Tag: dog food

Things I Wish I Had Known… The Importance of What I Feed My Pets

< A version of this article will be published in the March 2019 issue of Downeast Dog News >

< A short link to this article – bit.ly/Things-Nutrition-1 >

When I brought home my first puppy in 1975, I bought the dog food recommended by her veterinarian. When I got married, and both my dog and Paula’s dog came to live with us, our only thought about dog food was budgetary. I now know that feeding the food that costs the least per pound can have significant hidden health costs.

In 1991 my wife and brought home our first puppy as a couple. On the advice of Paula’s employer, a veterinarian, we fed him a premium pet food. Within a year Gus developed a chronic urinary infection which his veterinarian believed was related to how he processed food.  Thus begin our journey of learning about pet nutrition. Late in 1995, we relocated to Maine where we became the new owners of the Green Acres Kennel Shop. Gus was still struggling with urinary and bladder issues, and we were committed to learning all that we could about the best nutrition for our pets and those of our clients. Eventually, we found a food that helped Gus, and we also begin to look very critically at every pet food we sold.  (FMI – http://bit.ly/Gus-Nutrition).

I am often asked by clients how they can learn more about their pet’s nutritional needs, something I encourage every pet parent to consider, and these are the resources I recommend.

Books

Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack, by Dr. Richard Patton. While very technical, I believe this book does the best job of explaining the science and rationale for feeding our pets a biologically appropriate diet. ( FMI – Podcast –  http://bit.ly/DrPatton-Podcast, Video – http://bit.ly/Video-Dr-Richard-Patton, Book review – http://bit.ly/RuinedByExcess-BookReview ).

Dog Food Logic – Making Smart Decisions For Your Dog In An Age Of Too Many Choices, by Linda Case. A good review of dog nutrition, the pet food industry and what dog parents should look for and even more importantly, look to avoid.

Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats – The Ultimate Diet, by Kymythy Schultze.  If you want to learn how to feed your pets a raw and natural diet that you make, from ingredients that you choose, this is the best place to start. NOTE: I specifically recommend against anyone feeding their pets a homemade diet if they have not done adequate research. If you fail to formulate an appropriate diet, you can harm your pet. This book provides sound advice.

See Spot Live Longer, by Steve Brown and Beth Taylor. By the founder of Steve’s Real Food for Pets, this book is an excellent introduction for anyone considering feeding a raw diet. Steve’s second book, Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet, is also another excellent book for understanding the benefits of feeding raw, even if it is not for every meal. ( FMI – Podcast http://bit.ly/WfMw-SteveBrown-2010 ).

Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, Ph.D. This book was the one that initiated our search for natural healthcare and nutrition alternatives for Gus. The recipes for pet food are sound, but a bit biased towards grain and carbohydrates.

The Truth About Pet Foods by Dr. Randy Wysong. This book by Dr. Wysong dramatically changed my view of the pet food industry. It went from my naïve presumption that all pet food companies must be trustworthy to one of “buyer beware. A veterinarian and the owner of a pet food company, Wysong’s approach is very non-conventional. In this book, he states “It seems that the ideal would be for people to make their own pet foods.” Wow! The owner of a dog food company suggesting that pets will be healthier if their owners make their food from fresh, whole ingredients instead of feeding commercial dog food. Dr. Wysong is someone I can respect and trust. He was also the first person to help me understand the importance of rotating what we feed our pets and the reasons not to food them the same food day after day. (FMI – Why Rotating Diets Makes Sense – http://bit.ly/DietRotation ). (FMI – download the book for free –  http://bit.ly/WysongTheTruthAboutPetFoods-pdf )

Videos

Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry is a 2016 documentary film about the pet food industry. Everyone I know who has seen Pet Fooled has a new attitude about what they feed their pet. The film is available on Netflix and other video-on-demand services listed at the Pet Fooled web site ( https://www.petfooled.com/ ). The filmmaker also maintains a Facebook page with valuable information on the pet food industry (

https://www.facebook.com/petfooled/ ). You can listen to an interview with Kohl Harrington, the director of Pet Fooled at  http://bit.ly/WfMw-Pet-Fooled

The Science and Dogma of Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – This is a video of a presentation that Dr. Patton did for Green Acres Kennel Shop in April of 2016. ( http://bit.ly/Video-Dr-Richard-Patton )

________________________________________________________________________
Don Hanson is the co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop ( greenacreskennel.com ) in Bangor, ME where he has been helping people with their pets since 1995. He is a Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), Associate Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (ACCBC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). Don is a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) and is committed to PPG’s Guiding Principles and the Pain-Free, Force-Free, and Fear-Free training, management, and care of all pets. Don produces and co-hosts a weekly radio show and podcast, The Woof Meow Show, that airs on Z62 Retro Radio WZON (AM620) and WKIT 103.3-HD3 and is streamed at http://bit.ly/AM620-WZON every Saturday at 9 AM. Podcasts of the show are available at http://woofmeowshow.libsyn.com/, the Apple Podcast app, and at Don’s blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com.  The opinions in this post are those of Don Hanson.

©04MAR19, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
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Podcast – Is Feeding A Grain-Free Food to Our Dogs Dangerous?, with Linda Case, MS

Shareable Short link – < http://bit.ly/Podcast-FDA-Grain-Free-LindaCase-29SEP18 >

< Click to Listen to Podcast >

Grain-Free dog food has been all over the news since July 12th and sadly the information the mass media has reported been oversimplified and incomplete. The fact is this is a complex issue.

In this episode of The Woof Meow Show from September 29, 2018, Don speaks with canine nutritionist, science writer, and the author of Dog Food Logic Linda Case about this very issue, asking, Is Feeding A Grain-Free Food to Our Dogs Dangerous? Other issues addressed in the show are:

  • Should dog parents currently feeding their dogs a grain-free diet immediately switch to a non-grain-free dog food?
  • What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy and what is the role of Taurine in the disease and grain-free foods?
  • Does the FDA know with 100% certainty that grain-free food is the cause or could it be something else?
  • There has been some suggestion in posts on Facebook and other places online that one should only purchase dog food that has been tested via AAFCO feeding trials. Is that sound advice?
  • Is it important for dog parents to review the ingredients label when making decisions about what to feed their dog?

