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We’ve all been hearing about the importance of gut health as humans, but did you know it’s just as important for our dogs and cats as well? A healthy gut helps with proper digestion and nutrient absorption, supports immune system function, and even influences mood and energy levels. When you eat a heavy (maybe not so healthy) meal, don’t you feel sluggish, tired and the only thing you want to do is become one with your couch? Do you feel achy or unwell after eating certain foods? Our pets can get the same sort of feeling, so we want to be sure we’re feeding them in a way that helps promote good gut health for longevity and a reduced risk of disease.
Poor gut health can look like diarrhea or constipation, changes in their behavior or energy, chronic illness, poor coat quality, poor appetite, vomiting, bloating, changes in stool consistency, an increase in hunger but losing weight, even respiratory issues, lipomas, anxiety, dry, flaky skin, excessive shedding, or recurring ear infections. There are countless issues that can be traced to poor gut health. Just like us, our pets have a gut microbiome that includes trillions of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a vital role in keeping your pet healthy by aiding digestion, supporting immune function, and influencing mood and behavior. And just like us, their microbiome helps to break down food, absorb nutrients, and (in a healthy gut) protect against harmful bacteria. In fact, about 70-80% of a pet’s immune system is housed in the gut, making it a critical defense against illness. Sound familiar? Yup, it’s the same in humans too. Disruptions to the balance of the microbiome—caused by poor diet, antibiotics, stress, or illness—can lead to gastrointestinal problems, which can lead to all the things (and more) we listed above. It can also make pets more susceptible to infections and other diseases, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Pet’s can also get leaky gut syndrome just like us. Leaky gut syndrome in pets occurs when the intestinal lining becomes damaged, allowing harmful substances like bacteria, toxins, and undigested food particles to leak into the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation and various health issues such as digestive upset, allergies, skin problems, and even behavioral changes. Common causes include poor diet, stress, infections, and prolonged use of medications like antibiotics or steroids. Pets with leaky gut may show signs of diarrhea, bloating, frequent infections, or food sensitivities. So you’re probably wondering, ok what can I do? Start by feeding a balanced and nutritious diet. This is the foundation of good gut health in both dogs and cats. Important: You’ll have to do this gradually, we don’t want to switch any pet to a new food immediately. We need to make sure their system tolerates the new food well and that they’ll actually eat the new food. What you feed your pet directly impacts the composition and diversity of their gut bacteria. High-quality pet food that contains a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients is key to promoting a healthy gut. Fresh, whole ingredients such as high-protein meats, healthy oils (coconut, avocado, etc), vegetables, beans and healthy grains are ideal in maintaining a thriving gut microbiome. (Note: we recommend limiting the amount of grains you feed your cat [and they probably won’t like the bean either]. They are obligate carnivores and while they can benefit from the fiber and nutrients in grains and beans, it can also produce weight gain if fed too much). Avoid feeding, low-quality pet foods that are high in fillers (wheat, corn, soy), artificial preservatives (those chemicals you can’t pronounce), and unhealthy fats (canola, vegetable). These foods can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues, inflammation, and weakened immunity. Diets that contain too much processed food can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria while reducing the diversity of beneficial microbes. Often too, oils sprayed on kibble can go rancid even before you get anywhere close to finishing the bag. If you smell your pets kibble and it smells “off” that is the oils going rancid. In addition to whole foods and ingredients in your pets food, probiotics and prebiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut flora. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that help restore and balance the gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and bolstering the immune system. Including probiotics in your pet’s diet can be especially helpful during times of stress, illness, or after a course of antibiotics. Probiotics can be added to your pets food through other food sources like fermented foods, non-dairy/unsweetened yogurt, goats milk, kiefer, or supplements. Prebiotics are fibers that feed the good bacteria already present in your pet’s gut.. Prebiotics act as the “fuel” or “food” for probiotics, creating an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive. Some natural sources of prebiotics for pets include chicory root, pumpkin, and certain vegetables. By combining both prebiotics and probiotics in your pet’s diet, you create a powerful synergy that supports long-term gut health, strengthens the immune system, and improves overall vitality. Maintaining your pet's gut health is essential for their overall well-being, influencing not only digestion but also immunity, energy levels, and even behavior. A balanced gut microbiome supports proper nutrient absorption, helps ward off illness, keeps your pet feeling their best and can even promote longevity. By providing a high-quality diet rich in natural ingredients, along with prebiotics, probiotics, and regular vet checkups, you can ensure your pet’s digestive system stays strong and healthy. Prioritizing gut health is a proactive step toward giving your dog or cat a longer, happier, and healthier life.
