Holistic Pets

Making your own homemade dog food with this recipe is easy and will give your dog the best all natural dog foods available. Just remember that in the wild your dog would catch small prey and eat the whole thing. This consisted of the meat, bones, organs, even the heart, brain and eyes (which are high in taurine). The vegetables they would get were in the stomach and digestive tract of the animals already partially digested. If you make your all natural dog foods to imitate your dogs prey hey will enjoy optimum health and love you for it.

Meats need to be fed one animal at a time. In the wild your dog would not eat more than one kind of meat at once. The meat should be ground or served in chunks which are easier to eat. Larger pieces will cause your dog to hold them with their feet to rip the meat apart, which can get messy.

Do not feed any fat that has been cooked which can lead to problems with your dog’s pancreas. Remember in the wild your dog would only get the fat that was on the animal and eaten raw. Use the skin that comes on the meat of in the case of beef the fat riddled throughout the meat.

Meats that cause trichinosis should never be fed like pork, bear, seal, ground squirrels, etc. However specialty meats like moose, ox, venison or bison are very pure and nutrient dense and can be fed in smaller quantities occasionally. Soft boiled eggs are also a good protein source, feed shells and all.

Organ meats are also very nutrient dense so use organ meat sparingly in your homemade dog food recipe. Either feed organ meats a couple of times a week for the meat portion or feed small amounts daily. Brains, heart and eyes are very high in taurine which is an essential amino acid for a healthy dog.

Vegetables are also essential in the best all natural dog foods. Remember to shred vegetables in a blender or food processor, your dog was used to getting them predigested in the wild. Use 3 or four different kinds of vegetables, preferably different colors to receive a wide variety of nutrients. The darker the vegetable, the more nutritious it will be in your all natural dog foods homemade dog food recipe.

It is best to avoid vegetables from the nightshade family like eggplants, green peppers, potatoes, onions, chives, garlic and tomatoes. These vegetables are associated with arthritis problems. Spinach also has a high oxalic content which can lead to kidney stones.

The best ingredients for the best all natural dog foods in your homemade dog food recipe are free range or organic meat because of the amount of toxins in meat and organic vegetables or peel the skin or wash with a spray to remove pesticides. Organic is always the best choice for all natural dog foods. Warm purified water is also an essential element in the best homemade dog food recipe. If these ingredients are not available use what you have, because it will make better all natural dog foods than you can purchase. Do not make your homemade dog food recipe because you cannot get all organic, what you make will be much more nutritious than any all natural dog foods you can buy.

Mix the meat at about 75% with the vegetables about 25% of the homemade dog food recipe. Puppies need a little more meat to vegetables since they are growing. Mix enough warm water to make a stew consistency. Meat and vegetables should be raw with the vegetables shredded finely. If you see vegetables in your dogs stool they are not chopped fine enough.

Your dog will eat until he is full. A good rule of thumb is about a pound of all natural dog foods per fifty pounds of your dog’s body weight. Do not feed your dog again until he has eliminated the previous meal or this can cause digestive problems for your dog. Always introduce any change in your dog’s diet slowly, increasing the new food daily until you have switched your dog over to the new all natural dog foods.

Using these simple guidelines you can make your dog the best all natural dog foods from your own homemade dog food recipe so your dog can enjoy optimum health. Your dog will love you for it.

Get a better understanding of dog food nutrition and what’s in your dog’s bowl.

We all want the best for our pets, so dog food ingredients would be near the top of the list. But what is actually in commercially prepared dog food?

The recent pet food recall added to our concerns. It’s important to understand what goes into that big bag of dog food. While reading the label can be confusing, with a little detective work you can decipher much of the hidden content of your dog’s food. Nutrition is the key.

What’s In A Name?

The first clue as to the content of your dog food is in the title. If the food is named for the main ingredient, such as “Lamb Dog Food”, then the named ingredient, i.e. lamb, must make up at least 70% of the food. But if the name of the food is called a “dinner” or “formula” such as “Beef Formula” or “Chicken Dinner”, that ingredient may only make up 25% of the food. Empty fillers make up the difference in content in those types of food.

Looking For The Best Dog Food

puppies eating Often the dog food ingredients list will be accompanied by words such as “meal” “by-products”, “crude proteins”.

By-products are dog food ingredients that make up much of poorer dog foods. Meat by-products are the left over parts of the animal unfit for human consumption, such as the intestines, organs, and diseased animals.