You can hear The Woof Meow Show on Z62 Retro Radio, AM620, and WKIT HD3 at 9 AM on Saturday. If you are not near a radio, listen on your computer at http://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=WZON or your smartphone or tablet with the free WZON 620 AM app. A podcast of the show is typically posted immediately after the show. You can download this show and others at http://woofmeowshow.libsyn.com/ and the Apple iTunes store.

< Click to Listen to Podcast >

#WoofMeowShow #PetNutrition #DogFood #Grain-Free #LindaCase

Contact Info

Linda P. Case, MS
AutumnGold Consulting and Dog Training Center
Mahomet, IL

(217) 586-4864

Autumngoldconsulting.com

https://www.facebook.com/pg/LindaCaseAutumnGold/posts/

https://thesciencedog.wordpress.com/

Recommended Resources

FDA Reports

FDA Investigating Potential Connection Between Diet and Cases of Canine Heart Disease – 12JUL2018 – https://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm613305.htm

Questions & Answers: FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine’s Investigation into a Possible Connection Between Diet and Canine Heart Disease – https://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/AnimalHealthLiteracy/ucm616279.htm

How to Report a Pet Food Complaint – https://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ReportaProblem/ucm182403.htm

Whole Dog Journal Articles

DCM in Dogs: Taurine’s Role in the Canine Diet – What is taurine-deficiency dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and how can dog owners prevent it? (Hint: It involves more than just grain-free foods.) – The Whole Dog Journal – September 2018 – https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/21_9/features/DCM-in-Dogs-Taurines-Role-in-the-Canine-Diet_21901-1.html

Please Don’t Panic About the “Grain-Free Thing” – Whole Dog Journal’s Blog – 2AUG18 – https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/blog/Please-Dont-Panic-About-the-Grain-Free-Thing-21893-1.html

Articles on Don’s Blog ( http://www.words-woofs-meows.com )

 

UPDATE! – Pet Nutrition – Grain-Free Foods and FDA Reports of Increased Heart Disease in Dogs – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2018/07/27/update-pet-nutrition-grain-free-foods-and-fda-reports-of-increased-heart-disease-in-dogs/

Grain-Free Foods and FDA Reports of Increased Heart Disease in Dogs –  http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2018/07/22/pet-nutrition-grain-free-foods-and-fda-reports-of-increased-heart-disease-in-dogs/

What Do You Feed Your Dog? – http://bit.ly/WhatDoYouFeedYourDog

Some Myths and Facts – Part 1 – My story with Gus – Maine Dog Magazine – Winter 2017 – http://bit.ly/Gus-Nutrition

Book Review – Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – The paradox of pet nutrition by Richard Patton – http://bit.ly/RuinedByExcess-BookReview

 

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show
( http://www.woofmeowshow.com )

What do you feed your pets? – http://bit.ly/WhatDoYouFeedYourPets-Podcast

Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://bit.ly/DrPatton-Podcast

Podcast – Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry with Kohl Harrington – http://bit.ly/WfMw-Pet-Fooled

 

©29SEP18, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
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Podcast – Zignature Limited Ingredient Pet Food

< Click to Listen to Podcast >

In this episode of The Woof Meow Show on June 17th, 2017, Kate and Don chat with Karen Shanahan and Matt Munzer from Pets Global, the company that developed Zignature dog food. Zignature is a line of limited ingredient, low glycemic foods ideal for dogs suffering from food allergies and tolerances or those that are overweight.

Topics covered include:

  • The origins of Zignature dog food.
  • Limited ingredient diets and why they are essential for many dogs that are allergic or intolerant to certain food ingredients, like chicken.
  • The premise behind Zignature – foods free of chicken, as well as grains and potato. These ingredients can cause allergies, yeast infections, and weight problems in many dogs.
  • Why meat is the first two ingredients in all Zignature foods which provide more protein and increased palatability.
  • Ingredients and Zignature’s commitment to sourcing what goes in their food from its most natural source. The non-meat ingredients used by Zignature vary from formula to formula. These ingredients include peas, chickpeas, sunflower oil, flaxseed, alfalfa meal, blueberries, carrots, and cranberries. We discuss how these ingredients are processed to ensure optimal bioavailability.
  • Why Zignature uses no chicken at all. Chicken is not used as a protein source nor as a source of fat. Chicken is not inherently a bad ingredient but is has been used extensively in pet food for decades and hence, some dogs have grown intolerant to it. Also, Zignature believes in truth in advertising. There are other pet foods that might be labeled as being “duck” or “venison, ” but they also include chicken.
  • Why Zignature is free of potatoes, tapioca, and grains. These ingredients often contribute to yeast (Candida) outbreaks in dogs, which can cause ear and skin issues.
  • Why sourcing of ingredients is important to Zignature. The quality of the ingredients determines the quality of the food. Some ingredients used in Zignature come from outside the USA because the USA is not always the best source for high-quality For a list of the benefits of the ingredients used in Zignature dog food, go to – http://zignature.com/?page_id=624&lang=en
  • Why Zignature does extensive testing on ingredients both before they are used and after the manufacture of the Zignature product. Testing is completed internally and by an outside independent laboratory before any product is shipped. They test to make sure the food contains the ingredients that it is supposed to contain, in the proper amounts, and that the food is not adulterated with any unacceptable ingredients.
  • Where Zignature’s dry formula food is manufactured. Zignature has contracted with Tuffy’s, the company behind NutriSource, PureVita and Natural Planet to manufacture their dry dog food. Tuffy’s is a family owned company in Minnesota that Green Acres knows and trusts.
  • Where Zignature’s canned formulas are manufactured. Zignature’s canned products are mad by Performance Pet, a certified organic facility located in South Dakota.
  • The importance of the Glycemic Index when selecting pet food ingredients. All food items consumed are broken down in the body. Carbohydrates are converted into fats and sugars. Foods higher on the glycemic index contain more sugar. Too many dogs are obese, and the incidence of diabetes in dogs is on the rise. Zignature selects ingredients that are lower on the Glycemic index, like peas and chickpeas. This helps combat obesity, diabetes, as well as the overproduction of yeast (Candida) which is responsible for ear and skin conditions and itchiness. Ingredients (white potato, brown rice, tapioca) used by many other companies are much higher on the glycemic index. This allows Zignature to be certified as a low glycemic dog food, which makes it an excellent choice for dogs that are overweight or diabetic.
  • Zignature’s novel approach to fiber content. Zignature products have higher amounts of fiber than many other dog foods, approximately 4.5 % to 6.5% fiber, on average, as compared to 4% in other foods. Zignature uses higher quality sources of fiber (alfalfa meal and flaxseed), as opposed to some food companies that use powdered cellulose (sawdust) or peanut hulls. The fiber in Zignature is beneficial for anal glands and acts like a fishermen’s net, clearing the colon of non-digested material, which keeps it out of the blood stream.
  • Zignature’s many adult formulas; Catfish, Duck, Kangaroo, Lamb, Pork, Salmon, Trout & Salmon, Whitefish, and Venison and how they make it easy for you to rotate your dog’s