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Sometimes living in the modern age feels like a cruel joke. This is toxic! That is hazardous! “OMG, you feed your pet that!? Don’t you know (blah, blah, blah)” It’s a PAIN! That’s not what this article is about. This is about making YOUR life easier. Sure, we’ll be discussing a few incidental hazards inherent to certain products… but we’re not trying to tell you what to do. Instead, we want to make being a pet owner as easy as possible so you can spend more time doing the things that matter with them!
Flea & Tick Collars: Let’s be clear; fleas and ticks are pests and do cause problems with our pets and our households. So this entry is not any sort of tolerance for parasites. If you suspect your pet is infested or is at risk for being infested: take measures now! That said, certain measures are better than others. Remember that the insecticide collars function by using chemicals such as tetrachlorvinphos (chlorine & phosphorus, among others) to create a toxic environment for parasites. The problem, of course, is that what is toxic to parasites and insects isn’t necessarily healthy for your pet either. You may already be aware that the EPA is encouraging the FDA to take a hard look at Soresto brand collars [Source]. But it’s not as if other brands work by magic. The problem is the continual presence of chemicals being absorbed through your pets’ skin. While some symptoms are as mild as skin irritation; there’s risk for neurological disorders (like seizures) and other long term health problems as well! Prescribed medications to deal with infestations as they happen, while annoying, is a far better option in the long run. Such medications usually offer sustained protection as well, so it won’t be as if you have to constantly reapply every day. And we don’t recommend applying each month according to the calendar. Just like insecticide collars, topical insecticides can have long term health implications for your pet. We recommend applying as needed.Better, non-toxic products are amber collars, Wondercide, Cheristin (for cats), food grade diatomaceous earth (though word of caution, use sparingly as breathing in the dust can cause lung issues in both humans and pets), and good ole fashioned flea and tick combs (have a jar of isopropyl alcohol close by to put the found critters in).Of course, the best option is to avoid the places where ticks and fleas like. Tall grass during warm, humid weather is a favorite for these bugs; so consider taking your walks on the sidewalk in those conditions. Rawhide Bones: Your pup wants to chew! Your pup is born to chew! When is your pup happiest? Chewing! So goes the logic of pet parents considering investing in rawhide bones. Unlike fabric, canvas, stuffed, or rubber toys; it takes ages to break down a rawhide and it’s safe to ingest… right? Not quite. Sorry. Rawhides can actually be quite toxic! Many are treated with ammonia, but depending on the origin of the product; you might be allowing your dog to ingest lead, arsenic, or even strychnine! [Source 1] Here’s the thing: given that Rawhides are not technically ‘food’, they can side-step a LOT of FDA regulations. These chews are technically a form of leather and are about as durable as a trusty set of boots… boots you’d probably not want your dog snacking on. One successful tear in the wrong place can create a choking hazard for your pooch. But even if they manage to get it down; that’s not the end of their problems. Rawhides are not designed to break down during digestion. This can lead to intestinal blockage, which you will have to pay a vet to un-block. (Not fun!) [Source 2] Instead, consider a collagen chew. These treats provide all the durable fun of a rawhide chew but are not designed to tear and ARE designed to break down in your dog’s gut. NylaBones: Like rawhides, but worse! Again, seeking out durable chew toys is understandable. But nothing lasts forever… especially in a dog’s mouth! Nyla bones will break down over time. Your dog WILL ingest the pieces. And there’s a very good chance that those pieces will eventually cause blockages (Hello, vet bills!). Regardless of whether you’ll have to go to remove a blockage or not; synthetic materials in the digestive tract do no animal on earth any favors. So, as above, consider firm but digestion-safe alternatives. They won’t last quite as long, but the good news is your pet’s health just might last longer! Plastic Pet Bowls: This one’s really easy! Plastic doesn’t like organics. Plastic breaks down with use over time. Microplastics find their way into your pets’ systems. That’s not healthy for Fluffy because microplastics in human systems are also unhealthy! [Source1] Now, is Fluffy really ingesting enough microplastics from their food bowl alone to cause long-term health effects? Well, honestly, we’re not really sure (though we are big believers in NOT borrowing trouble). However, there’s another hazard to using plastic bowls: Acne. Yes, you read that right: Acne! And, no, it’s not just an obstacle to a date for the prom. Acne manifests in pets as skin irritation (which they will scratch at) not only is it an unnecessary annoyance for your pet; but (in rare cases) it’s a vector for a bacterial infection. [Source2, Source3] Thankfully; it’s an easy fix! Ceramic or stainless steel dishes (while slightly more expensive) will spare Fluffy all that skin irritation… and possibly a very expensive trip