Crude Protein is often made from the hooves and hair of animals, as well as the feathers and beaks of poultry. Although this protein source may make up a strong percentage of a given dog food, very little of it can actually be absorbed by the dog.

Meal refers to cereal grains, the leftover hulls and husks of wheat and corn, after being processed for human use. These have very little nutritional value.

Get Out the Reading Glasses!

food label Take a look at the ingredients label of your dogs’ food often there can be twenty or more ingredients listed!

The dog food ingredients are listed on the label in order of total volume, with the first few ingredients making up the main content of the food.

A dog food with ingredients listed as “beef, chicken meal, barley, brown rice” is therefore made with true beef as it’s main ingredient, an important animal-protein source.

Another label may read, “Ground wheat, corn meal, meat meal, chicken fat, wheat gluten”. In this example, a meat product is not the largest component of the food or even the second! The meat products that are being used are the by-products, and do not supply an adequate source of meat based protein to the dog.

What’s In Your Dog’s Dish? Do You Know About Dog Food Nutrition?

Once you have the knowledge to decipher a dog food label, it’s time to take a look at what you have been feeding your hunting dog. If that bag of food suddenly isn’t looking like it’s worth the money you paid for it, keep in mind a few other things before you start looking for an alternative brand.

So-called “organic” dog food ingredients can fall into two groups. Foods labeled “organic” contain at least 95% true organic ingredients. However, foods advertised as “made with organic ingredients” may only contain 70% organic ingredients. With the price of these specialty diets on the rise, make sure he’s getting the best dog food.

How About Some Homemade Dog Food?

Home cooked diets have become increasingly popular recently, and that popularity has grown exponentially since the dog food recall. Home made dog food can be cooked, or served raw.

While there are a variety of recipes available for making the perfect home cooked meal, most follow a standard pattern of 50% human grade meat, with vegetables, oats, rice or potatoes.

In addition, vitamin and mineral supplements may be necessary to fully attend to your dogs nutritional demands. Homemade dog food allows you to give back to your hard working hunting buddy.

The food for hunting and performance dogs requires more attention to detail. They have a greater need for fats and calories in their diet, along with a careful balance of vitamins and minerals for optimum performance ability. Proper dog food nutrition is essential in the working dog.

Despite the advantage of control over the quality of ingredients in a homemade dog food diet, the added investment of time, money and research necessary to create a balanced diet is often not feasible.

By arming yourself with knowledge, and doing research on dog food ingredients, you can find a commercially available dog food that gives you both peace of mind, and will help your dog to get the nutrition he needs to live a long and happy life.

When it comes to taking care of your pets, like most pet owners, you want to do whatever you can to ensure that they are healthy and happy. When you are choosing the right food for them, it can be hard to know what brand is better and what ingredients are the best. With all of the different brands, types and flavors out there to choose from, how do you know which one is truly the best and which ones offer only quality and premium ingredients to feed the needs of your pet?

Diamond pet food has been producing some of the best quality pet food for years. They strive to ensure that your pet will get the best ingredients and quality by selling healthy pet food for your pet. They stand by their products and carefully formulate them to enhance the happiness, health and performance of your pet. They offer different formulas for all kinds of special nutritional needs that your pets may have.

The ingredients that Diamond uses in their pet food are only the best quality available. They include the following:

• Animal protein from sources with the highest amino acid levels and easily digestible formulas.

• Natural flaxseed to taste good and provide omega-3 nutrients.

• Quality chicken fat that is very digestible for animals and provides the most energy potential. This also includes a blend of Omega-6 nutrients.

• Dried chicory root and beet pulp that act as sources of fiber to help maintain the intestinal health of your pet.

• Protein that is low in ash, very digestible and promotes smooth muscle development.

• Specially formulated amounts of minerals and vitamins that help guard your pet against any nutrient deficiencies.

• Chondroitin and Glucosamine, which are vital to help keep your pet’s joints strong and healthy.

In addition to the quality ingredients that go into Diamond pet food, they also have a very advanced quality system that ensures that only the best products leave the plant and get to the shelves of your stores.

Diamond offers products for both cats and dogs, and different varieties for each. For those who like to only feed their pets natural products, they offer the Diamonds Natural line of pet food that provides the best nutrition and promotes good health for your pets. They also offer different formulas for specific concerns of pet owners. For those who need to feed their pets a gentle diet, Diamond offers their lamb and rice formulas. For the older pets they offer Senior formulas to help your pet continue to stay healthy and live long.

