In the summer of one of the most turbulent economic periods in a lifetime, Americans are rediscovering simplicity and frugality.  These days, it’s not uncommon to see a small group playing an impromptu game of Frisbee, or a couple enjoying a nature hike through a local park, or an extended family spending an afternoon in the backyard barbecuing.

The summer months provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun, whether your idea of open-air enjoyment is a power-walk with your dog or watching an afternoon storm roll in from the safety of a back porch with your cat.  These activities help us brush away the winter cobwebs, shedding new light on our daily life.  But sometimes, we make discoveries that are not altogether pleasant.  Too often, the thinner, summer coats of our pets can reveal what winter coats have hidden from plain view – reddened skin irritations, possibly the sign of a seasonal or chronic allergy.

That’s right … just like humans, pets suffer from allergies.  Allergens can come from any number of sources, including grasses, trees, molds, dust mites and flea bites.  Even their food may contain allergens.  With all of these possible culprits, how can a pet parent learn what’s causing their pet’s allergy?

The first step for many of us is to hop online.  We know that information is plentiful on the internet, even if not all of it is trustworthy. That inclination, to try and uncover the reasons ourselves, especially when that impulse is coupled with hard economic times, can lead to a scenario where many pet parents will try to diagnose Fido’s or Fluffy’s allergies on their own, without veterinary assistance.  But the cause of allergies is notoriously difficult to pin down because it so hard to isolate one possible cause from another.

If you want to determine whether or not your four-footer is truly suffering from an environmental or food-related allergy, you should have your vet do an evaluation.  They will use either a blood test or a skin test, or perhaps both, to assess what allergens are producing the symptoms.

When animals experience allergic reactions, their bodies alter normal hormone production.  Some of the resultant chemical reactions can lead to cellular inflammation, the process bodies use to remove the allergens.  To understand this process, consider the following example:  the common flea bite. Commonly, after a flea bite, there may be swelling and possible irritation (usually itchiness).  But if your dog or cat has a flea allergy, the reaction is a much larger rash with severe itching. This is the body attempting to eliminate the allergen; in this case, flea saliva.

So, what’s the best way to nip allergies in the bud? Leading holistic practitioners and natural-care veterinarians have long endorsed foods and supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially those coming from fish oil, which help inhibit the body’s inflammatory response.  And the amazing properties of omega-3’s don’t end there.  When coupled with omega-6’s derived from a source like flaxseed, a balanced blend of these fatty acids are known to provide much-needed support by helping to strengthen the body’s natural response to allergens.  They do this by enhancing the functions of the immune system and by fortifying the walls of individual cells in the body.  At the same time, omega-3’s also help to protect neurological and blood systems.  If you encounter information disparaging the inclusion of fatty acids in the diets of companion animals – either from online sources, friends or even veterinarians – it may be based upon outdated beliefs about these nutrients.

If you are not already feeding your companion a diet rich in omega-3’s like Life’s Abundance, you might consider incorporating into your pet’s diet a supplemental source of omega-3’s, either in chewable tablet form (like Skin & Coat Formula) or in capsule form (many of our customers provide Sealogix for their pets).  Dr. Jane advises against feeding omega-3 supplements in the half-hour immediately before and after a meal, as the precise balance of fats can be thrown off, resulting in diminished absorption of those beneficial nutrients.  Under no circumstances should you add liquid fish oil to dry food.

If you believe that your favored feline or precious pup suffers from allergies, please schedule time with your trusted veterinarian to determine the appropriate treatment, and consider incorporating essential fatty acids in your pet’s diet.  By taking a proactive stance now, your pet might be able to avoid allergic reactions in the future.

You can purchase any item mentioned in this article as well as any of our other great products from Wholesome Pet Supply.

The study, conducted by the Purina Pet Institute, ranked those cities that exemplify superior care, services and legislation for pets’ health and well-being. It analyzed 30 different criteria ranging from veterinarian-to-pet ratios to incidence of obesity to rabies legislation. The top five Pet Healthiest Cities are:

1. Denver, Colo.
2. Oakland, Calif.
3. Portland, Ore.
4. Anaheim, Calif.
5. San Francisco, Calif.

“This is the only comprehensive evaluation of factors that impact pets’ health and affect their quality of life,” said Dan Christian, DVM, executive director of the Purina Pet Institute.

The data revealed that pet obesity/body condition and preventative care are major issues. According to veterinarians surveyed, more than half of the nation’s cats and dogs are overfed, which can lead to health problems. An unprecedented 14-year Purina study proved that feeding dogs properly throughout their lifetime to maintain ideal body condition can significantly extend their healthy years.

Other significant results:

• Cats and dogs in San Francisco can claim clean lungs-the city has the lowest cigarette usage in the report and boasts zero annual ozone alert days.