to the vet! Flexi-Leashes: Let us be perfectly clear: there’s nothing a Flexi-Leash (also known as ‘retractable leashes’) does that fixed-length-leashes don’t except introduce massive safety hazards under the guise of ‘convenience’. It might seem sensible to have a device that can extend your dog’s roaming range when the coast is clear, and shorten it when there are dangers such as cars or other dogs around; but it’s really nothing more than a gimmick. First: if you’re in a situation that requires a leash; six to eight feet of range is plenty. There’s nothing your dog absolutely needs to investigate twelve-to-fifteen feet before you do. To that end, if your dog takes an interest in something you’d rather they didn’t; it takes that much longer to reel them back in. But this is the least of the safety hazards Flexi-leashes introduce. Second: Reel failure. The reels that wind the cords for Flexi-leashes have two failure states; neither of which will be apparent until they happen. The first is the reel fouling on its own mechanism. Usually this isn’t so bad as some gentle working at the wire can de-foul it quickly (however that in itself can pose a problem which we’ll discuss in a moment). The second is the retraction mechanism breaking. When that happens; it’s usually because an over-excited dog bolted at something of interest with such exuberance that the sudden torque literally breaks the mechanism. Which leads us to… Third: The leash wire is dangerous! A fixed-length-leash is designed to be handled along the entire length of the leash. Flexi-leashes are only meant to be handled at the, well… handle. Manipulating the wire while a dog is attached is just begging for trouble! If that wire gets wrapped around a finger or wrist and the dog takes off after something; it’s a recipe for disaster! Not to be morbid, but we’re talking about possible amputation! [Source1, Source2] This is NOT an acceptable hazard if you need to place your hand on the leash to reel in your dog in a hurry! We can’t tell you how many times we’ve needed to quickly shorten a leash with both hands while on a walk. No way we’re risking ropeburn (or worse) to do it! So, sometimes, the simplest solution really is the best. Fixed-length-leashes will do every job you need them to do and are far safer than a Flexi-Leash. If you need a long leash for training purposes, consider buying a long line or repurposing a light weight horse lunge line you might find at a tack sale. These long lines allow for your dog to wander off in a field (not to be used while walking in a neighborhood or busy area), but you still have control over them and without the danger of the flexi-leash. Ready to retire those items making your life harder? Check out our recommended resources page and if you don’t see something there, leave a comment and we’re happy to send our best recommendations.  Updated 4/16/2024 (FULL DISCLOSURE: Jenn’s Pet TLC is an affiliate of The Farmer’s Dog and is seeking affiliation with Small’s brand pet foods. This is an opinion piece, with the main goal of this article is to educate you, the pet parent, on seeking good pet foods.) Have you seen the stories on social media about dogs and cats suddenly becoming very ill and worse passing away after eating Purina Brand foods? Are you concerned about your pet getting sick as well? We’ve been reading story after story about mostly young, seemingly healthy pets, suddenly becoming violently ill and some even succumbing to their sudden illness. Purina Brand Pet Foods have been agonizingly quiet about this; even denying that something is wrong. We understand that correlation does not mean causation, and we urge caution when jumping to conclusions, but hundreds and hundreds of pet parents with the same story suggests that this is not a baseless concern. The latest numbers we can find state that there are around “969 reports of dogs or cats getting ill after eating Purina food, including 234 deaths”. Source That is absolutely frightening! If you suspect that there might be a problem; symptoms to look out for are: lethargy, vomiting (bloody or otherwise), diarrhea, muscle weakness, seizures, rapid weight loss, rectal bleeding, excessive urination, and refusal to eat. If your dog or cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they are sudden, seek veterinary attention immediately! If your pets are eating Purina but are otherwise stable; consider consulting a holistic or integrative vet who is open to the idea that food may be causing issues. Concerningly, many traditional vets are holding fast to Purina’s statements of “[t]here are no health or safety issues with our products, and they can continue to be fed with confidence” Source. It remains to be seen whether Purina foods are the culprit, but we are prepared to call the circumstances suspicious and cannot, in good conscience, any longer recommend Purina as a trusted brand, given that it seems to be a common denominator in the sudden spike in illnesses. This is a list of foods associated with the majority of the issues: *Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach *Purina Pro Plan EN (Prescription) *Purina Pro Plan Lamb and Rice *Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Rice *Purina Pro Plan Salmon *Purina Pro Plan Bison *Purina Pro Plan Adult Complete Essentials *Purina Pro Plan High Energy *Purina Large Breed Shredded Blend Purina One Joint Health *Purina SPORT 30/20 *Purina One Lamb and