Diamond also offers different formulas for different kinds of dogs to address specific needs of large breed dogs and smaller breed dogs. They offer indoor cat formulas for your kitties that stay inside. The indoor cat formula also includes ingredients that can help prevent hairballs. They also offer special formulated blends for puppies and kittens to address their special nutritional needs as they are growing.

Diamond pet food offers something for all of the pets in your life. If you want to ensure that your pets will stay strong and healthy and share a long life with you, the best thing you can do is make sure they eat a healthy diet and get all of the nutrition that they need. Diamond pet food products are available online and in stores. They are committed to providing your pets the best quality and nutrition. Show your pets how much you love them by helping them stay healthy.

Puppy meals ratings will definitely be specially methodized with regard to comparability not to mention efficiency requirements. This valuable report although not necessarily all-inclusive will certainly provide your own puppy with their uppermost health and fitness wise last but not least pleasurable dinner periods.
Innova: together with a number of total substances, innova is generally a truly intelligent preference for a great deal of dog lovers. Produce, seafood together with meat construct an amazing variety of digestible proteins for your personal family dog. Additionally, it incorporates omega 6 in addition to 3 fatty acids, vitamin supplements.
Wysong Application: This particular puppy meals created utilizing little or no meat is without a doubt specifically greatest suited to help dogs having meat allergic reactions.
Los angeles Organic Dog Food: Canines susceptible towards dermis allergic reactions, food reactions will quickly realize this specific canine food particularly welcoming. They have carbs, fats, along with proteins just about all within a 1:1:One percentage and it is barely listed at $.92.
Nutro: Consists of vitamin e antioxidant and many types of organic substances. Dogs having temperamental stomachs will probably enjoy nutro due towards the fact that it doesn’t include fabricated preservatives.
Canidae: The following is situated within the canned puppy meals. It has whole grains together with real quality various meats. Additionally it’s acknowledged by using comprising amino acids, complete compounds in addition to four or five key proteins. It can also be dished up solely or perhaps together with various other accompaniments.
The subsequent checklist can be described like a puppy meals rating that will assist as a general guide to puppy owners. The order is really of absolutely no outcome.
• Healthy puppy food.
• Canned dog food.
all

Pet Food in the U.S.: Health, Humanization and High Quality Ingredients in an Increasingly Value-Driven Global Market, 8th Edition

The U.S. pet food market has not just survived the spring 2007 recalls but proven its resiliency, with 2007 sales up over previous years and healthy growth continuing through 2008. Yet heightened safety concerns on the part of pet food makers and consumers continue to shape product development and marketing, as well as the choices of pet owners looking for the safest and healthiest products possible. At the top of the list are kibble, canned and raw/frozen foods made with ingredients that are natural, organic, grain-free/non-allergenic and pure, as well as made in the U.S.A., locally grown, “whole” (fruits, vegetables, grains, etc.) and human-grade. Foods making functional appeals also continue to proliferate, especially those targeting age- and weight-related conditions via the inclusion of novel ingredients like glucosamine, omega fatty acids, antioxidants and probiotics. In other words, premium pet foods remain the primary value growth driver in the U.S. market, with ever higher quality ingredients fueling the premium wave. ( http://www.bharatbook.com/Market-Research-Reports/Pet-Food-in-the-US-Health-Humanization-and-High-Quality-Ingredients-in-an-Increasingly-Value-Driven-Global-Market-8th-Edition.html )

At the same time, one thing marketers and retailers at all levels of the market cannot afford given the faltering U.S. and global economies is complacency. More than ever before the ability to convert pet owners to higher priced products—or keep them buying them—will depend on marketers’ success in communicating product benefits and tapping into the ever-potent human/animal bond. Helping to make the case are new celebrity spokespersons like Cesar Millan with his new Dog Whisperer line, and Ellen DeGeneres with her co-ownership in Halo Purely for Pets, with other positive trends including rapid growth in the natural supermarket channel and an increasingly globalized market in which ingredients suppliers like Cargill are looking to stake a deeper claim in pet food (in Cargill’s case by specifically targeting the U.S. agricultural retail channel as well as global markets). At the same time, new products continue to flood the market, which saw more entries in 2008 than in any previous year.

Pegging 2008 U.S. sales at $17 billion and global sales at $49 billion—and projecting steady growth through 2013—the report provides market size estimates for the overall retail universe, while quantifying mass-market sales to the marketer/brand share level using data from Information Resources, Inc., and also providing market size and marketer share figures for the natural supermarket channel. The report thoroughly documents competitive, new product and retail trends, as well as trends in pet food purchaser demographics and lifestyle pursuits (media and marketing psychographics, Internet usage, “green” involvement, etc.), based on data from Simmons Market Research Bureau, BIGresearch, the American Pet Products Association and other sources.