• New York City and Oakland scored highest for percentage of dogs neutered (83 percent) and New York City tied with San Jose for highest percentage of cats neutered (86 percent).

• In the body condition category, New Orleans scored highest for percentage of dogs at ideal body weight (50 percent) and Nashville took top score for percentage of cats at ideal body weight (50 percent).

• Columbus, Ohio leads the country in the veterinarian-to-pet ratio with one veterinarian for every 745 pets.

While it is important to understand the environmental elements that affect a pet’s health-such as the availability of qualified care, the prevalence of fleas or the requirements of licensing-there are many things individual pet owners can do to help improve their pet’s health.

“The things pet owners control -obesity, preventative care, spaying and neutering-can literally add, or detract, healthy years from a pet’s life,” said Christian.

For better weight control and the healthiest diet available for your pet, please check out the fresh, natural Life’s Abundance pet foods from Wholesome Pet Supply.

Your Pet and Your Health

Many of us agree that we should do everything within our power to make sure that our companion animals enjoy the best possible health.  But did you know that simply by being a part of your life, your dog or cat could actually help you to be not only happier but healthier, too?

Of course you did.  It’s all part of the privilege (and fun!) of being a pet parent.  What you may not know is that there’s plenty of science to back it up.  A wealth of knowledge regarding the health benefits associated with having companion animals has been accumulated over the last two decades, including numerous research studies in the U.S. and abroad.

A study published in The British Journal of Health Psychology reports that people who have companion animals tended to be healthier than those who did not.  Additionally, when a dog was part of the family, the members had fewer minor ailments, lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol.  Although the explanation for these advantages is unclear, researchers speculated that all benefits could be accounted for by reduced levels of stress, possibly due to increased physical activity and levels of social interaction.

The positive effects of having a canine companion have also been chronicled in research published in the American Journal of Cardiology.  The year-long study documented the effect of having a canine companion in 369 patients who had suffered an acute heart attack.  The positive effects were nothing short of extraordinary!  The patients who had a dog in the home had a much better chance of survival.  Over 7% of patients without a dog died during the study, compared with only 1% of those who had a canine companion.

Researchers at the University of Leicester found that when pets are in a household, children six years and younger develop social skills at an accelerated rate.  Additionally, these children tend to have better coordination, improved confidence, superior communication skills and are even less likely to have allergies!

The British Medical Journal concluded that pets serve a vital need for socialization, especially for those at a higher risk for isolation, like those with physical limitations that might prevent opportunities for social interaction.  Most medical professionals agree that the broader the network of social contacts, the better we are able to deal with difficult life issues.  This study, and others like it, supports the idea that this need for social relations can be fulfilled equally well by companion animals as with people.

And a survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association revealed that bringing a companion animal to the office resulted in higher worker productivity.

These and many other studies reinforce what we as pet parents have suspected all along … that our beloved four-footed companions are integral parts of our families, enriching our lives beyond measure.

If you have a story about how your companion animal has improved your life, we’d like to know about it.  Share your personal anecdote with us at stories@healthypetnet.com.

Since the dogs consume lot of prepared food materials including various kinds of proteins, fillers, coloring agents and more; in the commercial food materials, the incidences of food allergies are more than one can imagine. Allergic reactions mostly involve the skin or the gastro intestinal tract.

If you come across your dog itching after the provision of specific food materials, then suspect the food allergy in this animal. However, conditions like fungal infections need to be ruled out in general before the conclusion of itching as a sign of food allergy.

There are many recorded incidences of allergies in dogs to corn or wheat. However, the food allergies vary from dog to dog. Read the labels carefully before feeding your dog. Too much colored food materials and/or chemicals should be avoided.

Food allergies are often linked to the hyperactive behavior in the dogs. Added colors, preservatives, and high fat diet might cause such food allergies so you have to be careful in providing new kind of diet to your dog. If you do, closely monitor the dog for any signs of allergy.

There are many occasions that food allergies might be diagnosed in a dog, but the dog may have other problems like pancreatitis. To rule out the food allergies, observe your dog every time you feed
them. Look for reasons to link the signs to the food given.

One way to avoid many of the dog allergy problems caused by chemicals and fillers in their food is to feed them Life’s Abundance from Wholesome Pet Supply. Life’s Abundance contains no chemicals or fillers, only natural, wholesome, human-grade ingredients from the US.

Special Message from Dr. Jane

Great news! Life’s Abundance Premium Health Foods now have improved recipes, and have the same great flavor dogs and cats love! Of course, all of these wonderful ingredients are balanced so that our foods are 100% nutritional, according to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Officials). It’s the same superior quality food that your furry ones are accustomed to; I’ve just taken it to a whole new nutritional level!