Rice *Purina One True Instinct *Purina Dog Chow *Purina One Skin & Coat *Purina One Chicken and Rice *Purina Puppy Chow Tender and Crunchy *Purina Pro Plan Kittens Salmon *Purina One Salmon Selects Dry Food *Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food *Purina Pro Plan Ocean Fish Pate *Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chicken Pate *Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chow Nurture *Purina Pro Plan Live Clear *Purina One + *Purina Friskies Gravy Lovers (all flavors) *Purina Friskies Tender and Crunchy *Purina Kit and Kaboodle *Purina Beggin’ Strips *Purina Pro Plan Beef and Carrots *Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Turkey Purina (and parent company Nestle) own dozens of pet foods that you may be feeding your pet. The list is long, but please read through it: Alpo, Baker's, Beggin’, Beneful, Beyond, Busy Bone, Cat Chow, Chef Michael's, Dog Chow, Dentalife, Ever Root, Fancy Feast, Felix, Friskies, Kit & Kaboodle, Lily's Kitchen, Mighty Dog, Moist & Meaty, Pioneer Woman, Prime, Puppy Chow, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Veterinary Diets, Whisker Lickins, Terra Canis, Zukes. There may be more! We compiled this list from various sources. Needless to say, Nestle Purina has a lot of money invested in their pet food brands, which means they have a vested interest in offering assurances rather than admitting any fault (should they, indeed, be liable). So you’re probably asking, “ok great, I get it Purina may not be a great brand, what do I do now?” Or maybe “my pet isn’t exhibiting any of these signs and we’ve been feeding these brands for years, do I really need to switch or be concerned” Our recommendation is that you should consider switching foods regardless of symptoms. Yes, Jenn’s Pet TLC has a vested financial interest in other pet food brands. Our interest in those brands, however, extends to our desire for your pets to lead long, happy, healthy lives with you. Beyond acute concerns regarding (possibly) tainted batches; there are plenty of things in Purina foods that your pets shouldn’t be eating anyway. So before we offer our recommended brands, we’d like to simply offer open recommendations of what you should be looking for; even if you opt for another brand. -High meat content (humanely sourced), with a high ( ideally 70%) moisture content. -Whole food ingredient (protip: if you can’t read it, it’s probably a chemical filler) -Raw, Freeze-dried, ‘gently cooked’, or ‘air dried’ -AVOID STARCHY CARBS (Peas, Lentils, Wheat, Corn, Soy, Potatoes, and Chickpeas) -AVOID MEAT BYPRODUCTS or MEALS -AVOID SYNTHETIC VITAMINS and MINERALS (Though this can be very difficult as many of these are added-back after processing) -AVOID ULTRA PROCESSED KIBBLE (It’s basically a meal of potato chips or bread) -AVOID BINDERS (Carrageenan, gar gum, and gluten of any kind) Source. So what DO we recommend? Sadly, our list is pretty short as Purina isn’t the only sketchy brand out there. FOR DOGS: -The Farmer’s Dog (Affiliate Link) -Rawz -K9 Natural -Raised Right -Primal -Just for Dogs -Tiki Dog -Darwin’s -WrRuVa* -Open Farm -Bixbi -Kiwi -Ziwi FOR CATS: -Smalls -Rawz -Feline Natural -Raised Right -Primal -Just for Cats -Tiki Cat -Darwin’s -WeRuVa* -Open Farm -Bixbi -Kiwi -Ziwi *word of caution with WeRuVa, some of the pate formulas have a few gums listed in the ingredients. We aren't a fan of these gums, however this is still a better option that the Purina brand foods and other cheap brands. If you need a veterinary diet, we recommend Medicus Veterinary Diets. These diets are thoughtfully curated to help ease your pet through a difficult time. They are made with wholesome ingredients meant to transition your pet back to a “normal diet”. We’ll talk next time about how the “veterinary diets” your vet may be pushing are not meant for life long use, and may actually be keeping your pet sick. We hope this helps you find the best food for your pet. What you feed them does truly matter. Just like us, what goes in, reflects what is shown on the outside. And if the food is of poor quality, poor health is inevitable. Many highly processed pet foods are made from rendered parts (aka the parts at the meat processing plant that don’t meet the standards to human consumption, technically called feed, roadkill, euthanized animals, etc), there’s little oversight into the ingredients put in the pet food, most of the grains are sprayed with glyphosate (aka roundup), many contain mycotoxins (which are “generated by fungi…with toxic effects and widely distributed in food and feed” Source.) As the saying goes, when you know better, you do better. This isn’t meant to shame anyone reading this. It’s meant to educate. Jenn has spent months studying how the pet food industry really works and what the ingredients really mean. It’s a deep rabbit hole and she’s more than willing to traverse it for you. Our goal is to be a resource for information and tips for all of our pet parents. We only want what’s best for you and your pet.  Walking your dog is not just an essential part of their daily routine, but also a wonderful bonding experience for the both of you. While the idea of a leisurely stroll might seem straightforward, ensuring the safety of both you and your pup requires attention and preparation. From staying off your phone to being vigilant of your surroundings, here are some crucial tips for a safe and enjoyable dog walking experience.