FMI – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2012/05/04/nutrition-why-rotating-diets-makes-sense/

  • The benefits of Kangaroo as a protein source.
  • Zignature’s canned foods and why they are gum-free. Zignature uses no carrageenan, guar gum, xanthan gum, or locust bean gum in their canned foods. These food additives, often used in canned pet food, can contribute to inflammation and irritable bowel disease.

< Click to Listen to Podcast >

Recommended Resources

Articles on Don’s Blog (http://www.words-woofs-meows.com)

Pet Nutrition – Zignature Limited Ingredient Dog Food – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/06/19/pet-nutrition-zignature-limited-ingredient-dog-food/

Pet Nutrition – What Should I Feed My Pet? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/06/04/pet-nutrition-what-should-i-feed-my-pet/

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 1 – My story with Gus – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/04/03/pet-nutrition-some-myths-and-facts-part-1-my-story-with-gus/

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 2 – In the Spring 2017 issue of Maine DOG Magazine, Coming here soon! –

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 3 – Look for this article in the Summer 2017 issue of Maine DOG Magazine, Coming here soon! –

 

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/03/podcast-pet-nutrition-with-dr-richard-patton/

Podcast – Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry with Kohl Harrington – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/05/06/podcast-pet-fooled-a-look-inside-a-questionable-industry-with-kohl-harrington/

 

©3JUL17, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
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Pet Nutrition – Zignature Limited Ingredient Dog Food

Green Acres Kennel Shop is pleased to offer Zignature Dog Foods; nutrition formulated with limited ingredients.

< Updated 3JUL17 >

You might want to consider Zignature if:

  • Your dog has allergy issues like skin sensitivity, itchiness, and stinky ears
  • Your dog is overweight
  • Your dog is diabetic
  • Your dog has the scoots and needs more fiber
  • You want to be able to be able to easily rotate your dog’s diet among various protein’s
  • You want a dog food with a frequent buyer program
  • You want to feed your dog both dry and canned food
  • You are currently feeding; California Natural, Canidae Pure, Natural Balance, or Merrick Limited Ingredient dog food

Allergy Issues – What Makes Zignature Different

Food allergies or intolerances are a serious problem with some dogs and are usually triggered by the protein source. Zignature does not use chicken in any form (chicken, chicken meal, chicken fat, or eggs), in any of its diets because consumers are concerned that dogs are becoming allergic to chicken due to the overuse of chicken in dog foods. It is a fact that chicken has been the predominant protein and fat source used in dog foods for many years. Another reason Zignature refuses to use chicken is the reality that most of the chicken that ends up in dog food comes from large commercial farms where the chickens are raised using significant amounts of antibiotics and hormones. By avoiding the use of chicken, Zignature is protecting your dog from overexposure to antibiotics and hormones.

Dogs with allergy or food intolerance issues need a limited ingredient diet, in fact, the fewer ingredients in their food, the better it is for them. With Zignature, the first two ingredients are ALWAYS protein: animal protein from a single source backed by the same protein in the form of a meal. Zignature offers a wide variety of protein sources; Catfish, Duck, Kangaroo, Lamb, Pork, Salmon, Trout, Turkey, Venison, and Whitefish.

Weight Management – What Makes Zignature Different

Like humans, dogs have a weight problem. Approximately 50% of all dogs are overweight, and about 1 out of 500 dogs are affected with Diabetes.

Zignature is one of the only grain free dog foods that does not use high caloric carbohydrates with a high glycemic index in their foods. You will not find potato, tapioca, corn, or wheat in any Zignature formula. Instead, Zignature uses low glycemic legumes such as whole Chickpeas which promote stable blood sugar and provide valuable dietary fiber. This means that Zignature diets have a low glycemic index, making them an ideal choice for dogs that are overweight or that have been diagnosed with diabetes.

Zignature formulas are one of the few dog foods that have been certified by the Glycemic Research Institute as being a “Certified Low Glycemic Canine Food.” The Glycemic Rating for several Zignature formulas is noted below.

Formula Glycemic Rating
Zignature Turkey 9.8
Zignature Lamb 10.4
Zignature Trout 10.6
Zignature Kangaroo 11.9
Zignature Duck 12.0
Zignature Whitefish 12.1
Zignature Zssential 12.5

Zignature uses Garden Peas and Chickpeas/Garbanzo Beans as Low Glycemic binders in their dry food formulas. The advantages of those ingredients are noted below.

Garden Peas (15 on the Glycemic Index)

Peas are a great source of Vitamins B, C, and A, fiber, and vitamin K. Peas are one of the few plants that can use nitrogen from the air which helps to reduce the amount of chemical fertilizers used by farmers.