I’ve just had some pet parents ask me, “Why would you change your recipe, especially when you know how beneficial it these products already are?” And I say to them, it is my duty as veterinarian, a pet lover and a product formulator to do my very best for cats and dogs. And that includes making improvements to an already excellent formula, if I find evidence that the changes can really “up” the nutritional value of a food, treat or supplement. I can assure you that all of these upgrades are backed by good solid scientific research that I have investigated myself.

Please remember, every single ingredient in Life’s Abundance is carefully selected. Everything that goes into our foods is included for a reason – to promote the health and well-being of companion animals. As a holistic veterinarian, I need to address all the needs of the body, judging the merits of ingredients by their impact on an animal’s physiology, anatomy and biochemistry. As a product formulator, I create recipes that maximize the benefits so that we get the results we want – which always amounts to improving health states. You never have to worry that your lovely pet’s food is being made by some anonymous formulator who only works with numbers, values and percentages.

With Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Puppies and Adult Dogs, I have made some subtle but substantial enhancements, including …

• An Antioxidant System including vitamins A, C and E, as well as blueberries and pomegranates: studied for years, antioxidants are recommended by prominent health and medical organizations.
• Oat Groats: this natural source of complex carbohydrates contains E and A oils, B vitamins, iron, zinc, copper and magnesium, while providing an excellent source of fiber.
• A Proprietary Blend of Vitamins and Minerals: sourced from a unique mixture of vitamins and minerals, as well as fruits and vegetables, for a wide array of the nutrients that puppies and dogs need to thrive.

With Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food for Kittens and Adult Cats, I have added …

• An Antioxidant System including vitamins A, C and E, as well as pomegranates: for the same reason listed above.
• Dog Grass: helps supports a healthy urinary tract, which is vital for cats.
• Alfalfa Sprouts: perhaps the richest in minerals of all grasses, this herb helps support healthy joints.
• More Protein: we’ve increased the amount of the same high-quality animal source proteins – chicken, catfish, eggs, turkey and liver – for an excellent array of amino acids.

And, with Life’s Abundance Weight-Loss Formula for Adult Dogs, I’ve added some of the great ingredients included in the above formula for dogs, including …

• An Antioxidant System including vitamins A, C and E, as well as blueberries and pomegranates.
• A Proprietary Blend of Vitamins and Minerals.

And, just like before, all of Life’s Abundance Premium Health Foods contain high-quality proteins, whole grains, Omega fatty acids, dietary fiber and direct-fed microbials (like those found in yogurt). The kibble size has not changed, and neither has the flavor. I am positive that you and your pet will continue to enjoy the same benefits as before.

A Life’s Abundance diet means that your companion has a tremendous nutritional advantage, and it will always mean that, as long as I am here working to serve you and your family.

Thank you for caring enough to provide the best possible foods for your pet kids. Together, we’re making the world a better place for our beloved dogs and cats.

Best Wishes,

Dr. Jane Bicks

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE’s), chemicals used only in recent decades as a flame retardant, have been shown in research to cause injury to the feline nervous system, as well as interfere with the production of certain hormones. Scientists are concerned that these chemicals could also lead to similar symptoms in humans, too.

PBDE’s have now been phased out of commercial production, but many of the products that contain them, like fabrics, furniture, foams, some plastics and other items, are still in use.

This evidence suggests that if your cat is suffering from hyperthyroidism, it could be the result of an object in your home – one that could be removed, and possibly lessen the severity of the illness.

Source: Environmental Science and Technology, August 2007.

Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM
HealthyPetNet Veterinarian Formulator

This month I would like to touch on the immune system because it is very important to your companion animal’s health and longevity.  You probably know that a strong immune system is essential, but what is it and how does it work?

The immune system is made up of a complex and integrated arrangement of organs, tissues, white blood cells and antibodies.  The system works by protecting the body from potentially harmful bacteria, microbes, viruses, toxins and parasites … fighting disease, infections and various pathogens.  Although I could go on and on talking about this highly complex system, I would like to highlight two vital aspects of the immune system: antioxidants and the G.A.L.T.

Antioxidants are the most commonly discussed nutrients in relation to the immune system because they protect the body by destroying harmful substances known as free radicals.  Free radicals are formed inside the body as a by-product of metabolism and also in response to environmental elements, like exposure to ultraviolet light, air pollution, etc.  In order to support healthy immune function, it is vital that your pet gets enough antioxidants to disarm harmful free radicals.

Fruits, vegetables and grasses are full of powerful antioxidants.  Actually, I believe that Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food was one of the first brands to include antioxidants from whole foods.  Dogs and cats need antioxidants from a wide variety of foods, including squash, zucchini, rice germ, flax seed meal, herbs, liver, and natural vitamin E.  You can give your dog apples, pears and other fruits.  Fresh veggies work well for dogs and occasionally for cats.  I have a cat that carries raw string beans in her mouth and howls as though it is something important, and eventually eats most of it.