1. Stay Off Your Phone: In today's digital age, it's tempting to stay glued to your phone, even during walks. However, this can be detrimental to both your safety and your dog's. Keeping your eyes on your phone distracts you from potential hazards such as uneven sidewalks, other pedestrians, cars backing out of driveways or even other dogs. Additionally, a distracted walker might not notice if their dog becomes entangled in their leash or exhibits unusual behavior. Focus on your surroundings and your furry companion rather than your screen. 2. Choose the Right Gear: Before embarking on a walk, ensure your dog is wearing a well-fitted collar or harness with an identification tag containing your contact information. A sturdy leash is crucial; retractable leashes may offer flexibility but can lead to tangling or lack of control and we do not recommend them! A standard 4-6-foot leash is generally a safer option, allowing you to maintain better control over your pup. We love these leashes from WilderDog and the Easy Walk harness. 3. Be Mindful of Your Dog's Behavior: Your dog's behavior can provide valuable information about their comfort level and the environment. Watch for signs of fear, aggression, or anxiety in your dog, such as stiff body language, raised hackles, growling, or excessive pulling on the leash. Being attuned to your dog's cues allows you to respond appropriately and avoid potential confrontations or hazards. 4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay alert to your environment at all times. Be cautious when crossing streets, use crosswalks when available or walk corner to corner in the neighborhood. Keep an eye out for approaching vehicles and cyclists. Additionally, be mindful of pedestrians and other dogs. Not all dogs are friendly, and it's essential to gauge the situation and adjust your path if necessary to prevent conflicts. We don't recommend allowing dogs to meet on leash unless they previously know each other. That can create a volatile situation as the dogs feel constrained on the leash and could act out. 5. Avoid Potentially Hazardous Areas: Steer clear of areas that may pose risks to your dog, such as busy intersections, construction zones, or high-traffic roads. Also, avoid places with unfamiliar or aggressive dogs. Opt for well-lit and populated routes where you're less likely to encounter unexpected dangers. 6. Pick Up After Your Dog: Carry waste bags with you and clean up after your dog promptly. Not only is this a matter of courtesy to your community (and the law where we are), but it also prevents potential accidents or health hazards for other dogs and pedestrians. 7. Keep Your Dog Leashed: Even if your dog is well-trained and well-behaved, it's important to keep them leashed in public areas. Unleashed dogs can be unpredictable, and unexpected situations may arise, leading to potential dangers or legal issues. Many communities have leash laws, so it's best to be familiar with the laws in your area. 8. Practice Obedience Commands: Basic obedience commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" are more than just party tricks. They can help you control your dog in various situations, especially when encountering other dogs, people, or traffic. Consistent practice builds trust between you and your pup and reinforces their safety. 9. Bring Water and Treats: Long walks or hikes can be tiring for your dog. Carry water and treats to keep them hydrated and energized. This not only ensures their well-being but also incentivizes good behavior. 10. Plan for Weather Conditions: Weather can impact your dog walking experience. During hot weather, avoid walking during peak sun hours (10a-3p) and bring water to prevent overheating. Also do not walk your dog if you cannot place the back of your hand on the concrete for less than 7 seconds, or the temps are above 85*. In colder months, consider doggy booties to protect their paws from ice and salt on sidewalks. Or if you don't get snow, consider a winter coat for your short coated pup on days where the temps are below 40*. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can create a safe and enjoyable walking routine for both you and your four-legged companion. Remember, every walk is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and share enriching experiences. Stay present, be prepared, and cherish the moments you spend exploring the world together. Fleas are a common nuisance for pet owners (in fact we've just had to battle them in our own house this past week), and it's only natural that we want to find quick and effective solutions to rid our beloved furry friends of these pesky parasites. Over-the-counter (OTC) topical flea treatments are widely available and often seem like convenient solutions. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers these treatments pose to our pets' health. Keep reading, and we'll explore why OTC topical flea treatments can be risky and provide pet owners with safer, non-toxic alternatives to consider.
The Dangers of OTC Topical Flea Treatments
Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to OTC topical flea treatments that can help you protect your pets without exposing them to harmful chemicals. Here are some non-toxic options to consider:
While the allure of quick fixes provided by OTC topical flea treatments may be tempting, it's vital to prioritize the safety and well-being of our furry companions. The dangers associated with these treatments should not be underestimated. Instead, opt for non-toxic alternatives such as diatomaceous earth, essential oils, regular grooming, and consulting with a veterinarian. By choosing these safer options, you can protect your pets from the hidden dangers of OTC topical flea treatments and provide them with a healthier, happier life. I want to advise you on something that may be uncomfortable: question your vet! Part of the reason I decided to start Whole Hearts and Paws, is because as a pet sitter, I’ve been encountering a lot of pets (mainly dogs and cats) who are on “special diets” and/or medications that are not ideal for the long term. As a company, we’ve been seeing middle aged and senior pets rapidly decline in health despite being seen regularly by their vet.