Pet Food in the U.S. pinpoints strategic directions for current and prospective marketers, with a forward-looking focus on high-growth product segments and market-driving trends. Covering products for all type of companion animals, the report devotes separate chapters to Dog Food, Cat Food, and Other Pet Food (birds, small animal, fish, and reptiles), while also providing a comprehensive Market Overview covering cross-market trends. New features of our 2009 edition include focus sections on:

The global pet food market (sales overall and by world region, marketer shares, new product trends, U.S. export trends, and more);
Recall-related product safety initiatives;
Cross-channel private-label activity and prospects;
Levels of in-store merchandising and price promotions;
Pet food purchasers as coupon users.
Also included are dozens of images of pet products and consumer and trade ads.

Contact us at :

Bharat Book Bureau
Tel: +91 22 27578668
Fax: +91 22 27579131
Email: info@bharatbook.com
Website: www.bharatbook.com
Blog: http://bharatbookresearch.blogspot.com

It was stated in our first article what it takes to produce a top quality pet vitamin. It should be made with a precise combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs, antioxidants, bioflavonoids, fatty acids and amino acids. These ingredients have been shown to combat the ravages of free radicals and provide immune system support.

What exactly are these ingredients, where do they come from and what do they do?

Alfalfa- Alfalfa is known as the “King of Plants”, and its roots have been used for centuries in many cultures. The herb belongs to the legume family, closely related to beans and peas. It is an excellent source of vitamins D, E and K, beta-carotene, minerals, fiber, chlorophyll, calcium, proteins and fats. It is especially rich in the amino acid trypophane. Alfalfa is considered to be a very beneficial herb and is used to increase appetite, alleviate certain allergic reactions and help poor digestion. It may also reduce inflammation due to arthritis and rheumatism. (Canine formula only)

Alpha Amylase- A soluble fiber that aids in digestion, Alpha Amylase allows the ingredients of the vitamin to be absorbed into the body as rapidly and quickly as possible without diminishing the antioxidant capabilities.

Amino Acids- Necessary for the synthesis of body proteins and many other tissue constituents. Amino Acids aid in building new muscle, bone and tendon cells, play a vital role in metabolism, stamina and brain function. The also enable vitamins and minerals to be properly absorbed. There are approximately twenty-eight amino acids that combine in various ways to create hundreds of different types of proteins. Some enhance the immune system by stimulating the antioxidant activity of certain enzymes and can prevent skin and coat problems. Others prevent premature aging, tumors, nerve disease and connective tissue disorders. A deficiency could cause a host of problems ranging from indigestion, stunted growth or nervous disorders.

Beta-Carotene- The precursor to Vitamin A becomes a powerful free radical scavenger in the body. Vitamin A is essential in skeletal growth, reproductive function, embryonic development and differentiation of tissues. It is crucial for proper eye function and possible cataract reduction. Vitamin A is necessary for healthy skin and mucous membranes which are the first line of defense against invading microorganisms and toxins. Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A destroy carcinogens and guard against heart disease and stroke and lowers cholesterol.

Blue Green Algae- Natures most basic food. Existing at the beginning of the food chain, it provides nutrition in its simplest form. Blue Green Algae is very rich in chlorophyll and is essential for the smooth operation of the brain and nervous system. It enhances the health of the entire body, strengthens the immune system, promotes intestinal regularity and the healing of wounds. It also boosts hemoglobin production and helps purify the blood. The trace minerals found in Blue Green algae are Boron, Calcium, Chlorine, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Fluorine, Geranium, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Phosphorus, Potassium, Silicon, Sodium, Tin, Titanium, Vanadium and Zinc.

Brewers Yeast- A natural source of B-Complex vitamins. Studies show another beneficial effect of Brewers Yeast supplementation is significant reduction of body fleas on companion pets.

Cats Claw- Also known as Una de Gato, is an ancient herb found in the rain forest of Peru. This singular and wild woody vine is known for its amazing healing properties and had been used by native people for centuries. It cleans the intestinal tract, enhances the action of white blood cells and acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Research in different countries, including Germany, Austria, England and Hungary has shown that Cats Claw can stimulate the immune system and may help in the treatment of diseases including cancer, viral or respiratory infections, allergies, arthritis and rheumatism.

