Pet Cancer Awareness

Hey Folks!

Although November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month within the United States, lets make pet cancer awareness a 24/7 habit in all places around the world to keep pets healthy as possible!

Pet cancer is a number-one disease related killer of dogs. Some of the very common cancerous conditions include:

• Lymphosarcoma or Lymphoma
• Skin Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Brain or Spinal Cord Cancer
• Liver (Hepatic) Cancer
• Bone or Joint Cancer

Bet sure to detect any cancer early. Be attentive to any growing lumps or sores that do not heal. Monitor your pets and take notice if they have: drastic changes in appetite or weight, any unusual strong odors coming from their body, discharge or bleeding from any body opening, difficulty chewing or swallowing.

In terms what pets should eat, a nutritious cancer-fighting diet will include low carbohydrates and lots of Omega -3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in the form oils including fish, flax seed, cod liver, salmon, and olive.




Nutrition Ideas For Dogs With Cancer

November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Research and Know What's In You Pets' Foods!

In a recent article that was released, many pet owners are concerned about jerky pet treats imported from China that has caused over 3,600 dogs and cats to become ill. Unfortunately, 580 have died as a result of consuming these treats.

The following are some points from the article:

• Over 85 million pounds of pet treats made in China were exported in 2011.
• There are loophole in regulations that does not mandate pet food and treat manufacturers from listing the country of origin for ingredients.
• It is believed that the illnesses were due to the process o exposing the food and treats to radiation to eliminate foodborne microbes and killing pests.

Despite the big scare, experts recommend that pet owners do not completely cut out healthy treats completely as it can affect their pets. Healthy snacks can help pets maintain their energy levels throughout the day. They are also an important part for training purposes and emotional bonding.

Recommendations:

• If unsure about what healthy treats to buy, independent specialty pet food retailers for recommendations.
• When choosing snacks, stick with those that are natural, low in carbs, and high in lean meat protein.
• If possible, purchase your healthy and nutritious treats and foods that are made domestically.

Click the link below to view the article:

In the Wake of the Chinese Pet Jerky Investigation, Pet Nutrition Expert Encourages Pet Owners to Make More Educated Decisions to Keeps Pets Safe

Coconut Oil for Pets- Added nutrition benefits

Coconut oil has many benefits for pets.

The coconut, also known as the “tree of life”, has been found to have many benefits not only for humans, but for our best friends as well.

So, how can coconut oil benefit dogs? Just a jar of “virgin coconut oil” can cure yeast infections, smelly coats, hot spots, infected cuts, even cracked paws.

What the “virgin coconut oil” means is the unrefined coconut oil, and it is used for both humans and dogs. The main component contains in the coconut oil is Lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid, can help prevent bacterial and viral infections.

Other benefits of coconut oil for dogs:

FirstMate Dog and Cat Food

First Mate is an all Canadian Pet food company based in British Columbia.  Each formula contains 70% of protein that comes from meat. They manufacture everything in house and don't outsource manufacturing.FirstMate sources their ingredients locally to them in Western North America.  If higher quality ingredients are being produced somewhere else, then they look at those options. Their Australian Lamb is free-ranged, grass fed, with no added hormones or antibiotics. 

Quotes from FirstMate.com
"With fewer ingredients, our animals can utilize the nutritional benefits of every ingredient found in the 100% complete and balanced FirstMate diets.  This approach results in reduced bodily stress and a smaller stool (when compared to other kibble diets) by achieving more complete digestion"

Why Potato is listed first:
"FirstMate grain free dog formulas offer a single source protein and carbohydrate. Our products offer a proven level of protein rather than a high protein diet. Because we are using single source ingredients rather than breaking up our carbohydrate source, the carbohydrate (potato) appears first. FirstMate takes great pride in the honest display of our ingredient panel"