This got me thinking and investigating some things. Then our own cat developed some concerning problems with vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid weight loss. We took her to the vet and were told that there were three likely culprits: hyperthyroidism, Irritable Bowel Disease, and Small Cell Lymphoma. To make a certain determination, however, they had to run a gamut of multiple (expensive) tests. The question *we* had to ask ourselves, however, was “do we really *need* a certain determination?” Once we ran a test that eliminated hyperthyroidism as a cause; that left us with two possibilities: IBD or Cancer. Based on our own discernment (given Lily’s great energy and appetite), we thought that cancer was unlikely but our vet wanted to run the tests anyway. We flat out said “NO!”. We decided to proceed to treat the most likely cause (IBD) even if we didn’t have 100% conclusive proof. The vet recommended that, if we intended to proceed on that course, we would need to put Lilly on Prednisolone for the rest of her life. Well, if anyone has ever been on Prednisolone themselves, then you know how bad of an idea this is! I was on a short round of prednisolone for 2 weeks in 2020 from a horrible eczema flare up. It did not make feel good; I was irritable, hungry all the time, and some heightened anxiety. My husband was on a short round a few months ago, and he felt similar side effects. Couple that with the very high possibility of her developing diabetes down the line from this strong steroid. We sought other options, we questioned our vet. We did put her on a short round of prednisolone to calm down the inflammation but weaned her off as soon as she stabilized. Then came the hard work. Researching alternative and safer long-term solutions for her IBD. I found quite a bit of information on https://catinfo.org/ and even more info on https://catnutrition.org/ibd/. These sites are procured by experts, and neither of these sites stated that Prednisolone is a good solution for long term control of IBD. They all pointed to diet and supplements. It took a lot of trial and error, and we’ve done an elimination diet (she can’t tolerate beef, or fish of any kind), and we’ve added various supplements like The Honest Kitchen Powdered Goats Milk, The Honest Kitchen Perfect Form Herbal Digestive supplement and most recently Jackson Galaxy’s (aka The Cat Daddy) B12. She’s also on freeze dried raw food instead of kibble (more on kibble in another blog). Her wet food is extremely high quality with no fillers or nasties like peas, potatoes, corn, by-products, wheat or any gluten. It’s so important to read the food labels, even if the vet recommends the food. Especially for your cat! They are obligate carnivores, meaning they MUST have meat in their diet to thrive. In pet sitting jobs, we have (reluctantly) fed cats “prescription food” that had ZERO meat in it. Chicken fat does not count as a viable source of meat protein for your cat. If your vet recommends something that has little to no actual meat in it, question your vet! Surprisingly, vets do not receive a lot of nutritional training. It’s like asking your physician for nutritional advice. They might be able to give you the basics, but only a registered nutritionist can point you fully in the right direction. And just like physicians who recommend one brand of prescription over another, so will vets with “prescription diets”. In fact the term “Prescription Diet” is simply a registered trademark, not a legal claim about there being medication in the food. This is fantastic article from The Dog Nutritionist about what really is in your pets “Prescription Diet”. The sad fact, there’s nothing magical (or really scientific) in “prescription” or “veterinary” diets. They are way expensive and often made of subpar ingredients. If you’re feeding your pet a special diet like this, read the label and compare it to a cheap brand of food at the pet store. You might be surprised at just how similar the ingredients are. The main takeaway here is that, as much as you want to trust someone with so much schooling; your vet does not know everything --no matter how long they’ve been practicing. And sadly, a lot of vet offices are now owned by corporate entities. If your vet is a VCA, they are ultimately owned by the Mars Corporation (Yup, the candy company). My best advice is to seek an independent, holistic vet. They don’t have to answer to corporate hierarchy, they can treat your pet as an individual. But again, don’t be afraid to question your holistic vet either. And any good vet will gladly offer a referral for a second opinion. Bottom line, no one knows your pet like you do. Even if your vet has seen them their whole life. You’re with you’re pet each and every day. Your vet sees them maybe 20 minutes once a year. Be an advocate for your pet. Their life depends on it. Sources: https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/calling-bullhit-prescription-diet-dog-food/ https://www.thedognutritionist.com/prescriptio-dog-food-truth/ https://catinfo.org/ https://catnutrition.org/ibd/ As pet parents, it's our job to ensure we're feeding the best food we can for our budget. Just as we read the food labels of the food we buy for ourselves, we should read the food labels of pet food before we buy it. These labels provide important information about the nutritional content and quality of the food. Here are a few reasons why:
To that end, be especially suspicious of cat food that has multiple sources of carbohydrates. High levels of carbohydrates in cat food are not good for a cat's diet because cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their digestive systems are designed to primarily process meat-based proteins. Their digestive systems are not efficient at breaking down and utilizing carbohydrates as other animals. So cats oftentimes will store those carbs as fat. Cats require high levels of protein, essential fatty acids, and certain vitamins and minerals to maintain their health (think Taurine). Carbohydrates provide mainly an unhealthy source of energy. A cats energy needs be obtained from other sources such as protein and fat. In fact, consuming too many carbohydrates can lead to a range of health problems for cats, such as obesity, diabetes, and digestive issues. Additionally, many commercial cat foods that contain high levels of carbohydrates may not have the appropriate balance of other essential nutrients that cats need in their diet. This can lead to deficiencies or imbalances in their diet, which can have negative effects on their health over time. Therefore, it is important for cat owners to choose cat food that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates to ensure that their cat is getting the nutrients they need for optimal health. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your individual cat based on their specific needs and health history. Have a conversation with you vet. If they are recommending a food that you see is high in carbohydrates, ask them "Why are you recommending his high carbohydrate food when cats are obligate carnivores?" Mention your concern about diabetes and kidney failure in the future. Yes, it may be uncomfortable to ask these direct questions, but a good vet will be happy to answer these for you. An increase in diabetes and kidney failure in cats has been directly linked to dry food diets high in carbohydrates. In the next blog post, we'll talk about what those weird ingredients in your pets food mean. What the heck is chicken bone meal? Is that wheat/corn gluten? Why is there powered cellulose in food? Separation anxiety. Such a tough thing and it affects both cats and dogs. While we hear about it more often with dogs; cats display separation anxiety but in different, more subtle ways. For example, they may not be eating as much as normal, sleeping more than normal, hiding more. When you return, they may be glued to your side and snuggle more than usual.
With dogs, it’s usually more obvious that they’re anxious. They may pace, whine, bark, howl, tear things up, urinate or defecate in the house when they were once perfectly housetrained, they may shake or hide, pant when not hot or yawn even though they aren’t tired. With life starting to return to “normal” and working in the office seems like it’s making a return, our pets will see this as an unwelcome change to their new routines. Our pets are more used to us being home for days on end, vs pre-pandemic when they may have been alone for 8+ hours a day. Remember from a pets point of view, a year is a very long time. Some suggestions for easing your pet into your new routine. Start slowly. Before jumping into a new routine where you and/or the whole family is gone for hours a day, start by leaving for 1-2 hours per day. Then gradually start to increase the time from, 2-3 hours, then 3-4 hours and so on. This will give your pet the chance to adapt to the new schedule and get used to being alone again. If your pet is still struggling, we recommend trying some CBD to calm their anxiety. Consider getting Adpatil for your dog and/or Feliway for your cat to ease anxiety. You can have both in your home if you have both cats and dogs. Cats cannot smell the dog pheromones and dogs cannot smell the cat pheromones. Also, try leaving safe chew toys with your pet. Interactive food puzzles, calming music or the TV on. Practice crate training again for your dog. Consider hiring a professional dog walker to come in midday to take your dog out for a walk and tire him out so he sleeps most of the time you’re gone. We also recommend these tips if you’re planning on a vacation. If your pet gets stressed just by seeing your suitcase, long before your trip, just bring out your suitcase for a few hours and put it away. Then take it out again for maybe a day, put some clothes in it and put it away again. By doing this, your pet won’t automatically associate the suitcase with you leaving. Also, reward your pet with a treat if they see the suitcase or if they hop in it. Again, associating it with good things will help your pet alleviate their anxieties. Given the past year we’ve all had, I’m positive we’ve all felt a sense of anxiety at one point or another. And knowing how we feel about anxiety, we should do all we can to help alleviate our pet’s anxieties. As hard as it is for us humans, it’s even more difficult for pets since they have even less control over their own lives. I hope these tips help you and your furry family members navigate this crazy life. https://www.cesarsway.com/dealing-with-dog-separation-anxiety/ Easter is on Sunday (4/4/2021), so hard to believe! But with Easter comes it’s own share of pet safety concerns. From chocolate bunnies, to Easter basket grass, to family members not keeping doors closed, to Easter lilies, there are a few things to keep in mind this weekend.