Chickpea or Garbanzo Beans (33 on the Glycemic Index)

Chickpeas are a grain-free, gluten-free starch source. This nutritious ingredient is made from a leguminous plant – Garbanzos – Chickpeas contain vitamin C, A, E, D and K, riboflavin, niacin. pantothenic acid and B vitamins.

Itchiness – What Makes Zignature Different

Many dogs do not itch because of allergies but because of yeast infections. Symptoms of excess yeast can include; ear infections, skin infections, paw irritability, and odor. A contributing factor to Candida yeast infections is the high carbohydrate content of dry dog foods. Potato, Tapioca, and Gluten are all high in sugar, a food source for the yeast infecting your dog. Zignature uses carbohydrates like Garden Peas and Chickpeas which have a low glycemic index, which means they contain less sugar to feed the yeast.

Protein Sources and Levels – What Makes Zignature Different

Your dog is a carnivore, and that means they need and benefit from high-quality protein in their diet. Zignature has a higher percentage of meat protein than many other dog foods.

Formula Percent Protein
Catfish 32%
Duck 27%
Kangaroo 26%
Lamb 28%
Pork 31%
Salmon 29%
Trout 30%
Turkey 31%
Venison 27%
Whitefish 29%
Zssential 32%

Ingredients – What Makes Zignature Different

  • Zignature is one of the only grain free dog foods without potato, tapioca, chicken, chicken fat, or eggs.
  • The first two ingredients in every Zignature formula are ALWAYS protein: animal protein backed by the same protein source as a meal
  • All dry kibbles need to use non-protein and fat sources to bind their food. Zignature uses peas, chickpeas, alfalfa mean, blueberries, carrots, cranberries and flax seed to bind their kibble.
  • Antioxidant-rich fruits & vegetables:
    • Cranberries: Powerful antioxidants, natural acidic properties that may support urinary tract health.
    • Blueberries: “Super foods for Dogs” Dogs with blueberries in their diet have been known to have lower fat cholesterol and triglycerides.
    • Carrots: A great source of necessary vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids to help support immune and digestive health. May also support proper skin and eye health.
  • Flax Seed: Contains higher levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) than fish oil, and contains omega-6 fatty acids. Flax seed oil has been used for years to maintain a healthy skin and coat in pets.
  • Alfalfa: One of the richest mineral foods on earth, promotes proper digestion and fresh breath.
  • Sunflower oil: This oil is exceptionally high in Linolenic an omega-3 fatty acid and helps dry skin and promotes a healthy coat.

Fiber and the “scoots” – What Makes Zignature Different

Zignature is higher in fiber, 4.5% to 6.5%, depending on the formula, than most dog foods. The increased level of fiber makes for healthier anal glands, and more importantly, a higher fiber percentage helps to clean out the colon, reduce toxins and helps keep our dogs regular. Zignature uses higher quality sources of fiber (alfalfa meal and flaxseed), as opposed to some food companies that use powdered cellulose (sawdust) or peanut hulls.

Physiologically Tuned™ Diet – What Makes Zignature Different

Zignature describes their food as being Physiologically Tuned™. What that means is this; meat or fish is always the first ingredient, and they do not use troublesome staples such as Chicken, Corn, Wheat, Soy, and Potatoes. “The result is optimal hypo-allergenic, low glycemic nutrition. We build on this natural foundation by adding vital supplements such as antioxidants, essential fatty acids and a complete spectrum of vitamins and minerals for holistic pet food that goes beyond nature to become your pet’s signature food for life.”

Dietary Rotation – What Makes Zignature Different

Green Acres has been discussing the benefits of rotating your dog’s food for many years. Quite simply, if you have a healthy dog and change protein sources on a regular basis, your dog is less likely to become sensitized to a protein and develop a food intolerance. Zignature makes dietary rotation easy with their vast selection of protein sources; Catfish, Duck, Kangaroo, Lamb, Pork, Salmon, Trout, Turkey, Venison, and Whitefish.

Canned Food – What Makes Zignature Different

If you wish to feed your dog canned food or canned food plus dry food, Zignature has a matching canned formula. Zignature canned foods never use any gums (Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Locust Bean Gum) in their canned formulas. These gums can contribute to inflammation and irritable bowel disease.

Frequent Buyer Program – What Makes Zignature Different

Green Acres Kennel Shop is pleased to offer a frequent buyer program for Zignature. We keep track of your purchases in the store, and when you have purchased twelve bags of Zignature, you will qualify for a free bag.

What Users of Zignature are saying on Facebook

John Steph Real

LOVE your food! These are photos of Myles’ transformation on your diet. Now my other five dogs are on your food and I am seeing results as well! Look at it in a large format,you can see the reduction of staining in 4 months!

For more customer reviews of Zignature, visit the Zignature testimonial page at http://zignature.com/?page_id=1644&lang=en

Recommended Resources

Articles on Don’s Blog (http://www.words-woofs-meows.com)

Pet Nutrition – What Should I Feed My Pet? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/06/04/pet-nutrition-what-should-i-feed-my-pet/

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 1 – My story with Gus – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/04/03/pet-nutrition-some-myths-and-facts-part-1-my-story-with-gus/

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 2 – In the Spring 2017 issue of Maine DOG Magazine, Coming here soon! –

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 3 – Look for this article in the Summer 2017 issue of Maine DOG Magazine, Coming here soon! –

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

Podcast – Zignature Limited Ingredient Pet Food – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/07/03/podcast-zignature-limited-ingredient-pet-food/

Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/03/podcast-pet-nutrition-with-dr-richard-patton/

Podcast – Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry with Kohl Harrington – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/05/06/podcast-pet-fooled-a-look-inside-a-questionable-industry-with-kohl-harrington/

 

©19JUN17, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
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Pet Nutrition – What Should I Feed My Pet?