Another critical part of the immune system is found in the intestines or the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue (G.A.L.T.), which communicates with the immune cells located throughout the body.  In some respects, the G.A.L.T. is the first line of defense in the body.  That’s why Life’s Abundance foods and other HealthyPetNet products contain a special fiber and mix of friendly bacteria to support intestinal health.

We all want the very best for our beloved animals.  We should feel fortunate to live in a time when breakthroughs in medical research help us to help them live longer and happier lives.  Thanks to the solid research we now have regarding immune and GI health, we are pleased to bring you a truly superior line of food, treat and supplement products for your companion animals.  To better health for all dogs and cats!

Dr. Jane Bicks

Here’s wishing you and your companion animal a happy and safe Spring.

P.S.  Can your dog or cat use a little sprucing up, but it is too chilly for a bath? 

Try our Bath Fresh Mist.  An easy-to-use spray that is enhanced with a moisture-activated odor-fighter that safely absorbs and neutralizes odors, giving your pet a fresh “just bathed” look and feel. Contains a blend of certified organic herbal extracts, pure plant botanicals and natural fruit extracts that assist with detangling as well as nourishing the coat’s natural condition, leaving it soft, luxurious and delicately fragrant. Not just a cover up – actually neutralizes odors.  Rinse Free Formula! 

If you live in a climate that has sticky, hot, summer days, you may find yourself longing for cooler days. Your pet will definitely agree! In warm weather, it is necessary for you to care for your pet’s health so that he or she does not become overheated. Remember, a pet is like a newborn baby—they cannot tell you that they are hot or uncomfortable. You have to notice warning signs and provide a good living environment so that your pet does not get too hot.

When you take your pet places during the summer, never ever let it inside of a parked car, even for a short time. Cars quickly become ovens in the summertime, even when you park in the shade, or even if you have the windows cracked. Your pet will not be able to alert people in order to get out of your car safely. In as little as ten to fifteen minutes, your pet could die from the heat in a parked car, and parking in the shade does little good to prevent this, since the sun continuously moves and the heat of the air alone will be bad for your pet. If your pet will be going with you, make sure they are allowed wherever you will be.

When the heat index is high, keep your pets inside. Pets that are not outdoors most of the time won’t know where the cooler places to hide are, or they may find these cooler places and not return home. Hot asphalt can also wreak havoc on a pet’s health, as it can burn his or her sensitive paw pads. If your pet does go outside, make sure that he or she is let back inside after only a few minutes on the hottest days of the summer. Basically, if it is recommended that seniors and children stay inside, it is good for pets to stay indoors as well.

Keep your pet well groomed during the summer as well. Brushing you pet often will help get rid of the excess hair that has been shed and is weighing down the animal. If your pet has very long hair or is overweight, provide him or her with an air-conditioned room if possible. Preventing overheating is key.

As always, make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water. This can be tap water, but should be cool and changed multiple times a day when it is hot outside. Your furry friend is very important in your life, so make sure that he or she gets proper care when the summer days make your sweat.

And when it comes time to feeding your pal, be sure it’s Life’s Abundance all natural pet food that you pour in their bowl. They will appreciate it and may live longer, happier lives because of your caring to feed them the best pet food anywhere.

Over-grooming usually starts when there has been a big change in your cat’s life, such as a new baby or pet in the house or a move. Cats naturally groom themselves often, and this activity is like a massage that cats love to do. Therefore, if your cat is stressed out about a change in his or her life, your cat may groom as an attempt to remain calm. Over-grooming takes place with the cat excessively licks or pulls out fur, resulting in bald spots. Commonly, the areas affected by over-grooming at the inner thighs and forelegs.

If you see bald spots on your cat, your first step is to call your vet and schedule an appointment. There are, in fact, over things that cause balding in a cat, and these other medical conditions can become quickly fatal if left untreated. Thyroid problems, allergies, fleas, mites, ringworm, and bacterial pyoderma can all cause bald patches in the fur, which your vet can examine to diagnose your pet.

If your cat is suffering from over-grooming, there are a number of things you can do to her him or her heal. First, identify what has triggered this reaction in your pet and eliminate this if possible. However, this may not help, as the cat’s behavior may be a habit by now. Try to take your cat’s mind off of grooming by regular play and stimuli. Consider a cat video or a fish tank, which can entertain your cat when you have to leave for more than an hour, and when possible, bring your cat wherever you are going.

You vet can also recommend certain medications to help your cat stop over-grooming. Anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medications could do the trick, and your vet can help you learn positive reactions for your cat when you she that he or she is over-grooming. Together, you, your vet, and your cat can put an end to your cat’s health problems.

One thing you can do to bring stability to your cat is to always feed it the best natural, chemical-free, cat food available, Life’s Abundance.  Please look at our web site to find out why. Thank you!