Chocolate bunnies, plastic Easter eggs, candy, etc: Chocolate should not be ingested by any pet as it is toxic and requires an immediate vet visit. Do not offer your pet any Easter candy, no human candy is safe for pets as they contain fake colors, sugars and other chemicals that are dangerous to pets if ingested. Easter Dinner: While a few bites of lean ham/meat (no fat) or plain green beans/veggies are ok, everything else should not be given to your pet. Onions, garlic, grapes are all toxic to pets, fatty foods can lead to gastrointestinal issues and pancreatitis. Avoid salty foods as well. Easter Basket Grass: Jenn has personal experience with this one. Her childhood cat decided to eat the plastic Easter grass in her basket. This landed him at the emergency vet overnight while they worked to get him to pass it. Paper grass is a safer option, but even so, if your pet eats too much, it could cause a blockage and a visit to the emergency vet. So be mindful of your child’s Easter basket, and make sure it’s kept out of the reach of pets. Family/friends gathering: If you’re having family and friends over for Easter this year, be sure to remind your guests to keep doors and gates closed so your pet does not escape. If your pet is feeling nervous about seeing a bunch of people after a year of really only seeing you and your immediate family (and possibly your dog walker), put your pet in a quiet room or in their crate for the duration of the gathering. Give them a safe bone or chew toy to keep them busy. Also play relaxing music or put on doggy/kitty TV for them. Easter lilies: NO! These are not to be brought into your home if you have pets, no exceptions! All parts of the plant are toxic and absolutely deadly to cats. If you like the look of lilies, get a fake plant. The life of your pet is not worth a pretty flower. Alcohol: NO! While it may seem cute to see your pup drink some beer or wine from your glass, it is not ok. Alcohol is very toxic to pets and just a little bit can lead to kidney failure. While all these things need to be considered during Easter, we want you to enjoy the holiday with your family/friends and your pets as well. Happy Easter to those who celebrate and make it a safe one for you, your family and your pets.  No bones about it, dogs love to chew. But why do they chew? Can I give my dog anything to chew on? Why does he chew himself? What can I give my dog to chew on that is safe? I’m here to answer all of these questions.
So why does your dog chew? The simple answer is it’s instinctual. Dogs chew for a variety of reasons, sometimes to relieve stress, sometimes because something on their body itches or hurts, sometimes because they are bored and it’s just plain fun for them. The act of chewing releases endorphins, they get that happy feeling when they are chewing on something. Chewing is also good for oral health, maintaining strong jaws and good for mental stimulation. Destructive chewing is something that’s best avoided, however. If your dog is chewing on inappropriate things, it’s time to do some investigating and also some training. If you don’t teach your dog what is appropriate to chew on and what is not, they will find anything to satisfy that craving --and you may not like the result. Train early on what is appropriate to chew on; toys, bones, etc. If you find the chewing is due to separation anxiety, it’s time to find ways to relieve that anxiousness. Crate training is one of the best ways to keep separation anxiety at bay. Contrary to what some believe, crate training is not punishment. Think of it more as your dog's safe space; their room. This is where they can go when they need to be at peace, when they need some quiet and alone time. If your dog is anxious when left home alone, putting them in their crate with a safe chew toy is one of the best things you can do. Pheromone diffusers or sprays can help alleviate anxiety. Adaptil is a great brand. If your dog is chewing on themselves, this is also destructive chewing. This can be due to a number of things. First thing to do, is make a vet appointment to rule out any pain or skin itchiness issues. If your dog comes home with a clean bill of health, it’s time to look deeper. Are they anxious? See the suggestions above or seek the advice of a behaviorist. Are they bored? They probably need more mental stimulation like play time, daily walks (find a professional dog walker in your area here), food puzzles, chew toys/bones, trick training (the list of tricks is endless depending on how talented your pup is). In terms of chew bones, there is one I recommend and that is a raw bone. These come in a variety of different types, marrow bones, knuckle bones and femurs. I recommend getting beef or lamb as they are large animals and it’s less likely your dog will swallow the bone, potentially causing a choking hazard. NEVER leave your dog unattended with a bone, while the risk is less with larger bones, it is never zero. And NEVER EVER feed cooked bones to your dog! If they accidentally ingest a cooked bone, go to the vet immediately!! Click here for more in depth info on raw bones. Do not feed rawhide either, that is made mostly of toxic chemicals in a factory. For chew toys, there are a plethora of items on the market. I love the ones that you can put food in or smear peanut butter (xylitol and sugar free of course) in the center, like a Kong. Just be sure to get toys that are size appropriate for your dog. A toy that is too small can cause a choking hazard and a toy that is too large will be frustrating for your dog. Avoid toys where your dog can chew off smaller pieces and potentially swallow them, this also is a choking or intestinal blockage hazard. Because I am an advocate for pet wellness, I have to state the obvious. Below is copy and pasted from the
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AuthorMy name is Jenn Hodge, CPPS. I've been a professional pet sitter since 2009 and I have a passion for helping your pets live their best life! I have 2 adorable and sassy cats, 1 horse and a fish tank with guppies and an aquatic frog. My husband, Ryan Hodge, CPPS and author, also works in my pet business. Archives
October 2024
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