< Updated 12JUN18 >

< http://bit.ly/What-Should-I-Feed-My-Pet >

The world of pet food is more than a little confusing. It can also be very misleading and even deceptive. In this blog post, I will be listing several articles, podcasts, books and websites that I have found to be excellent sources of information on pet nutrition. It is the goal of my blog, and our store, Green Acres Kennel Shop, to help you stay informed about pet food so that you can make healthy choices for your pets while staying within your budget.

I would encourage you to subscribe to my blog as every time I learn something new; I will update this article. I am always reading new information on nutrition and interviewing new guests for our radio show and podcast, The Woof Meow Show simply because nutrition is a constantly evolving science. Additionally, when I become aware of pet food recalls I post them on my blog as soon as possible. All you need to do to subscribe is to enter your email address and to click on subscribe.

My wife Paula and I became interested in pet nutrition by necessity when our Cairn Terrier Gus developed health issues that were directly related to what we were feeding him. Since then pet nutrition has become our passion. In fact, Gus and his health and nutritional quirks are a primary reason we entered the pet care services industry back in 1995.

If you prefer to discuss your pet’s nutritional needs in person, please stop by the store. We enjoy talking about nutrition and helping people find food that will benefit their pet and budget.

Recommended Resources

 

Articles on Don’s Blog ( http://www.words-woofs-meows.com )

< *Recommended to Read First >

*What do you feed your dog? – http://bit.ly/WhatDoYouFeedYourDog

*Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts –  My story with Gus – http://bit.ly/Gus-Nutrition

*Pet Nutrition – Should I Feed My Pet A Raw Diet? – http://bit.ly/ShouldIFeedMyPetARawDiet

*Nutrition – Why Rotating Diets Makes Sense – http://bit.ly/DietRotation

*Video – The Science and Dogma of Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – A video of animal nutritionist, Dr. Richard Patton’s presentation, The Science and Dogma of Pet Nutrition, presented for Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, ME on April 28th, 2016. – http://bit.ly/Video-Dr-Richard-Patton

*Book Review – Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – The paradox of pet nutrition by Richard Patton – http://bit.ly/RuinedByExcess-BookReview

*Book Review – Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purrfect Health by Kymythy Schultze – http://bit.ly/NatNutritionCats-BookReview

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Changes in Pet Food and Nutrition – part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/11/23/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-changes-in-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-1/

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Pet Food and Nutrition – part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/12/15/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-2/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/06/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-1/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/07/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-2/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 3 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/08/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-3/

Nutrition – Determining True Pet Food Costs – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2008/11/08/nutrition-determining-true-pet-food-costs/

Pet Nutrition – How Much Fat Is In Your Pet’s Food?  – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/10/12/pet-nutrition-how-much-fat-is-in-your-pets-food/

Pet Nutrition – New Zealand dog diet study a wake-up call for dog nutrition – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/05/19/pet-nutrition-new-zealand-dog-diet-study-a-wake-up-call-for-dog-nutrition/

Pet Nutrition –Vital Essentials® Pet Food – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/14/pet-nutrition-vital-essentials-pet-food/

Shared Blog Post – FDA on a Witch Hunt Against Commercial Pet Food? A Little Spritz of This Makes Pet Food Far Safer – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/11/28/shared-blog-post-fda-on-a-witch-hunt-against-commercial-pet-food-a-little-spritz-of-this-makes-pet-food-far-safer/

Pet Nutrition – From Dr. Karen Becker – A Vegetarian or Vegan Diet Is Not Healthy For Your Dog or Cat – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/09/27/pet-nutrition-from-dr-karen-becker-a-vegetarian-or-vegan-diet-is-not-healthy-for-your-dog-or-cat/

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

< *Recommended You Listen to First >

*What do you feed your pets? – http://bit.ly/WhatDoYouFeedYourPets-Podcast

*Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://bit.ly/DrPatton-Podcast

*Podcast – Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry with Kohl Harrington – http://bit.ly/WfMw-Pet-Fooled

 *Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Kymythy Schultze Author of Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purrfect Health – http://bit.ly/KymythySchultzeCatNutrition-Podcast

Podcast – Raw Diets and the Carnivore Meat Company-Vital Essentials-Dee Ferranti and Jodi Langellotti – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/17/podcast-raw-diets-and-the-carnivore-meat-company-vital-essentials-dee-ferranti-and-jodi-langellotti/

Podcast – Holistic and Complementary Wellness for Pets – Nutrition and Raw Food for Pets with Bette Schubert from Bravo Pet Foods – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/10/02/podcast-holistic-and-complementary-wellness-for-pets-nutrition-and-raw-food-for-pets-with-bette-schubert-from-bravo-pet-foods/

Podcast – The Rationale for Feeding Pets Raw Foods with Bette Schubert from Bravo Pet Foods – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/03/podcast-the-rationale-for-feeding-pets-raw-foods-with-bette-schubert-from-bravo-pet-foods/

Podcast – Bravo’s Raw Pets Food, Treats, Chewables and Bones with Bette Shubert – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/08/10/podcast-bravos-raw-pets-food-treats-chewables-and-bones-with-bette-shubert/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Gary Bursell of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/16/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-gary-bursell-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Nicole Lindsley of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/23/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-nicole-lindsley-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

Podcast – Pet Obesity with Dr. Chris Barry – Kindred Spirits Veterinary Clinic – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/24/podcast-pet-obesity-with-dr-chris-barry-kindred-spirits-veterinary-clinic/

Books

< *My Favorite Books >

Beginnings – Getting Your Dog and Cat Started on a Raw Diet by Melinda Miller and Honoring Your Cat’s Natural Diet by Terri Grow <Click here for a free download>

Feline Nutrition: Nutrition for the Optimum Health and Longevity of your Cat – Lynn Curtis

*Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purr-fect Health – Kymythy Schultze

*Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats – The Ultimate Diet – Kymythy Schultze

*Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – Dr. Richard Patton

*See Spot Live Longer – Steve Brown and Beth Taylor

*The Truth About Pet Foods – Dr. Randy Wysong

*Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet – Steve Brown

 

Web Sites and FaceBook Pages

Bravo Pet Foods – (http://www.bravopetfoods.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/BravoPetFoods/)