Chicken Liver- 100% chicken liver has omega fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and the B-complex vitamin group. It contains minerals including calcium, copper, phosphorus and iron. Chicken liver is good for anemia and aids in building healthy red blood cells and can increase energy and relieve stress.

Copper- Aids in the formation of red blood cells and works with Vitamin C to form elastin, an important protein that makes up bone, skin and connective tissue. It aids in the healing process and energy production. Copper is needed for healthy joints and nerves.

Evening Primrose Oil- High in gamma linolenic acid, an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid that promotes cardiovascular health. It is known to prevent hardening of the arteries, heart disease and high blood pressure and aids in lowering cholesterol. It is good for certain skin disorders and can increase the release of sex hormones improving reproductive health.

L Methionine- An essential amino acid not synthesized by the body that must be obtained from food or supplements. It is a powerful antioxidant and good source of sulfur, which neutralizes free radicals and helps prevent skin, coat and nail problems. It can detoxify harmful agents such as lead and other heavy metals found in airborne pollutants. L Methionine supplementation is needed for the absorption, transportation, and availability of selenium and zinc in the body. It can reduce fatigue and is useful in the development of age-related cataracts. (Canine formula only).

Magnesium- Acts as a catalyst in the utilization of carbohydrates, fats, protein, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. It is important for energy and healthy maintenance of bones, teeth, arteries, heart and nerves. Research has shown magnesium can help prevent cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and certain forms of cancer.

Manganese- An enzyme activator that plays an important part in tissue respiration and carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It is important for normal skeletal development and to maintain sex hormone production. Manganese deficiency can lead to paralysis, convulsions, dizziness, deafness and blindness.

Oyster Shell- Extremely rich in calcium, the major element in the structural framework of bones. Practically every cell in the body especially heart, nerves and muscles, rely on calcium to function properly. The heart requires calcium to maintain a normal beat. Muscles need it for contraction and relaxation.

Papain- Aids in the digestion of protein and helps cleanse the tissues and intestinal walls. The unique ability of Papain to break down protein and convert a portion of it into Arginine is extremely important because Arginine is influences the production of HGH. HGH is produced in the pituitary gland is directly responsible for DNA and RNA replication. HGH helps increase muscle tone and decrease body fat.

Phosphorus- Works with calcium to build bones and teeth and aids the body in the utilization of vitamins, and conversion of food to energy. A deficiency can lead to loss of weight and appetite, irregular breathing, fatigue and nervous disorders.

Pine Bark- The proanthocyanidids in Pine Bark have been shown in clinical studies to be 20 times more effective than Vitamin C and 50 times more effective than Vitamin E as an antioxidant. Pine Bark helps relieve pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatism. Pine Bark has a remarkable ability to seek and destroy free radicals which is a tremendous benefit to the health of our animals. By reducing oxidative damage to cells and vital tissues, much damage is held to a subdued rate. Unlike dietary antioxidants, proanthocyanidids readily cross the blood-brain barrier to protect vital brain and nerve tissue from oxidation.

Potassium (Citrate)- Important for a healthy nervous system and regular heart rhythm. It helps prevents strokes, aids in proper muscle contraction and works with sodium to control the water balance in the body. It is important for chemical reactions within cells, aids in maintaining stable blood pressure and proper transmission of chemical impulses. Potassium regulates the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. Signs of deficiency include abnormally dry skin, weakness, paralysis, low blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.

Selenium- An essential trace mineral whose main function is to inhibit the oxidation of fats. It is a vital antioxidant, especially when combined with Vitamin E. It protects the immune system by preventing the formation of free radicals. It has also been found to function as a preventative against the formation of certain types of tumors.

Shark Cartilage- Contains collagen and glycosaminoglycans. This combination makes shark cartilage a powerful anti-inflammatory wound healing agent that is not toxic and has no known side effects. It is also an effective substance against bacteria, virus and fungal infections. There have been several studies demonstrating the ability of shark cartilage to shrink some cancerous tumors, including those unaffected by standard treatments. Shark cartilage contains a protein that impedes the formation of blood vessels to tumors.

Taurine- Is one of the most abundant amino acids in the body. Taurine therapy is used in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. Low Taurine and magnesium levels have been found after heart attacks. Taurine also plays a role in maintaining the correct composition of bile and solubility of cholesterol. It helps stabilize cell membranes and helps the movement of potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium in and out of cells, which generates nerve impulses. It is necessary for chemical reactions that produce normal vision. (Feline Only: Canines produce their own Taurine).

