionable kibbles masquerade behind attractive packaging. The key lies in understanding the benefits and the purpose behind each of the ingredients listed on the bag. While nutritional needs vary among individuals and breeds, a diet filled with functional ingredients is advantageous to most.

The term “functional ingredient” does not have a universally agreed-upon definition. For our purposes, we define a “functional ingredient” as any component that beneficially impacts the nutritional value of a food or treat.

For pets, look for ingredients that contribute to high quality, sustained energy, soft coats, clear eyes, healthy joints and other indicators of health and well being.

Functional ingredients to seek in pet foods and treats:

• USDA-graded meats: It’s not feasible for most of us to feed our animals the raw protein they prefer “in the wild.” Barring the availability and cost of fresh meat, opt for packaged pet foods that list USDA-grade, lean meats early on the ingredient list. (Here is an FDA list of recommended labeling practices for pet foods including meat.)

• Energy-rich carbohydrates: These “good” carbs help to provide sustained energy for pets. Look for unmodified whole grains, listed as: natural oats, rice and barley.

• Whole produce: Though dogs and cats are mostly carnivorous, a diet rich in whole vegetables and fruits delivers beneficial antioxidants. The antioxidants, found in carrots (carotenoids), blueberries (anthocyanin) and apples (phytochemicals or flavonoids) boost a pet’s immune systems and aids in healthy cellular reproduction.1

• Supplements, based on a pet’s individual needs: While a veterinarian should be consulted for acute symptoms or signs of concern, we can contribute to our pet’s overall well-being by choosing treats that include glucosamine and chondroitin (for joint comfort) and Omega-3 for heart health.

Heathly Means More Adventures

Ingredients to avoid in pet foods and treats:

• Preservatives (commonly BHT/BHA and Ethooxyquin) and other additives: Preservatives stabilize the entire food product and prevent fats from turning rancid. Known carcinogens in humans, these types of preservatives have also been linked to other serious diseases.2 Additives, such as artificial colors and sweeteners (corn syrup, beet pulp sugar or sucrose), are typically added to make the food more desirable in appearance and moistness, but contribute nothing to the nutritional value.

• Meat by-products and meat meal: In a nutshell, these are euphemisms for the parts of an animal that are not considered suitable for human consumption. Though “unsuitable for human tastes” may not be a particularly salient argument against these ingredients, the manufacturing process for turning animal remains into meat by-products and meat meal is rife with questionable tactics and chemicals.3

• Fillers, such as wheat and corn: (Check out this comprehensive list for specific names wheat and corn variations.) The primary argument against wheat and corn derivatives is that they are known allergens that provide little to no nutritional value. Allergy symptoms to watch for, include: red eyes, itchy/dry skin, excessive scratching, digestive issues, and in some extreme cases, seizures.4

Even with guidelines, pet food labels can be confusing. Regulation of the terms “natural” and “organic” is not yet ironclad, though following brands that invoke those ideals is a good place to start.

After narrowing down pertinent ingredients to seek out and those to avoid, look for providers who are transparent with their processes. Transparency with regard to ingredients, manufacturing and packaging can be a strong indicator of a quality pet food maker. Visit manufacturer’s websites to learn about their values and discuss your questions with your veterinarian.

Don’t let your dog or cat fall victim to the game of dietary pinball we play with our own bodies. Look for functional ingredients that nourish, rather than just sustain. Throw out the fad diets and take control of the food you give your best, furry friend (and yourself).

1 Kane, E. (circa 2007) www.petplace.com. “Dietary Antioxidants are Important for Your Pet.” Retrieved on February 4, 2011 from http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dietary-antioxidants-are-important-for-your-pet/page1.aspx.

2 Newman, L. (2011, last modified) www.purelypets.com. “What’s in your Pet’s Food?” Retrieved on February 4, 2011 from http://www.purelypets.com/articles/whatsinfood.htm.

3 Smith, J. (2005) www.naturalnews.com. Retrieved February, 4, 2011 from http://www.naturalnews.com/012647.html

4 Ringwald, E. (2010) eHow.com. Retrieved on January 27, 2010 from http://www.ehow.com/way_5538872_wheatfree-dog-treat-recipes.html

Further resources:
• The Dog Food Project (http://www.dogfoodproject.com) offers a comprehensive list of specific ingredients to avoid and a nutrition primer for dogs.
• According to www.fda.gov, pet food labeling is regulated by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with many states enforcing the more stringent recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

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