Fromm – https://frommfamily.com/

Health Extension – http://www.healthextension.com/

Natural Planet – http://naturalplanetpetfood.com/

NutriSource – http://www.nutrisourcepetfoods.com/nutrisource/

NutriSource PureVita – http://purevitapetfoods.com/

Steve’s Real Food for Pets – (http://www.stevesrealfood.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/StevesRealFood/)

Vital Essentials – (http://www.vitalessentialsraw.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/VitalEssentialsRaw/)

Weruva – http://www.weruva.com/

Wysong – http://www.wysong.net/

Zignature – http://zignature.com/

 

©12JUN18, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved <Click for Copyright and Use Policy>

Pet Nutrition – New Zealand dog diet study a wake-up call for dog nutrition

A press release from the New Zealand Premium Petfood Alliance dated March 16, 2017, reports on a new study, stating “Dog owners can improve the wellbeing of their canine companions by serving up a high meat diet rather than the human-like fare favoured by many,..”

FMI

Read the press release at – http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1703/S00534/new-zealand-dog-diet-study-a-wake-up-call-for-dog-nutrition.htm

Read the study at – https://peerj.com/articles/3019/

Podcast – Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry with Kohl Harrington

<Click to Listen to Podcast>

In this episode of The Woof Meow Show on May 6th, 2017 Kate and Don interview Kohl Harrington the director of the new documentary film Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry. Pet Fooled offers a critical review of the pet food industry, and it is not pretty. Listen to this show and learn why big pet food companies may not be as concerned about your pet’s health as they want you to believe.

Issues explored in the film and on this episode of The Woof Meow Show include; regulatory lapses which led to the pet food recalls of 2007, the high-powered marketing used to promote food that is not biologically appropriate for cats or dogs, confusing but legal advertising that makes pet foods look better than they are, and the major pet food companies problematic influence over veterinary education and the regulation of pet foods, and more.

Green Acres’ will offer four free screenings of Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry on Saturday, May 13th at 3:30 PM, Saturday, May 20th at 9:30 AM, Wednesday, June 7th at 6:30 PM and Monday, June 26th at 6:30 PM. Each screening will be followed by a question and answer period. Seating is free but limited, so please call us at 945-6841 to reserve your seat.

<Click to Listen to Podcast>

FMI on Pet Fooled

Website – http://www.petfooled.com/

Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/Pet-Fooled-1793771757524419/

Recommended Resources

Articles on Don’s Blog (http://www.words-woofs-meows.com)

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 1 – My story with Gus – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/04/03/pet-nutrition-some-myths-and-facts-part-1-my-story-with-gus/

What do you feed your dog? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/05/31/pet-nutrition-what-do-you-feed-your-dog/

Should I Feed My Pet A Raw Diet? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/09/11/pet-nutrition-should-i-feed-my-pet-a-raw-diet/

Video – The Science and Dogma of Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – A video of animal nutritionist, Dr. Richard Patton’s presentation, The Science and Dogma of Pet Nutrition, presented for Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, ME on April 28th, 2016. – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/09/10/pet-nutrition-the-science-and-dogma-of-pet-nutrition-with-dr-richard-patton/

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Changes in Pet Food and Nutrition – part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/11/23/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-changes-in-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-1/

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Pet Food and Nutrition – part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/12/15/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-2/

Homemade Food for Your Pet – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/10/31/pet-nutrition-homemade-food-for-your-pet/

Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/06/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-1/

Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/07/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-2/

Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 3 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/08/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-3/

Why Rotating Diets Makes Sense – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2012/05/04/nutrition-why-rotating-diets-makes-sense/

Determining True Pet Food Costs – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2008/11/08/nutrition-determining-true-pet-food-costs/

How Much Fat Is In Your Pet’s Food? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/10/12/pet-nutrition-how-much-fat-is-in-your-pets-food/

Book Review – Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – The paradox of pet nutrition by Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/03/16/book-review-ruined-by-excess-perfected-by-lack-the-paradox-of-pet-nutrition-by-richard-patton/

Pet Nutrition –Vital Essentials® Pet Food – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/14/pet-nutrition-vital-essentials-pet-food/

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

What do you feed your pets? – http://traffic.libsyn.com/woofmeowshow/WoofMeowShow2016-06-04-What_do_you_feed_your_pets.mp3

Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/03/podcast-pet-nutrition-with-dr-richard-patton/

Podcast – Holistic and Complementary Wellness for Pets – Our Personal Journey – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/10/08/podcast-holistic-and-complementary-wellness-for-pets-our-personal-journey/

Podcast – Raw Diets and the Carnivore Meat Company-Vital Essentials-Dee Ferranti and Jodi Langellotti – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/17/podcast-raw-diets-and-the-carnivore-meat-company-vital-essentials-dee-ferranti-and-jodi-langellotti/

Podcast – Holistic and Complementary Wellness for Pets – Nutrition and Raw Food for Pets with Bette Schubert from Bravo Pet Foods – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/10/02/podcast-holistic-and-complementary-wellness-for-pets-nutrition-and-raw-food-for-pets-with-bette-schubert-from-bravo-pet-foods/

Podcast – The Rationale for Feeding Pets Raw Foods with Bette Schubert from Bravo Pet Foods – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/03/podcast-the-rationale-for-feeding-pets-raw-foods-with-bette-schubert-from-bravo-pet-foods/

Podcast – Bravo’s Raw Pets Food, Treats, Chewables and Bones with Bette Shubert – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/08/10/podcast-bravos-raw-pets-food-treats-chewables-and-bones-with-bette-shubert/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Gary Bursell of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/16/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-gary-bursell-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Nicole Lindsley of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/23/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-nicole-lindsley-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

 

Books

Beginnings – Getting Your Dog and Cat Started on a Raw Diet by Melinda Miller and Honoring Your Cat’s Natural Diet by Terri Grow <Click here for a free download>

Feline Nutrition: Nutrition for the Optimum Health and Longevity of your Cat – Lynn Curtis

Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purr-fect Health – Kymythy Schultze

Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats – The Ultimate Diet – Kymythy Schultze

Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – Dr. Richard Patton

See Spot Live Longer – Steve Brown and Beth Taylor

The Truth About Pet Foods – Dr. Randy Wysong

Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet – Steve Brown

 

©6MAY17, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
<Click for Copyright and Use Policy>

Podcast – ENCORE: What do you feed your pets?