Vitamin B Complex- Necessary for carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism. Helps the functioning of the nervous system, maintains muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract, maintains the health of skin, coat, eyes, mouth and liver.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)- Essential for normal functioning of the heart, nerves, muscles, skin and digestive system. Necessary for carbohydrate metabolism.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)- Necessary for carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism and antibody and red blood cell formation. Good for healthy eyes, skin, and coat.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)- Promotes growth. proper functioning of the nervous system, maintenance of healthy skin, tongue, digestive system, and carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)- Assists in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Aids in the utilization of some vitamins, stimulates growth, and aids in the formation of antibodies.

Vitamin B12- Essential for normal formation of red blood cells, carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism, and good appetite. B12 maintains fertility, promotes normal growth and development and prevents nerve damage by maintaining the fatty sheaths that protect nerve endings.

Vitamin C (Ester C) A powerful antioxidant that also protects other antioxidants such as Vitamin E. The cells of the brain and spinal cord, which frequently incur free radical damage, can be protected by significant amounts of Vitamin C. In addition to its role as an antioxidant, it also increases the synthesis of Interferon,, a natural anti-viral substance produced by the body and stimulates the activity of certain key immune cells. Vitamin C is a key factor in many immune functions and lowers the risk of cataracts while promoting cell growth and tissue repair.

Vitamin E- An essential fat soluble vitamin that includes eight naturally occurring compounds and each of these compounds exhibit different biological activities. The most widely accepted biological function of Vitamin E is related to its antioxidant activities. It is the most effective chain breaking lipid soluble antioxidant in the biological membrane. It contributes to membrane activity, protecting critical cellular structures against damage from oxygen free radicals.

Whey Protein- The importance of protein in any carnivores diet cannot be understated for it is critical in building and maintaining muscle mass and other necessary metabolic functions. Protein deficiencies can lead to retarded skeletal and muscle growth and a weakened immune system, which causes susceptibility to infections and degenerative diseases. (Feline formula)

Zinc- Zinc is a component of almost 100 enzymes involved in metabolic processes, most of which work with the red blood cells to move carbon dioxide from the tissue to the lungs. As an antioxidant it promotes normal growth and development, aids in wound healing, enhances cell division, repair and growth. It also helps synthesize DNA and RNA. Zinc deficiencies have been linked to prostate hypertrophy, cancer, slow recovery from head injuries, diabetes, arthritis and reduced immune system responses.

If your pet is suffering from hip or joint inflammation, it is suggested that the proper pet vitamin should include Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Methylsulfonymethane (MSM) and Vitamin C which will help to quickly and effectively reverse and heal the devastating effects of Osteoarthritis.

MSM supplies biologically active sulfur to animal joints. Use of MSM has been shown to reduce rigidity of cells in the soft tissues of the body. By reducing this rigidity, fluids are able to pass more freely from the cell and this helps to reduce cell pressure, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.

Glucosamine- Provides the joints with the building blocks needed to repair the damage caused by osteoarthritis. Acting as a catalyst, glucosamine helps animals synthesize new cartilage needed to replace damaged cartilage caused by wear and tear. Hip dysplasia occurs when normal wear and tear break down cartilage.

Chondroitin- Attracts and holds fluid within cartilage tissue helping to lubricate joints, increase mobility and reduce discomfort caused by hip dysplasia. Chondroitin neutralizes the destructive enzymes that are known to damage and destroy cartilage. It aids the entry of glucosamine into inflamed joints. Vitamin C promotes cartilage growth and tissue repair.

Vitamin C- Is a key factor in the immune system, helping white blood cells function. Prolonged Vitamin C deficiency will cause existing tissues to deteriorate.

Combine all this into an FDA approved lab and you have the highest quality pet vitamins imaginable.

Joseph M. Sabol is a world class breeder of Doberman Pinschers. Go to http://petvitamins4u.com or to http://theroadhousedobes.com for further information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_M_Sabol

What do they mean by fillers?

Used in low quality, cheap commercial dog foods, fillers are basically put in the dog’s “food” to save the manufacturer money, not to increase nutritional values. Included are products that are not edible and difficult for our pets to digest such as: cereal byproducts, – cottonseed hulls, – crushed peanut shells, – straw, – corn and crushed corncobs, – weeds, and – feathers.

A cheap dog food filled with corn fillers, listed as corn, corn meal, and corn gluten meal should be avoided as this is used as substitute for higher quality animal protein sources.

Fillers that are used are not just tasteless, but actually can hurt your pet as they cause digestive problems and horrible allergies. They can cause digestive problems, allergies, and in immune deficient puppies or older pets can cause severe medical problems. .