< Click to Listen to Podcast>

In this encore presentation from June 4th of 2016, Kate and Don answer the question “What do you feed your pets?” Because they work in a pet store, it is a question that they get frequently. Their answers may surprise you. They discuss what they look for in pet foods, what they avoid in pet foods, and what they feed their own cats and their dogs. Tune in and find out what two people who love to talk about nutrition feed their furry family members.

< Click to Listen to Podcast>

Recommended Resources

Articles on Don’s Blog (http://www.words-woofs-meows.com)

 

Pet Nutrition – What Do You Feed Your Dog? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/05/31/pet-nutrition-what-do-you-feed-your-dog/

Pet Nutrition: Some Myths and Facts – Part 1 – My story with Gus – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/04/03/pet-nutrition-some-myths-and-facts-part-1-my-story-with-gus/

Pet Nutrition – Should I Feed My Pet A Raw Diet? – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/09/11/pet-nutrition-should-i-feed-my-pet-a-raw-diet/

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Changes in Pet Food and Nutrition – part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/11/23/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-changes-in-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-1/

Reflections on 20 Years as a Pet Care Professional – Pet Food and Nutrition – part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2015/12/15/reflections-on-20-years-as-a-pet-care-professional-pet-food-and-nutrition-part-2/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 1 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/06/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-1/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 2 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/07/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-2/

Nutrition – Which Brand of Pet Food is the Best? – Part 3 – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2014/08/01/nutrition-which-brand-of-pet-food-is-the-best-part-3/

Nutrition – Why Rotating Diets Makes Sense – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2012/05/04/nutrition-why-rotating-diets-makes-sense/

Nutrition – Determining True Pet Food Costs – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2008/11/08/nutrition-determining-true-pet-food-costs/

Book Review – Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – The paradox of pet nutrition by Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/03/16/book-review-ruined-by-excess-perfected-by-lack-the-paradox-of-pet-nutrition-by-richard-patton/

Pet Nutrition –Vital Essentials® Pet Food – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/14/pet-nutrition-vital-essentials-pet-food/

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

 What do you feed your pets? – http://traffic.libsyn.com/woofmeowshow/WoofMeowShow2016-06-04-What_do_you_feed_your_pets.mp3

Podcast – Pet Nutrition with Dr. Richard Patton – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/03/podcast-pet-nutrition-with-dr-richard-patton/

Podcast – Raw Diets and the Carnivore Meat Company-Vital Essentials-Dee Ferranti and Jodi Langellotti – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/04/17/podcast-raw-diets-and-the-carnivore-meat-company-vital-essentials-dee-ferranti-and-jodi-langellotti/

Podcast – The Rationale for Feeding Pets Raw Foods with Bette Schubert from Bravo Pet Foods – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/08/03/podcast-the-rationale-for-feeding-pets-raw-foods-with-bette-schubert-from-bravo-pet-foods/

Podcast – Bravo’s Raw Pets Food, Treats, Chewables and Bones with Bette Shubert – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/08/10/podcast-bravos-raw-pets-food-treats-chewables-and-bones-with-bette-shubert/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Gary Bursell of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/16/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-gary-bursell-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

Podcast – Feeding Your Pet A Raw Diet with Nicole Lindsley of Steve’s Real Food for Pets – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2013/03/23/podcast-feeding-your-pet-a-raw-diet-with-nicole-lindsley-of-steves-real-food-for-pets/

Books

Beginnings – Getting Your Dog and Cat Started on a Raw Diet by Melinda Miller and Honoring Your Cat’s Natural Diet by Terri Grow <Click here for a free download>

Feline Nutrition: Nutrition for the Optimum Health and Longevity of your Cat – Lynn Curtis

Natural Nutrition for Cats: The Path to Purr-fect Health – Kymythy Schultze

Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats – The Ultimate Diet – Kymythy Schultze

Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack – Dr. Richard Patton

See Spot Live Longer – Steve Brown and Beth Taylor

The Truth About Pet Foods – Dr. Randy Wysong

Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet – Steve Brown

 

Films and Videos

Pet Fooled: A Look Inside A Questionable Industry by Kohl Harrington – http://www.petfooled.com/

 

©22APR17, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
<Click for Copyright and Use Policy>

Adopting A Pet – We’re Getting A New Puppy (or Dog)!

< A version of this article was published in the
March 2017 issue of Downeast Dog News>

<  UPDATED – 3SEP17 >

We’re Getting A New Puppy (or Dog)!

Prior Planning Makes for Success

By Don Hanson, ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

In January Kate and I did a two-part series on The Woof Meow Show (woofmeowshow.com) about finding the right dog for you and your family. You can read a companion article and get a link to the podcast here (Finding the right dog for you and your family). This column discusses what to do after you have found your dog but before you bring them home.

Adjust your schedule and priorities – Your new puppy is going to need significant time from you, especially during the first few months. A puppy has a key developmental period between eight to sixteen weeks of age, during which certain things need to happen if you want a well-adjusted puppy. This is not something you can postpone until you have time. Block off time in your daily schedule for your pup now, and stick to your commitment. Get other family members to pledge to do their part as well. It takes a family to raise a puppy.

Learn to accept, laugh and relax and ALWAYS be kind –   Your attitude and emotions will be a big factor in your pups happiness and readiness to bond with you. Trust me, dogs read us better than many of our closest human friends, and if you become angry with your dog, it will damage your relationship. Understand that a new dog, whether a puppy, a senior or anything in between, will need you to be patient and understanding. Accept the fact that both you and your dog will find one another frustrating at times. Rather than get mad, laugh and relax. Dogs like kind people with a good sense of humor.

Determine how you will handle your puppy’s housetraining – Your puppy will not housetrain themselves and will need someone present to take them out several times during the day. This need will continue for the first few months of their life. A rule of thumb for how many hours a puppy can “hold it” is their age in months plus one. For example, a four-month-old puppy will be able to “hold it” for five hours, at most. If you work all day long, you need a plan now, if you want your pup to become housetrained. Leaving a puppy in a room or an X-Pen while you are gone is just rewarding them for going to the bathroom inside, which will make training them to go outside take that much longer. If you cannot be there for your puppy, consider hiring a friend or family member to help you.

Make an appointment with your veterinarian for your puppy for the second day they are with you – No matter where you get your puppy, even if it is from your most trusted friend, take them to your veterinarian for their first wellness exam within twenty-four hours of your bringing them home. Make this appointment well in advance, so you are not delayed because your veterinarian’s schedule is booked.

Consider pet insurance – If you want to protect yourself against future major expenses, the time to consider pet insurance is when your dog is young, as it does not cover preexisting conditions. I recently had a client who adopted a new puppy that was diagnosed with a heart condition at their first appointment. While this is rare, it can happen. There are many pet insurance options available, so do your research.

Select a qualified trainer and enroll you and your puppy in a Puppy Headstart class – Do this now, before you have the puppy, so that you can make sure there is room in the class when your puppy arrives. Every dog will benefit from training, as will you, and the relationship between you and your dog. Developmentally, a puppy will benefit starting in class when they are eight to nine weeks of age, definitely before 16 weeks of age, when socialization windows close. A well-designed puppy class will focus on important issues like; socialization and habituation, housetraining, play biting, jumping up on people, and chewing. These are vastly more important at this stage than working on things like sit and shake. Working with a professional, certified, reward-based dog trainer can greatly simplify your life.

  • If you enroll in class, you are more likely to train your dog,
  • a trainer can answer your questions as they come up, and
  • a trainer can teach you how to avoid unintentionally training behaviors you do not want.

Do not just choose a trainer solely based on location, convenience or price. Training is an unregulated profession, and not all trainers are created equal. (How to choose a dog trainer)

Purchase Basic Supplies – You will need some basic supplies for your puppy. Minimally, these include a crate, a leash, a collar, an ID tag, food and water bowls, and toys.

Purchase Food and Treats – What you feed your pet and use for treats is a big decision, which can have significant effects on your puppy’s health. I believe that quality nutrition is the key to health and a long life. Be skeptical of television ads for pet food. The pet foods that you most often see advertised on TV are currently facing a lawsuit for misleading advertising. Avoid anyone suggesting that one and only one food is the best food for all pets. Recognize that breeders, veterinarians, pet stores, shelters; and others trying to sell you food, have a bias. Either commit to learning about pet nutrition, or find someone you can trust to help you.

Find a groomer – Not all dogs will need a professional groomer for their coat, but unless you plan on trimming your dog’s nails on your own, you will need the services of a professional groomer every four to six weeks. If you have a long-haired dog; Poodle, Doodle, Sheltie, etc., you will want your dog to start to become familiar with the grooming process between 8 and 16 weeks of age. I suggest a minimum of two to three visits to the groomer during this period, not for a full grooming, but just to have some “happy time” with the groomer and for your dog to become habituated to the process.

Have fun and enjoy your new companion – If you think I have made raising a puppy sound like lots of work that is because it is. However, the more you know and plan ahead of time the easier it is. The investment you make in your puppy will be paid back in fun and companionship.

 

Recommended Resources

Articles on Don’s Blog (http://www.words-woofs-meows.com)

Finding the right dog for you and your family – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/01/16/adopting-a-pet-finding-the-right-dog-for-you-and-your-family/

How to choose a dog trainer – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2017/01/08/how-to-choose-a-dog-trainer/

Does My Dogs Breed Matter? – Parts 1, 2 & 3 – http://bit.ly/DoesDogBreedMatter

Podcasts from The Woof Meow Show (http://www.woofmeowshow.com)

Finding the Right Dog for You and Your Family – Part 1 – http://traffic.libsyn.com/woofmeowshow/WoofMeowShow-2017-01-14Finding_the_Right_Dog_for_You_and_Your_FamilyPart-1.mp3

Finding the Right Dog for You and Your Family – Part 2 – http://traffic.libsyn.com/woofmeowshow/WoofMeowShow-2017-01-21Finding_the_Right_Dog_for_You_and_Your_FamilyPart-2.mp3

How to choose a dog trainer – http://traffic.libsyn.com/woofmeowshow/WoofMeowShow-2017-01-07How_to_Choose_A_Dog_Trainer.mp3

The benefits of training your dog and 2017 Training Classes at Green Acres – http://blog.greenacreskennel.com/2016/12/12/podcast-the-benefits-of-training-your-dog-and-2017-training-classes-at-green-acres/

 

________________________________________________________________________
Don Hanson is the co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop (greenacreskennel.com) in Bangor. He is a Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), Associate Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (ACCBC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). He produces and co- hosts a weekly radio show and podcast, The Woof Meow Show heard on The Pulse AM620 WZON and streamed at http://www.wzonradio.com/ every Saturday at 9 AM. A list of upcoming shows and podcasts of past shows can be found at www.woofmeowshow.com. Don also writes about pets at his blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com.

©4MAR17, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved
<Click for Copyright and Use Policy>

PET FOOD RECALL- Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Healthy Weight

Blue Buffalo is voluntarily recalling specific lots of cans of Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Healthy Weight due to possible aluminum metal contamination. UPC: 8-40243-10017-0

Codes: Best By 08/03/2019, The “Best By” date is on the bottom of the can.

No other Blue Buffalo products are involved. The company has not received any reports of illness or injury as a result of the problems giving rise to this recall.

For more information on the recall of these products, please check the Blue Buffalo website at (http://bluebuffalo.com/about-us/whats-new-at-blue/bb-homestyle-recipe-letter/)