What is a by-product?

Found in cheap dog food, meat by-products are euphemisms for parts of animals that wouldn’t be considered edible by any smart consumer. Meat by-products actually do not contain meat. By-products are part of the animals that are left over after the meat has been stripped away from the bone. This disgusting cheap dog food mishmosh would then include heads, feet, entrails, hoofs,lungs, spleens, kidneys, brains, stomachs (still with undigested food inside) bones, blood (some with hormones and medications included) intestines and loads of other carcass parts that are not fit for human consumption.

Also, the boiled down flesh of road kill, zoo animals, and 4-D (dead, diseased, disabled dying) livestock is considered okay with these manufacturers. This also can include dogs and cats that have been euthanized. Avoid dog food with blood meal, which is an inexpensive protein booster. The animal source is usually not stated, and the blood can be contaminated with residues of hormones, or medications.

What is a non-specific meat source?

If the main protein source is listed as “meat” this is to be avoided, It is always mystery meat such as: spoiled rotten meat from the grocery store (Styrofoam wrap and all), – Road kill that has been rotting on the roadside, – heads, feet, skin, hair, feathers, carpel and tarsal joints, and mammary glands are used from the slaughterhouses. Animals that have died from diseases, cancerous tissue and all, – tumors and worm infested organs are also rendered. Injection sites are rendered, blood clots and all. Stomach and unclean bowels are rendered. Contaminated material including blood is rendered. Carcasses with high levels of drugs or pesticides in excess of limits prescribed under the FDA (not fit for human consumption) are rendered.

Everything is pitched into large vats and slowly ground, then cooked at low temps till the grease rises to the top. And consider that this is what is listed on the ingredient list as “animal fat”. The rest of what is remaining is then pressed until the moisture is completely removed, and this dry raw material that is referred to as “meat”, is then used in the cheap dog food brands.

Why are artificial colors, preservatives and flavors used?

Flavor is added, because most pets wouldn’t eat the finished product without some sort of cover up for the horrible smell. These additional flavors are usually from rancid restaurant grease. This grease sometimes sits in dumpsters, out in the sun for weeks. This is what the pet food manufacturers buy to add as flavoring, which is sprayed onto the kibble. Also sugar or corn syrup is used to cover up the bad taste of the inferior kibble.

Different dyes are used to make the food look good to us, the pet owner. Dyes are known carcenogenic causing additives, and I’m quite certain my pet, or yours, does not care what color their food is.

Artificial preservatives are used to extend the shelf life of the dog food. The main ones to avoid are: BHA (butylated hydroxytolulene), propyl gallate, propylene glycol (also used in automotive antifreeze, and is suspected of causing red blood cell damage) and ethoxyquin. These are all potentially cancer causing agents that your pets are eating every day.

This all sounds pretty grim, but rest assured there are many extremely excellent, ultra premium organic dog foods now being manufactured without any of the above crap in them. These highly reputable and conscientious companies have philosophies aimed at providing you and your pet the best of the best when it comes to nutrition and peace of mind.

A lot of pet owners are also now making their own all natural dog food at home, and this is always better than the junk the commercial pet food manufacturers are feeding our pets. It is easy, and comparable in price to buying the premium organic dog food brands, as long as you use a proper nutritionally balanced dog food recipe. You can easily find very good dog food recipe books for sale, that have well rounded nutritious meals to make at home. Also you will be able to find recipes online.

Whatever you choose for your pet, remember we speak for them, and choose the best for them that you are able to give.

To give your dog, or any pet for that matter, a good foundation for a healthy life it is essential to start with proper nutrtion. There are many really horrible, low quality, chemical laden dog foods on the market still today, even though we have become more aware and educated about what to look for when purchasing dog food.
Cheaper dog food brands are generally sold at your local grocery store, whereas the higher quality premium dog food brands are found in pet stores, or online at specialty pet stores.

Increasing your dog’s life span is easily achieved by feeding a properly balanced healthy organic dog food or high premium diet from puppy hood. An all natural healthy diet is as beneficial for your dog as it is for yourself. Improper or poor nutrition can cause diseases, allergies, obesity, and shortened life spans in your dogs.

There are many commercial grade dog food products available at the grocery store, and care must be taken when choosing one. After the recent pet food contamination scares and recalls because of toxicity and disgusting additives being found in the manufacturing process, many pet owners are becoming much more aware of what they feed their pet.

Here are a few general guidelines to follow when looking at the ingredients on a dog food bag:

Choose a food with high meat content. The first ingredient must be a specified meat. Another one or two meats or meat meal listed in the top 5 ingredients is a bonus, but not necessary. (Meat meal is meat with the moisture removed.)

If the same grain ingredient is used two or more times in the first five ingredients (i.e. “ground brown rice”, brewer’s rice”, “rice flour”, are all the same grain), this is not a well balanced, nutritious product. It is loaded with “filler” and made to look like it is healthy by separating the one ingredient into sub categories, but rice is rice so it should be listed once.

Using high quality grains has become the standard for the premium quality dog food manufacturers, such as barley, brown rice and oatmeal. If the grains are organic, then all the better. Wheat and corn are inferior and useless as a nutritional element in dog food, and used as filler only. Dogs are known to be highly allergic to wheat and corn.

If there are any by-products at all on the ingredient list, pass this dog food by.

There should not be any fillers.

Carcinogenic preservatives do not need to be used, and if they are don’t buy the product. (They will be listed as BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.)

Artificial colorings are also cancer causing, and completely unnecessary. You’ll be surprised to see how many products still contain this dangerous ingredient. The dyes will be marked as such – e.g. Red, Blue and Yellow dyes.

No added sugars or corn syrup should be in the ingredient list.

The more organic ingredients listed, the better.

Added glucosamine, chondroitin, pro and prebiotics, flax seed oil, barley, oats or oatmeal, and sunflower oil, are a good thing.

Slowly baked, not extruded, retains the minerals, vitamins and essential goodness of the food.

Hormone free, antibiotic free, pesticide and herbicide free, chemical and preservative free would indicate a high quality premium organic dog food.

And finally, no mystery meats should be in the list. Mystery meat will be listed as simply meat or poultry, rather than chicken or venison. The mystery meat will probably be some horrible rotten road kill, old euthanized animals, and parts of animals that are not edible.

Although the higher quality food might seem more expensive initially, it will work itself out and become cheaper in the long run. The savings in vet bills alone over the life of your pet will pay for the food.

I use a lazy homemade dog food tactic of using a high end organic dog food, and add just a few ounces of poached chicken, or broiled venison every day. The best of both worlds is then achieved for my dogs.

Always be aware, educate yourself and know that the big business of dog food manufacturing is in it for the profit, not the health and welfare of our pets. That is up to us. Just do the absolute best you can for your pet and it will be returned with more doggie love, which is never a bad thing.

Today a number of families own atleast one pet, it can be a cat or a dog or a rabbit, etc. Having pets with you means you have to take genuine care of all their needs, especially their pet food. All the pet owners have a vast choice of products from which they have to select the Pet food. The pet owners should be aware of their pet nutrition. They should have an understanding about pet food labels

Pet foods generally include canned, dry or semi moist foods to meet their nutritional requirements. The nutritional needs of the pets differ from those of human beings. Therefore, it is advisable not to feed the pets with home made meals that are difficult to digest for them. Every pet, on the other hand have specific dietary needs, as well. The human foods like onions or chocolates are very hazardous for the pets and there are chances for them to get contaminated from micro organisms such as E.coli and salmonella.

The pet foods available in the commercial pet food stores are considered better for the pets. These foods are developed after years of study and research by the manufacturers for providing the pets with the healthy meals. Also, these pet foods are enriched with vitamins are they are nutritionally balanced for the pets to consume it safely.

There are different problems associated with the homemade pet meals like the feeding raw food results in bacterial contamination as well as there are also chances that the disease gets transferred to the human beings. Excess calcium in the food will cause growth problems for the puppies and the kittens; whereas very little calcium may result in weak bones that are easily susceptible to breakage.

While purchasing the pet foods, be sure to see that they are branded and the name of the company, ingredients used in it, pet food labels, etc are all displayed on it. The ingredients used in the pet foods are listed in a descending order from large to small.  There is a reason behind using every ingredient in the pet food to meet the nutritional needs of your particular pet.

The pet must be fed according to the feeding directions given on the labels. It should be considered according to the age, breed and activity level of the pet. If you feed them more or less then the estimated amount, it will not give the proper nutrition to the pet. Some pets may eat too much if they are given an opportunity to do so. Over consumption in the pets may also cause health problems and obesity in the pets.

A number of agricultural ingredients are used in the manufacture of the pet foods. This includes seafood, meat, feed grains, poultry and other agricultural products. The pet foods are also supplemented with minerals, vitamins and preservatives for assuring the total nutrition and wholesome distribution. The ingredients used in the pet food shave to be approved by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).